Explore the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail with your family!

A continuous 20-mile trail along the Anacostia River, the majority of the trail runs through Wards 7 and 8. However, a portion runs through Navy Yard and Capitol Hill. Start at Navy Yard where there's a parking lot at the corner of 4th and Water Streets SE with plenty of spots. On weekdays, the lot charges $2 an hour for parking and between $1.50-$3 an hour on weekends. Before finding the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail, walk around Navy Yard. Near the parking lot is Yellow The Cafe, a top-rated bakery that merges French technique with Middle Eastern flavors. Named "one of the best new restaurants in the country" by Esquire in 2020, order a warm chocolate halva croissant and latte when they are open Tuesday-Sunday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Yellow The Cafe has a large outdoor patio with tables and chairs.

Afterward, head to the Yards Park, a large riverside park with an award-winning design. There's lots of green space, a boardwalk, restaurants and a popular splash area open from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. There are two public restrooms by Due Douth Dockside that are kept clean. There's plenty of shade throughout Yards Park and the boardwalk is stroller friendly. 

Once you've had your share of Yards Park, follow the boardwalk north along the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail. Passing the oldest U.S. Navy shore establishment, you'll find boats docked and a few watercraft from past wars with plaques explaining their significance. 

Once you pass the old Navy Yard, the path continues north through Capitol Hill or you can cross the 11th Street Bridge to find the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail East of the River. Once you cross the Anacostia, the trail, although well paved, isn't shaded so bring sunscreen and hats. Along the trail are art telling the history of the area. You may also spot wild deer and turkey along the trail. If you need more restrooms, there are two at the Pirate Ship playground in Anacostia Park.