A massive redevelopment project called The Wharf essentially reinvented D.C.’s Southwest Waterfront over the past few years. A people-friendly waterfront promenade gives access to several piers, creature comforts, boat harbor and a host of restaurants, hotels and other businesses. The oldest operating fish market in the U.S. is close by. Expect plenty of company along the waterfront on weekends and holidays.
You can access The Wharf from the National Mall at the east end of the Tidal Basin. Just follow Maine Ave eastward past the fish market. Or hop off the Metro at the Southwest Waterfront station and walk a few blocks west on M St (becomes Maine Ave). You can’t miss it.