Top 6 Adventures around DC

Yes, DC has much to offer to any adventure seeker.

Just because you stay (or live) in a big city, doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to all hopes of adventures. DC area has much to offer to anyone enjoying the outsides.

1. Watch the sunrise from a Kayak

Photo by author. The sun rises next to Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial.

Watching the sun rising next to the most famous DC landmarks is quite an experience. Especially when these landmarks include The Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial. And especially if you’re experiencing all this from a kayak. Floating in the middle of the Potomac River.

This experience is offered during the summer by the Key Bridge Boathouse. All you need is to make a reservation.

• Be ready to wake up early in the morning, as the tour starts around 5 AM.
• Make sure to keep your smartphone safe while in the kayak. It’s easy to drop it in the water.
• Make sure the smartphone/camera you bring can perform well in low light conditions.

2. Fly a plane

Photo by author.

Let’s admit it, everyone has dreamed of flying. And unlike many other dreams, this one can easily become reality. Located a mere 30min drive from DC, the International Flight Academy offers Discovery Flights that put you in the seat of the pilot on a small plane.

During a quick briefing, the instructor presents the main instruments. Then you head up to the plane. The instructor will do the taxi (move the plane on land), take off, and bring you to the right altitude. From there on, it’s your turn to take the controls in your hands. Following the instructor’s directions, you will fly the plane and stay on a specific course.

• The plane will lose altitude when you turn, so make sure to adjust your altitude after the turn.
• You can bring a friend for an extra fee.

3. Spend the morning relaxing on the river

Photo by author. No, it’s not the Amazon jungle. It’s DC.

The nature. Calm waters. Birds signing. No one else around. If this is your definition of a perfect morning, renting a boat and going out on the river is the best way to get it.

Fletcher’s Cove Boathouse is situated next to DC, but not in the city itself. This important distinction allows you to admire trees, plants, and birds instead of buildings, cars, and tourists. Another advantage is that this part of the river has fewer waves from powerboats.

• You can book your boat for as early as 7 AM. It’s the perfect time to enjoy a fresh morning away from the crowds.
• It is better to start by going against the current and use the current to come back to the boathouse. That way the current will help you once you’re tired.
• Beware of underwater rocks and trunks.
• Rowing boats are larger and more stable than kayaks, with more room for people and equipment. This is handy for breakfast on the water. Or for using your phone to take photos, with less risk of dropping it into the water.

4. Hike the Rock Creek Park

Photo by author.

For a hike in a beautiful place that doesn’t require driving too far, there’s nothing better than to visit Rock Creek Park. The park is full of playful streams and easy trails. While the park grows through the city, you easily forget the urban vibe and start feeling one with nature. In sum, a perfect combination of nature and convenience.

• There is no fee to enter the park.
• If hiking is not enough to meet your desire for adventure, you can ride a horse at the Horse Center. Make sure to book several weeks in advance.

5. Visit the Great Falls

Photo by author.

Situated a short 15min drive from DC, the Great Falls park offers some magnificent views of waterfalls. There are easy hiking trails following the river, and several lookouts to admire the best views.

• The entry fee is $10 per person or $20 per car.
• There is a Virginia side and a Maryland side of the waterfalls. Each side offers different views.
• There is no phone reception in the entire park. To order an Uber, you will have to walk 20min up the road, to reach the intersection.

6. Swim in the “Ocean”

Photo by author.

Ok, it’s not actually the ocean, but it certainly feels like it. A short 50min drive from DC, the Sandy Point State Park is home to the best beach in the area. The beach is wide and long (It takes about 10 minutes to walk from one end to the other). While it’s not Hawaii, both the beach and the water are pretty close to what you will find in Miami. Delaware’s coast is far enough to be barely visible. Slightly squint your eyes, and it looks like an open ocean. Just try to ignore the long bridge joining Maryland and Delaware.

• The leftmost part of the beach is the least crowded, and the bridge is not as visible from there.
• The beach is quite big, as it takes 10 minutes to go from one end to the other.
• There is a food place on the right side of the beach, serving ice creams, pizzas, and hot dogs.