On the Maryland side of the Falls, the Great Falls Tavern is one of the canal's most impressive structures. Great Falls Tavern has a canal visitor center, a book store, a model of the canal, and other information. Trails leading from the Great Falls Tavern explore the hilly area around the falls as well as the gold fields. A special trail with a footbridge extends onto one of the islands in the falls, allowing spectacular views of the Potomac's plunge over the fall line. An historic marker commemorates Frederick Law Olmstead, one of the country's leading landscape architects who helped create Rock Creek Park in Washington and Central Park in New York City.

The Friends of Great Falls Tavern, a volunteer group, assists the National Park Service with maintenance and administration of the tavern building, and conducts flower walks in the vicinity. The museum is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

An admission fee is charged for Great Falls Park. The fee is $4 per vehicle, or $15 for an annual pass.

The Canal Clipper, a replica canal boat, travels the canal during the summer months. Canal boat rides in 1999 rates are $7.50 for adults, $6.00 for seniors, and $4.00 for children.

Great Falls Tavern, National Park Service, C&O Canal, 11710 MacArthur Blvd., Potomac, MD 20854. Telephone: 301-299-3613.
Friends of Great Falls Tavern, 10121 River Road, Potomac, MD 20854.