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Waterfront Activities

A busy seaport since colonial times, Alexandria juxtaposes historic authenticity and new happenings among a growing scene of D.C.-area waterfront destinations. Visitors flock to Alexandria’s waterfront to enjoy boat cruises, picnics in waterfront parks, stand-up paddleboarding, festivals and more. Whether winding down after sightseeing or jump-starting the day with a morning run along the river, Alexandria’s waterfront is the best place to take in picturesque views of the Potomac River and Washington, D.C.

Enjoy al fresco drinks and dining with street performers and music or set sail with water taxis and river cruises by Potomac Riverboat Company, offering scenic commutes between Alexandria and the National Mall, The Wharf, Georgetown, Nationals Park, George Washington’s Mount Vernon and National Harbor. Discover more D.C.-area waterfront adventures and things to do.

A couple on a water taxi passing the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial

Water Taxis Skip the traffic and dock steps from The Wharf, Georgetown, the National Mall, Nationals Stadium, Audi Field or National Harbor. See More ›

Boat Cruises Cruise the Potomac with pets or to the first president's home. See More ›

Waterfront Dining Enjoy imaginative menus and spectacular views of the Potomac River. See More ›

Waterfront Parks Escape to the great outdoors without leaving the city of Alexandria. See More ›

Great Walks in Alexandria Get inspired with our curated walks, from an architecture-themed excursion to a waterside stroll to a Del Ray mural tour and more. Start Strolling ›

Waterfront Attractions Enjoy arts, archaeology, bikes, boats and more alongside stunning views of the Potomac. See More ›

Torpedo Factory Art Center Visit three floors of studios and galleries, meet artists in their studios and see real torpedoes at a former World War II-era torpedo plant. See More ›

Public Art Installation On display late March to November 2020, Wrought, Knit, Labors, Legacies by Olalekan Jeyifous frames Alexandria’s African American history through the… Learn More ›

Portside in Old Town Enjoy free-to-the-public events and happenings throughout the year in Alexandria’s expanded new Waterfront Park. Learn More ›

Mount Vernon Trail Ride, walk, or jog along nearly 18 miles of picturesque trail stretching along the Potomac River from Mount Vernon to the National Mall. See More ›

Sail, Kayak or Paddleboard The Washington Sailing Marina offers breathtaking views of downtown D.C. with on-the-water rentals and lessons. Learn More ›

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Things To Do

Waterfront Activities

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