5 Family Activities Near The Wharf and the Best Places to Eat
Whether you’re staying for the weekend or you’ve recently moved to Washington, D.C., you have plenty of choices when it comes to entertaining your family. From world-renowned museums to idyllic parks, and mouthwatering culinary delights to musicals and plays, you could spend a lifetime exploring all that the city has to offer.
One of the liveliest neighborhoods and best places to stay with kids in D.C. is The District Wharf in the Southwest Waterfront neighborhood. Known as a hub for the arts and entertainment, not to mention some incredible restaurants, The Wharf has plenty for the whole family.
Family-Friendly Activities Near The Wharf
Finding activities that the whole family will enjoy can be a challenge, especially when you’re in a new city. We’ve put together a list of the best family-friendly activities near The Wharf. Whether you’re an indoors or an outdoors family — and regardless of how fast-paced you like your vacations to be — we’ve got something here for everyone.
1. Explore the Waterfront
One of the best ways to get a feel for the area is to explore the waterfront. Take a stroll along The Wharf and enjoy the views across the Washington Channel to East Potomac Park. Be sure to keep an eye out for the Titanic Memorial and enjoy watching the boats coming in and out of the marina. There are also plenty of chances to splurge and shop at jewelry stores, book shops and more.
If you’d rather explore in a more leisurely fashion or perhaps venture further afield, you could get a water taxi from Transit Pier. From here, you can enjoy a trip on the water to Georgetown, Alexandria or National Harbor. If you do take a trip to National Harbor, make sure you take advantage of the spectacular views from The Capital Wheel.
2. Enjoy Outdoor Activities at East Potomac Park
If green spaces are your favorite part of a city, then East Potomac Park will be for you. Located just across the water, the park provides great views of The Wharf itself. However, for the best views in East Potomac Park, you’ll need to venture down to the southernmost tip of the park. There you’ll find Hains Point, which delivers stunning panoramic views of the Washington Channel, Potomac River and Anacostia River.
East Potomac Park also offers plenty of recreational activities for the family to enjoy, including a miniature golf course. You can also play tennis, enjoy a pleasant bike ride or even bring a picnic. If you choose to picnic, why not visit the historic Municipal Fish Market and stock up on some delicious seafood snacks?
3. Visit the International Spy Museum
Do you love James Bond and the “Mission: Impossible” franchise, or do you have an interest in real-life spy stories? Then the International Spy Museum has to be on your itinerary. Just a stone’s throw from The Wharf, the museum delivers a fun and informative experience for people of all ages. It’s also the perfect solution when rainy days hamper any outdoor plans.
The museum displays over 1,000 artifacts and features a host of interactive exhibits, including their digital Undercover Mission, which puts your spy skills to the test throughout your visit. Be sure to check out the museum’s current exhibitions before you go!
4. Go Pedal Boating at Recreation Pier
If you’re willing to get a little wet, a pedal boat offers a whole new way to explore The Wharf. You can rent pedal boats and kayaks from The Wharf Boathouse and enjoy the views from the water for an hour or two. If you’re really prepared to test your balance, you can also rent paddleboards. Once you’ve worked up an appetite on the water, you’ll be just a short walk from lots of great restaurants.
5. Catch a Play at the Arena Stage
Following a grand renovation in 2010, this flagship American theater’s rich history is evident for all to see. D.C.’s second-largest performing arts complex usually has a couple of shows on rotation, and tickets are available online.

If you don’t want to get food at the venue, Station 4 is a five-minute walk from The Wharf and is the perfect place to enjoy a tantalizingly delicious meal, either before or after your show.
Where to Eat Near The Wharf
There are lots of family-friendly restaurants in D.C. near the Southwest Waterfront. Here are some of the best options for any family searching for amazing food near The Wharf, with enough variety to ensure that any craving is satisfied.
Gordon Ramsay Fish & Chips
Run by one of the world’s top chefs, Gordon Ramsay Fish & Chips provides classic British cuisine that’s simple and delicious, all at a reasonable price. You can relax on the patio or eat your meal at the counter.
Station 4
For those looking for a delectable meal that pleases the whole family, Station 4 is the perfect and tastiest solution. With portions large enough to satiate the appetite you built after a day of exploring, Station 4 is the ideal establishment for family dining in D.C. Offering an innovative take on American cuisine served in an elegant yet cozy setting, you’re sure to enjoy your meal.
Municipal Fish Market
Dating back to the early 19th century, the Municipal Fish Market is the oldest open-air and continuously operating fish market in the U.S. As well as fishmongers, the market is home to several restaurants. If you find yourself without a reservation, you can enjoy a stroll through the historic market until a restaurant catches your eye. Be warned, though — seafood is likely to feature heavily on any menu. If taking your chances doesn’t appeal to you, we recommend stopping by Jessie Taylor Seafood for delicious, high-quality seafood.
La Vie
Specializing in Mediterranean food, La Vie offers something a little different from most restaurants in D.C. As a more upscale establishment, it’s not the best for those looking for a budget-friendly meal.
Make a Reservation at Station 4 Today
Washington, D.C.’s Southwest Waterfront has a lot to offer, but few things within the vicinity are worth experiencing more than the food at Station 4. A favorite of locals and the highlight of any tourist’s visit to the U.S. capital, Station 4 offers a lunch and dinner menu that even the fussiest member of your family will be salivating over.
To make sure you’re not disappointed, book your table today for an unforgettable culinary experience.
