dc potomac cruises

CAPITOL RIVER CRUISES

Celebrating over 30 years on the potomac, what we offer, our sightseeing tours are our most popular. cruise down the potomac river while enjoying historical narration on the landmarks, monuments and memorials. our vessels are also available for private charters great for any type of event, we've done it all.

Sightseeing Tours

Private Charters

Crab Feast Charters

(Only available for private charters)

Specialty Cruises

Our Gallery

Capitol River Cruises is a small family owned and operated Tour Boat Agency that has been cruising on the Potomac River in Washington, DC for 29 years!

We offer Sightseeing Boat Tours, Crab Feast Charters, Custom Private Charters and various types of Specialty Cruises. Our everyday Sightseeing Cruises are 45 minutes long. We depart every hour on the hour from Washington Harbor in Georgetown, cruise past the 14th St. Bridges and turn around near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. You'll learn all about the history of Washington, DC monuments, memorials, statues and the surrounding area. Our crab feast charters & custom private charters are perfect for company outings, birthday parties, bachelor/bachelorette parties, celebrations, etc. Any type of event really, we've done it all!

What our customers had to say!

Had an awesome time. Great way to let your feet rest from all the walking. We even got to bring our pup & he loved it. Had a nice glass of wine and enjoyed the breeze from the water. I recommend this tour it’s a different way to see the monuments and memorials without walking a million miles.

-Alexis Suarez

We had an amazing time! We scheduled the Crab Boat for a ladies day out on the Potomac. The crew was very friendly and funny. The Captain played great music. The crabs were delicious! Even the side dishes were good. The weather was perfect. We would definitely cruise with them again.

-S. Haskins

Sightseeing Guide

Sightseeing and Dining Cruises

City cruises.

City Cruises (formerly known as Hornblower Cruises & Events) offers water experiences beyond compare. Choose from a variety of cruises including: dinner cruises, brunch cruises, lunch cruises, cocktail cruises, sightseeing cruises, and holiday cruises. All of the vessels are conveniently docked at The Wharf, giving you the perfect launch point to explore the nation’s capital from the water.

Odyssey Savor delicious entrees and desserts as this glass-enclosed vessel drifts by the sights—accompanied by a relaxing atmosphere and live music.

Spirit of Washington Cruises A unique mix of dining, entertainment, and views, Spirit of Washington offers offers lunch, dinner, and holiday cruises, plus a variety of themed cruises.

Elite Private Yachts Host your own event or plan an unforgettable jaunt on the Potomac by chartering one of our two private yachts. Our sleek vessels are the perfect backdrop for weddings and other special occasions.

Water Taxi   Come to The Wharf’s Transit Pier to catch a ride on the Water Taxi to Georgetown in DC, Old Town Alexandria in Virginia, or National Harbor in Maryland—and enjoy the scenic views of the nation’s capital from the Potomac. Sightseeing Cruises See the famous monuments of Washington, DC from an entirely new perspective on this narrated sightseeing cruise. You’ll travel along the Potomac River while taking in breathtaking views of the Washington monuments and famous landmarks.

Sightseeing cruises depart from Transit Pier (970 Wharf St SW). Dining cruises (all others) depart from Pier 4 ( 580 Water St SW ).

Learn about Getting to The Wharf , including metro and parking directions.

Get Your Fill at The Wharf

Fresh seafood is a given on the waterfront. But The Wharf offers more, including a wide selection of distinctive choices for food, drinks, and entertainment while you eat. Watch the chefs prepare your meal. Listen to music. Or just people-watch while you savor the flavors of The Wharf.

Do It All on the Waterfront

Whether you like to be on the Potomac or prefer the sparkling views from land, The Wharf offers ample things to do and ways to enjoy the water. Dine in one of our fabulous restaurants. Browse our shops. Or join us during one of our festivals. Take a look at our upcoming events to plan your next visit.

BOOMERANG BOAT TOURS

Party yacht & pirate ship cruises, boat tours, & private charters in washington, dc, boomerang boat tours, party yacht & pirate ship cruises in washington, choose your dc boat tour.

• MOST POPULAR!
• Hour Glass 2 hours

Boomerang Yacht Cruise

Enjoy a 21+ cruise aboard the Boomerang Party Yacht which includes premium open bar, water, sodas, pre-packaged snacks, fun music, and amazing DC views.

Pirate Ship Cruise

Enjoy a 21+ cruise aboard the Boomerang Pirate Ship which includes premium open bar, water, sodas, pre-packaged snacks, fun music, and amazing DC views.

• Hour Glass 1 hour
• Users All ages

Family Fun Treasure Hunt Cruise

Ahoy there, young pirates! Get ready to embark on our interactive cruise, offering endless excitement and the perfect adventure for kids of all ages!

Private Boomerang Boat Charter

Our charters are perfect for any private party occasion like birthdays, work parties, engagement parties, graduation parties, wedding welcome parties, post wedding brunch cruises, corporate team building, and more!

Boomerang Sightseeing Cruise

Our one-hour sightseeing tour on the Potomac River promises to be an informative, entertaining, and visually captivating experience.

Boomerang Yacht Brunch Cruise

Embark on a captivating Brunch Cruise on the Potomac River with Boomerang Boat Tours! Indulge in a delicious brunch buffet catered by Northside Social, sip on cocktails from our premium open bar, and groove to tunes spun by our live DJ.

About Boomerang Boat Tours

Featured on The Travel Channel, MTV’s The Real World, ABC, and more, Boomerang has been a beloved fixture in the Washington, DC area since 2006! Initially renowned for our party bus services, the Boomerang Party Yacht, Party Boat, and Pirate Ship have steered our company from land to ‘sea.’

Setting sail in 2012, the Boomerang Boat fleet offers Potomac River cruises departing from the Georgetown Waterfront for nine months of the year. Explore our website and book your cruise today!

5-Star Boat Cruises in Washington, DC

I went on a beautiful sunset cruise for a fundraiser. Saw the National Mall from the Potomac at night, it was stunning! The crew members were polite and courteous. The boat docked with a large party group before our group and you would never have known there was another group on 5 minutes before because the boat was spotless.

Wondering what to do when you have friends in town? Boomerang Cruises! After a day of museums, and typical D.C. attractions, treat yourself! On the last trip, my friends had the best time enjoying cocktails, music, and an awesome view on the Potomac. Don't forget to ask the bartenders about the "Shot Ski!" It is a game-changer. Thank me later.

I love going on the Boomerang Party Yacht. The staff is always friendly and helpful! The drinks are amazing! I would highly recommend for any event, we have been on for birthdays, going away parties, celebrations and just for a fun night out. The sunset cruises are highly recommended. Perfect views of the city and fun all around. Great way to meet new people in the area or have a fun night out in DC if you are visiting.

My twin sister and I chose the Boomerang Party Yacht to celebrate our 25th birthday! We had so much fun with our friends. It wasn't too crowded, nice views and the drinks were great. The staff was nice and funny. We had fun doing the limbo. I highly recommend the sunset cruise. Great to see DC in the evening and night. Book ahead because they do sell out!

I have been on the Boomerang Yacht's day, night, sunset, and brunch cruises with friends and it never disappoints! Great crew, bartenders, atmosphere, and views of DC. I have been in DC for almost 5 years and I always re-appreciate how great it is on these cruises- especially in the springtime. Highly recommend for anyone visiting or who lives in the area!

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Washington DC Sightseeing Cruises

Michael Lee / Getty Images

Washington, DC sightseeing cruises are a nice way to relax and capture great photographs of the nation’s capital along the Potomac River.  These boat tours are most fun during the warmer months of the year when you can get out on the deck to see panoramic views of some of the region’s most popular landmarks, such as the Kennedy Center , the Washington Monument, the Jefferson Memorial, the Washington Navy Yard, and more. A variety of types of cruises are available and depart from Georgetown, the Southwest Waterfront , ​ Alexandria , Mount Vernon  and National Harbor .

Themed cruises and special promotions are available seasonally for Valentine’s Day, Cherry Blossom season, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, 4 th of July, New Year’s Eve and more. 

Riverboat Rides on the Potomac

Riverboat cruises are the most affordable excursions on the Potomac River and travel past some of the Washington DC area’s most famous landmarks. Cruises run several times a day, weather permitting.

Capitol River Cruises - Departing from Georgetown’s Washington Harbour, the cruise company offers 45-minute narrated boat rides as well as private charters and crab feast tours.

DC Cruises - Departing from Georgetown’s Washington Harbour, the cruises include Sunset/Happy Hour Tours, Monuments By Moonlight, DJ Nights, and special events like crab feasts, fall foliage cruises, and cherry blossom tours. Cruises run rain or shine. This company provides water taxi service between Georgetown and the National Mall and to Nationals Park throughout the baseball season.

Potomac Riverboat Company - Based in Alexandria, VA, the tour company has a fleet of unique boats including the authentic split sternwheeler The Cherry Blossom, the Admiral Tilp, The Matthew Hayes, the Miss Christin, and the Miss Mallory. Excursions include The Washington Monuments Cruise, Alexandria Seaport Cruise, Mount Vernon Cruise, Pirates Cruise, and Canine Cruise. This company also provides water taxi service between Alexandria, VA, the National Mall, and National Harbor, MD. Potomac Riverboat Company operates the Baseball Boat to provide transportation from Alexandria to Nationals Park during the baseball season.

Lunch and Dinner Cruises in Washington, DC

Lunch and dinner cruises include a gourmet meal and live entertainment aboard a luxury vessel. Passengers enjoy beautiful views of Washington, DC’s monuments and famous landmarks. Cruises depart from the Gangplank Marina at 6th and Water Streets or from National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland. Reservations are recommended. These two- or three-hour cruises provide popular venues for parties and corporate events. 

Odyssey Cruises - The glass-enclosed ship offers panoramic views and the most upscale experience of the region’s cruises. Dinners are a three-course seated meal (buffet for larger groups). A live band performs. Larger groups can reserve a private deck. The cruise departs from Southwest DC and can sail from National Harbor for an additional fee.  

Spirit Cruises - The cruise includes a buffet, DJ, dancing, and monumental views. Larger groups can reserve a private deck. The Spirit of Washington departs from Southwest DC and can sail from National Harbor for an additional fee. The Spirit of Mount Vernon provides round-trip transportation with a discounted admission to Mount Vernon. Boxed lunch is available for purchase. Private charter is also available (including buffet). 

DC Cruises - Crab Feasts - These excursions for groups of 25-75 people include bushels of crabs and shrimp picked up fresh at the seafood wharf just before the cruise. The ship departs from Georgetown’s Washington Harbour. Large groups may depart from SW Washington DC, Alexandria, and National Harbor for an extra charge. Public crab cruises are also available.

Schooner Sailing on the Potomac River

DC Sail -  Departing from the Gangplank Marina in SW Washington DC, DC Sail provides sailing opportunities on its 65-foot schooner, the American Spirit, including Cherry Blossom Cruises, sunset sails, Boating & Baseball Excursions, and July 4 th Fireworks Cruises. DC Sail also provides educational, recreational, and competitive sailing programs for all ages. As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, DC Sail relies upon the proceeds from American Spirit programming to help support their youth scholarship program for at-risk children in the DC area.

Private Yacht Charters in Washington DC

A variety of private charter cruises are available in Washington, DC. You can customize your own excursion for a private party, wedding, or corporate event.

Elite Private Yachts - Charters for groups of 25 to 100 depart from Washington DC and National Harbor. The Capital Elite and the National Elite are luxury yachts that can accommodate large groups.

Potomac Riverboat Company - Based in Alexandria, VA, the tour company has a fleet of unique boats that are available for private charter: The Cherry Blossom, the Admiral Tilp, The Matthew Hayes, the Miss Christin, and the Miss Mallory.

American Spirit - The National Maritime Heritage Foundation offers sailboat charters along the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers. Boats depart from the Gangplank Marina in SW Washington, DC.

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Locations | Washington DC Area

Washington DC Party Boat Rentals

With a fleet of Paddle Boats , Tiki Boats , Retro Boats , and Whitlow’s on Water , we offer the highest rated cruises and boat rentals in Georgetown, The Wharf, and Navy Yard. Over the past decade, the DC Waterfront scene has been completely transformed into one of the most vibrant communities in the District with a wide range of hospitality options and newly developed marinas.

Enjoy a Cruise Down the Potomac River

There are endless reasons to get together with your friends, family, or colleagues for a private boat tour of DC, but here are a few ideas if you’re looking for an excuse:

DC Sightseeing Boat Tours

Soak in the sunshine and some of DC’s most monumental views on a private boat cruise. During our cruises, passengers will get stunning views of Georgetown, the Kennedy Center, the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, the Jefferson Memorial, the Pentagon, and the United States Capitol!

Cherry Blossom Boat Tours in DC

Blossoms up! We offer cruises and boat rentals to see the Cherry Blossoms from the Potomac with a drink in hand, avoiding the crowds. Skip the crowds and traffic, enjoy a few of your favorite drinks, and party your way to the petals while your skipper gets you up close and personal with DC’s most iconic trees.

DC 4th of July Cruises & Boat Rentals

Celebrate America’s Birthday with a booze cruise! Enjoy a fireworks cruise on the 4th of July out of Georgetown & The Wharf. First come, first served!

Brunch, Dinner & Happy Hour Cruises

Brunch cruises on the potomac.

Take brunch to the next level with a boozy boaty brunch! Bring your favorite foods, pop some bottles, and sip on mimosas while you set the tone for your day.

Dinner Cruises in Washington DC

Elevate your evening with a dinner cruise under the stars! Bring along your favorite cuisine, uncork the wine and indulge as you glide through the night, creating unforgettable moments under the moonlit sky.

DC Happy Hour Cruises

On Monday-Thursday each week, happy hour has no time limit on our boats. We offer happy hour pricing during the week so we can guarantee you that these are some of the best happy hour prices in DC. Even further, some of our boats offer the option to BYOB! Don’t get me wrong, we love a good rooftop or waterfront bar, but nothing compares to being on your own private floating bar where you can play your music surrounded only by your friends.

Potomac River Sunset & Night Cruises

Sunset cruises.

Trade in rush hour for golden hour as you watch the sun set upon the monuments. Being on the river as much as we are, we can assure you that watching the sun’s golden glow against the Lincoln Memorial as the sun gradually retires for the night is a view that will simply never get old.

Night Cruises

Seeing the monuments lit up at night while you and your crew light up the night is a truly one-of-a-kind DC nightlife experience. All of our boats are equipped with party lighting so when the sun goes down, the fun heats up! Enjoy the cool summer air and the glow of the city on the water to make any night a midsummer night’s dream.

DC Bachelor(ette) & Birthday Parties

Bachelorette/bachelor parties.

Get nauti before you tie the knot! Our boats are the perfect size for any wedding party, have a wide range of options to either BYOB or purchase drink packages on board, and the backdrop of the monuments from the water creates the perfect picture-worthy moments. With convenient locations at Georgetown, The Wharf, and Navy Yard, there are no shortage of options to keep the party rolling after your cruise. You’ll always remember your final sail before the veil!

Birthday Parties

Party buses are cool and all but take your special day to the next level this year with a birthday party boat rental . Blast your own playlist, enjoy drinks with friends and family, and get the perfect picture in front of the monuments for a shameless HBD-to-me post.

DC Corporate Team Outings

Nothing boosts team morale like a little vitamin D and vitamin Sea. Celebrate a milestone, bring a virtual team together, break off from a big conference or convention, or just get to know your team better. Take a corporate team-building cruise and sip, socialize, and sail through the District.

Navy Yard Sports Sailgates

Get ahead of the gameday traffic rush and take your tailgate to the water for Nationals games, DC United games, and DC Defenders games with cruises out of Navy Yard! Get rowdy and get dropped off right by the stadium for the ultimate fan experience.

DC Booze Cruises and Boat Rentals

These social, active adventures are the perfect way for friends, families, and colleagues to sip, sail, and celebrate out on the water!

• Drinks: Sold On Board
• Group Size: 8 - 18
• Duration: 1 hr 45 mins

View Cruise Details

Mini Tiki Boat (Tikito)

• Drinks: BYOB
• Group Size: 1 - 6
• Duration: 2 hrs

Whitlow's on Water

• Group Size: 1 - 48
• Duration: 1 hr 45 mins - 2 hrs

Paddle Boats

• Drinks: BYOB & Sold On Board
• Group Size: 8 - 16

Retro Boats

• Group Size: 1 - 4
• Duration: 1 hr 30 mins

Boat Rentals Near Washington DC

Browse every Sea Suite cruise in the DC Area. We offer boat rentals out of Georgetown, Navy Yard, and The Wharf. Select your desired location and book your adventure!

» Contact Us

Get Together, Get Away!

• United States
• Washington, D.C. Area
• District of Columbia
• Southwest Waterfront

Odyssey Cruises Washington D.C.

• Good for special occasions
• Great for scenic views

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Additional information

• Dining style Casual Elegant
• Price $50 and over
• Cuisines Dinner Cruise, American
• Hours of operation Brunch: Saturday & Sunday: 10:45am - 1:30pm Lunch: Monday - Friday: 11:15am - 2:00pm Dinner: Monday - Thursday: 6:00pm - 10:00pm Friday & Saturday: 7:00pm - 11:00pm Sunday: 5:00pm - 8:30pm
• Phone number (866) 306-2469
• Website http://www.odysseycruises.com/washington-dc
• Payment options AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
• Dress code Smart Casual
• Private party facilities Nothing compares to the dynamic, unique experience of a group event on the water. Delicious food and drinks, top entertainment and stunning views combine for an experience your guests won’t forget. From business meetings to special occasion celebrations, give your event a whole new energy.
• Private party contact Professional Event Planner: (855) 398-7088
• Location 600 Water Street Southwest, Washington, DC 20024
• Neighborhood Southwest Waterfront
• Cross street 6th Street SW
• Parking details For Odyssey parking, turn into the Gangplank Marina Lot off of Water Street. Please allow extra time to park as there is limited parking space available at Gangplank Marina. A number of nearby lots and meters offer additional convenient parking within walking distance. Additional parking charges at these areas may apply.
• Public transit From the Metro: Exit the Waterfront SEU Station. Turn Right on M ST. which turns into Maine Ave. Turn Left onto 6th. Odyssey is located at Gangplank Marina, 6th and Water Street.
• Entertainment Cruises feature our band, Chane Link, playing softer standards on our Brunch and Lunch cruises and throughout the earlier part of our Dinner cruises. During the later part of our Dinner cruises, expect a shift to more high-energy dance music. No matter when you cruise, there is something for everyone to enjoy, from Motown to disco, from 80"s ballads to swing, and from Latin to jazz standards.
• Additional Banquet, Beer, Dancing, Entertainment, Full Bar, Happy Hour, Late Night, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Shrimp Cocktail

Sriracha Cocktail Sauce. Available for an additional price

Seafood Tower

Maine Lobster | Alaskan King Crab | Jumbo Shrimp | Bay Scallop Ceviche | Sriracha Cocktail Sauce | Parsley Aioli. Avaialable for an additional price

First Course

Wedge salad.

Applewood Smoked Bacon | Sun-Dried Tomatoes | Chives & Italian Parsley | Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

Lobster Soup

Brioche Croutons | Chives

Smoked Moulard Duck Breast

Cranberry, Cherry & Caramelized Shallot Compote | Pickled Cornichons & Pearl Onions

Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes

Sweet Corn, Red Bell Pepper & Thyme Succotash | Cajun Cream Sauce

Oven Baked Atlantic Salmon Filet

Lemon Orzo with Red Onions & Sun-Dried Tomatoes | Citrus Dill Sauce

Maple & Mustard Glazed Chicken Breast

Fingerling Potatoes & Chives | Haricot Verts | Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce

Braised Beef Short Rib

Idaho Potato & Horseradish Mash | Baby Carrots | Pearl Onions & English Peas | Cabernet Sauvignon Sauce

Greek Zucchini Fritters

Lemon Orzo with Red Onions & Sun-Dried Tomatoes | Spring Onion & Cucumber Tzatziki

Filet Mignon & Lobster Tail

Truffle Potatoes | Glazed Baby Carrots | Herb Butter. Available for an additional price

Duo of Sorbet

Seasonal Sorbet | Fresh Fruit

Granny Smith Apple Parfait

Cinnamon Spiced Apples | Almond & Oat Crumble | Candied Chili Bacon

Salted Caramel Cake

Dark Chocolate Ganache | Raspberry Sauce

Odyssey Signature Warm Butter Cake

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream | Blackberry Sauce

What 10 people are saying

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• 3.8 Service
• 3.9 Ambience

Noise • Moderate

Dined on September 14, 2018

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How is Odyssey Cruises Washington D.C. restaurant rated?

Odyssey Cruises Washington D.C. is rated 4 stars by 10 OpenTable diners.

600 Water Street Southwest, Washington, DC 20024

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Potomac Water Taxi is closed for the season, resuming in March 2024

Plan ahead and purchase your season pass now Book Now

Potomac Water Taxi

Our newest water taxi service offers routes connecting The Wharf to Georgetown, Old Town Alexandria, and National Harbor.

View the schedule to see departure times at your nearest location. Enjoy the ride along the Potomac River. Download our City Experiences app today to enjoy these audio tours the next time you’re on a narrated sightseeing tour – download in the Apple Store and Google Play Store.

Our boats are ADA compliant but please note that the Georgetown Dock is not. Sorry, no pets – only service dogs are allowed on the Potomac Water Taxi

Where to Meet

• The Wharf    View on Map Dock: Transit Pier, 950 Wharf St SW* Drop-Off: 950 Maine Ave SW, Washington, DC *Pedestrian access only. Located between Blair Alley SW & 9th St SW.
• Georgetown  View on Map 3100 K St NW, Washington, DC Approximate trip time: 30 minutes – Georgetown Dock is not Wheelchair accessible * Please note, our water taxi route traveling from Georgetown directly  to Old Town Alexandria is our Monuments Cruise
• Alexandria City Marina     View on Map 0 Cameron St, Alexandria, VA Located behind the Torpedo Factory Art Center Approximate trip time: 30 minutes
• National Harbor     View on Map 145 National Plaza, National Harbor, MD Approximate trip time: 45 minutes

Explore More Water Taxi Offerings

Frequently asked questions, reservations, how do i make a reservation, how do i modify a reservation.

For more information, please call 877-511-2628 . We reserve the right to change boats/schedules at any time.

Payments and Discounts

How do i pay for my tickets, are there any discounts for children, are season passes available, when does the season pass expire, can i commute to work, print or show tickets, do i need to print tickets or show my boarding pass, what happens in there is inclement weather, what is the dress code, what are the routes of the potomac water taxi, what are the departure times, what is the travel time for the water taxi rides, what is the location for departure.

The Wharf   View on Map

Dock: Transit Pier, 950 Wharf St SW* Drop-Off: 950 Maine Ave SW, Washington, DC *Pedestrian access only. Located between Blair Alley SW & 9 th St SW.

Georgetown   View on Map

3100 K St NW, Washington, DC Approximate trip time: 30 minutes – Georgetown Dock is not Wheelchair accessible. Please note, our water taxi route traveling from Georgetown directly to Old Town Alexandria is our Monuments cruise.

Alexandria City Marina   View on Map

0 Cameron St. Alexandria, VA Located behind the Torpedo Factory Art Centr Approximate trip time: 30 minutes

National Harbor   View on Map

145 National Harbor Plaza, National Harbor, MD Approximate travel time: 45 minutes

What will I see along the routes?

Are audio tours available.

• Alexandria-Georgetown Monuments Route
• Wharf-Georgetown Sightseeing Route

Download our app today to enjoy these audio tours the next time you’re on a narrated sightseeing tour.

Download the City Experiences App – Apple Store and Google Play Store

Food & Beverage

Can i purchase food or beverages on board, are pets allowed on board, are there age restrictions to cruise, smoking policy, is smoking allowed onboard, weapon policy, what is your weapons policy, safety & accessibility, are you regulated b the u.s. coast guard, wheelchair accessibility, are the water taxis handicapped accessible, onboard comfort, are there life preservers onboard, will i get seasick, is there a phone on the boat where guests can receive or make calls, is there parking by the boarding location, be the first to get offers and news, shopping cart, find your experience.

Meet the only line that cruises from Washington, DC. Here’s where it’ll take you

Picture cruises from Washington, D.C., and you'll likely envision a behemoth like Royal Caribbean 's Icon of the Seas clogging up the Potomac River. Fortunately, that's not the case with the only ship to sail voyages from the U.S. capital.

American Cruise Lines — the largest river cruise line in the U.S., which operates small-ship voyages exclusively on U.S. rivers and coasts — has positioned two of its vessels, fittingly named American Constitution and American Glory, at The Wharf along D.C.'s southeast waterfront.

As the first ships in more than 60 years to sail round trip from that location, they take passengers along the Potomac and York rivers and into the Chesapeake Bay. Here's a rundown of when the cruises depart, how much they cost and where you'll stop along the way.

For more cruise guides, news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

When you can cruise from Washington, DC

These voyages, dubbed American Revolution itineraries, operate in the spring and fall, with the first voyage of 2024 setting sail on March 26, just in time for passengers to enjoy the area's famed cherry blossoms .

Sailings on both 100-passenger American Glory and 170-passenger ship American Constitution run on a regular 10-night rotation through early June and pick up again from early October to early November.

Where you can cruise from Washington, DC

If you're a history buff, you'll salivate over the places this itinerary will visit.

Your trip will begin with a pre-cruise package that includes a stay at the Four Seasons in Washington, D.C., where you can tour the Capitol Building and spend time at the Smithsonian museums.

After departing the capital, you'll stop in Annapolis, Maryland, home of the Naval Academy and a charming downtown area. Follow that up with highlights in Norfolk, Williamsburg and Yorktown, Virginia, where the Revolutionary War came to an end.

Finish off the trip with a call on Alexandria, Virginia, where you can spend a day exploring the historic old town, and a visit to Mount Vernon, the former home of George Washington.

How much are cruises from Washington, DC?

Prices start from $5,275 per person for a cabin with a window as part of a promotion the line is running, which includes fare discounts and free round-trip airfare if you're not someone who lives within driving distance of The Wharf. You can check more prices on the American Cruise Lines website .

Other cruise ports to consider

If you'd prefer a sailing on a larger oceangoing ship, the closest big-ship embarkation ports within a reasonable driving distance are Baltimore and Bayonne, New Jersey.

A variety of ships depart from those locations, including Carnival Cruise Line 's Carnival Legend and Carnival Pride and Royal Caribbean's Vision of the Seas from Baltimore. Liberty of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas, as well as Celebrity Cruises ' Celebrity Eclipse, depart from Bayonne.

Norfolk, Virginia, is also a drive-to port for the D.C. area, but no large ships are scheduled to depart from there in 2024. Look for cruises on Carnival Sunshine in 2025.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

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Where to Book Booze Cruises of All Kinds in D.C.

Seasonal offerings on the Potomac include tailgating excursions to Nats Park, sunset Champagne on the dock, and everything in between

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This spring, D.C. docks are home to a surge of drinking vessels designed for every occasion, vibe, and price point. A returning line of retro motor boats are apparently the ticket to getting engaged, with seven proposals out on the water last year. Want to watch dolphins give birth on the Chesapeake this summer? One hotel offers an excursion for that. And a fancy sailboat manned by a fine dining chef pairs tasting menus with French wines.

Soak up monumental views along the Potomac River, drink in tow, with this running list of bookable boats.

Sea Suite Cruises

Co-founders and Arlington natives Jack Walten and Jack Maher’s first BYOB paddle pub debuted in 2018. Six years later, their supersized fleet is made up of 13 boats bobbing around Mid-Atlantic waterways (in D.C., Baltimore, Annapolis, and Richmond), plus floating tiki bars. And a landlocked bar born in Clarendon is the muse for one of their hottest new bookings this season:

Whitlow’s on Water

Now the largest boat in Sea Suite Cruises’ fleet, the 48-passenger tiki tour is the product of a fun new partnership with Whitlow’s owner Jon Williams. His iconic Clarendon dive moved to Shaw, but its original tiki rooftop on Wilson is reincarnated as a floating bar. “Whitlow’s on Water has taken the [Potomac] by storm,” says Sea Suite’s Jack Walten, noting it’s pretty much sold out almost every Saturday through the summer. Diehard Whitlow’s regulars, which includes the “Jacks,” have a familiar face on board: a former bartender from its Clarendon days handles the liquid lineup. Standard mixed drinks join beers, wines, High Noon seltzers, orange crushes, and rum punches. There’s also a selection of pub grub (sandwiches, wings, etc.) sourced from Whitlow’s.

Two TVs air “whatever people want to watch,” he says, which has included everything from March Madness to the Bachelorette (bachelorette parties are popular bookings, after all). As are corporate teams, birthdays, Whitlow’s fans, and even 50-year wedding anniversaries. Individual tickets are also available, to “mix and mingle like you would in a normal bar,” he says. Sea Suite caters to Washington Nationals fans with a traffic-free cruise from Georgetown to the Yards Marina, docking just in time to walk over for the first pitch. “Tailgating on a tiki boat, it doesn’t get better than that,” he says.

Price: Ticket tiers start at $24 and up for daily options that include individual or group sightseeing tours, tiki taxis, private charters, or “Nats Sailgate” ( book online).

Where: Pick-ups and drop-offs in Georgetown in front of Fiola Mare ( 3100 K Street NW ) and Yards Marina by District Winery (1492 4th Street SE )

Retro Boat Rentals

Vintage runabout boats from Sinatra’s time were retro-fitted with electric motors, so having a romantic or intimate conversation is highly possible. It’s no wonder there were multiple (seven) proposals out on the water last year, reports Sea Suite. Each four-top fiberglass beauty sports a different color and name (Gladys, Bonnie, and Violet).

Price: $175-$225 for 1.5-hour tours; BYO drinks and food

Where: Wharf to the Washington Channel

Potomac Tiki Club

D.C.’s “first tiki cruise” lets patrons buy booze on board, or opt for an $8 corkage fee for wine and Champagne. BYO food or purchase small snacks.

Price: $45-$60 for parties of 8 to 18 out of Georgetown. A smaller thatched-roof sibling out of Navy Yard fits six and runs $350-$425. Both last 1.45 hours.

Paddle Club Cruises

Sea Suite Cruises’ fleet that started it all is a pontoon pedal boat outfitted with 10 cycle stations (or just let the motor power the party). BYOB (just no hard liquor) or purchase on-board beverages like canned Cutwater ($4-$8.50).

Price: $35-$55 for groups of 8 to 16 for 1.45-hour tours

Where: Docks from the Wharf, Navy Yard, and Georgetown

Sea Table DC Aboard Cru Classé

Chef and sommelier Troy Knapp makes Michelin-level menus on his luxury sailboat Cru Classé. Back at the Wharf for its third year , the detail-oriented captain brings fine dining to the dock with artfully plated courses, decadent floral arrangements, seafaring table settings, and French wines he pours himself. Knapp also mans other Wharf vessels for parties of six or more, partnering with Nautiste to offer dining excursions with his catering company Curated.

Choose from three different experiences this season (book via TOCK ):

• Cruise Experience (April through October): Set sail for up to three hours while enjoying four to six courses comprised of ingredients from local farms and fishermen. Complemented by prestigious wine pairings. Starting at $430 per guest
• Dockside Experience (April, May, September, and October): Savor four to six courses with sommelier-selected wines while docked at the Wharf’s marina for up to two hours. Starting at $180 per guest
• Oyster Sails (June, July, and August): Enjoy local bivalves, freshly shucked by an oyster expert on board, alongside specialty accompaniments. Paired with Champagne or prestige white wine. Starting at $225 per guest

Where: Docks at the Wharf ( 650 Wharf Street SW )

Pendry on the Potomac

The most baller option of the bunch by far, the Wharf’s luxe Pendry hotel offers guests a captain-chartered Aviara cruise that’s available to the public for the first time. Parked in its own slip right out front of the Southwest Waterfront hotel, onboard food and beverage offerings include Champagne and caviar service supplied by Pendry’s culinary team. Bar selections, beer or wine, and appetizers can be customized, depending on the parties’ preference. Excursions near and far include round trips to Nationals home games and an all-day adventure to the Chesapeake Bay to spot marine life. As it turns out, dolphins use the Potomac and Bay as a nursery to birth their calves — a rare event that happens from mid-June to mid-August when the water is warmest. Kicking it up at full speed (35-40 knots), hat-holding patrons will jet downstream through Old Town, Fort Washington, and Mt. Vernon and (hopefully) see the annual occurrence.

Price: $3,600 (3 hours); $4,600 (4 hours); $6,000 (6 hours); $7,800 (7 hours) for up to six; reserve here .

Where: Outside of the Pendry ( 655 Water Street SW ) at the Wharf Marina

Watergate Charter

Staycation alert: the historic Watergate Hotel offers guests 90-minute scenic tours of the Tidal Basin aboard a private power boat chartered by a captain. Upon check-in, guests get a welcome amenity and a Polaroid camera to capture their day on the Potomac. Bring your own beverages and snacks or order Watergate’s picnic basket for two stocked with cherry blossom-themed macarons, a charcuterie board, and a bottle of Veuve Clicquot. Available for stays through the summer (September 2).

Where: Docks from the Georgetown Harbor; view booking details here .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sea the City Hot Tub Boat Tours (@seathecityhottub)

Private Hot Tub Boat

Believe it or not, it’s now possible to bask in a bubbling hot tub with 10 friends, be a DJ, and soak up city sights out on the water — all at once. NYC-based Sea the City expanded its tricked-out party fleet on the Hudson down to the Potomac in March. No food is allowed, but 21-and-up passengers are permitted to bring alcohol (beer, wine, bubbly, or hard seltzers only) on board. The company provides complimentary ice, coolers, cups, and water. Up to 20 can fit on the boat at once, and the 10-person tub is outfitted with a Bluetooth-enabled sound system to create your own set list.

There’s a private room onboard for swimsuit costume changes (along with a separate bathroom). BYO towels or rent ones for $6-$8. Party favors include customized marquee boards, and the boat promises “attentive deckhands” at the ready.

Where: The Wharf Marina, 101 Market Square SW

Price: Starting at $359 for a two-hour experience

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Kayaking in DC: Where to paddle the Potomac and more

By sophia barnes • published april 24, 2024 • updated on april 24, 2024 at 1:28 pm.

It's official: Kayaking season has arrived in D.C.! And if you ask us, it's one of the best ways to see the city from a new angle.

Maybe you want to cruise by some iconic sights with out-of-town guests, or you're looking for a quick but nature-filled escape. You can find both at the various kayak rental outposts along the Potomac River.

Boating in DC is the main company renting out kayaking and canoeing gear in D.C. proper. Four Boating in DC locations are open now, renting out all your gear for an hour or two of scenic paddling.

Prices may vary by location but generally start at $21 for a one-hour rental of a single-person kayak. Double kayak or canoe rentals, which are a good option for families with children, are available at many locations. Those start at about $31.

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Rental prices include life jackets, paddles and cushions. Staff members will help guide you into and out of the water and can give you a few pointers before you take off.

Kids aged 7 and younger can float with an adult "as long as they can safely sit independently and fit securely" in a personal flotation device, while kids ages 8 to 15 can have their own boat but must be accompanied by a guardian, Boating in DC says.

If you're looking for an option in Maryland, check out Bladensburg Waterfront Park Boat Rentals offered by the Prince George's County parks department.

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What’s open now:.

Fletchers Boathouse is the most nature-filled location, letting you explore the C&O Canal and Potomac River. When rowing up the waterway, look to your left to try and find a hidden waterfall cove. You'll find the boathouse off Canal Road, south of the Chain Bridge.

• Pro tip: We advise driving (there is parking!) or taking a rideshare. Google Maps will tell you that there's technically a route for pedestrians. But at Canal Road, you'll be walking alongside fast-moving traffic for a bit, then going down an often-busy driveway.

Key Bridge Boathouse and Thompson Boat Center in Georgetown are both great launching points to see the Kennedy Center and Lincoln Memorial. You can walk to both locations from the nearest transit stops in fewer than 15 minutes. Thompson Boat Center, which is near all the restaurants of Washington Harbor, will put you closer to the monuments.

• Pro tip: Row to Teddy Roosevelt Island , park your kayak for a few minutes and stretch your legs.

The Wharf Boathouse is open Fridays to Sundays. It is one of two locations to offer hydrobikes.

Coming soon:

Ballpark Boathouse near Nats Park will be open on weekends starting Friday, May 3. It will also rent out hydrobikes.

The Washington Sailing Marina in Alexandria will open when the time is right in May.

Paddleboards: Rentals of stand-up paddleboards are expected to begin at all locations in May, once temperatures warm up.

Bonus: Paddle around submerged WWI-era ships

If you want an extra adventurous paddling experience, you must check out Mallows Bay in Charles County, Maryland.

The largest graveyard of abandoned naval ships in Western Hemisphere waters is now a vibrant nature preserve that can be experienced up close.

The ships are best seen during low tide. Tours are offered by Atlantic Kayak ($65-$85), REI ($120+) and occasionally the Potomac Riverkeepers.

Want to know what's up for your weekend? Sign up for The Weekend Scene , our newsletter about events, experiences and adventures for you and for your family around the DMV.

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The 31 best things to do in D.C. this weekend and next week

Ever wish you could be in two (or four) places at once? The next few weeks are full of FOMO, the fear of missing out. On Saturday alone, you’ve got hundreds of bands playing outdoors at Petworth PorchFest, seven D.C. museums offering special activities during Do the Loop day, DJs spinning dance music during Project Glow, the D.C. Cocktail Festival, a screening of “The Lord of the Rings” inside the National Building Museum, and cultural festivals from Purcellville to Suitland. On the same day, families can celebrate the reopening of the Glen Echo carousel with an afternoon of activities, or visit the D.C. Public Library’s book festival for young readers. Speaking of books, it’s also Independent Bookstore Day. Tough choices will have to be made, but at least you know some of your options.

Thursday, April 25

It’s Your Mug 30th Anniversary at the Kennedy Center

In the mid-1990s, a Georgetown coffeehouse called It’s Your Mug was the epicenter of Washington’s poetry scene: It was, according to a 1997 Washington Post story , “the hallmark for New Age Black poetry in Washington and the place where [poet and host Toni Asante] Lightfoot single-handedly popularized the open mic.” Diverse groups of writers read everything from works in progress to erotica. When the two-level coffee shop closed, Lightfoot and poets dispersed back to bars and cafes on U Street, such as Mango’s, but It’s Your Mug’s influence hasn’t diminished. To mark its 30th anniversary, Lightfoot and a number of the open mic’s regulars are gathering at the Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage, including performance artist Holly Bass, rapper and educator Toni Blackman, and Words Beats and Life’s Director of Poetry Patrick Washington, for an evening of lyricism accompanied by live jazz. 6 p.m. Free .

Spirit Week at Other Half

Dressing up in themed outfits, chalking up sidewalks, decorating hallways: Spirit week is a staple of high school life — and now a brewery in Ivy City. Other Half is hosting Spirit Week at all seven of its locations, including D.C., with new beers and different discounts for participating each day. Start Thursday with Decade Day, which offers 10 percent off for those dressed in outfits from a different decade. Friday’s Twin Day means buy one, get one free pints for two people in matching outfits. Throw on an old Other Half T-shirt for $4 off flights on Saturday’s OHB Spirit Day, and get a $5 pint of hazy Varsity Greens IPA for wearing any sports jersey on Sunday. Through Sunday. Free admission .

Taylor Swift Trivia at Honor Brewing

Honor’s Sterling taproom and production facility hosts a monthly themed trivia night, and this month is all about Taylor Swift. Prizes are awarded for the top three teams. Arrive early for happy hour, which includes $10 flights, $5 wines and $1 off pints. 7 p.m. Free .

Friday, April 26

Georgetown French Market

If a trip to Paris isn’t in the cards this spring, the Georgetown French Market should be on any Francophile’s calendar. This annual sidewalk sale happens on Wisconsin Avenue NW between O Street and Reservoir Road, and up and down the surrounding streets, with more than 40 local businesses participating in the fun. Browse pop-up outdoor book sales, take 10 percent off French wine at Bacchus Wine Cellar, get a grilled merguez sausage from Patisserie Poupon, and listen to live music or watch street performers, including a mime and a unicyclist. Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Free .

Spring Open Doors at Spanish Cultural Center

Explore the latest indoor and outdoor art installations at the Beaux-Arts mansion that used to house the Spanish ambassadors. Inside, you’ll find “SPAINfographics,” which details the relationship between Spain and the United States through the work of infographic artists, and “Not Your Regular Wall,” an returning exhibit that, in this edition, is inspired by Spanish scientist Santiago Ramón y Cajal. Outside, one exhibit re-creates iconic photos of male leaders with images of women, and another explores the idea of “returning to the outside world.” Note that a reservation does not guarantee admission. Friday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Free.

Saturday, April 27

Petworth PorchFest

All the neighborhood is a stage in Petworth this weekend. More than 100 hosts open their porches, stoops and front lawns to almost 300 musical acts between 2 and 6 p.m. Some you might have heard of, such as the jazz-punk fusion of the Messthetics, the lush pop of Ari Voxx or the groovy synth-pop of Wrizzards. Many of them you have not. But that’s missing the point of this massive festival, which stretches almost two miles from north to south but still feels like a block party. The main stage, which hosts music from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Petworth Recreation Center, is a handy starting point, but the best part is meeting up with friends and following your ears through the streets, where you’ll hear jazz, hip-hop duos, bluegrass pickers, mariachis, DJs spinning house and dad bands knocking out classic rock covers. If one address is too crowded or you lose interest, there’s another show around the corner (or sometimes just a few houses away). Bring a hat, because you’ll spend a lot of time standing on the sidewalk, and pack food and drinks. 2 to 8 p.m. Free .

Do the Loop

When most folks talk about museum hopping in D.C., they’re referring to visiting multiple Smithsonians on the Mall, or maybe browsing the galleries and historic houses near Dupont Circle. There’s a much more ambitious schedule at the second Do the Loop day, which brings together seven institutions west of Rock Creek, including the Kreeger Museum in Foxhall, American University Museum at the Katzen Arts Center in Tenleytown and Dumbarton Oaks in Georgetown. (The Jackson Art Center, Addison/Ripley Fine Art, Georgetown University Art Galleries and Klagsbrun Studios, which are also participating, are clustered near one another in Georgetown.) Each location offers something different: tours of Dumbarton’s gardens and museum; sculpture garden tours and food trucks at the Kreeger; guided gallery tours with journalist and artist Bob Schieffer at Katzen. Scavenger hunts and hands-on activities for children are offered throughout the day. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., though individual location hours vary. Free .

Carousel Day at Glen Echo Park

Saturday is an exciting day for children of all ages: Glen Echo Park’s 103-year-old Dentzel Carousel opens for yet another season. Riders can claim their favorite animal — a galloping ostrich, bounding hare, majestic lion — while the gorgeously restored carousel spins to the waltzing tunes of a 1926 Wurlitzer band organ. Each trip is $2, making a $5 unlimited day pass a great deal. But there’s more to do than go up and down, around and around: The day’s activities include free music and dance performances, hands-on crafts, dance classes, and open art studios. (Some events in the park that day, such as performances of “Alice in Wonderland” at the Puppet Co., charge a fee.) 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free admission; carousel rides $2 each or $5 for an all-day pass.

Project Glow at the RFK Festival Grounds

The third annual Project Glow turns the grounds around the abandoned RFK Stadium into an EDM wonderland. Performances from Chicago house legend Derrick Carter, dance-pop hitmaker Zedd, and creative back-to-back pairings like upstart Acraze and genre-hopper Wax Motif should keep the rave going, as will sets by DMV favorites including Baronhawk Poitier, Mathias, Thablackgod and others. Let’s hope the weather prevents DJs from shaking the windows of residents miles away. Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 11 p.m. $109-$279 .

Independent Bookstore Day

The American Booksellers Association is celebrating its 11th Independent Bookstore Day, which means discounts, parties and more for D.C.-area book fans. Kramers in Dupont Circle has two promotions: Find a golden ticket hidden in the store for a 20 percent discount, or get a free “blind date with a book” for every $75 spent ( 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Free ). East City Bookshop on Capitol Hill (which is also celebrating its eighth anniversary) is offering 10, 20 and 30 percent discounts at random throughout the day, plus chances to win a curated tote of advanced reader copies or a year of free audiobooks ( 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Free ). If choosing only one store to spend your Independent Bookstore Day perusing is just too much pressure, consider joining the D.C. Bookstore Crawl , where hitting five out of 19 locations will get you a prize — or hit all 19 to enter a raffle for a grand prize. Stops include Big Planet Comics, Lost City Books, Politics and Prose, and the Potter’s House ( 10 a.m. Saturday to 8 p.m. Sunday. Free ).

D.C. Cocktail Festival at Union Market

Bartenders from popular D.C. bars and restaurants like Compass Rose, Bar Chinois, the Doyle and the Wells come together to pour drinks at the D.C. Cocktail Festival, held at Union Market’s event space Dock 5. Tickets offer the chance to taste samples of all 15 cocktails, so pace yourself accordingly. This day-drinking event is divided into two sessions: The first begins at noon for VIP ticket holders and 1 p.m. for general admission, with the party ending at 3 p.m. The second session begins at 3:30 p.m. for VIP and 4 p.m. for general admission, and ends at 6:30. Noon to 6:30 p.m. $39-$59 .

Plant sale at the National Arboretum

Find the perfect perennial or just pick up pots and planters at the annual plant sale hosted by the Friends of the National Arboretum. Because this is the National Arboretum, the selection can be more impressive than at other garden events around town. ( Check out the website for the exact list of flowers, shrubs, succulents, conifers and other plants available for purchase.) But there’s more to do than stock up your yard: Take a class on the role of raised beds in urban gardens; visit the ARTboretum for family activities, such as face painting and games; and browse the vendor village tables, full of garden supplies, fine art, clothing and jewelry from local makers. Food trucks and local companies are on hand with refreshments. The plant sale tent is members-only until 11 a.m., but other activities are open to the public during that time. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free; pay-what-you-can for the gardening class .

Maryland Day at the University of Maryland

Throughout the Free State, March 25 is celebrated as Maryland Day, which commemorates the arrival of English colonists in 1634. But in College Park, Maryland Day is something else: a celebration of the state’s flagship university, when the campus opens its doors to the surrounding community, alumni or not. There are more than 400 activities taking place, from the football team’s spring game to an insect petting zoo. (“Imagine tarantulas, exotic insects, scorpions, bees and millipedes longer than your hand for you to look at and touch.”) Try making 3D art, conduct surgery with robots, listen to musical performances, explore rare books or sample ice cream from the Maryland Dairy. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free .

Reopening of the Metropolitan Beer Trail

The ever-popular bar-and-brewery crawl along the Metropolitan Branch Trail officially reopens for business this weekend. Visit 11 stops, including breweries Lost Generation, Red Bear and Right Proper, or beer gardens, such as Metrobar and Wunder Garten, to earn points that can be redeemed for T-shirts, baseball caps and other prizes. (The person who checks in the most times by the end of December wins a $25 gift card for each of the participating businesses.) The trail is just over two miles long, but you don’t have to complete it in one day. Through Dec. 31. Hours vary. Free to participate .

‘The Lord of the Rings’ at the National Building Museum

The National Building Museum’s “Great Movies in the Great Hall” is like bringing your favorite summer movie series indoors. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs, complete with a picnic, to spread out on the carpet in one of the city’s most impressive indoor spaces, among the soaring Corinthian columns. Before “The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring” screens, J.R.R. Tolkien researcher Joey Wilson-Brooke presents a virtual program about the role of architecture and design in the books and on-screen. Costumes are encouraged. Popcorn and beverages are available for purchase. (No outside alcohol is allowed.) Doors at 6:30 p.m. $5-$15; free for children younger than 12 .

STAR Fest at Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library

The STAR Fest — that stands for “ Sing, Talk and Read ” — is an in-person offshoot of D.C.’s Books From Birth program. Bring little ones for a day of story times, soft play activities, musical performances by children’s entertainers and an area that lets children imagine their own stories. This event is designed for children younger than 5. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free .

Cultural Arts Festival at Creative Suitland

Poets, musicians, dance companies and theater are all featured at this afternoon festival, including Prince George’s County Poet Laureate Khadijah Ali-Coleman. A vendor market spotlights local designers of jewelry, soaps and home decor, as well as food trucks. 2 to 7 p.m. Free .

Purcellville Music and Arts Festival

Multiple stages of music, dance and entertainment are featured at the Purcellville Music and Arts Festival, set in the historic downtown area. Attractions include a show with more than 30 artists in the Bush Tabernacle Skating Rink, a market with local makers and food vendors, and family activities such as T-shirt painting and glitter tattoos. Justin Trawick and the Common Good and the Rowdy Ace Band are among the performers in Fireman’s Field Park. Dogs, lawn chairs and tents are welcome. Noon to 7 p.m. Free .

Broadway Rave at 9:30 Club

Move over, Taylor Swift-themed dance nights, because there’s a new and very niche singalong party in town. Broadway Rave advertises itself as a “traveling dance party for adult theater kids,” with musical standards on the playlist and surprise guest appearances from the stars of Broadway shows. The D.C. edition is landing at 9:30 Club, and you’re encouraged to show up dressed as your favorite Broadway character. We’re guessing the costumes will be truly extra. 10 p.m. $20 .

D.C. Chocolate Festival at the French Embassy

Returning for a seventh year, this festival is a celebration of all things chocolate — education, confection and, of course, sampling. Taste and shop in the main exhibit or check out classes and workshops throughout the day on topics like chocolate and beverage pairings and the chocolate economy. There are also non-chocolate foods and beverages in case your sweet tooth falls out. 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. or 2 to 5:30 p.m. $25; free for children under 12.

Sunday, April 28

Make It Mount Pleasant! Spring Arts and Crafts Market

Support local artists at the Make It Mount Pleasant! Spring Arts and Crafts Market, which turns Mount Pleasant Street NW into an open-air gallery for more than 50 artists who live in the neighborhood and across Northwest Washington. The Mount Pleasant Artists Collective and Mount Pleasant Main Street host the Sunday market, where you’ll be able to purchase paintings, jewelry, pottery, photography, fabric arts and other crafts. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free .

Vintage Vineyard at St. Vincent

Check out nine local vendors curated by Vintage Vineyard in a pop-up at St. Vincent Wine’s garden. Shop thrift finds while drinking discounted wine ($10 per glass, or 25 percent off bottles) and listening to live jazz between 3 and 5 p.m. Noon to 6 p.m. Free.

Catalina Wine Mixer at Lulu’s Winegarden

Find your new favorite warm-weather sips at this wine tasting at the U Street wine bar, which features two unlimited samples of more than two dozen West Coast wines — roses, “chillable reds,” sparking whites — paired with breakfast tacos during two 90-minute sessions. Tickets include the option to purchase discounted wines to take home. Noon to 1:30 p.m. and 2 to 3:30 p.m. $55 .

‘Glacier: A Climate Change Ballet’ at the National Portrait Gallery

Dancers mimic the movements of melting polar ice caps, pretending to ripple, crack and plunge as they maneuver through the National Portrait Gallery’s Kogod Courtyard during a free performance of Moveius Contemporary Ballet’s “Glacier: A Climate Change Ballet.” This work is created by Diana Movius, who works as a climate policy expert while also serving as the founder and artistic director of this D.C.-based ballet company. 4 to 4:45 p.m. Free .

Ellington at 125: The D.C. Collective in Concert at Arena Stage

Hosted by the D.C. Jazz Festival, artist-in-residence and bassist Corcoran Holt’s contribution to the months-long celebration of Duke Ellington’s 125th birthday includes a concert in tribute to his mentor, Davey Yarborough, former dean of instrumental music at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts. 4 to 5:30 p.m. $25-$45.

Spring Fest at Calico

The hip Blagden Alley spot is bringing, for the second year, a spring festival to its multilevel 3,000-square-foot yard. Make a paper flower kit or create your own faux-floral bouquets, try new seasonal cocktails and dishes, or grab a bit from popcorn pop-up Zing Pop. 1 to 10 p.m. Free.

Willie’s 91st Birthday Fiesta at Republic Cantina

The incomparable Willie Nelson turns 91 on Monday, and Tex-Mex hot spot Republic Cantina is honoring one of Texas’s favorite sons during an afternoon party. Listen to tribute sets from D.C.’s Human Country Jukebox while snacking on tacos and sipping margaritas and $5 Shiner Bocks. (If you lean toward the latter, there’s a special Willie-themed koozie, too.) 3 to 6 p.m. Free; admission and seating are first-come, first-served .

Youth Invasion at the Atlas Performing Arts Center

GenOUT Youth Chorus, the ensemble of the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington D.C. for singers age 13 to 18, teams up with the chorus from Jackson-Reed High School for an afternoon of songs such as “The Rainbow Connection” and “The Times They Are A-Changin’” in the Atlas’s Lang Theatre. 4 p.m. Free; reservation required .

Tuesday, April 30

Slash Run Ninth Anniversary Party

Mark nine years of loud rock shows, creative burgers and whiskey shots in Petworth with a special edition of Slash Run’s Hot Nights Karaoke. Show up early (between 5 and 7 p.m.) for happy hour with $2 off drafts before the singing starts. 8 p.m. Free .

Wednesday, May 1

Jacob Collier at the Anthem

At his live shows, Collier creates his own orchestra of audience members. (His mother, Suzie Collier, is a violinist, conductor and professor at the Royal Academy of Music.) He conducts thousands of fans as a giant instrument, siphoning different melodies from each corner of the venue like a massive human organ. The audience choir became the centerpiece of “Djesse Vol. 4,” released in February, as the last in a quartet of albums that explore diverse soundscapes. Grand, sprawling and entirely genre-less, it’s heralded by an even more diverse list of credits, including Paul Simon, John Mayer, Lizzy McAlpine, Shawn Mendes, Lawrence and Brandi Carlile. Between Morse code, ambient animal sounds and dozens of languages, it also features the 100,000 voices of audience choirs Collier has conducted on his tours. 7:15 p.m. $50-$70.

NMWA Nights tickets on sale

The monthly after-hours parties at the National Museum of Women in the Arts tend to sell out so quickly that we don’t get to write about them. So here’s your reminder to plan ahead: If you want to attend the May 15 event, celebrating the exhibition “New Worlds: Women to Watch 2024” with DJs, a performance by Pretty Boi Drag, a costume contest and art-making activities, tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Wednesday. Prices include two cocktails or mocktails. 5:30 p.m. $22-$25 .

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Jayden Daniels Goes to Washington—Here’s Where the New Commanders QB Might Call Home

Out from under the ownership of Daniel Snyder , the woebegone Washington Commanders are attempting to chart a new course.

They’ve jettisoned yet another head coach and hired a new general manager to plot their return to greatness. And when you factor in that the team spent $75 million to upgrade the experience at its stadium, it’s what you might call a gut renovation for a franchise that’s wallowed in mediocrity for decades.

Due to the Commanders’ on-field ineptitude, the team snagged the second overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft. With the selection of Jayden Daniels , there’s faint hope on the horizon.

It’s early days in what’s shaping up to be a fairly massive rebuild for the organization, and Daniels is just one brick in the proverbial wall. The Commanders hope he’ll be a cornerstone for years to come—and for now, he must settle on a place to stay near the nation’s capital.

Virginia is for football players?

As with other NFL squads ( Dallas Cowboys , San Francisco 49ers , and both New York teams), the “Washington” in the team’s name reps a city where precious little NFL business actually takes place.

The team’s headquarters are in the suburban town of Ashburn, VA , and home games are played at Commanders Field in Landover, MD .

For a rookie set to sign a four-year deal for north of $30 million, it makes sense to make a great first impression by staying close to the team’s facilities in the suburbs about 30 miles west of the nation’s capital.

But the housing stock in Ashburn tends to run from beige to beige, with a few red-brick mansions in the mix to spice things up. That said, there are a couple of cooler options for a guy in his early 20s looking to settle down. Best of all, these oversized homes are way more affordable than homes of comparable size in DC .

Ashburn options

Case in point: this seven-bedroom, 5,607-square-foot home that recently landed on the market for $1.5 million , an ideal price range for a high draft pick.

Offering a bit of a modern farmhouse vibe, the high-end residence sits in a cul-de-sac—another plus for a pro athlete. Highlights include an outdoor kitchen, a three-car garage, and a price per square foot of only $268.

(Realtor.com)

A more affordable option is this four-bedroom townhouse priced at $999,990 . At nearly 3,700 square feet, it clocks in at a very reasonable $271 per square foot. Sure, there’s a monthly homeowners association fee of $170, but that also means less maintenance for a guy who’s supposed to be busy studying the playbook day and night.

Highlights of this tony townhouse include an enormous kitchen island, dark hardwood flooring, and a rooftop deck.

If Daniels decides to rent, the lease options in Ashburn are also friendly to pro athletes. The rental market tops out at around $6,000 a month, but a guy could easily get by by paying less than $4,000 for a large (2,500-plus square feet) condo or single-family home.

For example, there’s a nearly 4,000-square-foot townhouse with a giant media room for $3,900 a month, and an end-unit condo with over 2,500 square feet on the market for $3,500 a month .

Virginia, but make it closer to DC

Daniels might decide he likes what Virginia offers but prefers to be inside the Beltway and closer to the capital.

Arlington sits just across the Potomac River from the district and offers another relatively affordable option for a rookie. The median home price in the town is $800,000, and there are a few high-end options for a brand-new home.

A new Arlington home in a modern farmhouse style would likely appeal to a young guy searching for a bachelor pad. With five bedrooms and over 7,500 square feet of living space, this open and airy home also has a spa bath that would appeal to a guy with a bruising day job. It’s a bit pricey at $2,775,000, but it comes with a lot of space.

What about Watergate?

If Daniels decides to buy in DC, he should lean into the area’s history. There’s no better—or more luxurious—option than a penthouse at The Watergate . Yes, that Watergate .

Politics aside, this two-bedroom unit with a private roof terrace could easily win over a buyer from either side of the aisle. On the market for $1,595,000, the residence features a two-story foyer, a primary bathroom with a deep soaking tub, and a bedroom that’s been converted into a media room.

The views of the city from the 1,200-square-foot terrace are simply spectacular, and there’s plenty of space to set up a massive grill for summertime cookouts. He should just steer clear of any suspicious guys in the parking garage offering leaks from opposing teams’ playbooks.

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Erik Gunther loves to talk about celebrity homes, luxury properties, and strange real estate stories. Send tips to erikg [at] yahoo.com

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