John Marshall Place Park

John Marshall Park is a public green space located in the Judiciary Square neighborhood of Washington, D.C. The park is situated between Pennsylvania Avenue and C Street NW, adjacent to the Canadian Embassy. It was created as part of the Pennsylvania Avenue Development Corporation's revitalization efforts in the 1980s.

The park is named in honor of John Marshall, who served as the fourth Chief Justice of the United States from 1801 to 1835. Marshall lived in a boarding house that once stood adjacent to the current park site.

Designed by landscape architect Carol Johnson, the park features three terraced levels that accommodate a 12-foot grade change. The lowest terrace along Pennsylvania Avenue is paved in a pattern reflecting Pierre L'Enfant's original city plan and includes shade trees. The central terrace remains open, preserving views of the Old City Hall building. The upper terrace contains two fountains, referencing the site's history as Washington's first public water supply location.

A key feature of the park is a bronze statue of Chief Justice John Marshall, which faces Pennsylvania Avenue. This statue is a recast of William Wetmore Story's original 1884 sculpture that stands at the Supreme Court. Additionally, the park includes bronze figures of two men playing chess, alluding to one of Marshall's favorite pastimes.

John Marshall Park serves as a quiet respite in the bustling downtown area, offering benches and green spaces for visitors to relax and enjoy views of nearby landmarks.