Glide beneath the full moon on the Potomac River with Key Bridge Boathouse’s unique kayak tour. Experience Washington's monuments framed by moonlight and learn the city's history on this unforgettable nighttime paddle.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for participants with basic fitness; no advanced paddling skills required
Wildlife
History
The Potomac River has been central to Washington, D.C.'s development since the city’s founding in 1790, serving as a transportation and trade route.
Conservation
Key Bridge Boathouse promotes Leave No Trace principles, helping protect Potomac’s water quality and local wildlife habitats.
Key Bridge Boathouse
Glide beneath the full moon on the Potomac River with Key Bridge Boathouse’s unique kayak tour. Experience Washington's monuments framed by moonlight and learn the city's history on this unforgettable nighttime paddle.
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.
Arrive Early for Check-in
Tours depart promptly; plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early to get fitted with gear and attend the safety briefing.
Wear Layered Clothing
Even summer nights on the water can feel cool; bring layers to stay comfortable throughout the paddle.
Bring a Headlamp or Small Flashlight
Though the moon provides light, a personal light source helps navigate the dock and gear area before and after the tour.
Check Weather Before Booking
Tours can be canceled due to strong winds or storms; verify conditions beforehand to ensure a safe outing.
Waterproof Jacket
Protects against spring showers and evening river breezes.
spring
Lightweight Layers
Adjust clothing as temperatures shift after sunset on the water.
summer|fall|spring
Non-slip Water Shoes
Ensures safe footing while launching and landing from docks.
Headlamp or Flashlight
Provides necessary light on docks and paths before and after paddling.