A narrow strip of grass and riverside path just north of Reagan National Airport's runway, where aircraft on final approach pass about 30 metres overhead at full throttle. It is the most accessible plane-spotting location on the East Coast — no barrier between you and the aircraft, just open sky and noise.
The park is pleasant regardless of the aviation show: a paved path along the Potomac, picnic tables, views of the Washington Monument and Capitol across the river. Cyclists use the path as part of the Mount Vernon Trail. On busy travel days, planes arrive every 90 seconds or so. The park is free, always open, and accessible from the George Washington Memorial Parkway. Take the Metro to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and walk five minutes north.