Live less than a mile away from this local treasure, a very large parkland site that is worth visiting, including a shop with a terrific amount of nature-related items.

Woodend seems small yet is remarkably diverse--lots of lovely areas and settings, a variety of plants, a neat shop, a neat old building. And unless a school excursion is there, it rarely seems busy..

Woodend Sanctuary offers some fine nature walks during which it is often possible to see deer and other wildlife up close. Regrettably, the beehives that once graced the beginning of the walking area are gone, victims of disease. The walks are over some uneven ground but unless one really is infirm or tires very easily one should not flinch in exploring. Being contiguous to Rock Creek Park ensures that wild animals have easy access to the sanctuary and they seem to feel at home there. There is also a nice shop with a good selection of publications, various garden accessories such as bird feeders, bat houses, etc., and, very importantly, a sales program for a variety of bird seed/food in convenient sizes, at reasonable prices (discounts for Audubon Soc. members). It is also a popular place for weddings and occasional other celebrations.

ANS is great! The grounds are pleasant, they offer many educational programs for all ages and all lengths form an hour or two to two week trips abroad. Staff are knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and just plain fun to interact with.