National Historic Trail · MD, VA, DC

Things to do in Star-Spangled Banner

The National Park Service lists 18 things to do at Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail. 17 have no extra fee, 17 need no reservation, and 17 allow pets. Each listing links to the full NPS page. Data is from the NPS snapshot of Oct 28, 2026.

Updated · NPS Data API

Audio Tour of a Patuxent Town

Discover thousands of years of archeology at Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum. Over 65 archeological sites tell the story of American Indian technology, innovation, and craft within the Chesapeake Bay landscape.

Year-round Pets allowed

Self-Guided Tours - Walking

Explore by bicycle from Westmoreland State Park

With Westmoreland State Park as a base, ride a loop connected with the Northern Neck Heritage Trail to explore Stratford Hall, the birthplace of George Washington, Colonial Beach, wineries, historic sites and the Potomac River shoreline.

1 Day Spring, Summer, Fall Reservation required Pets allowed

Road Biking

A medium sized, white bird with a long S-shaped neck and orange bill stands on a branch.
Photo: NPS/ B.Poffenberger

Go Birding at Patuxent River Park

A short drive from Washington DC and Baltimore, Patuxent River Park boasts more than 7,000 acres of parkland along the Patuxent River.

Year-round Pets allowed

Birdwatching

water tumbles over rocks
Photo: NPS Photo

Multi-Park Loop

Park your car and stretch your legs! Visit four different National Parks in Washington, DC and begin logging miles on seven different National Historic or National Scenic trails!

Year-round Pets allowed

Hiking

Paddle Leonardtown to Colton's Point

Paddle approximately 12 miles from Leonardtown to Colton's Point via kayak or canoe, stopping at Newtowne Neck State Park. The trip is mostly on Breton Bay, but joins the Potomac and the mouth of St. Clement's Bay near Colton's Point.

1-2 Days Spring, Summer, Fall Pets allowed

Paddling

Paddle the Anacostia Water Trail

Discover the natural abundance of the Anacostia River as it threads through the heart of Washington, DC. Watch birds on Kingman Island or dock at the National Arboretum and roam the forest.

1-6 Hours Pets allowed

Paddling

Paddle the Baltimore Blueway

Choose from 30 miles of trails in the Inner Harbor, Outer Harbor, Middle Branch, and Patapsco River. Imagine yourself gliding alongside historic ships, seeing the skyline from the water, and paddling around Fort McHenry. Take a selfie with Mr.

1-6 Hours Pets allowed

Paddling

Paddle the Patuxent River Water Trail

The Patuxent River Water Trail offers visitors the opportunity to paddle the river, camp along its banks and visit its numerous parks, historic sites, sanctuaries and wildlife areas.

Pets allowed

Paddling

Paddle the Potomac River

Beginning at Jennings Randolph Lake to the mouth of the Potomac, you may choose to paddle the 355 miles to the Chesapeake Bay or take a single or multi-day trip; all will give you a different view of the ways that previous residents used the river and its…

Pets allowed

Paddling

Paddle the Sassafras River Water Trail

The Sassafras River Water Trail is a 22 mile-long route located in the Upper region of the Chesapeake Bay. The river trail offers several options for paddle trips in beautiful landscapes that are rich in history.

Pets allowed

Paddling

Star-Spangled Banner Geotrail

The Star-Spangled Banner Geotrail is a unique journey through American history and across the landscapes of the Chesapeake Bay.

Pets allowed

Geocaching

Star-Spangled Banner Trail Passport Stamps

Several Trail partner locations are part of the Passport To Your National Parks® program. When you travel the Star-Spangled Banner Trail, preserve memories of your visit by collecting free ink cancellations at each participating Trail location.

Gift Shop and Souvenirs

Before you go

Check current alerts and closures, entrance fees and operating hours for Star-Spangled Banner. Programs and tours can change with the season or be cancelled on short notice — confirm on the NPS page before you plan around one.

Things to do at nearby parks

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