Navy Yard & The Wharf

Navy Yard and The Wharf are DC's shiny modern waterfronts. Navy Yard wraps around Nationals Park and the Anacostia's Yards Park; The Wharf is a mile-long Potomac promenade of restaurants, music venues and piers. Both are new-build and polished rather than historic, but they're lively, family-friendly and superbly connected by Metro.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

When should I visit the waterfronts?

Summer and early fall evenings are prime, when the promenades and parks are busiest and the water taxis run. Game days at Nationals Park bring crowds and energy to Navy Yard. Winter is quieter, and the water taxi generally pauses in the coldest months.

Is Navy Yard good for families?

Yes. The Yards Park has open lawns, a fountain-and-waterfall play area and a boardwalk, plus casual waterfront dining and easy Metro access. Combined with a day game at Nationals Park, it's one of the more kid-friendly parts of the DC waterfront.

What Metro stops serve Navy Yard and The Wharf?

Navy Yard uses the Navy Yard-Ballpark station on the Green Line, right by Nationals Park. The Wharf is about a 10-minute walk from L'Enfant Plaza, one of the best-connected stations in the city (Green, Yellow, Blue, Orange and Silver lines).

Are Navy Yard and The Wharf the same place?

No — they're two separate waterfronts. Navy Yard sits on the Anacostia River around Nationals Park, while The Wharf is on the Potomac in Southwest. They're close and both waterfront-focused, and a water taxi connects them in season.

Can I take a water taxi between the waterfronts?

Yes, in season. Water taxis connect The Wharf, Georgetown and Alexandria, and typically run March through December depending on water conditions. It's a scenic way to hop between DC's waterfront neighborhoods without going underground.

What is there to do at Navy Yard?

Catch a Nationals game, relax at the Yards Park with its waterfall and boardwalk, walk the Anacostia Riverwalk, and eat along the waterfront. It has a more laid-back, family-friendly feel than The Wharf, with weekend markets and a growing food scene.

Is The Wharf worth visiting?

If you like waterfront dining, live music and a modern, buzzy atmosphere, yes. It's new (largely completed by 2022) and feels more developed-mall than historic, but the setting on the Potomac and the sheer density of restaurants and venues make it a fun night out.

What is there to do at The Wharf?

Stroll the mile-long promenade, eat and drink at dozens of restaurants and bars, catch a concert at the Anthem or smaller venues, browse the Municipal Fish Market, and take in Potomac views. It's designed for walking, dining and evening entertainment.

Nearby in Ask Washington DC

• Yards ParkPark0.82 km · 10 min walk
• AlbiRestaurant0.86 km · 11 min walk
• Maine Avenue Fish Market (Municipal Fish Market)Market1.31 km · 16 min walk
• Library of CongressLandmark1.48 km · 19 min walk
• United States CapitolAttraction1.55 km · 19 min walk