This park is stunningly beautiful in March & April, when the magnolia trees bloom. It’s a charming park, located in the DC neighborhood of Foggy Bottom, where one can peacefully get away from the crowds who are adoring the equally stunning cherry blossoms nearby. (Both trees are uniquely spectacular specimens each spring!) This green space has a tranquil water pond & park benches for relaxing, while taking in the beauty which surrounds you. And now for a little history on this park’s bronze... The bronze sculpture of John Aaron Rawlins rests on a granite base. It is one of the city’s Civil War monuments which were collectively listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is also one of the few Civil War monuments that is not an equestrian sculpture. Historians consider this particular statue to be one of the better portrait statues in Washington, D.C. Rawlins was a native of the state of Illinois & a lawyer who organized the 45th Illinois Infantry for the Union Army during the Civil War. He was the closest advisor to General Ulysses S Grant during the war. And after being elected into office, President Grant appointed Rawlins as his Secretary of War of the USA. Rawlins spoke passionately about the plight of recently freed slaves & he tried to protect Native Americans. He accomplished much good in his life, before dying of tuberculosis at a young age (1831–1869).

Rawlins Park is located on E street between 18th and 19 st. NW a few minute walk from the National Mall and other attractions. It is beautiful year round with water pond, trees, and benches for lunch or relax. However, the best time to visit is in Spring when the magnolia is in full bloom (late March/early April). Great place for Spring photos.

For those who want pink flowering beauty but don't want to deal with cherry blossom crowds at the Tidal Basin, I can recommend that this park is currently in full bloom and it's stunning. Easy drive in and lots of parking right along E street by the park. Just a few blocks off the mall, and also short walk to White House.