East Potomac Golf Course
East Potomac
Just southeast of the Jefferson Memorial, East Potomac Park is a draw for fishermen, soccer players, tennis players, swimmers ... and mini-golfers. Right alongside the park's trio of standard golf courses (two nine-holers and one 18-holer), you'll find a mini-golf course that's a blast from the past.
Constructed in 1931, East Potomac's mini-golf course is the oldest continually operating course of its kind in the nation, with a sleek, dignified look that dates to an era before windmill holes and giant T-Rexes. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it might be the most stately round of mini-golf you ever play—and it's certainly the only course with a view of the National Mall.
With 18 holes lined in stone tiles, the East Potomac course is easy enough for kids to play, but challenging enough for competitive fun between adults. (Just don't bet on the outcome: a sign banning "competitive putting" is posted on the nearby putting green, where you can tap in a few extra balls after your round.) If all that golfing works up an appetite, you can also head to the Potomac Grille clubhouse for a burger, half-smoke, or pitcher of beer.
Admission to the course is $6 for kids under 18 and seniors, and $7 for other adults. If your mini-golfing is a family affair, consider visiting on Mother's, Father's, or Grandparents' Day, when the player of honor gets to putt for free with the purchase of a second admission.
