We’re anticipating a hot summer here in Washington, DC. But if you’re in town and need a good way to cool off, you’re in luck. We’ve put together this short list of water-based suggestions to help you beat the heat.
The Yards Park
Head to the Capital Riverfront neighborhood to visit The Yards Park, which hosts a variety of water-based activities along the Anacostia River. Kids will especially enjoy running through the park’s Dancing Fountains, which are illuminated with color-changing lights after dark. The fountains and canal basins are great ways to cool off on a hot summer day, and the water is treated with chlorine for everyone’s safety.
If you visit on a Friday, you can also attend a concert facilitated by the Capital Riverfront Business Improvement District. The park even has a fenced-in dog run, in case you want to bring along your favorite canine companion.
Tidal Basin Paddle Boats
You’ll get a workout when you pump the pedals of your very own paddle boat, but the views of the Jefferson Memorial and National Mall are more than worth the effort. You can rent a two-passenger boat for $18 per hour or a four-passenger boat for $30 per hour.
If you’d prefer a more leisurely cruise around the Tidal Basin, consider a Swan boat instead. These motorized boats can be rented for $34 per hour. Customers with disabilities are prioritized, so boats for non-disabled customers may not always be available. Don’t forget to bring a bottle of water to stay cool on a hot summer day.
Key Bridge Boathouse
Go out onto the Potomac River for a kayak or paddleboard adventure. The Key Bridge Boathouse offers lessons and rentals so that you can get onto the water and see the city from a unique vantage point. You’ll be able to see familiar sights like the Georgetown Waterfront and Roosevelt Island, as well as the John F. Kennedy Center and Washington Monument, from an entirely new perspective.
If you don’t want to risk getting wet, you can also participate in a sunrise yoga session on the dock. One of our favorite activities here is the July 4th Firework Paddle, which is perhaps the very best place in D.C. to catch the Independence Day fireworks extravaganza.
Great Waves Water Park
Though it’s technically located in Alexandria, the Great Waves Water Park is a favorite of Washington, DC locals. You can cool off with speed slides, regular waterslides, a splash pool, and a wading pool. If you want to get a little more adventurous, hop into the 17,500-square-foot wave pool for some extra excitement. Children can get personalized swimming lessons, and the whole family can enjoy some pizza and ice cream at the Surfside Pizza and Soft Serve restaurant. Tickets for the park start at just $11.75 per person.
Washington, DC is famous for its enormous amount of fun activities, and this is especially true in summer. Check out any one of these ideas to stay cool and have a guaranteed great time.
Image “paddle boat on the tidal basin” by MattHurst, used under CC BY-SA 2.0
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