Theodore Roosevelt Island
Interactive Park Map
About the Location
Natural Sanctuary
Theodore Roosevelt Island is an 88.5-acre island and national memorial located in the Potomac River in Washington, D.C. The island serves as a tribute to America's 26th president, Theodore Roosevelt, known for his conservation efforts and love of nature.
The island features several walking trails that wind through diverse habitats, including upland forests, swamps, and marshes. A 0.75-mile perimeter trail offers views of the Potomac River and the surrounding landscape.
Memorial Plaza
The island's central plaza contains a 17-foot bronze statue of Theodore Roosevelt, surrounded by granite tablets inscribed with some of his famous quotations on nature, manhood, youth, and the state.
Rich History
Originally inhabited by Native Americans, the island has a rich history. It was later used as a plantation, a Civil War training ground, and a recreational area before being transformed into a national memorial.
In the 1930s, landscape architects redesigned the island to create a planned wilderness, removing non-native plants and replanting with species native to the Potomac River Valley.
Visitor Information
The island is accessible only by footbridge from the Virginia side of the Potomac River. Visitors can reach it via the Mount Vernon Trail or by car, parking in a dedicated lot off the George Washington Memorial Parkway.
The park is open year-round from 6AM to 10PM, offering a peaceful natural retreat in the midst of the bustling capital city.
Wildlife Viewing
Wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers can observe various species on the island, including deer, foxes, and numerous bird species. The island's location along the Atlantic Flyway makes it particularly attractive to migratory birds.
