Print
Email
Bookmark & shareFollowing their president, Washingtonians don't exert themselves far beyond jogging and golfing. But residents do make ample use of the city's official 'recreation zones', woodsy nature strips that shadow meandering brooks between suburbs.
-
canoeing/kayaking
Boaters head to the Potomac River and the C&O Canal in northwestern Washington. In rented canoes, rowboats or kayaks you can drift leisurely past some of Washington's main tourist sites.
-
cycling
For an urban tour, a 16km (10mi) paved cycle path runs from below the Kennedy Center to Pierce Mill, largely along the wooded creek in Rock Creek Park. Heading cross-country, the C&O Canal towpath makes a great bike route, particularly for mountain bikes - it starts in Georgetown and stretches 296km (184mi) into Maryland.
-
jogging
For outdoor recreation, residents head primarily to Rock Creek Park and the C&O Canal, both in northwestern Washington. There are well-marked hiking and jogging tracks ranging from easy to strenuous in both parks.
-
swimming (indoor)
Washington has more than 40 free public swimming pools to choose from; the one in Georgetown is among the best.
-
ice skating
Try out your double axels at the small Sculpture Garden Ice Rink on the Mall.
Advertisement
Book Your Trip
Hotels & Hostels
Booking hotels is simple with Lonely Planet. See our reviewed and recommended hotels in one place and book online. Browse hotels ›
Lonely Planet Newsletters
Updates, offers and inspiration - straight to your inbox.
Subscribe now ›
Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.
