What to do with Kids at The DC Wharf this Fall

Now that the temperatures are consistently in the 60s fall has finally arrived, and there are a ton of fun things to do at The Wharf DC.

Ahhh, it is about time the cool temps have arrived here in the DMV. If only that serenity could continue, except for my toddler pointing at the hatch on my 40 foot sailboat shouting “OUT”. Out we go to the The Wharf.

Whether you are planning a fall weekend at The Wharf or a random visit during a weekday, here is your guide of where to go and what to do with your kids during the fall season.

Make S’mores at Camp Wharf.

The giant fire pit near District Pier has been converted into a fall festival area where you can purchase supplies to make the perfect s’mores.

Camp Wharf is situated at the end of District Square and features a generously sized fire pit, surrounded by comfy Adirondack chairs. They have a friendly staff serving up supplies from an adorable, and very instagramable, retro caravan. Supplies include roasting skewers, a menu of S’mores ingredients, and apple cider. They are open Thurs – Friday 6-10 Sat. 3-10 Sun.3-9

Tour a Historical Boat

Ahoy! The 92-foot Nao Santa Maria sails into the District Tuesday, November 12 and will stay at port through Sunday, November 17. Kids of all ages are welcome aboard the replica of Christopher Columbus’ flagship the Santa Maria built in 2018 to honor the 555th anniversary of Christopher Columbus sailing to America from Spain. After the experience on board, walk over to the Municipal Fish Market to check out the local catch. Order a chowder or crawfish to eat on the bulkhead overlooking the water. Kids will love the giant sailboat (and the chowder, too!) – Find out how to sign up for a tour.

Free Play on Transit Pier

Need space to burn some energy? Put the stroller in park and release the kiddos to Transit Pier. The smallest of children can crawl, cruise or just sit happily in one of the two enclosed turf areas. The rest of the pier is open space to play giant Jenga, large connect four, corn hole or to sit on or chair or run around. We usually use the giant Jenga blocks as lily pads in the enclosed area, hopping from one to another, building lily pads as we go across. Imagination and free play is a great outlet for the kid that just wants to be moving freely (or just out of the stroller). Pro tip: There is a family toilet located right at Transit Pier if needed.

Enjoy Seasonal Food and Beverages

Most all restaurants, kiosks, and shops on the Wharf are in season and kid-friendly. These places offer more than just tolerance for the kids, they are award-winning chefs and local hangouts.

Take them there, I do! The Municipal Fish Market is a great place to grab some fresh seafood. You can grab hot food and eat along the river at any of the many seating areas at the Wharf.

Find a quick bite from any of the kiosks or fast gourmet style restaurants like Grazie Grazie, Falafel Inc., and Toastique. The Union Pie kiosk located near Transit Pier has amazing pizza that can be enjoyed sitting along the promenade.

Find your pumpkin-inspired coffee beverage at one of the many coffee shops on The Wharf. Velo Cafe offers fall-inspired caffeinated hot beverages and seasonal cocktails. For dessert, head to Camp Wharf to make your own s’mores at the Fire Pit. Or for those that believe ice cream is a year-round treat, head to Ben & Jerry’s or Dolcezza or Shake Shack, or SodaPop Shop.

PRO TIPS: The promenade is closed to vehicles on the weekends, so kids can roam safely. If a restaurant does not have a changing table, the public restrooms do. Locate the bathrooms here.

Also, we recommend on Friday, Nov. 8 attending WharfLifeDC’s launch party at Union Stage. Jones Point will be playing its unique take on bluegrass, rock and reggae music and Port City is taking over the taps for the adults! RSVP here!