Water Park at National Landing

Tucked between Crystal Drive and the Mount Vernon Trail, Water Park has made a big splash since its October debut, but there are no waterslides or wave pools here—it’s not that kind of park. Instead, visitors can relax amid beautiful landscaping and soothing water features while enjoying a veritable smorgasbord of food and beverage options, from Indian dosas, New York-style pizza and plant-based burgers to tiki drinks and curry noodles. Some 11 restaurants and kiosks are represented, nine of which are small businesses with minority and women owners. The open-air Water Bar, perched atop an infinity fountain with a cascading waterfall, is a cool spot for a plate of oysters and a proper cocktail. “People seem to be really enjoying it,” says Kai Reynolds, chief development officer at JBG Smith, which developed the 1.6-acre space. “The vendors are telling us their sales are higher than expected.” The word is out. –Stephanie Kanowitz