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Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / Landmarks

The Wharf

A vibrant, mile-long mixed-use waterfront district featuring over 80 shops and restaurants, four hotels, and the nation's longest continually operating open-air fish market along the Washington Channel.

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The Wharf
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What is The Wharf known for?

The Wharf is a mile-long waterfront neighborhood in Washington, D.C., known for being home to the nation’s longest continually operating open-air fish market. It is a major destination for dining, shopping, and entertainment, featuring over 80 restaurants and shops.

Where is it located?

It is centrally situated on the Potomac River along the historic Washington Channel, just off I-395/I-695 and 7th Street SW. It is located approximately four blocks from the National Mall and is within walking distance of the White House, the Capitol, and Smithsonian Museums.

How do I get there?

Visitors can reach The Wharf by boat, bike, Metro, or on foot. Additionally, The Wharf Jitney operates from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through November.

What is there to do at The Wharf?

Visitors can explore over 80 shops and restaurants, stay at one of four hotels, or visit the open-air fish market. The area also hosts events such as live music, festivals, art shows, and outdoor movies.

What is the history of the area?

The Wharf is the result of a revitalization of Washington, D.C.'s historic Southwest waterfront. It opened in phases, with the first phase opening in October 2017 and the final phase completing in October 2022.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Wharf is a premier waterfront neighborhood in Washington, D.C., serving as a modern revitalization of the city's historic Southwest waterfront. This expansive district spans roughly one mile along the Washington Channel on the Potomac River, encompassing 27 acres of land and 50 acres of waterfront. It is designed as a mixed-use destination where thousands of residents and workers coexist with visitors. The development reached its current form through a two-phase process. The first phase opened in October 2017, while the second and final phase was completed in October 2022. This final stage expanded the area's capacity by adding new condominiums, apartments, hotel rooms, and public amenities including a marina and parks. Visitors to the district will find a dense concentration of amenities, including over 80 restaurants and shops and four hotels. One of the most significant cultural anchors is the nation's longest continually operating open-air fish market, which preserves a piece of the area's maritime history amidst the new architecture. Strategically located for tourists, The Wharf sits just four blocks from the National Mall. Its central position puts it within walking distance of the White House, the Capitol, and various Smithsonian Museums, making it an ideal hub for those exploring the capital's major monuments.

Visitor tips

  • Visit between 12:00 pm and 6:00 pm on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday through November to utilize the Wharf Jitney.
  • Arrive by boat, bike, or Metro to avoid the traffic near I-395/I-695 and 7th Street SW.
  • Check the official event calendar for live music, outdoor movies, and art shows to enhance your visit.

Nearby context

Situated in the Southwest waterfront area, The Wharf provides a stark architectural contrast to the surrounding mid-century modern elements of the neighborhood. It serves as a gateway between the Potomac River and the National Mall, located only four blocks away.

Sources

Evidence and links