The Best Washington DC Outdoor Activities

On a beautiful day, answer the call of the outdoors by exploring the best outdoor activities in Washington, DC and experiencing all the district has to offer

Why not explore some of the district’s best parks, water sports, festivals, and iconic attractions? Here are some of our favorite outdoor activities to check out:

The Best Washington DC Outdoor Activities on Water

Feeling active? Rent a kayak or paddleboard to enjoy the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers in their full glory. Prefer a chilled vibe? Scenic river cruises are a winner, and they double up as monument tours, too.

Choose a sunset cruise for the ultimate in relaxation and extend your day, with a glass of something chilled in hand.

If you’re heading out with the family, Georgetown Waterfront Park offers renowned scenic views, beautiful paths, picnic areas, play zones, and open-air dining.

It’s also a popular hotspot for people watching and tops our list of Washington DC outdoor activities!

Explore Outdoor Monuments in Washington

Over 27 million visitors visit Washington annually, and most head straight to the district’s iconic outdoor monuments and cultural landmarks.

If you haven’t spent time on the National Mall this summer, checking out the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, White House, and U.S. Capitol, you know what to do!

Other popular choices include Arlington National Cemetery, Rock Creek Park, the National Arboretum, and the Tidal Basin.

Theodore Roosevelt Island is perfect if you love peaceful walks, and you can see water lilies and lotus flowers blooming at the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens if you visit at the right time.

Enjoy Events and Festivals

Some of the best Washington, DC outdoor activities involve food, drink, and party vibes! Check out:

• The DC Jazz Festival

• Outdoor movie nights, including NoMa Summer Screen and the regular Movie Series at the Carnegie Theater.

• Moonlight monument tours and cruises

• Live outdoor productions, including the Shakespeare Theater Company and listings at parks across the district.

There are plenty of lively open-air dining experiences, including The Kennedy Center’s rooftop terrace, the W Hotel’s open bar, and outdoor dining at Navy Yard, The Wharf, and Dupont Circle Patios.

Prefer to picnic? Then browse the Dupont Circle Farmers Markets and Eastern Market for fresh, local produce perfect for al fresco dining.

Winter Outdoor Activities in Washington D.C

Summer Outdoor Activities in Washington D.C

How District Performance & Physio in Washington, DC Can Support Your Outdoor Activities

At District Performance & Physio, we know that injuries can stop you from doing what you love, from sports sprains and spinal pain to pelvic floor weakness and postpartum niggles.

So forget the unhelpful “rest up” advice and visit our skilled therapists for fast, targeted, and expert treatment programs to regain your life!

Whether you dream of setting that new 5k run PR in Rock Creek Park, smashing the CrossFit Open, or simply getting back into everyday wellness and mobility to play with the kids, our friendly team is here to help.

Our skilled physios find the root cause of your pain and expertly treat it with a personalised physio program for fast, measurable results.

There’s a reason District Performance & Physio is Google’s #1 rated physical therapist studio in Washington D.C.! Get in touch today to learn more, and read our reviews to discover why our clients love us!