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Special Tours of Washington Beyond the Monuments |
Architecture Afloat Get a new perspective on the architecture of Washington DC from a kayak on the Potomac. Offered in partnership with Atlantic Canoe and Kayak, these 2.5 hour kayak tours focus on the architecture and history of Washington from the unique vantage point of the Potomac River. Experienced guides direct your attention to the waterfront's distinctive features as you paddle along in safe, stable kayaks.
The standard Architecture Afloat tour, offered Thursdays through Sundays at sunset, runs from Georgetown to Memorial Bridge and back. Guides impart the history and legends behind such sights as the Three Sisters Islands, Roosevelt Island, and the bridges that the tour passes under.
A second tour explores Georgetown and the Potomac to the north. Originating in Georgetown and heading upriver, this tour, offered Saturday and Sunday afternoons from 3-5:30pm will focus on the Georgetown waterfront and the C&O Canal.
No previous kayaking experience is necessary; instruction is provided. Ages 10 and up are welcome. Tours are offered weather and interest permitting. To book either kayaking tour, contact Atlantic Canoe and Kayak by phone at 703-838-9072. Fee: $39 per person. Architecture Apedal For these tours, the Octagon partners with DC-based Bike the Sites, Inc. Current tours include the "Bridges of Washington" and "Early Washington History." Tours are designed to be completed at a relaxing pace and are appropriate for the "occasional" exerciser, ages 10 and up. Fee includes bicycle, helmet, water, snack, safety instruction, and captivating commentary (reduced rate for those bringing their own bikes). For details, call Bike the Sites, Inc. at 202-966-8662. Capital Sites Tour View many of Washington's magnificent monuments and sights on this tour. Knowledgeable guides will lead you on a historical and architectural experience while visiting over 55 landmarks in three hours. Touring the Nations Capital by bicycle gives you an opportunity to visit many memorable places that are not accessible by other means. Get "up close and personal" on a continuous and interactive learning experience. For details, call Bike the Sites, Inc. at 202-966-8662. Mount Vernon Tour Knowledgeable guides will lead a group of participants on a comfortably paced bicycle tour from Old Town Alexandria, Va to Mount Vernon, Va. Following the nine mile paved path along the Potomac River, participants will experience many scenic views, including the 240 acre Dyke Marsh with more than 250 bird species. One and one half to two hours will be spent exploring the historic home of George Washington before returning to Old Town. A boxed lunch will be served on the estate grounds. For details, call Bike the Sites, Inc. at 202-966-8662. Civil War Battlfields Spend a whole day exploring Gettysburg or Antietam. For details, call Bike the Sites, Inc. at 202-966-8662. Mule-Drawn Canal Boat Rides The National Park Service operates living history boat rides at two locations on the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal. Come and compare the past with the present while enjoying a one-hour trip onboard a reproduction 19th century canal boat. Park rangers in historical clothing will transport passengers back in time to the 1870s. Experience locking through a historic lift lock and being pulled by mules as rangers describe the history and the lives of the families that worked on the canal.
The Georgetown departs Wednesday through Sunday at 11:00am, 1:30pm, and 3:00pm. Saturday and Sunday there is an additional 4:30pm trip.
Fares are $8 for adults, $6 for seniors age 62 and older, $5 for children ages 4-14.
Please call 202-653-5190 to confirm times. Reservations are taken for groups of 10 or more.
Location: 1057 Thomas Jefferson Street, NW, one block south of M Street. Nearest Metro is Foggy Bottom/GWU (orange and blue lines). Metrobus #30, 32, 34 or 36. Check out our calendar for other events, exhibits and programs.