Tuesday, April 14, 2026

GRAVELLY POINT, VIRGINIA - ACROSS THE RIVER FROM WASHINGTON DC

Many links here that you can click on if you want further information. We were sitting on the grassy area of Gravelly Point (Virginia) after we parked our car (April 10th). In the top photo as the plane is flying in, you can just see the top of the 14th St. Bridge (this is located at the bottom of the photo, off center right). The bridge takes people across the Potomac River from Virginia into Washington DC. We used that bridge many times since the early days when we used to live near the city 50 years ago, not that recently as we haven't been into the city for quite a while. The Washington Monument is in view on the right, and you can just about see the Jefferson Memorial dome which is 1.5 miles (7m) from the memorial. I started my married life in Alexandria (Virginia), our apartment being not too far from the bridge, 5.7 miles (13m) away. We visited that small apartment today (at least the area) when on our way home. I think we have been back only once in all these years. Photos will be in another post.

Here is one of the Potomac Water Taxis. We haven't taken one yet but intend to as they connect between Old Town Alexandria, National Harbor, The Wharf and Georgetown. It would be a wonderful river ride. This link tells you how you can use them to suit your needs if you ever find yourself spending time here. 
There were a lot of dogs, and I didn't get them all, but here are three that passed by not so far away. I was happy for my doggy fixes, and little did I realize I would be getting a huge doggy fix that afternoon (see here if you missed that post).

I found this old photo on Wikipedia and if you click on that photo, you will see a few others. To continue with Gravelly Point Park, after our plane viewing spot had been nixed from the other site where no parking signs had been put up, I suggested a trip to an old favorite. This after Gregg said we should get out and enjoy the good weather but was looking to me for a few ideas. We usually pick places we both enjoy.

Pretty in pink?
It has been several years since we have visited Gravelly Point Park. The last time we brought visitors. We remembered that the Airport is not too far up the road and one of the runways is very close, with a great viewing area. You can see the planes land frequently.
A lot of fun for people, but my biggest peeve is that they only have porta potties, no proper bathrooms. You can drive to places I guess. I am one of those people who follows, ‘only if it's the only port in a storm’. There is a construction of a road on the grounds nearby. Maybe they will add a regular bathroom. Otherwise, it was a great visit and another fun place to take company. I'll get off the porta potty subject now. I am just managing expectations.
There is a large grassy area for people to bring their picnics. There are also football posts set up if someone wants to have a friendly game. We saw one large group of people coming in with fold up picnic tables and large ice-chests. 
Lots of friends getting together, plus children with mothers.

Moms with relatives or friends can keep a close eye on their kids, while allowing them to run around and use a lot of energy up. By the time they are ready for mom or dad to pop them into bed that night, they will be weary. They can dream of roaring engines flying as low as 100 feet to 200 feet above their heads. It really is an amazing spectacle.

I will have close-ups of planes in a day or so. 

Thanks for looking and I wish
you all all a great day.