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For live music fans, The Anthem and Union Stage are top DC spots with a broad range of diverse acts. The Anthem, a 6,000-seat venue at The Wharf, ensures every seat feels close to the stage, attracting major artists across genres. Nearby, Union Stage offers a smaller, intimate experience, perfect for up-and-coming bands and indie acts. Enjoy craft beers and pizza from their Tap Room.
The Wharf offers some of DC’s best rooftop bars, each with its own unique vibe. For a tropical escape, head to Tiki TNT, where you’ll find colorful cocktails and island-inspired bites in a relaxed, beachy atmosphere. Nearby, Officina by Chef Nicholas Stefanelli blends Italian tradition with contemporary flair—enjoy classic cocktails and Italian small plates. For an upscale experience, visit 12 Stories atop the InterContinental Washington DC, where chic interiors and sweeping views of the Washington Channel set the stage for inventive cocktails like "Aren't You a Fineapple" and "Strawberry Fields," perfectly paired with dishes like grilled shrimp and pesto flatbreads. Finally, Cantina Bambina offers a more laid-back vibe, perched right on the waterfront for sunset views that cap off a memorable evening.
Enjoy a scenic break at 7th Street Park along the Potomac, where you’ll find trails for leisurely strolls, picnic spots and fountains. Just steps away, Recreation Pier offers sunny lounge chairs, outdoor desks and a modern swing set—all with stunning river views. For more adventure, book a private boat tour or rent a kayak or paddleboard at The Wharf Boathouse to explore on your own. Prefer to stay on land? Take a 20-minute riverside walk to the Jefferson Memorial and Tidal Basin, soaking in DC’s most iconic sights along the way.
Catch the Wharf Jitney at Recreation Pier for a quick ride to East Potomac Park, where you can dive into a variety of outdoor activities. Tee off at the country’s oldest continuously operating minigolf course or try your hand at regular golf or footgolf—a soccer-inspired twist on the classic game. The jitney operates Fridays through Sundays from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. until November.
For a longer cruise, hop on the water taxi at Transit Pier, which runs from March through December, and explore more of the region’s waterfront. Destinations include Georgetown, Old Town Alexandria and National Harbor, offering stunning views and unique sights along the way.
Established in 1805, the Municipal Fish Market is the oldest continuously operating open-air fish market in the United States and a beloved DC landmark. This bustling waterfront destination offers a vibrant mix of vendors selling fresh fish, crabs and prepared seafood, attracting both locals and visitors alike. Over the years, the market has evolved with stalls and shops featuring everything from produce and oysters to bait and tackle. Start your visit at Jessie Taylor Seafood, which has been serving seafarers and wayfarers of all sorts since 1939.
If you are looking to explore outside of the Wharf Campus, getting around the city is seamless. Use DC’s accessible public transportation options, such as metro or bus, or choose to walk to your destination. Pack more into your journey by traveling along these streets and making stops along the way.
4th Street Corridor
The 4th Street Corridor is sprinkled with hidden gems to experience as you make your way north from the Wharf to the National Mall. Check out the Gallery of Southwest, celebrating DC SW artists, or saunter over to the Southwest Duck Pond for some bird watching. Continue up the street and check out the Museum of the Bible or the Eisenhower Memorial. Right on the brink of the National Mall tour the newly renovated Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum or the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian.
10th Street Corridor
On the northern tip of the Wharf Campus, veer off to 10th street and head down a brick road leading you to the National Mall. You will past Benjamin Banneker Park and toward the Spy Museum. Stop in to see the iconic vehicles of 007 and become a spy yourself. Keep walking down 10th street and you will run into the Smithsonian Castle and its gardens. Feel free to explore the gardens or the two museums, Smithsonian National Museum of African Art and the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art, then make your way to your destination at the mall.
Transportation Options:
- Metro: L’Enfant Plaza (Blue, Orange, Silver, Green and Yellow lines) and Waterfront (Green line)
- Bus: 52, 74, P6 Routes
- Bike: Capital Bikeshare stations
- Rideshare: Circuit Rideshare (on-demand neighborhood shuttle funded by SWBID's Mobility Innovation District)
- Boat: Wharf Jitney, Potomac Water Taxi
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