Water Sports
Thompson Boat Center is a go-to if you want to get some experience paddling in D.C. The center offers sculling and rowing lessons, as well as kayak and canoe rentals. Located right on the Potomac River in Georgetown, you're just a few quick steps away from the water, however you choose to enjoy it.
Thompson Boat Center, 2900 Virginia Avenue NW; 202-333-9543.

Tucked underneath Key Bridge, you’ll find Jack’s Boathouse, a long-time local favorite for canoe, kayak, and stand-up paddle board rentals. A special perk for Jack’s customers? Access to gas grills for cookouts. Stepping out of the water and straight into a BBQ sounds like a great way to regain your land legs, right?
Jack’s Boathouse, 3500 K Street NW; 202-337-9642.

The little town of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, is famous for Civil War history, but it's also a must-visit weekend destination for water sports. If the tubing, white-water rafting, kayaking, and canoeing don’t convince you to make the short trip — it’s only an hour away — the new Aerial Forest Adventure Park should do the trick. If you prefer a wet-and-wild adrenaline rush, River Riders can do the planning for you.
River Riders and Aerial Adventure Park, 408 Alstadts Hill Road, Harpers Ferry, 800-326-7238.


Photo: Courtesy of River Riders