Capitol Heights MarylandBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Capitol Heights, Maryland.
1. Walker Mill Regional Park
NATURAL RECREATION AREA
Walker Mill Regional Park is a popular outdoor destination in Capitol Heights offering recreational activities for visitors of all ages. The park features walking trails, picnic areas, and open green spaces perfect for family outings. Visitors can enjoy the natural surroundings while participating in various outdoor activities throughout the year.
2. Anacostia River
SCENIC URBAN WATERWAY
The Anacostia River flows through the Capitol Riverfront area, providing a beautiful waterfront setting for various recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, or taking twilight tours along this historic waterway with views of the Capitol, Washington Navy Yard, and Fort McNair. The river offers a unique urban riverfront experience that's perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore Washington DC from a different perspective.
3. Ballpark Boathouse
RIVERSIDE RECREATION HUB
Ballpark Boathouse offers kayaks and canoes for rent throughout spring and summer along the Anacostia River. Visitors can join guided Twilight Tours to paddle along the river while watching the sunset, with each tour lasting less than two hours and suitable for beginner paddlers. The boathouse provides all necessary equipment including kayaks, life jackets, paddles, and experienced guides for a complete waterfront adventure.
4. Diamond Teague Park
URBAN FISHING DESTINATION
Diamond Teague Park offers free catch and release fishing along the Anacostia River, providing a wonderful experience for visitors of all ages. The park provides fishing equipment, making it accessible even for those who don't own fishing gear. Located in the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood, this waterfront park serves as a gateway to the river and offers unique urban fishing opportunities.
5. The Capital Wheel
WATERFRONT OBSERVATION WHEEL
The Capital Wheel at National Harbor provides breathtaking bird's-eye views of the Nation's Capital from climate-controlled gondolas. Rising high above the Potomac River waterfront, this iconic observation wheel offers visitors a unique perspective of Washington DC and its surroundings. The comfortable gondolas make this attraction enjoyable year-round regardless of weather conditions.
6. National Harbor
WATERFRONT ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT
National Harbor is a vibrant waterfront destination on the shores of the Potomac River featuring restaurants, shopping, and entertainment options. Visitors can stroll along the marina, enjoy water activities, or relax on the urban beach area during summer months. The development offers picturesque views of the water and serves as a popular recreational escape for both locals and tourists.
7. Yards Park
WATERFRONT URBAN OASIS
Yards Park is a beautifully designed waterfront park in the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood featuring a striking bridge, waterfall, and wading pool. During summer months, visitors can cool off in the dancing fountains and shallow canal basin that's perfect for families with young children. The park hosts regular events including Friday night concerts and serves as a central gathering place along the Anacostia River.
8. Bladensburg Waterfront Park
RIVER RECREATION CENTER
Bladensburg Waterfront Park offers access to the Anacostia River with boat rentals, fishing piers, and scenic walking trails. Visitors can rent canoes, kayaks, and rowboats to explore the river or join guided river tours to learn about the area's ecology and history. The park features picnic areas, a playground, and hosts various environmental education programs throughout the year.
9. Tidal Basin
ICONIC WATERFRONT LANDMARK
The Tidal Basin is a man-made reservoir between the Potomac River and the Washington Channel that offers one of DC's most scenic waterfront experiences. Famous for being surrounded by cherry trees that bloom spectacularly each spring, this 107-acre body of water draws visitors year-round for paddleboat rides and waterfront strolls. The Tidal Basin is bordered by several national monuments including the Jefferson Memorial, making it both a recreational destination and cultural landmark.
10. Lake Artemesia
NATURAL LAKE RETREAT
Lake Artemesia is a 38-acre freshwater lake surrounded by beautiful gardens and an extensive trail system ideal for outdoor recreation near Capitol Heights. Visitors can enjoy fishing from piers, birdwatching along the shoreline, or walking and biking on the paved 1.35-mile loop trail around the lake. The park features picnic areas, benches along the water, and connects to the larger Anacostia Tributary Trail System for extended exploration.