C&O Canal & Towpath

Lonely Planet review

On a hot summer day, do as locals do and head to the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal and its towpath for a day of hiking, biking or canoeing. Within Georgetown's central zone, the canal is crisscrossed by walkways and bridges and lined with old warehouses and factories turned into upscale retail and entertainment complexes. The blocks between Thomas Jefferson and 31st Sts feature converted mid-19th century artesian houses.

From its Georgetown start, the historic C & O Canal runs 185 miles upriver to Cumberland, in western Maryland. The towpath alongside, originally for the mules that towed the boats, is now a DC favorite for hikers and bikers looking for an easy escape from the urban jungle. There are many spots to get off the path and venture down to the river -some spots are all rocks and rapids, others calm and sandy holes perfect for a quick dip (beware, the Potomac can have a very strong current). It's also cool to explore the C&O by canoe.

Stop by the C&O Canal Visitors Center (202-653-5190; 1057 Thomas Jefferson St) to learn about ranger-led walks and canal boat rides.

The artesian houses lining the few blocks between Thomas Jefferson and 31st Sts have been restored and turned into shops, offices and homes.