Just a handful of years ago, the underutilized stretch along Washington, D.C.’s Southwest Waterfront comprised a tired patchwork of Nixon-era structures. Today, this walkable district just minutes from the Tidal Basin — home to D.C.’s beloved cherry blossoms — is one of the city’s most exciting entertainment hubs, welcoming upwards of 15,000 daily visitors in search of delicious food and drink, water sports, live music, and festivals. Blending a historic old-world fish market with modern mixed-use urban design, The Wharf offers a glimpse at this historic city’s future. Here, a guide to the best attractions in the area.
Where to Play: Green Spaces and Live Music
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The Wharf is teeming with fun outdoor activities for all ages, many of which are free. With four piers and three parks totaling ten acres, the area is the ideal place to wander through masterfully designed green spaces embellished with large swings, wooden benches, and creative performance spaces.
You’ll hear peals of laughter emanating from the kids’ splash park, see the flashing wheels of high-intensity Hustle DC cycling classes on the pier, and spy rented kayaks and paddleboards gliding across the water. Corral friends for a game of bocce ball, play hilariously oversized games like Jenga and Battleship or, for a different view of the district, board the Wharf Jitney to cross the narrow channel and picnic on Hains Point.
You can listen to live music near the water, too. The Wharf’s Floating Stage, anchored in the Washington Channel off the Transit Pier, hosts performances by local musicians on a weekly basis. For a more intimate listening experience, the Nashville- and Austin-inspired Pearl Street Warehouse caters to musicians with an Americana bent. And touring national acts play at the Anthem, a 6,000-capacity venue which has hosted concerts by Bob Dylan, Lizzo, and The Killers, among many others, since it opened in 2017.
Where to Eat: The Municipal Fish Market and Beyond
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Blending food and history, The Municipal Fish Market is the oldest continuously operating fish market in America. Established in 1805, it recently enjoyed a face-lift during the rise of The Wharf. Devour fresh blue crab, oysters, shrimp, fish and more.
Cool off with margaritas at the rooftop bar Cantina Bambina overlooking the water. Or, if it’s cold, feast on s’mores around a firepit at Camp Wharf, a vintage Airstream food truck. The Brighton will make you an instant fan with its fish and chips and large screens showcasing your favorite sports team.
Where to Stay: In the Neighborhood
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Don’t just visit The Wharf — stay in the neighborhood, too. Canopy by Hilton, Hyatt House and the InterContinental are all located in the district. Adjacent is the elegant Mandarin Oriental, a nice complement to hotels directly in the center of the bustling hub. Watch for special packages crafted to sync with a season, holiday, or event such as the National Cherry Blossom Festival and Oktoberfest.
Where to Shop: Made in D.C.
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The makeover of the old waterfront now boasts more than 20 shops. For something unique created by artisans from the nation’s capital, stop in at Shop Made in DC. Then, leisurely browse the legendary Politics and Prose Bookstore. After you get a facial from one of the district’s spas, browse the aisles at Cordial Craft Wine, Beer & Spirits to take a taste of The Wharf back home with you.
Next Up: How to Spend Three Perfect Days in Washington, D.C.
