Adventures Unbound: Tidal Basin Pedal Boats

Boat tour agency · Tidal Basin ·

Adventures Unbound: Tidal Basin Pedal Boats

Boat tour agency · Tidal Basin ·

Pedal & swan boat rentals on reservoir, see memorials

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1501 Maine Ave SW, Washington, DC 20004 Get directions

@travelleisure

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The Best Things to Do in Washington, D.C.

"When the weather warms, I recommend renting a pedal boat on the Tidal Basin to paddle to the Jefferson, Martin Luther King Jr., and FDR memorials or simply enjoy the water and cherry-blossom views — be prepared for large crowds during the National Cherry Blossom Festival." - Dobrina Zhekova Dobrina Zhekova Dobrina Zhekova is a writer with over a decade of editorial experience in Europe and the U.S. She covers luxury travel, art, architecture, and design. Her writing has appeared on InStyle.com, Vogue.com, Elle.com, and more. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

https://www.travelandleisure.com/best-things-to-do-in-washington-dc-7558001

Boating In DC at Tidal Basin Pedal Boats

Nastasia B

Google

Offering one of the most iconic ways to see the monuments. The views are absolutely unbeatable and make for fantastic photos. It's a fun, unique activity that's great for getting some light exercise and fresh air. The only minor drawback is that wait times can be long on busy weekends, and the rental area can feel a bit crowded. However, the fun you have once you are out on the water makes the experience totally worthwhile. It's a classic D.C. activity that everyone should try at least once.

Sarah M.

Google

Had so much fun on the water and it was such a beautiful day! Definitely want to do this again soon. The employees were also kind and flexible with us as we went for our first time.

Katie O

Google

Great spring afternoon activity! One hour is plenty of time to see the whole tidal basin with time to spare. Bring snacks and enjoy. Wear sunscreen. Thursdays are 20% off!

Jason L.

Google

This was a fun experience. We rented a paddle boat for an hour, prices seemed fair and the staff was well organized. On the basin you can get some great views of the Jefferson and MLK Memorials, but there is not much else on the basin. It’s peaceful out in the water and a good way to relax.

Kimberly K.

Google

The line tends to be very long if you try to ho paddle boating during the Cherry Blossom Festival on the weekends, but any other time it's worth trying. Nice experience with a pretty view of the monuments and trees along the basin!

Luke

Google

Too cold for paddle boating when we went (2nd week of April). You can see Jefferson Memorial across the basin. Walk towards the Washington Monument and you’ll find a tulip patch.

Jay

Google

Lots of fun. The price has skyrocketed over the years but $40 for a whole hour still seems fair. Unless you’re a superhero who can move the pedals with sheer mindpower, you’ll likely tire out after 30 mins anyway. Had done this in years but it still lots of fun and views you can only get from the water. The line moves fast so don’t be discouraged if a lot of people are waiting. If you’re concerned, this is pretty safe. The boats are nice and sturdy and they give you life jackets that are comfortable.

Google

The process was simple. The staff was pleasant, the boats were clean, and the breeze off of the water was refreshing. This was a very "touristy" thing to do but we enjoyed it. We got to see the navy helicopter and the presidential Marine One helicopter fly over us. We saw a few fish jump. Overall, it was a pleasant thing to do for an hour.

@travelleisure

28,641 Postcards · 5,542 Cities

The Best Things to Do in Washington, D.C.

https://www.travelandleisure.com/best-things-to-do-in-washington-dc-7558001

Boating In DC at Tidal Basin Pedal Boats

Nastasia B

Google

Sarah M.

Google

Had so much fun on the water and it was such a beautiful day! Definitely want to do this again soon. The employees were also kind and flexible with us as we went for our first time.

Katie O

Google

Great spring afternoon activity! One hour is plenty of time to see the whole tidal basin with time to spare. Bring snacks and enjoy. Wear sunscreen. Thursdays are 20% off!

Jason L.

Google

Kimberly K.

Google

Luke

Google

Too cold for paddle boating when we went (2nd week of April). You can see Jefferson Memorial across the basin. Walk towards the Washington Monument and you’ll find a tulip patch.

Jay

Google

Adventures Unbound: Tidal Basin Pedal Boats

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The Best Things to Do in Washington, D.C.

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The Best Things to Do in Washington, D.C.