When our family of five first arrived at Fort Washington National Park—a hidden gem in Prince Georges County, Maryland, just 13 miles from Alexandria, Virginia and 19 miles from Washington, DC—it felt like we found a hidden treasure.

This national park felt more like an outdoor museum, where visitors can tour a fort, visit a lighthouse, or hike and ride bikes on the park trail. My 2-year-old was immediately wowed by our proximity to the Potomac River, and my 11- and 12 year-old sons couldn't wait to tour the historic fort. We were excited and eager to step back into history.

A visit to Fort Washington National Park is a wonderful way to experience American history with kids and an ideal addition to our list of springtime activities in the DC area.