Fairmount Heights MarylandBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Fairmount Heights, Maryland.
1. Bladensburg Waterfront Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION AND HISTORY
Bladensburg Waterfront Park offers diverse activities along the Anacostia River including boat tours, kayaking, and paddling events. Visitors can enjoy the scenic waterfront from sunrise to sunset daily, with organized programs such as Golden Hour Kayak Tours and History Boat Tours. The park serves as a hub for outdoor recreation and environmental education with plenty to do for all ages.
2. The Yards Park
MODERN RIVERFRONT ESCAPE
The Yards Park sits next to the Anacostia River in the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood, featuring an architectural marvel of a bridge and modernized outdoor spaces. The park offers perfect areas for playtime and relaxation with views of the bustling waterfront. Nearby Ballpark Boathouse provides kayak rentals for those wanting to experience the river and observe local wildlife.
3. The Wharf
DC'S PREMIER WATERFRONT DEVELOPMENT
The Wharf is Washington DC's hottest waterfront development featuring awesome river views, stylish restaurants, and four distinct piers. Visitors can enjoy multiple music venues, state-of-the-art hotels, and various water activities in this vibrant destination. A free water jitney takes guests to the gorgeous East Potomac Park, adding to the many waterfront experiences available.
4. Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens
SERENE WATER GARDENS
Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens offers a unique natural escape with its famous aquatic gardens and water lily displays near Fairmount Heights. The park features walking trails along the Anacostia River and wetlands that provide habitats for diverse wildlife and birds. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere while exploring the historic gardens that change with the seasons.
5. National Harbor
WATERFRONT ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX
National Harbor is a vibrant waterfront destination on the Potomac River featuring restaurants, shops, and entertainment options just a short drive from Fairmount Heights. Visitors can enjoy the urban beach area, rent paddleboards, or take a ride on the Capital Wheel for panoramic water views. The harbor hosts seasonal events and water activities while offering ferry service to Alexandria and Washington DC.
6. Anacostia River Trail
SCENIC RIVERSIDE PATH
The Anacostia River Trail provides miles of paved pathways along the riverfront, connecting various waterfront parks and neighborhoods near Fairmount Heights. Trail users can enjoy direct access to multiple swimming and paddling launch points while taking in scenic views of the river. The trail serves as a green corridor through the eastern portions of the city with plenty of spots to pause and enjoy the waterfront.
7. Hains Point
PENINSULA WATER VIEWS
Hains Point is a scenic peninsula at the southern tip of East Potomac Park where the Anacostia and Potomac Rivers meet. Visitors can enjoy swimming at the public pool, fishing from the shoreline, or picnicking with panoramic water views on all sides. The location offers one of the best vantage points to see Washington's waterfront and is accessible by car or via the water jitney from The Wharf.
8. Fletcher's Cove
HISTORIC BOATING HAVEN
Fletcher's Cove is a historic boating center on the Potomac River offering rowboat, canoe, and kayak rentals for water exploration. The cove features a protected swimming area and is known as one of the best fishing spots in the region with seasonal runs of shad and other species. Visitors appreciate the natural setting and calm waters that make it ideal for families and beginners to enjoy water activities.
9. Greenbelt Lake
TRANQUIL SUBURBAN OASIS
Greenbelt Lake is a peaceful 23-acre lake surrounded by walking trails and picnic areas, located a short drive from Fairmount Heights. Visitors can enjoy fishing, non-motorized boating, and the sandy beach area that's popular with families during summer months. The lake is part of the larger Buddy Attick Park which offers playgrounds and natural spaces for relaxation by the water.
10. Lake Artemesia
RECREATION AND WILDLIFE WATCHING
Lake Artemesia features a 38-acre freshwater lake with a paved trail circling its perimeter and sandy areas for shoreline relaxation. The lake offers fishing piers, scenic viewpoints, and is a haven for waterfowl and aquatic wildlife observation. Visitors appreciate this urban oasis for its accessibility and the opportunity to enjoy water views while walking, running, or cycling the 1.3-mile loop trail.