Explore the Majestic Potomac River
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of the Potomac River, a must-visit destination in Washington D.C. offering stunning views and outdoor adventures.
The Potomac River is a stunning natural wonder that gracefully winds through the Washington D.C. area, offering tourists breathtaking views, recreational activities, and historical significance. A visit to this iconic river is a must for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the beauty and culture of the region.
A brief summary to Potomac River
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Local tips
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most stunning views.
- Consider taking a guided boat tour for a unique perspective of the city.
- Explore the nearby parks for picnic spots and walking trails.
- Check for seasonal events and festivals held along the river.
- Bring a camera; the river offers countless photo opportunities.
Getting There
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Bus
From Waldorf, head to the Waldorf Transit Center located at 90 Post Office Rd, Waldorf, MD 20602. Catch the Route 18 bus towards the Branch Ave Metro Station. After approximately 30 minutes of travel, get off at the 'Branch Ave Metro' station. From there, transfer to the Blue Line Metro towards Largo Town Center. Travel for about 10 stops until you reach the 'National Airport' station. Exit the Metro station and take the Metrobus route 11Y towards 'Old Town Alexandria'. Get off at 'Potomac River Park'. You will be just a short walk away from the scenic views of the Potomac River.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, rent a bike from one of the bike-sharing stations available in Waldorf. Start your journey heading north on St. Charles Pkwy until you reach the intersection with MD-5. Turn right onto MD-5 and continue for about 5 miles until you reach the intersection with US-301. Turn left onto US-301, and then take the first right onto Crain Hwy/US-301 S. Continue straight, following the signs for the Potomac River. You will find bike paths that lead you directly to the riverbanks, where you can enjoy the views.
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Walking
If you're in central Waldorf, you can walk to the Potomac River by heading west on Old Washington Rd. Keep walking straight for about 2 miles until you reach the intersection with MD-5. Cross carefully and continue on the pedestrian path along the road. After another 1 mile, you will find a park entrance on your right leading to the Potomac River. Follow the trails inside the park, and you will arrive at the riverbank in approximately 15 minutes.
Discover more about Potomac River
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Potomac River
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Historic Barrel Bridge
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Belvoir Mansion Historic Area
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Historic Sydenstricker Schoolhouse
11.4 km
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Civil War era tunnel
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Historic Huntley
17.1 km
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Ravensworth Historical Marker
17.3 km
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Clifton Historic District
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Fairfax Nike Missile Site Historical Marker
20.5 km
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Thomas Stone National Historic Site
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Sisson House
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Gerald R Ford Jr. House
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Fairfax Museum and Visitor Center
22.1 km
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The George Washington Masonic National Memorial
22.3 km
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Ratcliffe–Logan–Allison House
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Unmissable attractions to see
Mason Neck State Park
3.9 km
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Featherstone National Wildlife Refuge
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Occoquan Regional Park
4.9 km
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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
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Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail Neabsco Creek Boardwalk
5.8 km
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Rippon Lodge Historic Site
5.9 km
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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
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Chapman State Park
10.8 km
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DMVTOUR
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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
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Red Tails Ocean Grille
26.2 km
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2910 Kitchen & Bar
26.3 km
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Szechuan Garden Restaurant
26.4 km
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Ruthie's All-Day
26.5 km
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LCD - La Côte D'Or Café
26.6 km
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William Jeffrey's Tavern
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ocean blui grill
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Crafty Crab - Waldorf
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Carrabba's Italian Grill
26.7 km
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Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
26.8 km
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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
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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
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Goodwill of Greater Washington Retail Store
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Columbia Pike Thrift Shop
25.5 km
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The Urban Farmhouse
26.5 km
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Covet
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St. Charles Towne Plaza
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Shopwize Boutique
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Rainbow Shops
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The Square St Charles Towne Center
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lisa's Pub
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Bunker Hill Liquor Store and Tavern
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Belvedere Lobby Bar
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The Brass Tap
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Ireland's Four Provinces
25.9 km
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Boston's Restaurant & Sports Bar
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L.A. Bar & Grill
26.4 km
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Freddie's Beach Bar & Restaurant
26.9 km
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Buffalo Wild Wings
27.0 km
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Hooters
27.1 km
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WHINO
27.1 km
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First Down Sports Bar & Grill
27.4 km
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Privilege Cigar Lounge & Bar
27.9 km
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Champion seafood
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Gold mine saloon
28.2 km
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