Folger Park - Washington,
Folger Park is a dog-friendly green space nestled on Capitol Hill in Washington, District of Columbia—a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking a relaxing place to unwind with their pets. This historic park is well-loved for its open lawns, lush greenery, and welcoming environment, making it a great option for casual walks or a peaceful picnic. The park features a mix of sunny spots and shaded areas, and is known for its ample benches, making it comfortable for dog owners wanting to sit and watch their pups play.
Easily accessible and with a storied past as the former site of Providence Hospital, Folger Park offers a community vibe perfect for socializing or enjoying some quiet time with your dog. While there isn’t a dedicated dog run or fenced-in area, dogs are welcome—as long as they are leashed—and the park is wheelchair accessible. Families with children can also enjoy the space, as it is considered good for kids, though restrooms are not available onsite. Street parking is limited but available nearby, and the grounds are generally kept clean, though periodic grass overgrowth and some wear on the benches may be noticed.
Folger Park FAQ
- Are dogs allowed at Folger Park? Yes, dogs are allowed, but they must remain on a leash.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, the park does not have a fenced or designated off-leash area for dogs.
- Is the park good for kids? Yes, the park is family-friendly and good for kids.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, there are numerous benches and plenty of shaded seating throughout the park.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? Yes, Folger Park is wheelchair accessible.
- Are restrooms available for owners? No, there are no public restrooms in the park, but nearby businesses may have facilities.
- Where is the best place to park? Parking is limited to street parking around the park; plan ahead as it can be a challenge during busy hours.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, the park offers a good amount of shade under mature trees.
Reviews
A nice park on Capitol Hill in Washington DC.
The only thing I don’t like is too many miscreants smoking pot in public, they need to pollute at home. Moms & dad w babies always having to walk their strollers through drug clouds.
Great little green space with lots of benches. Would be good for throwing a ball or disc around and for picnics. It lost a star for not having a public toilet, but there’s a Starbucks on 3rd if you’re discreet.
Folger Park is named after former Secretary of the Treasury Charles J Folger, who toiled in the Chester Arthur administration before dying on the job. The open space was part of the L’Enfant plan modified by Ellicot. It was later to include the fountain benches, which while no longer functional, are still present almost 100 years after their installation. The South Block appears to be part of this park, but it is not. This current green space was the former location of Providence Hospital (est. 1861) and Folger Park was then known as Providence Hospital Square. Built just 6 weeks before the Battle of Bill Run, it played a major role in the care of wounded and dying soldiers far exceeding its capabilities requiring outdoor temporary facilities to be constructed – pretty much all the green space within view had hospital tents on it. So much so, that the Capitol Hill district was often referred to as Bloody Hill. The hospital was moved in the 1950’s and the building was demolished leaving you with the green space present today.
Nice quiet urban park though I’ve mostly stayed in the north section. Very open but also a good amount of shade. The grass tends to grow pretty long between cuts but it’s not a big deal.
The park is right on the hill a couple of blocks behind the James Madison bldg. It’s quiet enough and kept pretty clean. The grounds and benches could use some attention to update it. Parking can be a chore as there is only street parking. But it’s a good place to take a small dog or bring food for quick lunch.