Summertime is meant to be spent out on the water. While kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are the popular options, don’t discount the power of a pedal boat. Here are six spots to find pedal boats available to rent. Note: There are age restrictions on who can rent the boats.
Boating in DC
Want to skip the crowds on the National Mall? Consider renting a pedal boat to take in the monuments. From the Tidal Basin, you catch views of the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, Washington Monument, and Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. Rentals are only available for one hour. Tidal Basin: 1501 Maine Ave. SW, Washington, DC, $38 during weekdays, $40 on weekends and holidays
Lake Accotink
During your next visit to Lake Accotink, skip a walk or bike ride along the trail and opt for the pedal boat. Boats are only rented for an hour at a time on weekends. On the water, boaters will get views of luscious greenery and wildlife. Kayak and bike rentals are also available. 7500 Accotink Park Rd., Springfield, $16 for a two-person boat, $26 for a four-person boat
Lake Anne
If you find yourself in Reston, make sure to take a ride around Lake Anne. Pedal boats are available on a first-come, first-served basis and rentals are available in one-hour increments. Once you’ve re-docked your pedal boat, visit one of the many businesses along the plaza to extend your trip. 1609 Washington Plz. N., Reston, $20 (cash only)
Lake Fairfax Park
Enjoy the stunning views of the park from the water. At the marina, guests can rent either a two-person pedal boat or four-person pedal boat to ride on the 18-acre lake. Boats are rented for a minimum of one hour. 1400 Lake Fairfax Dr., Reston, $16 for two-person pedalboat, $26 for four-person pedalboat
Lake Ridge Marina
Take an adventure around the Occoquan Reservoir. The Woodbridge marina offers 30-minute and one-hour rentals, which are perfect if you’re looking for a quick ride or longer pedal boat excursion. Other boat rentals include Jon boats, canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards. 12350 Cotton Mill Dr., Woodbridge, $9 for 30 minutes, $12 for one hour
Pohick Bay Regional Park
Nothing screams summer like a day on Pohick Bay. Bring binoculars and try to spot wildlife as you pedal across the water. After your boating excursion, spend time at the park’s water park or mini golf course. 6501 Pohick Bay Dr., Lorton, $18 per hour for guests in jurisdiction, $20 per hour for non-jurisdiction guests
Feature image courtesy Fairfax County Park Authority
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