Calling all adventurers, wedding guests (and freshwater enthusiasts? 🤔)! Ready to discover the best-kept secrets of the DMV area? I’ve curated the ultimate guide to the best Potomac River activities for you. 🛶 Whether you’re planning a trendy wedding, a romantic getaway, or just a fabulous family vaca, let’s ensure your river adventure is unforgettable!

potomac river activities

Why the Potomac is the Hottest Destination You Haven’t Heard Of (Yet)

The Potomac is a nature lovers paradise surrounded by some of the best towns in the Northeast. From the buzzing energy of D.C. to the serene beauty of Southern Maryland, this riverway’s shores offer something for everyone. It’s where history meets hipster, nature meets nightlife, and your Instagram feed gets a serious upgrade! 🌿📷

potomac river activities

Your Potomac Bucket List | Top 11 Things to Do

  1. Live the Wharf life: Immerse yourself in DC’s hottest waterfront development. With stylish restaurants, music venues, and a free water jitney to East Potomac Park, The Wharf is urban cool at its finest.
  2. Kayak or canoe through history: Paddle the ghost fleet of Mallows Bay. It’s eerie, it’s beautiful, and it’s guaranteed to rack up those likes.
  3. Try sunset yoga on a paddleboard: Namaste meets nature at Key Bridge Boathouse. Trust me, your followers will thank you for this Insta-worthy shot.
  4. Pedal and sip with Potomac Paddle Club: Join a BYOB booze cruise on a pedal boat. It’s the perfect blend of exercise and indulgence.
  5. Michelin-star picnic at The Yards Park: Grab gourmet takeout from one of DC’s top restaurants and enjoy it at this architectural marvel on the Anacostia River.
  6. Moonlight monument tour with City Cruises: See the iconic DC monuments reflected in the Potomac waters. It’s magical, romantic, and totally tweet-worthy.
  7. Explore National Harbor: Ride the Capital Wheel for breathtaking views, then join an REI adventure tour for some outdoor fun.
  8. River-to-table dining in Georgetown: From Tony and Joe’s Seafood Place to Farmers Fishers Bakers, Georgetown’s Washington Harbour is a foodie’s paradise.
  9. Bike the Mount Vernon Trail: Pedal from Theodore Roosevelt Island to George Washington’s Mount Vernon for 18 miles of scenic bliss.
  10. Tidal Basin swan boat ride: Channel your inner royalty as you glide past the Jefferson Memorial and cherry blossom trees.
  11. Anacostia River fishing adventure: Join Anacostia Riverkeeper for a free catch-and-release fishing experience at Diamond Teague Park.

potomac river activities

What to Wear for Your River Adventure

East Coast chic is all about blending function with fashion. Here’s your packing list…

  • Oversized sunnies (designer, of course)
  • Wide-brimmed hat (sun protection never looked so good)
  • Flowy maxi dress (for those impromptu photoshoots)
  • Chic water shoes (yes, they exist)
  • Sustainable water bottle (hydration is always in style)

potomac river activities

Where to Eat | From Food Trucks to Fine Dining

The Potomac food scene? Absolutely fire. Here’s where to satisfy your cravings…

Vibes

Spots

Locations

Why It’s a Must-Try

Trendy Brunch

Founding Farmers

Washington, D.C.

Farm-to-table goodness with a view

Waterfront Chic

Fiola Mare

Washington, D.C.

Upscale Italian that’s worth the splurge

Hidden Gem

Rivah Crabshack

Newburg, MD

Best crab cakes this side of Baltimore

Insta-worthy Dessert

Baked & Wired

Georgetown

Cupcakes that taste as good as they look

potomac river activities

Planning Your Potomac Escape | FAQs

Let’s break down everything you need to know!

things to do in southern maryland luisa frassier VjYP JoDY unsplash

When’s the best time to visit?

The Potomac serves looks all year round, but fall and summer are pure magic. Think crisp air, colorful leaves, and the perfect light for those golden hour shots.

potomac river activities

Do I need a car?

In D.C.? Nope, rideshares have you covered. Venturing to Southern Maryland? Grab a cool vintage convertible and hit the river road in style.

@abigailwolfenberger #washingtondc #oldtown #alexandria #virginia #nationalharbor #maryland #potomac #potomacriver #watertaxi #travel ♬ Summer day – TimTaj

What’s the one-can’t-miss waterfront activity?

Tough choice, but I’d say a sunset cruise from Georgetown to The Wharf. In one epic journey, you’ll catch the monuments, The Yards, and Anacostia.

potomac river activities

What are some of the most famous hotels along the Potomac?

The Potomac’s got some seriously stylish places to rest your head. Here’s a list of the crème de la crème:

  1. InterContinental Washington D.C. – The Wharf: Luxe waterfront living with rooftop views.
  2. Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center: A mini-city unto itself at National Harbor.
  3. Mandarin Oriental, Washington D.C.: Elegant Asian-inspired luxury with views of the Tidal Basin.
  4. The Watergate Hotel: Infamous history meets modern glamour.
  5. Salamander Resort & Spa: Country chic in nearby Middleburg, perfect for a Potomac Valley getaway.
  6. Hyatt Centric Old Town Alexandria: Boutique vibes in historic Alexandria, steps from the river.
  7. MGM National Harbor: Vegas glitz meets Potomac sophistication.

things to do in southern maryland cecd k

Any other waterfront destinations to check out?

Some honorable mentions if you have extra time are The Mount Vernon Estate, The Georgetown Waterfront Park, and Virginia Beach.

Carley and Kenny FAVE | nautical wedding ideas

The Pavilion at Weatherly | The Potomac’s Best-Kept Secret

Speaking of Weatherly Farm, let’s talk about why it’s the coolest venue you’ve never heard of (until now)! Imagine…

  • 600 feet of private river frontage (hello, exclusive vibes)
  • A 130-foot pier
  • Splash golf into the river
  • Fireworks over the pier (mic drop)

But the real magic? It’s that indescribable feeling you get watching the sun dip below the horizon, painting the river in shades of gold and pink. It’s romance, it’s nature, it’s pure Potomac perfection.

potomac river activities

Activities & Adventure Await!

From the cosmopolitan buzz of D.C. to the laid-back charm of Southern Maryland, the Potomac River is a world waiting to be explored. Every bend in the river brings a new adventure; history and hipster culture collide in delightful ways, and your most treasured memories are just waiting to be made.

So whether you’re saying “I do” with the river as your witness, embarking on a romantic getaway, or just looking for your next great Insta backdrop, the Potomac is calling! 🌊