Fodor's Expert Review Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center

Headquarters for the Palisades area of C&O Canal National Historic Park, this visitor center has displays of canal history and photographs that show how high the river can rise. A platform on Olmsted Island, accessible from near the tavern, provides a spectacular view of the falls. On the lock walls are grooves worn by decades of friction from boat towlines. Interpretive ranger programs are offered year-round (in winter the schedule is limited), including hikes, nature walks, demonstrations, and lectures. Themed canal-boat rides are available in spring, summer, and fall, and the schedule varies depending on the month. Ongoing efforts to repair and restore locks can result in temporary towpath closures; call the visitor center for the exact schedule on the day of your visit.