I explored an abandoned amusement park and found stunning art deco attractions and a thriving artists' hub

The land was originally developed for a National Chautauqua Assembly that taught arts, literature, language, and sciences, according to the park's website.

The park housed several rides and attractions, including seven roller coasters, an arcade, and a pool, according to Atlas Obscura.

The park became decreasingly popular in the mid-1960s, and it closed after the 1968 season, according to the Library of Congress.

Over time, organizations have repurposed the park's structures to house educational facilities, studios, galleries, and arts venues.

The entrance to the park had a gigantic sign visible from the adjacent highway. I imagine this must have helped attract visitors back in the day.

This stand and many other structures in the park were renovated between 2003 and 2010, according to a Glen Echo Park catalog.

According to the park's site, the carousel pieces were hand-carved by the Dentzel Carousel Company in the early 1900s.

Each animal was restored between 1983 and 2003, and the carousel is on the National Register of Historic Places.

While the teacups are gone, the space that covered them remains.

Today, the buildings house galleries and educational facilities. I spotted a music school and a glass art school.

According to the National Park Service, the pool was constructed in 1931 and could accommodate up to 3,000 people, featuring diving boards, a water slide, and an artificial beach.

Today, parts of the area have been overrun by nature.

According to the Glen Echo Park catalog, these yurts house art classes.

Inside, there are animal exhibits and interactive displays, as well as a submarine, according to the aquarium's website.

Strolling through the woods was the perfect way to end my trip to this abandoned wonderland surrounded by nature.