Paddle the Potomac with kayaks, canoes, and SUP rentals at Key Bridge Boathouse. Enjoy city skyline views, calm waters, and guided tours that reveal DC’s monuments from the river.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–3 hours
Fitness Level
Basic fitness needed; suitable for beginners and casual outdoor enthusiasts
Wildlife
History
The Key Bridge itself, dating back to 1923, connects historic Georgetown and Arlington, linking two vibrant neighborhoods across the Potomac.
Conservation
Key Bridge Boathouse encourages low-impact boating practices, helping protect the Potomac’s aquatic ecosystems and maintaining clean water access.
Key Bridge Boathouse
Paddle the Potomac with kayaks, canoes, and SUP rentals at Key Bridge Boathouse. Enjoy city skyline views, calm waters, and guided tours that reveal DC’s monuments from the river.
Key Bridge Boathouse operates on the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., offering guided tours, equipment rentals, and instruction for paddlers of varying ages and abilities. Located beneath the iconic Francis Scott Key Bridge near Georgetown, the boathouse provides access to scenic views of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, Kennedy Center, and the Georgetown waterfront.
Guided options include 90-minute monument and sunset kayak tours that pass the Lincoln and Washington Memorials and a Park Service–led nature paddle with a National Park Ranger focusing on river ecology and wildlife such as herons and turtles. Several guided tours emphasize narrated routes, photo opportunities, and calm-water paddling near central DC.
Rental options include single and double kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) available in one-, two-, or four-hour increments. Age guidelines apply: many rentals and several classes are suitable for participants aged 8 and up, while a kids’ kayak orientation is designed for ages 8–15. Instructional offerings include 60-minute kayak and SUP orientations that cover paddling technique and safety protocols.
Trips emphasize accessible urban paddling, photographic monument views from the river, and hands-on learning. Staff provide on-water guidance, safety briefings, and equipment suited for beginner through intermediate paddlers. Safety equipment, life jackets, and basic instruction are provided before launch, and routes are selected for calm water conditions near the boathouse. The boathouse serves individual paddlers, families, and small groups seeking active outdoor experiences close to central DC. Reservations are recommended during busy summer months.
Location
Washington, DC
Boathouse beneath Key Bridge
Duration Options
60–90 min & 1–4 hrs
Tours, classes, and rentals available
Age Guidelines
Ages 8+
Kids class for ages 8–15
Experiences
11 offered
Tours, rentals, and classes
Select guided tours, lessons, or flexible rentals to explore the Potomac, capture monument views, and learn paddling skills in Washington, D.C.
Reserve Your Watercraft Early
Online reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends or during peak hours, to secure your preferred boat and time slot.
Wear Quick-Drying Clothing and Footwear
Expect to get wet on the water; sandals or water shoes and a change of clothes are practical choices.
Bring Sun Protection
Even on cloudy days, UV exposure on the water is strong; pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Plan Parking in Advance
Parking near the boathouse is limited. Consider public transit, biking, or parking nearby and walking in.
Quick-Drying Clothes
Helps keep you comfortable as splashes and occasional falls are common on the water.
summer
Dry Bag
Protects your phone, wallet, and other valuables from water exposure during your paddle.
Water Shoes or Sandals
Offers grip and protects feet when entering or exiting the kayak or SUP.
summer
Sunscreen
Essential to prevent sunburn since UV exposure intensifies on reflective water surfaces.
spring