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Free recreational opportunities are available during the federal government shutdown 

RIVERDALE, Md. – In support of the community impacted by the federal government shutdown, The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC), Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County announced today that admission fees to all Department museums and rental fees for bikes and kayaks at waterfront parks will be waived. This initiative provides residents and visitors with access to affordable recreational and educational opportunities just minutes from the nation’s capital.

“During this government shutdown, we know many of our residents are facing challenges and uncertainty. The Department of Parks and Recreation wants you to know – we stand with you,” said Darius A. Stanton, Director of M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County. “Our parks, trails, museums, and community centers are open and ready for the community to enjoy. These spaces offer more than just recreation – they are places of wellness, reflection, family connection, and community.”

The Department invites the public to explore its 10 historic sites and museums and experience the available tours, which share powerful stories of freedom and faith, labor and love, resistance and persistence, and wonder and joy:

• College Park Aviation Museum & Airport (the world’s oldest continuously operating airport)
• Riversdale House Museum
• Marietta House Museum
• Darnall’s Chance House Museum
• Montpelier House Museum
• Surratt House Museum  
• Ridgeley Rosenwald School
• Columbia Air Center (first African American-owned and operated airfield)
• North Hampton Slave Quarters

In addition, the Department’s three nature centers and farm connect visitors to wildlife with more than 150 animals, including a bald eagle, snakes, insects, birds, and more:

• Watkins Nature Center
• Clearwater Nature Center
• Mount Rainier Nature Center

For outdoor recreation, two waterfront parks offer opportunities to kayak along the Patuxent and Anacostia Rivers, as well as hike and bike on more than 50 miles of natural surface trails.

• Bladensburg Waterfront Park
• Patuxent River Park

With free access to these historic sites, museums, nature centers, and parks, the Department reaffirms its commitment to supporting the community during challenging times. Residents and visitors are encouraged to take advantage of these opportunities to learn, explore, and connect with the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of Prince George’s County. For more information, including hours of operation and program details, visit pgparks.com.

About the Department

With over 28,000 acres of parkland, trails, athletic fields, playgrounds, and more, the M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County provides an award-winning park system through progressive, quality, innovative leadership and a commitment to its community and environment. The Department delivers first-class recreational activities and programs for people of all ages and ability levels. It strives to improve the quality of life for Prince George’s County residents and the communities in which they live, work, and raise families. The Department’s Formula 2040 Plan establishes a framework that will ensure the Department can meet future parks and recreation programmatic and facility needs, fulfilling its mission to determine the combination of land, facilities, and programs that will provide appropriate experiences for Prince Georgians in the future. To learn more, visit www.pgparks.com.

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RIVERDALE, Md. – The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC), Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County is supporting the community during the federal government shutdown by offering free and low-cost recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.

With many families and individuals impacted by the shutdown, the Department is committed to ensuring the community has access to spaces and programs that promote wellness, reflection, family connection, and community. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of:

• Free access to parks, trails, and nature centers – Enjoy more than 28,000 acres of parkland, over 160  miles of paved and natural surface area trails,245 playgrounds,and scenic outdoor spaces.
• Low-cost and free fitness opportunities – Stay active with affordable passes for indoor aquatic facilities, weight and fitness rooms at community centers, along with FREE health and wellness classes.
• Mental Health Awareness Week (October 5 -11) – Learn about mental health resources and discover ways to take care of your well-being through FREE workshops, trainings, and fitness classes.
• Community events and family activities – Enjoy engaging programs for all ages throughout Prince George’s County, including special events like the Capital Challenge Horse Show.
• Free senior programs – Adults ages 60+ are eligible for a free Senior ID card, providing access to all senior centers. Adults 62+ can also enjoy the free senior nutrition program lunch at a Senior Activity Center.
• Historic sites and museums – Visit 10 historic sites and museums, which share powerful stories of freedom and faith, labor of love, resistance and persistence, and wonder and joy.

“During this government shutdown, we know many of our residents are facing challenges and uncertainty. The Department of Parks and Recreation wants you to know – we stand with you,” said Darius A. Stanton, Director of M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County. “Whether you’re looking for a peaceful trail walk, fresh air with loved ones, or a safe space for your children, you can count on us to keep these spaces accessible.”

To hear more from Director Stanton, watch his video message here.

For more information on free and low-cost recreational opportunities available, visit pgparks.com.

About the Department

With over 28,000 acres of parkland, trails, athletic fields, playgrounds, and more, the M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation in Prince George’s County provides an award-winning park system through progressive, quality, innovative leadership and a commitment to its community and environment. The Department delivers first-class recreational activities and programs for people of all ages and ability levels. It strives to improve the quality of life for Prince George’s County residents and the communities in which they live, work, and raise families. The Department’s Formula 2040 Plan establishes a framework that will ensure the Department can meet future parks and recreation programmatic and facility needs, fulfilling its mission to determine the combination of land, facilities, and programs that will provide appropriate experiences for Prince Georgians in the future. To learn more, visit www.pgparks.com.

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