News
M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County is open for History, Culture, Nature, and More!
October 3, 2025
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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