Thing to do
Eastern Market
Capitol Hill's historic public market, trading since 1873, with an indoor food hall all week and outdoor produce and craft stalls at weekends.
The Wharf
A mile-long waterfront district on the Washington Channel, with public piers, restaurants, music venues and the long-running Municipal Fish Market.
At a glance
- Type
- Waterfront district
- Area
- Southwest Waterfront, Washington DC, United States
- Official site
- wharfdc.com
Good to know
- Public piers
- Fish market
- Water taxi
- Free SW Shuttle
- Underground parking
Why we recommend it
The Wharf is a waterfront neighbourhood on the Washington Channel in Southwest DC, redeveloped in two phases that opened in October 2017 and October 2022. It runs for about a mile along the water and combines restaurants, shops, hotels, homes, offices and music venues with public piers and promenades. For visitors, it is one of the easiest places in the city to spend an evening by the water.
There are four public piers. District Pier is the longest in the city, stretching 425 feet into the channel, and it is the focus for many events. Transit Pier and Recreation Pier complete the set, and the marina's 550 boat slips mean there is always something to watch.
The Municipal Fish Market has been trading since 1805 and is described as the longest continually operating fish market in the United States. It is very different in feel from the new buildings around it and is worth a look even if you are not buying. The Anthem, a 6,000-capacity concert hall, is also part of the district.
The Wharf holds events through the year. A farmers' market runs on Saturday mornings through November at M Street Landing, and there are seasonal festivals and celebrations. Check the events calendar on the Wharf's website before you go, especially at weekends when the piers can be crowded.
Getting there is straightforward. L'Enfant Plaza Metro station is about a ten-minute walk away, the free SW Shuttle runs in the area and water taxis link the Wharf with other points on the river. There are also Capital Bikeshare stations and three underground garages for drivers. The district was developed by Hoffman-Madison Waterfront, and its mix of homes, offices and hotels means it stays busy on weekdays as well as weekends, unlike some waterfronts that empty out after dark. If you are coming for a concert, arrive early to eat nearby before the doors open.
The Wharf suits couples, families and groups looking for dinner, a drink or a concert in a relaxed setting. It is also a good place for an evening stroll after a day of museums, as the National Mall is not far to the north. Allow a couple of hours for a walk and a meal. In warm weather the waterfront stays busy well into the evening.
The Wharf FAQs
What is The Wharf?
A mile-long waterfront district on the Washington Channel with restaurants, shops, hotels, music venues and public piers.
Is it free to visit?
Yes. The piers and promenades are open to the public.
What is the Municipal Fish Market?
A fish market that has operated since 1805, described as the longest continually operating fish market in the United States.
How do I get to The Wharf?
L'Enfant Plaza Metro station is about ten minutes' walk away, and the free SW Shuttle and water taxis also serve the area.
Is there parking?
Yes. There are three underground garages.
Is there a farmers' market?
Yes. A farmers' market runs on Saturday mornings through November at M Street Landing.
What music venues are there?
The Anthem, a large concert hall, is part of the district.
Which pier is the longest?
District Pier, which reaches 425 feet into the Washington Channel.