Learn about how Rock Creek Park came to be a national park at events this week

A ranger leads a family on a Rock Creek bike ride, September 1967. (photo provided by NPS)

His father is famous for Central Park in New York. A century ago, Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr. mapped out what would become Rock Creek Park. Two events this week celebrate this legacy.

On Friday, April 20, the National Park Service and the American Society for Landscape Architecture are sponsoring a free talk at the National Zoo auditorium (3001 Connecticut Avenue) from 5:30 to 9 p.m.

“Rock Creek Park: A Natural Gem in our Nation’s Capital” is free, but registration is required.

And on Saturday, April 21st, there will be a bus tour of Rock Creek Park from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., led by National Park Service park managers, historians, resource managers, and interpreters. A box lunch will be provided. Admission is $65. Find details and registration information here.