Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center — Attraction in Potomac

The Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center serves as a gateway to the rich history and natural beauty of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park. This historic site, once a bustling tavern during the canal's peak operation in the 19th century, now offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing the significance of the canal to the region's development and the country's early transportation history.

Upon visiting, guests can explore a variety of exhibits and displays that detail the life of the canal workers, the construction and operation of the canal, and the transition of the tavern from a lively social hub to a visitor center. The center also provides informational brochures, maps, and a knowledgeable staff ready to guide visitors on the best ways to explore the surrounding parkland, including hiking trails, scenic overlooks of the Great Falls of the Potomac, and canal boat rides that offer a hands-on historical experience.

Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Potomac River and the lush landscapes of Maryland, the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center is not only an educational resource but also a starting point for outdoor adventures and a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply looking for a picturesque spot for a family picnic, the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center and the surrounding park offer a rich and varied experience for...

Took my 4 year old here to ride the canal boat. It was about an hour long ride that only goes a super short distance, but it was very cool going into the lock and get raised up by the water and lowered on our way back. We loved watching the mules pull the boat, and I enjoyed listening to the history of the canal and the boats that would use it. My little guy was excited to pet the mules afterwards.

We also hiked down to the water falls. I was thankful it wasn't more than a 15 minute walk to get to the beginning of the overlooks. He was overjoyed to see a huge turtle in the water and a big snake on a rock. He was fascinated by the waterfalls - as was I! Each section of waterfalls was beautiful, and easy to access - even if one was in a wheelchair.

Dogs can't go on the boardwalk that gives you access to the waterfall overlooks. I'm not sure if there are other ways to get a view of the waterfalls. I would love to take my dog here, but would have been disappointed to not see the falls because of him.

Overall it's a great place to get into nature and see some beautiful sights and catch a glimpse of some...

Address is 11710 MacArthur Blvd Potomac, MD (don't follow the address for them at 1850 Dual Hwy in Hagerstown, MD like we did as that only brings you to the Park Hdqtrs which are an hour away from the falls-we were told we weren't the first ones to do that) but when you get to Macarthur Blvd, take a left following signs to Great Falls rather than to 11710 which would be right. Follow Macarthur all the way into the National Park and down to the visitors center. Some areas are closed due to construction but you can still make it to the 2 overlooks.The trail to the overlook is about .25 miles past the Tavern on the towpath but be sure to take the boardwalk all the way to the end. And while you're in the area, be sure to go to the VA side which is only about 20 minutes away. The visitors center on the MD side is closed on Mondays...