The Majestic Potomac River: A Natural Wonder
Discover the enchanting beauty and rich history of the Potomac River, a treasure of the Mid-Atlantic region offering stunning views and recreational activities.
The Potomac River is a stunning natural landmark that flows through the heart of the Mid-Atlantic, offering tourists breathtaking views and numerous recreational opportunities. As you explore its banks, you'll find picturesque parks, historical sites, and vibrant wildlife that make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
A brief summary to Potomac River
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Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds for photography.
- Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard to experience the river from a unique perspective.
- Check local event calendars for seasonal festivals and activities along the river, especially in warmer months.
- Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting, especially near the river's wetlands and parks.
Getting There
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Public Bus
To reach Potomac River from Rockville, head to the nearest bus stop. If you are in downtown Rockville, look for the Ride On bus service. Take the Route 46 bus towards 'Glen Echo Park'. Ride for about 30 minutes and get off at the 'MacArthur Blvd & River Rd' stop. From there, walk south on River Rd for about 10 minutes until you reach the Potomac River.
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Metro and Walking
If you are near the Rockville Metro Station, take the Red Line towards 'Shady Grove'. Get off at the 'Grosvenor-Strathmore' station. Exit the station and head west on Strathmore Ave. Continue straight for about 15 minutes, where Strathmore Ave converges with Tuckerman Ln. Turn right onto Tuckerman Ln and follow it until you reach the Potomac River, which is about a 20-minute walk from there.
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Biking
For those who prefer biking, rent a bike from one of the local bike-sharing services available in Rockville. Start at the Rockville Town Square and bike along the Rock Creek Trail. Follow the trail south until you reach the intersection with the Potomac River. This scenic route will take about 30-40 minutes, depending on your pace, and offers beautiful views along the way.
Discover more about Potomac River
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Potomac River
0.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and recreational opportunities of the Potomac River, a serene escape in the heart of the Mid-Atlantic region.
Historic Barrel Bridge
5.9 km
Explore the Historic Barrel Bridge, Virginia's only masonry arch bridge, blending rich history and stunning nature along the scenic Cross County Trail.
Belvoir Mansion Historic Area
9.1 km
Explore the Belvoir Mansion Historic Area, a captivating Virginia landmark steeped in history and surrounded by beautiful landscapes, perfect for family outings.
Historic Sydenstricker Schoolhouse
11.4 km
Explore the Historic Sydenstricker Schoolhouse in Springfield, Virginia - a charming glimpse into America’s educational past surrounded by serene landscapes.
Civil War era tunnel
15.2 km
Discover the historic Civil War era tunnel in Springfield, Virginia, a hidden gem in Accotink Park that offers a glimpse into America's past.
Historic Huntley
17.1 km
Explore Historic Huntley, a beautifully preserved 19th-century mansion in Alexandria, Virginia, where history and nature intertwine.
Ravensworth Historical Marker
17.3 km
Explore the Ravensworth Historical Marker in Springfield, VA, a key historical landmark that sheds light on the region's rich past and heritage.
Clifton Historic District
19.6 km
Explore the historic charm of Clifton Historic District, where preserved architecture meets vibrant local culture in Virginia's hidden gem.
Fairfax Nike Missile Site Historical Marker
20.5 km
Explore the Fairfax Nike Missile Site Historical Marker, a significant historical landmark reflecting the Cold War defense strategies in Virginia.
Thomas Stone National Historic Site
21.8 km
Uncover the legacy of Thomas Stone, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, at this historical site in Maryland, rich with American heritage.
Sisson House
21.9 km
Discover the historical charm of Sisson House in Fairfax, Virginia, a captivating landmark that showcases the region's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Gerald R Ford Jr. House
22.0 km
Discover the Gerald R. Ford Jr. House, a significant historical landmark in Alexandria, Virginia, reflecting America's rich presidential history.
Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center
22.1 km
Explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Fairfax at the Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center, where stories of the past come alive.
The George Washington Masonic National Memorial
22.3 km
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Ratcliffe–Logan–Allison House
22.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Mason Neck State Park
3.9 km
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Featherstone National Wildlife Refuge
4.9 km
Discover the natural beauty and rich wildlife at Featherstone National Wildlife Refuge, a serene escape in Virginia ideal for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Occoquan Regional Park
4.9 km
Explore the natural beauty and historical significance of Occoquan Regional Park, a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history lovers.
Pirate's Cove Waterpark
5.7 km
Experience the ultimate family fun at Pirate's Cove Waterpark in Virginia, where thrilling slides and relaxing pools await your next adventure.
Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge
5.7 km
Experience the serene beauty of Elizabeth Hartwell Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for wildlife and nature lovers in Virginia.
Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail Neabsco Creek Boardwalk
5.8 km
Explore the scenic beauty of Neabsco Creek Boardwalk, a tranquil park ideal for leisurely walks, wildlife spotting, and family adventures.
Rippon Lodge Historic Site
5.9 km
Discover the captivating history and serene beauty of Rippon Lodge Historic Site, a must-visit museum in Woodbridge, Virginia, showcasing local heritage.
George Mason's Gunston Hall
6.2 km
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Pohick Church
6.9 km
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Mount Air Historic Site
9.1 km
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National Museum of the United States Army
9.3 km
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Woodlawn & Frank Lloyd Wright’s Pope-Leighey House
10.8 km
Discover the architectural wonders and historical significance of Woodlawn & Frank Lloyd Wright's Pope-Leighey House in Alexandria, Virginia.
Chapman State Park
10.8 km
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DMVTOUR
10.8 km
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George Washington's Distillery & Gristmill
11.0 km
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Essential places to dine
Busboys And Poets
24.2 km
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Palette 22
24.2 km
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Carlyle
24.2 km
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Copperwood Tavern
24.2 km
Discover Copperwood Tavern: Arlington's premier destination for fresh seafood and succulent steaks amidst a cozy atmosphere.
Red Tails Ocean Grille
26.2 km
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2910 Kitchen & Bar
26.3 km
Discover exquisite American cuisine and vibrant cocktails at 2910 Kitchen & Bar - the perfect spot for family gatherings and special occasions.
Szechuan Garden Restaurant
26.4 km
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Ruthie's All-Day
26.5 km
Experience the heart of Southern cuisine at Ruthie's All-Day in Arlington Heights – where comfort food meets warm hospitality.
LCD - La Côte D'Or Café
26.6 km
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William Jeffrey's Tavern
26.6 km
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ocean blui grill
26.7 km
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Crafty Crab - Waldorf
26.7 km
Indulge in the freshest seafood at Crafty Crab - Waldorf: renowned for crab boils and flavorful dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.
Carrabba's Italian Grill
26.7 km
Savor authentic Italian cuisine at Carrabba's Italian Grill in Waldorf—where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
26.8 km
Discover Southern flavors at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Waldorf - where every meal feels like home.
Chick-fil-A
26.9 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Clothing line hearts
16.8 km
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Lil' Thingamajigs
19.7 km
Explore the eclectic charm of Lil' Thingamajigs, a gift shop in Annandale, VA, filled with unique treasures and creative finds.
Lyft Shopping
21.5 km
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Le Village Marche
24.1 km
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One Two Kangaroo Toys
24.2 km
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Diament Gifts & Accessories
24.2 km
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Village at Shirlington
24.3 km
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Goodwill of Greater Washington Retail Store
24.9 km
Explore the eclectic charm of Goodwill of Greater Washington, where thrift shopping meets community support and unique finds await.
Columbia Pike Thrift Shop
25.5 km
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The Urban Farmhouse
26.5 km
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Covet
26.5 km
Explore Covet, Arlington's boutique gem, offering a unique selection of stylish clothing and accessories in a charming local atmosphere.
St. Charles Towne Plaza
26.5 km
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Shopwize Boutique
26.7 km
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Rainbow Shops
26.7 km
Discover stylish women's clothing, accessories, and more at Rainbow Shops in Waldorf, MD - your go-to destination for affordable fashion.
The Square St Charles Towne Center
26.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lisa's Pub
8.6 km
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Bunker Hill Liquor Store and Tavern
22.5 km
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Belvedere Lobby Bar
23.3 km
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The Brass Tap
23.6 km
Experience a wide selection of craft beers and delicious bites at The Brass Tap in National Harbor, Maryland, perfect for a relaxing evening out.
Ireland's Four Provinces
25.9 km
Experience authentic Irish culture with delicious food, extensive drinks, and a lively atmosphere at Ireland's Four Provinces in Falls Church, VA.
Boston's Restaurant & Sports Bar
26.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of delicious food and exhilarating sports at Boston's Restaurant & Sports Bar, your go-to spot in Waldorf.
L.A. Bar & Grill
26.4 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and mouthwatering dishes at L.A. Bar & Grill, the perfect spot for food lovers in Arlington, Virginia.
Freddie's Beach Bar & Restaurant
26.9 km
Experience the vibrant energy of Freddie's Beach Bar & Restaurant, where delicious American cuisine meets lively entertainment in Arlington, Virginia.
Buffalo Wild Wings
27.0 km
Experience the thrill of sports and the taste of delicious wings at Buffalo Wild Wings in Waldorf, Maryland.
Hooters
27.1 km
Experience the ultimate sports bar vibe at Hooters in Waldorf, MD—where great food meets exciting live sports.
WHINO
27.1 km
Experience the best of art, cocktails, and cuisine at WHINO, Arlington's premier bar and art gallery fusion.
First Down Sports Bar & Grill
27.4 km
Discover the ultimate sports bar experience at First Down Sports Bar & Grill in Arlington, where great food meets an electrifying atmosphere.
Privilege Cigar Lounge & Bar
27.9 km
Experience luxury at Privilege Cigar Lounge & Bar in Waldorf, MD, where premium cigars and exquisite drinks come together in a sophisticated setting.
Champion seafood
27.9 km
Experience the best of Maryland's seafood at Champion Seafood in Waldorf, where fresh flavors and a lively atmosphere await you.
Gold mine saloon
28.2 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Gold Mine Saloon, a cherished bar in Waldorf, MD, perfect for enjoying local drinks and vibrant entertainment.
