As the sun heats the District, you may be tempted to venture outdoors and soak up the rays. But staying in the heat too long will make you sweat, and nobody likes sweating. The following list of activities will provide you with effective remedies to cure those sweltering glands. Spring’s here, so take advantage of the warm weather, head outside and get wet with a canoe, a fishing rod and a tube.
Canoeing and paddleboarding in the Potomac
The Key Bridge Boathouse sits along the Georgetown Waterfront and offers its guests canoes and paddle boards at an hourly fee of $15. As you glide through the Potomac in your chosen mode of transport, the river’s breeze will cool your body, which will pair well with your view of Roosevelt Island, the Washington Monument and Key Bridge. If you can’t swim, don’t get scared; the Boathouse staff will provide you with a life vest, just in case you rock the boat too hard. The folks at the Key Bridge Boathouse also provide kayak orientation classes at $35 for those of you who can’t tell a paddle from an arm.
Where: Key Bridge Boathouse 3500 Water St., NW
Metro: Foggy Bottom, Blue Line
Fishing at Anacostia Park
People often think of fishing as America’s favorite past time. Not only will fishing help you relax, it will also provide an escape from D.C.’s concrete jungle of government buildings and monuments. The Anacostia River sits along acres of green grass for picnics, running and biking. The river itself contains a multitude of fish, including catfish, carp and eel. Unfortunately, due to safety concerns, the fish are not safe for consumption. Studies show that two-thirds of the catfish in the Anacostia River have cancerous lesions or sores. So take a fishing rod, some bait and hooks and relax by the river— but don’t eat the fish, release them into the disease-giving river instead.
Where: 1900 Anacostia Dr., SE
Metro: Minnesota Ave., Orange and Silver Lines
Six Flags in Maryland
Water parks typically serve as the most refreshing and accessible places to visit during the warmer months. Sadly, D.C. lacks these wet oases. Fortunately, Six Flags America in Upper Marlboro, Maryland sits approximately 40 minutes outside of the District, a quick drive from campus. Six Flags America’s water park contains a 65-foot tall water slide and six body slides. The water park also has one of the largest wave pools in the country. If you don’t like fast rides or intense waves, bring a tube and relax in the park’s lazy river (alcohol is allowed for 21+). Daily tickets are discounted online at $39.99 until May 23.
Where: 13710 Central Ave., Upper Marlboro, MD
Metro: Take a car
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