The capital of the United States is a sightseeing paradise. The city is not only home to many famous monuments and excellent museums, but also to sites where key events in both American and world history took place. Naturally there are thousands of tourists in the District of Columbia at any given time and if you want to avoid the crowds, get active and see the city in a new way, you may want to consider kayaking in Washington DC.
Aside from the fact that Washington DC is the capital of the USA, it's also special because it doesn't fall within the borders of any of the country's states. The District of Columbia, which is where the 'DC' in the name comes from, is entirely separate even though it lies between the states of Maryland and Virginia. DC is a great city for people who love spending time outdoors, with many green spaces and several great spots for being out on the water.
The western border of the District is formed by the Potomac River. This is one of the prime kayaking spots in the metropolitan area. Paddling down the Potomac, you may be able to spot landmarks such as the Watergate Complex, the Kennedy Center, the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, the US Capitol and the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial to your left. To your right, the shore consists mainly of parkland.
Probably the most historic of DC's neighborhoods is Georgetown, where you'll also find Georgetown University and Washington Harbor. It's from the latter that many kayak trips along the Potomac start. Georgetown also offers the perfect alternative for paddlers who would rather avoid boat traffic or rapids. The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal has very calm waters and is very scenic too, with the historic buildings along its banks.
Luckily being inexperienced is no reason not to go rowing. DC's most popular kayak rental businesses also offer lessons, not only in kayaking but also in canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding. Moreover, they offer guided tours of the city's waterways but also further up the Potomac and around the District. You can even go on overnight trips.
If you're an active traveler but would rather not run the risk of getting wet, there are other ways to see the capital city too. The majority of the most famous sights are concentrated within or near the small area known as the National Mall, which is best navigated on foot. The city is also very bicycle friendly with several trails and guided bike tours.
Winter is not the best time to visit, since it's very cold outside. Summer is better but the heat and humidity can be very uncomfortable. If you want to experience DC in the best way possible, come in the fall or in spring, when the weather is perfect. Bring your camera because the fall colors are stunning and in spring, the city's cherry trees are dripping with delicate blossoms.
There are several organizations and outfitters that rent kayaks in Washington DC, especially in or near Georgetown. You'll also find some rentals in nearby Maryland. Simply check online or ask at a travel agency and get ready to see the national capital from a different angle.
Aside from the fact that Washington DC is the capital of the USA, it's also special because it doesn't fall within the borders of any of the country's states. The District of Columbia, which is where the 'DC' in the name comes from, is entirely separate even though it lies between the states of Maryland and Virginia. DC is a great city for people who love spending time outdoors, with many green spaces and several great spots for being out on the water.
The western border of the District is formed by the Potomac River. This is one of the prime kayaking spots in the metropolitan area. Paddling down the Potomac, you may be able to spot landmarks such as the Watergate Complex, the Kennedy Center, the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, the US Capitol and the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial to your left. To your right, the shore consists mainly of parkland.
Probably the most historic of DC's neighborhoods is Georgetown, where you'll also find Georgetown University and Washington Harbor. It's from the latter that many kayak trips along the Potomac start. Georgetown also offers the perfect alternative for paddlers who would rather avoid boat traffic or rapids. The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal has very calm waters and is very scenic too, with the historic buildings along its banks.
Luckily being inexperienced is no reason not to go rowing. DC's most popular kayak rental businesses also offer lessons, not only in kayaking but also in canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding. Moreover, they offer guided tours of the city's waterways but also further up the Potomac and around the District. You can even go on overnight trips.
If you're an active traveler but would rather not run the risk of getting wet, there are other ways to see the capital city too. The majority of the most famous sights are concentrated within or near the small area known as the National Mall, which is best navigated on foot. The city is also very bicycle friendly with several trails and guided bike tours.
Winter is not the best time to visit, since it's very cold outside. Summer is better but the heat and humidity can be very uncomfortable. If you want to experience DC in the best way possible, come in the fall or in spring, when the weather is perfect. Bring your camera because the fall colors are stunning and in spring, the city's cherry trees are dripping with delicate blossoms.
There are several organizations and outfitters that rent kayaks in Washington DC, especially in or near Georgetown. You'll also find some rentals in nearby Maryland. Simply check online or ask at a travel agency and get ready to see the national capital from a different angle.
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