While The Wharf in Southwest Washington DC offers a vibrant waterfront experience, driving directly to the area, especially when visiting popular venues like The Anthem, can present parking challenges. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to The Anthem and the surrounding Wharf area, consider alternative transportation methods. Opting for the Metro or the free SW Shuttle can significantly reduce traffic congestion, lessen your environmental impact, and help you avoid potentially expensive and limited parking options.
However, if driving is necessary, understanding your parking options is crucial. The Wharf provides three underground parking garages operating 24/7.
View Map of Entrances to The Wharf Garages
On-Site Parking Garages at The Wharf
The Wharf features three convenient underground parking garages, ensuring parking availability for visitors. Each garage is easily accessible with multiple entrances strategically located throughout The Wharf area. For specific entrance locations, please refer to the detailed map provided by The Wharf.
Special Parking for Fish Market Patrons
Visitors specifically heading to the Fish Market can take advantage of a discounted parking rate in Wharf Garage 1. For the first hour, parking is available for just $2. To validate this special rate, remember to bring your parking ticket and your Fish Market receipt to the parking lobby in Market Square, conveniently located near District Doughnut.
Weekday Parking Rates at The Wharf
If you are visiting The Wharf during the weekdays, be aware of the following parking fee structure:
- 0-½ Hour: $6
- ½ – 1 Hour: $11
- 1 – 2 Hours: $23
- 2 – 3 Hours: $28
- 3 – 4 Hours: $32
- 4 – 12 Hours: $39
- 12 – 24 Hours: $62
Weekend and Special Event Parking Rates
Weekends and special events at The Wharf, especially those at The Anthem, typically have different parking rates:
- 0 – ½ Hour: $6
- ½ – 1 Hour: $11
- 1 – 2 Hours: $24
- 2 – 3 Hours: $29
- 3 – 4 Hours: $37
- 4 – 12 Hours: $49
- 12 – 24 Hours: $62
Keep in mind that “Special Event” parking rates commence at 4:00 PM on days when there are scheduled performances at The Anthem. These rates also apply on other designated special event days. Parking rates are reset every day at 4:00 AM. Restaurant validations may offer parking discounts, so always inquire when dining at The Wharf. Remember to take your parking ticket with you as you explore The Wharf.
Important Parking Information
All parking garages at The Wharf are handicap accessible, ensuring convenience for all visitors. The garage clearance height is 8′ 2″ in all garages. For payment convenience, contactless payment methods like Samsung Pay, Apple Pay, and Google Pay are accepted at the pay-on-foot machines. Alternatively, you can quickly pay by scanning the QR code located on the back of your parking ticket. If using the QR code payment method, ensure you exit the garage within 15 minutes of payment.
For an even faster parking experience, consider using the ParkMobile App (Zone 326). Upon entering the garage, simply pull a ticket and scan it with the ParkMobile app. When you are ready to leave, update the app, and your account will be automatically charged based on your parking duration. Remember to exit within 15 minutes of paying through the app.
Prepaid and Reserved Parking Options
Currently, The Wharf’s parking garages do not offer options for prepaid or reserved parking spaces. However, if you prefer to prepay or reserve parking, Ace Parking at L’Enfant Plaza (420 10th St SW), situated just a couple of blocks from The Wharf, provides this service.
Get Directions to Ace Parking at L’Enfant Plaza (420 10th St SW)
Alternative Parking Near The Wharf
In the event that The Wharf garages are full, additional parking is available at L’Enfant Plaza, located just two blocks north. L’Enfant Plaza offers two garages with a substantial 1800 parking spaces.
Get Directions to L’Enfant East Parking Garage (840 D St SW)
View map of nearby parking garages
Driving Directions to The Wharf
For those driving to The Wharf, use the link below for directions via Google Maps.
