Benjamin Banneker Park

Benjamin Banneker Park in Washington DC is a charming small park, distinguished by its tranquil fountain and scenic surroundings. Tucked away near the Southwest Waterfront, it offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city life. This park is named after Benjamin Banneker, an important African American historical figure, and it subtly honors his legacy. The park's focal point is a beautiful fountain, which provides a serene atmosphere and is a favorite spot for those looking to relax or enjoy a quiet moment. The neatly landscaped areas around the fountain are perfect for picnicking or simply soaking in the sun. Benjamin Banneker Park also features well-paved pathways suitable for walking or jogging, making it a popular destination for local residents and workers seeking a quick escape into nature during their lunch breaks or after work. Despite its small size, the park's location near other major DC attractions, including the National Mall and nearby museums, makes it a convenient stop for tourists. Whether you're looking for a place to unwind after a day of sightseeing or a quiet corner to enjoy some downtime, Benjamin Banneker Park is an excellent choice.

We stumbled upon the park as we were walking towards the Wharf. It is located on the upper area of the road by the Spy Museum. There is a fountain in the middle and rows of trees interspersed within the circular area. It has a nice view of the wharf area as well as the surroundings as it is elevated. Most of the views are roads and buildings though. it was a nice stop for something a bit different. You can take the path to the side to head down to the wharf.

This park overlooks the wharf area and serves as a waypoint for this going from L’Enfant plaza and the wharf area. The park has plenty of seating, albeit rather sunny, as well as plenty of seating around a nice fountain. The park is small and stays pretty quiet. It’s named after an African American inventor and scientist who was responsible for the surveying done to create DC.

Benjamin Banneker (November 9, 1731 – October 19, 1806) was an African-American naturalist, mathematician, astronomer and almanac author. A landowner, he also worked as a surveyor and farmer. Born in Baltimore County, Maryland, to a free African-American mother and a father who had formerly been enslaved, Banneker had little or no formal education and was largely self-taught. He became known for assisting Major Andrew Ellicott in a survey that established the original borders of the District of Columbia, the federal capital district of the United States.

Named after one of the architects of the Federal City. The park overlooks the SW Waterfront and views over to the International Spy Museum at L'Enfant Plaza. Has a water fountain, but I have have never witnessed the fountain in use during my visits.

It might be nicer to visit when and if the fountain is working. Could have been past the season.

Beautiful fountains in a quiet spot in an otherwise very busy area. Interesting history

Depending on when you're there, the fountain may or may not be working. If it's not working then this "park" will seem like a desolate, abandoned wasteland. It will have great potential, as the Wharf area that it overlooks is in full blown construction right now. Once that's finished it should be a very nice view overlooking the water. On second thought, just wait a year and you'll be much happier that you waited

This is a pocket park located between the Spy Museum and the Wharf. There is metered street parking on the road leading to the park. The park features a fully functional circular fountain with pool in the center. The fountain has two rows of benches in a semi circle formation and trees scattered about. I enjoyed reading the park's historical/Interpretive Information placards near its entrance. I learned a lot about an unsung African American historical figure that I feel should be more known. The park is named after Benjamin Banneker, a notable African American who best known for surveying the city in which the park is located, Washington D.C. It was designed by Dan Kiley and opened in 1967. The park is enclosed by a small wall and you will find a paved path located just inside of that wall. It is not a long path, but some people use it to work out by going around it in a circle. The park is adequately maintained, and was not in too bad of shape. I am glad that the NPS decided to bestow this honor of naming this park after Banneker, who was so important to the development of the Nation's capitol. It is definitely not a long stop, and probably not even a destination spot, but still is a neat place to to stop by if you are in the area and looking to take a load off, relax for a bit, while getting some nice views of the city.

This is a long closed "museum" with no educational programs on-going about Banneker except a one room cabin open for viewing, a few chickens and picnic grounds.

At the edge of L'Enfant Plaza where it connects to the District Wharf is a small concrete park with a fountain named after Benjamin Banneker, a freed slave who became a famous scientist and inventor. The park comes with tables and benches making it a popular spot for an outdoor lunch when the weather permits. It also offers beautiful views of the National Mall, the Spy Museum and the District Wharf. There are stairs that take you to the District Wharf and the water.