Kensington (Maryland)

The Mormon Temple is by far and away Kensington's most significant attraction. Most people only see it from the Beltway, where it rises high above the treeline, looking similar enough to the Emerald Palace in the Wizard of Oz. It inspired a local graffiti artist to paint "Surrender Dorothy" on the overpass on the Outer Loop. (The temple is actually white, though.) It's not possible to enter the Mormon Temple itself unless you are a Mormon and hold a church-issued permit known as a "Temple recommend". However, the grounds are pretty, and there is a Visitor Center open to all and they've done a nice job with it. It hosts regular events (see website for calendar) and movie screenings throughout the day every day of the year, in addition to a permanent multimedia display. The building itself and the grounds surrounding it are immaculate and pretty. The season to visit the Mormon Temple is around Christmas. The light display is truly spectacular, especially given that the grounds and temple are impressive enough to merit a visit without the display. The light display runs throughout Advent, and is absolutely worth seeking out if you are in the area. In addition to the light display, the Visitor Center shows its best face, with more than a dozen large, decorated Christmas trees, international nativity scenes, and a live outdoor nativity scene. It's a great place for all ages, and is certain to stir a little of the Christmas spirit.

The 14-mile trail is a paved multi-use path that runs along Rock Creek. It is often used by bicyclists, runners, walkers, pets, and baby strollers. Take the trail north from Kensinton to go to Lake Needwood Regional Park, where a person can rent canoes during the summer. Take the trail south from Kensington to go to Beach Drive in Washington, D.C., which leads to the Smithsonial National Zoo and the National Mall. There are some signs on the trail, but not quite enough, and it can sometimes be a bit unclear how to stay on the trail.