Virginia's islands aren't just in the Atlantic.

A memorial to our 26th president, Theodore Roosevelt Island is a national park right in the middle of the Potomac, between Arlington and Foggy Bottom.  

Often an undiscovered treat in the DMV, the island is technically a part of Virginia and makes a perfect getaway from the city, with all the essentials for a perfect day outdoors. 

Courtesy of Google Maps

To get to this national park by Metro, exit at the Rosslyn station and walk across the Key Bridge, following signs and trails to get to the island. If you drive, use the George Washington Memorial Parkway and turn onto the Roosevelt Bridge. There are ample parking spots and bike spaces available. This 88.5-acre park is open every day from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m., year-round, and there is no fee to get in!

Once you get to the park, what is there to do? There are activities that the whole family will love! Start off by taking a ranger-led tour of the park to learn about everything from the history of the island to the animals and plants that live there. Be sure to bring a notebook to mark all the different kinds of birds you see!

Courtesy of Find Your Chesapeake

There are three separate trails that range from a mile-and-a-half long to just a quarter of a mile. Go exploring! Runners and speed walkers are always on the trails, so you won't feel too isolated.

Finish your day at the park by canoeing or kayaking across the Potomac. You can bring your own paddleboard (or whatever you prefer to use) to the park and embark from there. Or, rent one in Georgetown ahead of time and arrive at Roosevelt Island via paddleboard in the first place! Find more information here.

Courtesy of Roosevelt Island's Facebook page

Have you been to scenic Roosevelt Island? What's your favorite thing to do there? Tell us in the comments below!