![]() History, Recreation, & Discovery Along C&O CanalThe Great Falls Tavern (also historically known as the Crommelin House) originally functioned as one of the many lockhouses along the canal and serviced thousands of cargo and excursion boats that passed through Lock 20 on their way to and from Cumberland, MD and Georgetown in Washington, D.C. The tavern was a hotel for travelers along the canal beginning in 1831 and also a popular meeting place for community gatherings during the late 19th-century. Today the Great Falls Tavern remains a hub of activity as it acts as one of C&O Canal National Historical Park's visitor centers. Here, visitors can get information about park programs, hiking trails, and the history of the canal. Great Falls Tavern Visitor CenterThe Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center is located at mile 14.3 (Lock 20) along the C&O Canal towpath in Potomac, MD. Physical Address 11710 MacArthur Blvd.Potomac, MD 20854 Mailing Address 11710 MacArthur Blvd.Potomac, MD 20854 From Washington DC: Take M Street to fork. Follow either MacArthur Blvd, the right fork or take Canal Road, the fork to the left. MacArthur Blvd.: Follow MacArthur until the entrance to the Great Falls section of the park, approximately 8 miles. Canal Road: Follow to Chain Bridge. At stop light continue straight. Canal Road changes into Clara Barton Parkway. Follow Clara Barton Parkway to the end. At the stop sign, turn left onto MacArthur Blvd., and follow it for 3.5 miles until it ends at the park.
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Visitor Centers| Georgetown | Great Falls Tavern | Brunswick | Williamsport | Cumberland | |
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Last updated: October 16, 2024