Yards Park | Southeast Washington

Yards Park is a dynamic and beautifully designed 5.4-acre waterfront urban park located in the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood of Washington, D.C., specifically at 355 Water Street SE. It lies along the scenic Anacostia River, transforming a once industrial and underutilized area into a lively public space that fosters community engagement, recreation, and connection to nature.

Location and Urban Context

Positioned within the rapidly redeveloping Capitol Riverfront district, Yards Park serves as a cornerstone for the neighborhood’s revitalization efforts. The park’s location directly on the riverfront provides stunning water views and access to the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail, a key pedestrian and cycling path that links various parks and neighborhoods along the river’s edge.

Its proximity to the Navy Yard-Ballpark Metro Station (Green Line) ensures easy accessibility for residents, workers, and visitors alike, while nearby bike-sharing stations and ample bike racks encourage eco-friendly transportation.

Design and Landscape Features

Yards Park’s design combines natural beauty, interactive water elements, and public art to create a multi-functional urban oasis. The park was master-planned to blend ecological restoration with urban recreation, emphasizing sustainability and public enjoyment.

Key features include:

The Canal Basin and Water Wall: This iconic water feature references the historic Washington Canal, once an important trade route connecting the Anacostia River to the U.S. Capitol. The basin allows visitors to wade and play in shallow water, especially during summer, while the adjacent water wall serves as a striking sculptural backdrop. The water’s movement and sound enhance the park’s relaxing atmosphere.

Dancing Fountains: Situated near the entrance, these interactive jets of water invite children and adults to play and cool off. At night, the fountains are illuminated with vibrant color-changing lights, providing a magical visual experience.

Great Lawn: A spacious, grassy area framed by native trees and unique wooden benches, the Great Lawn is ideal for picnics, casual sports, and relaxation. It serves as the park’s social hub, accommodating community events and informal gatherings.

Yards Park Bridge: This sculptural pedestrian bridge crosses the Canal Basin, connecting different sections of the park and forming an integral part of the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail. Its architectural elegance complements the park’s aesthetic while serving a practical function.

Overlook Terrace: A riverside terrace furnished with bistro tables, chairs, and shaded by canvas awnings, this area provides an inviting space for dining, reading, or simply enjoying panoramic views of the Anacostia River and city skyline.

Light Tower: A 60-foot-tall sculpture designed by artist Jamie Carpenter, the Light Tower is constructed from prisms that refract sunlight by day and glow with internal illumination at night. It functions both as public art and a landmark beacon along the waterfront.

Boardwalk and Riverwalk Trail: Stretching approximately a quarter-mile, the boardwalk offers a smooth, IPE hardwood decking pathway along the water’s edge, perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling. The boardwalk links Yards Park with other nearby waterfront destinations.

Dog Run: A fully fenced and shaded off-leash area on the western side of the park provides a safe and social environment for dogs to exercise and play freely.

River Street Gardens: Situated on the eastern edge, these tranquil landscaped gardens feature native plants, shaded seating areas, wooden benches, and chaise lounges that create a peaceful retreat from the urban bustle.

Terrace Lawn Steps: These stepped grassy terraces lead down to the boardwalk, offering amphitheater-like seating for spectators or a comfortable place to relax while enjoying the river view.

Amenities and Visitor Experience

Yards Park is designed with visitor comfort and accessibility in mind. Wide, smooth pathways ensure full wheelchair and stroller accessibility, and there are well-placed benches, shaded areas, and drinking fountains throughout.

The park is pet-friendly, welcoming leashed dogs on the grounds, with the additional dog run space for off-leash activity. To maintain a safe and clean environment, activities such as smoking and open flames are prohibited.

Events and Community Programming

Yards Park is a vibrant venue for community events, fitness activities, and cultural programming that animate the space year-round:

Friday Night Concert Series: During the warmer months, the park hosts free weekly concerts featuring local and regional musicians. These events draw large crowds and contribute to the lively social atmosphere.

Fitness Classes: The park regularly offers free fitness programs including yoga, boot camps, and other group exercises, making it a hub for healthy living and wellness in the community.

Family-Friendly Activities: The interactive fountains and ample green spaces provide safe, enjoyable play areas for children and families, encouraging outdoor engagement.

Picnicking and Leisure: The Great Lawn and Overlook Terrace are popular spots for casual picnicking, reading, and relaxation. Nearby restaurants and cafés complement these spaces by offering dining options that enhance the visitor experience.

Environmental and Social Impact

Yards Park exemplifies the successful transformation of a post-industrial waterfront into a sustainable urban green space that promotes ecological stewardship and social connectivity. Native plantings and water features support local biodiversity and contribute to stormwater management.

By providing a scenic public realm that connects residents to the Anacostia River, Yards Park plays a crucial role in fostering neighborhood identity, improving quality of life, and supporting the economic vitality of the Capitol Riverfront area.

Summary

Yards Park is a thoughtfully designed, multi-use waterfront park that merges natural elements, public art, recreation, and community engagement within Washington, D.C.’s Capitol Riverfront neighborhood. Its combination of interactive water features, scenic river views, versatile open spaces, and year-round programming makes it a beloved destination for relaxation, fitness, socializing, and cultural activities. The park’s accessibility and pet-friendly environment further enhance its appeal as a welcoming urban oasis that strengthens the bond between the city’s residents and its revitalized riverfront.