Heat gotcha down? Fear no more! Here are plenty of water activities that will keep you cool.
By Ericha Richards
Rafting at River and Trail Outfitters
With the temperatures soaring into the triple digits, everyone in Washington is scrambling to cool off. Families and singles alike are making a mad dash to the pool at every opportunity. Needless to say, this causes some major traffic jams and overcrowding at popular lounging spots.
So instead of waiting in infinite lines and fighting over pool chairs, try something new! What do you have to lose? Below we have compiled a list of water-filled activities that will provide you with some fun, while keeping you cool in these unendurable heat waves. NOTE: SPF is NOT included … bring your own or suffer the consequences!
All Hands on Deck
Craving a new adventure? Washington Sailing Marina offers Adult Sailing Lessons to anyone who is yearning for some time out on the water. Classes for Adults are offered on Saturdays and Sundays. There are 2 six-hour sessions that span over the whole weekend. In the beginner’s class, participants will learn everything from steering, the use of sails, docking, tacking, and jibing.
Located just south of Reagan National Airport, Washington Sailing Marina offers a viable, convenient option for anyone wanting to experience something a little different and expand their repertoire of trades.
Become “ONE” with Nature
River and Trail Outfitters, located one hour from the DC metro area, offers the region with an outdoor escape full of adventure. Become one with nature as you raft, tube, kayak, or canoe along the Shenandoah River.
It is ideal for large group adventures, as River and Trail provides solid discounts for groups looking to experience the outdoors together. Picnic and shuttle services are also available if you want to completely check out and overlook all responsibilities – we highly recommend it!
Comfort Close to Home
Looking for something a little closer to home? Thompson Boat Center offers kayak rentals in singles and doubles, for anyone looking to explore the Potomac alone or with a special someone. Rental rates go by the hour or for the whole day. Located right off the corner of Virginia Ave.
and Rock Creek Parkway in Gerogetown, TBC promises to be your local rental go-to. Get it while its hot – literally – since this rental spot closes in early October or whenever the Potomac hits below 55 degrees and with global warming, that could be sooner than we all think.
Great Waves waterslides in Alexandria, VA
Bring Out the Kid in You
Feeling in the mood for some good, old-fashioned fun? How about a waterpark! Yes, we know that amusement parks are so junior high and can sometimes prove to be more chaotic than enjoyable. Yet, we think that rounding up your friends and making the small trek to Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, will provide you with some much needed fun in the sun, be it swaying in the wave pool, moping down the lazy river, or jetting down the bottle rocket slide. Looking for something a tad bit closer?
Try Great Waves Water Park in Alexandria. Although more low-key and smaller than Six Flags, Great Waves can provide water-activity seekers with a closer, calmer alternative.
