The Wharf is home to over 17 acres of parks and open green spaces—as well as four distinct piers for recreation and transportation. It’s a true breath of fresh air in this vibrant DC neighborhood where you can recharge, connect, or just watch the boats go by.
A. Market Pier
Direct waterside access for boaters and visitors to our Market Square and the Municipal Fish Market.
B. Banneker Park
Just north of Market Square, this open green space connects The Wharf to the L’Enfant Plaza promenade.
C. Transit Pier
A bustling launch pad for a wide variety of things to do—from catching the water taxi to seeing live concerts to skating at Wharf Ice Rink in the winter.
D. District Square
The retail heart and soul of this one-of-a-kind waterfront neighborhood, with a collection of new boutiques and shops on all sides—and restaurants and cafes for when you need to reenergize. Also home to the District Square water fountain, an iconic backdrop for many photos at The Wharf.
E. District Pier
The Wharf’s largest pier is a dramatic gathering place and backdrop to our festivals.
F. Recreation Pier
Go out on the water and see a different side of Washington, DC. Catch the Wharf Jitney, our free ferry to East Potomac Park, rent a kayak or paddleboard, enjoy the swings, and check out the fire feature.
G. 7th Street Park
A lush and energetic green space for relaxation and outdoor workouts featuring walking trails, splash fountain, and beautiful plantings. During the summer, run through the splash fountain to stay cool. The splash fountain is on daily from 8am-midnight.
H. East Potomac Dock
The Wharf Jitney lets you off at this dock across the Washington Channel, and it’s also where you can launch or tie up paddle crafts for up to three hours during daylight during operating season (the dock closes at dusk). Click here for more information.
I. The Grove
Outdoor waterview deck featuring a fire pit, a small busker stage to showcase local talent and shared space for al fresco dining.
J. The Green
A 1.5-acre park offering quiet seating areas, shade trees and elegant landscaping, tied together by a centerpiece fountain.
K. M Street Landing
Outdoor, waterfront space perfect for lounging in the sunshine with views of the Wharf Marina.
L. The Terrace
Outdoor space that offers areas for relaxation or for private events and waterfront wedding rentals.
M. Waterfront Park
A 3.5-acre park right at the edge of The Wharf, with rows of willow trees, shady trellises and gravel bocce courts.
The Wharf is your launchpad for all kinds of water activities—from leisure cruises and kayak tours to sailing lessons and paddleboarding, the Southwest Waterfront makes it easy to play on the river. Plus, our water taxi might just be the fastest way to get to Georgetown, Old Town Alexandria, or National Harbor.
Explore the WaterfrontIntroducing one of the best ways to view the city and the easiest mode of transportation to get to destinations on the Potomac and Anacostia rivers: our new water taxi. And if you just want to get across the Washington Channel, catch our jitney to East Potomac Park for a round of golf or a leisurely stroll.
Travel the Waterfront