HomeCalendarClasses, Camps & WorkshopsKids and the ParkDance About Glen Echo Park Glen Echo Park is located at 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, MD 20812. For a map and directions, please click on the links below.
A Visitor's Desk on the first floor of the Arcade Building offers general park information, as well as a new brochure, "Glen Echo Park: A Walking Tour." The walking tour guide provides much information about both the history and current programs of the park. Offices of the Glen Echo Park Partnership for Arts and Culture are located on the second floor of the Arcade Building. There visitors may register for a class, inquire about rentals, or find answers to general questions about the park and its programs.
How to get to the park
Map of the park
Please see information on our contact page.
Glen Echo on the Potomac: A Film Documentary
Saturday and Sunday at 4:00 p.m. and by appointment
This 60-minute film documentary "Glen Echo on the Potomac," created by Kevin Wyrauch, follows the history of the park from its opening as a National Chautauqua Assembly in 1891 through its years as the premier amusement park in the Nation's Capital. The film contains fun footage of the old rides and games, memories of the park, plus rare interviews with some of the civil rights protestors who were instrumental in winning the eventual integration of the facility in 1961. In the Visitor Center in the North Arcade building. Free!
Carousel of Memories
Saturday and Sunday at 11:30 a.m. and by appointment
Don't miss an opportunity to see a wonderful film created by local videographer Cintia Cabib about Glen Echo Park's 1921 Dentzel carousel. This 27-minute movie shines a spotlight on six people who have been pivotal in the history of the carousel. In the Visitor Center in the North Arcade building. Free!
Carousel Tours
Saturday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m. (May 1-Sep 30) or 12 p.m. (Oct 1-Apr 30)
Take a closer look at the beautiful Dentzel carousel, which was installed fresh from the factory in 1921. Find out how it was made, how it works, and about the rest of the amusement park attractions that were built around it. Hear about the civil rights protests in June 1960. Follow the inspiring story of the community's efforts after the amusement park closed to raise money to save the carousel for future generations. And see how the National Park Service, with donated funds, has restored the carousel to its original glory. The carousel tour includes an easy walk on level terrain and lasts about 30 minutes. Meet at the carousel. Free!
Park Tours
Saturday and Sunday at 2:00 p.m.
Join a park ranger to learn more about how the history of Glen Echo Park has mirrored many of the changes in American society for nearly 120 years. Learn about the popular arts and dance program flourishing in the park today. Along the way, the ranger will lead you briefly through the Spanish Ballroom, the Dentzel carousel, the remains of the Crystal Pool and two of the Park's art studios (if available). This tour includes an easy stroll on a slight incline and lasts approximately 45 minutes. Meet in the Visitor Center in the North Arcade building. Free!
Note: Various ranger-led programs may be available on other days/times by reservation. To learn about ranger-led programs and other National Park Service activities planned for 2009-2010, please visit www.nps.gov/glec.
March 19 - March 31
April 1 – April 30
May 1 – August 31
September 1 – October 17
October 18 - December 31: Closed
