5 Outdoor Activities to Try in Washington, DC

Everyone knows that DC is a popular tourist town, filled with history and wonderful free museums. When the weather is nice, there are more options for outdoor enthusiasts or tourists looking for something a bit more adventurous. Next time you visit DC, consider adding one of these fun, outdoor activities for a different perspective of our nation’s capital.  
*This post was updated April, 2021 

1. Kayak on the Potomac River. Head over to the Thompson Boat Center in Georgetown and rent kayaks or canoes for a trip on the Potomac between the Memorial Bridge and Chain Bridge. Our family has done this several times and its always a fun adventure.  For a small fee, we were able to launch two of our own kayaks in addition to renting a kayak and a canoe.  After you work up an appetite rowing, head over to Georgetown for lunch.  
2. Hike on Theodore Roosevelt Island. Just a stones throw from DC, you’ll find this pet friendly urban retreat just off the George Washington Parkway. The Swamp Trail is an easy loop at just under a mile and a half, and is part of the Kids in Parks Track Trail.  Download four different adventures with activities for kids to do while hiking the Swamp Trail. It’s a trash free park, so be prepared to take your trash with you when you leave. 
   
3. Hop on a Bike and Ride along the C&O Canal Towpath. On any given warm weather weekend in DC, you will find numerous bike riders around town. There are several good trails in DC, including parts of the towpath along the historic C&O Canal, as well as the Capital Crescent Trail and the Mount Vernon Trail. The latter offers scenic views of DC as well as a stop at popular Gravelly Point, an excellent spot to watch the planes take off literally over your head from nearby Reagan National Airport
   
4. See the Sites With a Segway Tour. Bike and Roll DC offers a variety of fun, guided tours, including the Sites by Segway tour. Riders have to be at least 16 years of age for this 2.5 hour tour (there is a minimum  weight restriction as well). This may not be the cheapest way to see the sites around the National Mall, but you can definitely cover a lot more ground in a shorter period of time. 
   
5. Hit the Horse Trail at Rock Creek Park. Leave the city behind and head to into the woods. Take a one hour guided walking trail ride in beautiful Rock Creek Park.  Hang out at the stables and visit with the friendly horses. Kids must be at least 12 to participate. Check their website for the latest news on reopening.