Fodor's Expert Review Fort Washington Park

George Washington chose this site on a narrow portion of the Potomac River for the first fort to protect the nation's capital. It was destroyed during the War of 1812, only five years after its completion; the current fort was completed in 1824. Half-hour tours of the fort are given on request. On the first Sunday of each month from April through October, costumed volunteers fire the fort's cannons. If you cross the drawbridge over the moat, you can see the 7-foot-thick stone and masonry walls, gun positions, and other defenses. Although the fort is impressive, most people visit the park to picnic along the river.