The warmest month has arrived and children of all ages can find places to cool off and spend a full day living the #WharfLifeDC. Follow the expert tips listed below to stay cool without wasting time with the little ones melting in the heat.

Fountains of joy

One of the best features for kids is the splash fountain located on 7th Street near Recreation Pier.  Young children of all ages find joy and a chance to cool off while playing in the water jets. It’s worth mentioning the  water jets to the right as you look toward the Washington Channel blast out water harder and faster and are more suitable for older children. The splash jets closer to the construction site location flow lighter, making for a more comfortable stream for our youngest splashers. Also, sandals and or shoes are highly recommended since the ground includes multiple materials and with the water, may be slippery. Forgot to pack sunblock and a hat? Head just a few steps away to Anchor and pick up any items needed for sun protection and swimming. 

When ready to dry off, there are changing tables and handicap stalls in two of the three public bathrooms. The closest public bathroom to the splash fountain/Recreation Pier is located in the alley, known as Water Street, right next to Array Floral. Walk towards the Intercontinental Hotel and you will see the entrance to Water Street there and the bathrooms are about halfway down and are wheelchair and stroller accessible.

Paddle time

Another water option is a kayak or paddle board rental from the Wharf Boathouse. The team at Boating in DC will hook you up with hourly rentals and even lessons. Paddlers can cruise the Washington Channel, admire the wildlife, and take in the stunning views of The Wharf from the water. The rental kiosk is located next to the splash fountains near Recreation Pier. 

Just swinging 

If you don’t feel like getting soaked, make your own breeze on the swings located on Recreation Pier.  They are located along the right side of the pier as you walk toward the water. The swings can comfortably accommodate two people and you can choose to swing toward the Washington Channel or the Wharf, both views are majestic.   

Lunch

Next, go ahead and give in and find lunch at one of the Wharf’s many air conditioned or shaded restaurants and shops.  The of the kids menu are very good such as at Hank’s Oyster Bar, which features hand battered cod fish sticks that both parents and kids will love.

If you’re just grazing and looking for a break from the heat, go to District Hardware & Velo Cafe. Purchase cold drinks, iced coffee and snacks, and sit at cafe tables or shop the hardware aisles. District Hardware sells coloring books and invisible pens, so grab a cold drink and color at one of the cafe tables. 

Fun and games

From 4pm on, Transit Pier opens their giant umbrella canopies and allows for all to freely roam about and play oversized games in the shade. Challenge your son or daughter to game of giant Connect Four or cornhole. You can even use the extra space to run around, dance, or sit in one of the many Adirondack chairs and cool off under a shaded canopy with a cold beverage from Cantina Bambina. The Pier is the perfect location to feel the cooling breeze coming off of the water. There’s additional shade and available table seating right next to Transit Pier under the trees.

I Scream!

If you’ve managed to hold off this long, then it is time to celebrate the day with a sweet treat from one of the many offerings on the promenade. Dolcezza, located across from Transit Pier has delicious gelatos,  sorbets, and coffee drinks. Another great option is the more traditional Southwest Soda Pop Shop located at Market Square. There you will find hand scooped ice cream, floats, and shakes.  

It’s hot, get outside and enjoy the #WharfLifeDC!