Potomac River

The basics

Travelers in DC can cruise along the Potomac River on a sunset dinner cruise, water taxi, Washington DC monuments cruise, DC duck tour, or even a cherry blossom springtime sail. If you don’t like river cruises you can keep your feet on solid ground and admire the Potomac from the Mount Vernon Trail or the East and West Potomac Parks. The latter—a stop on many sightseeing tours—is home to several popular monuments, including the Thomas Jefferson Memorial and the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial.

Things to know before you go

• Well-timed visits will bring spectacular views of spring cherry blossoms and fall foliage.

• Many Potomac River tours by boat are not accessible for wheelchair users; it’s best to double-check before you book.

• Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat when you’re out on the water.

• Keep in mind that some Potomac River activities are seasonal.

How to get there

The Potomac River has many access points throughout the DC area, including in the East and West Potomac parks. For visitors riding the Washington Metro, the station nearest the river is Foggy Bottom/George Washington University. Various sightseeing cruises and boat tours on the river depart from the downtown waterfront, Georgetown, Old Town Alexandria, and Mount Vernon.

When to get there

While the Potomac River is free to enjoy throughout the year, the views are arguably at their best during the spring cherry blossom season and in autumn when colorful leaves create a picturesque frame for the monuments on the shore. Expect high temperatures and high humidity from June to August.

Where to get the best views of the Potomac

To get a feel for the Potomac River, plan to see it from multiple locations. Besides downtown DC, the river flows through the National Zoological Park, Mount Vernon, and the Great Falls of the Potomac, where the waterway cascades down a series of beautiful rapids. Public parkland lines both sides of the river, offering ample places for a picnic.

Ways to explore

You can cruise along the Potomac River on a sunset dinner cruise, water taxi, Washington DC monuments cruise, DC duck tour, or a cherry blossom springtime sail. Avid paddlers can opt for a kayak tour along the rural Potomac Water Trails or through the city center. Or, keep your feet on solid ground and admire the Potomac from the 18-mile (29-kilometer) Mount Vernon Trail or the East and West Potomac Parks. The latter—a stop on many sightseeing tours—is home to popular monuments, including the Thomas Jefferson Memorial and the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial, and is adjacent to the National Mall.

Accessibility

Not all boat tours are accessible; confirm in advance.

Age limits

River boat tours are an excellent way to take in DC sights without tiring out tots.

What to pack

Hat, sunscreen, camera and battery pack

What to wear

Layers, comfortable shoes

Not allowed

Swimming is not allowed in the Washington DC stretch of the river.

Amenities

Public parks with walking paths, restrooms, and historic landmarks

Address 

The Potomac River has access points throughout DC, including in the East and West Potomac Parks. Sightseeing cruises depart from the downtown waterfront, Georgetown, Old Town Alexandria, and Mount Vernon.

Driving

If visiting the Potomac River in DC, take Interstate 395 from the south or Interstate 495, New York Avenue, Rock Creek and Potomac Parkway, George Washington Memorial Parkway, or Cabin John Parkway from the north. Interstate 66, US Routes 50 and 29 approach from the west, and US Routes 50, 1, and 4 are from the east.

Public transportation

If you're riding the Washington Metro, the station nearest the Potomac River is Foggy Bottom/George Washington University. From here it’s a quick walk west to the river.

Best times to visit

Daytime boat trips offer clear views of the nearby monuments, while night cruises are ideal for admiring the landmarks dramatically lit.

Best days to visit

The parks lining the river are busiest on weekends and holidays, while weekday mornings are the quietest for a scenic walk.

Best months to visit

The views are at their best during the spring cherry blossom season and in autumn when colorful leaves create a picturesque frame for the monuments on the shore.

Special events

Several communities located along the river hold river festivals each summer. The riverbanks are ideal for catching the Fourth of July fireworks in Washington DC.