Planning an outing to The Wharf with your children? From family-friendly activities to oversized swings to the boats at our piers, you’ll find plenty to do and see at The Wharf. And don’t forget about our free public events, which almost always have programming, crafts, and performances for the whole family to enjoy.
Play
• Check out the swings and gather near the fire feature on Recreation Pier
• Splash in the fountain at 7th Street Park
• Parents and kids will enjoy playing classic arcade games at Boardwalk Bar and Arcade
• Sail with City Cruises
• Play bocce at Waterfront Park
• Rent a kayak or paddleboard at Recreation Pier (seasonal)
• Ice skate on Transit Pier (seasonal)
• Listen to a concert or watch a movie on the Transit Pier Floating Stage (see events)
Explore
• Check out the views from all four public piers
• Oversee The Wharf’s waterfront from the second floor of the Hyatt House/Canopy hotel deck
• Go on a treasure hunt to find all 30 historic markers and plaques (and read about The Wharf history on the District Wharf App, downloadable here: iTunes or Google Play)
• Take the free Wharf Jitney to ferry across the Washington Channel to East Potomac Park
• Hop on the free Southwest Shuttle Bus to the National Mall
• Rent a bicycle from Capital Bikeshare and explore Southwest DC
• Go on a seasonal Water Taxi ride from The Wharf to Georgetown or Old Town Alexandria (or vice versa)
• Enjoy the boats—big and small—drifting by or docked at our piers
• Snap a selfie or family photo, and share it with @thewharfdc
Treat
• Roast s’mores at the Camp Wharf firepit near District Pier
• Find fun snacks, ice cream, or a great meal at our restaurants
• Check out the fish and live crabs at the iconic Municipal Fish Market