The trip starts in the concrete jungle of northern Virginia but quickly reaches the Pentagon. From there on, the city, only 68 square miles, looks like a tiny gem. The green expanses and graceful circles reveal Pierre L'Enfant's luscious design for the district. The chopper is a great way to get to see those further-out points like the National Shrine and Georgetown University that you might not otherwise have time to get to, and Capital's pilots offer tidbits of history while you fly by the seat of your government. The district has a fantastic waterfront area that includes boathouses and a boardwalk, and there are plans for more development soon.
Several companies run river cruises or rent out canoes and kayaks.
The water is generally smooth, and beginners are welcome. Paddling past a pair of herons on a quiet evening may make you forget you're in a major city, but the tour doesn't abandon its D.C. focus.