14 Top Water Activities in the Capital Region
With the Atlantic Ocean, Chesapeake Bay and numerous lakes and rivers, the waters of Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC are great places to play.
1. Frolic in a Fountain
Cool off with a sprint through Georgetown Waterfront Park’s spray fountain in Washington, DC or at various splash pads around Baltimore.
2. Paddle the Potomac
Calm and convenient, the Potomac River beckons kayakers, canoers and stand-up paddlers. Any number of shops will get you kitted out and on the water in no time.
3. Whitewater Raft Through Richmond
No need to stray out of the city for this wild ride. Richmond’s James River offers a wide variety of rafting opportunities.
4. Partake in a Dragon Boat Race
The DC Dragon Boat Club welcomes all ages and abilities to try the ancient Chinese sport of dragon-boat racing at Gangplank Marina.
5. Stand-Up Paddleboard the Rapids at Great Falls Park
Local guides will supply all the knowledge and equipment you need for a safe and thrilling whitewater SUP excursion at Great Falls Park in Virginia.
6. Play at a Waterpark
Indulge in splash-worthy fun like waterslides and wave pools at Williamsburg’s Water Country USA or McGaheysville’s Massanutten Resort.
7. Experience a Mule-Drawn Boat Ride
Board a canal boat pulled by a mule at Great Falls Visitor Center for a ride back to the 1870s along the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal.
8. Rent a Tidal Basin Paddleboat
Views of the Thomas Jefferson Memorial from the waters of Washington, DC’s Tidal Basin are stunning, particularly in the spring when the famous cherry trees are in bloom.
9. Tube the Gunpowder River
Flanked by lush woodlands, Maryland’s Gunpowder River near Monkton is a terrific spot for a leisurely summer float.
10. Tour by Water Taxi
The Baltimore Water Taxi stops at the city’s most iconic destinations, including the Inner Harbor and National Aquarium, whilst the Wharf Water Taxi offers direct routes between The Wharf and Georgetown in Washington, DC; Alexandria, Virginia; and National Harbor, Maryland.
11. Kayak with Dolphins
May through October, take a guided kayak tour in Virginia Beach to soak up breathtaking scenery and spot dolphins in their natural habitat.
12. Learn How to Sail
Gain all the knowledge you need to safely skipper your own vessel at a sailing school in Annapolis or with DC Sail at The Wharf.
13. Go Fishing on Buggs Island Lake
Southern Virginia’s Buggs Island Lake is one of the state’s best places to hook a largemouth bass, catfish or crappie.
14. Take a Dip in a Swimming Hole
Perfect your dive at the natural swimming pools of Blowing Springs and Cave Springs recreation areas.
Learn more about other outdoor activities in the Capital Region on our Outdoors & Nature page!
Visiting during another time of year? Check out top things to do in this four-season guide.
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