DC - Capital Bikeshare and Other Bike Rentals in DC

I went biking last week in downtown DC and it was wonderful! I had forgotten how exhilarating it was to cruise freely past crowds and traffic while able to view gorgeous monuments, museums and Potomac river sights. So much to see guys! World class museums from the Smithsonian; Memorials and monuments; Historical sites; The White House; The Capitol building plus all the lovely green areas in The Mall.

Don't miss the brand new FDR Memorial on the Reflecting Pond. It's gorgeous and very moving. A must stop if you choose to do the bike thing. And then of course, there's spring. It's here in DC already, I swear! Two weeks ago I saw the buds on the Cherry Trees screaming to bloom. They were just, just there. One more week (or two) and they're in full bloom. So NOW is the moment guys, to catch this awesome display of color downtown in DC.

So where does one get a bike? Well, I have two suggestions for you. One offers you a bike with the option of a lock and/or a helmet (if you want). The other one does not. The first option is good for those who plan to make stops along the way. Maybe to view a new exhibit in The Smithsonian? You get my drift. So, here are the options.

OPTION ONE - Capital Bike Share - This is a new "bike sharing" program in the District of Columbia (downtown DC), that offers brand new bikes for rent by the hour, by the day or by the week, from a variety of stations in downtown DC. Check their website www.capitalbikeshare.com for prices and options. These are easy bikes to use/rent. I used one this past week, and it was a breeze to rent. All you'll need is a major credit card for the transaction and you're pretty much set to go. The first 30 minutes are free. Then, there's an additional charge every 30 minutes. Check their website for exact charges. The only draw back, as I mentioned before, is that these bikes don't offer a "lock up" option, other that to return them to another bike base station. Oh well. Otherwise they are great. Brand new and with three speeds. All you'll need to fly down the scenic bike paths of DC.




OPTION TWO - Rental bikes from Thompsons Boat House in Georgetown's waterfront. The bikes that are available for rent here, are less jazzy than the ones offered by Bike Share, but they are sturdy and comfortable cruising bikes. Also, you can ask for a lock, as I mentioned before, if you plan to stop along the way. This will give you a little more freedom to wander around the sites "sans" bike (with out the bike). Something to think about. I'm enclosing a photo of Thompsons Boathouse's board with rental charges below. You can also rent Kayaks if you're feeling adventuresome! The boathouse is located right next to the Georgetown Marina (to the left if you're looking directly at the Potomac). The Marina, is a great waterfront spot filled with trendy restaurants, popular with the locals, specially, during sunny days. Worth a visit!






So there you go. It's your decision, Boathouse bikes or Shared Bikes. Both good options. Don't miss out and get out there to see the city from a completely different perspective, One that I promise, you will always remember and you will most definitely enjoy!

For more info on Capital Bike Share, click on the blue link enclosed below and enjoy! And remember, it's real easy to get a bike in DC and it's a fun way to get around guys!!!

PS- If you want to check out both bike options before renting, go to the Georgetown Marina. There's a Shared Bikes station right in front of the Danish Embassy, in the alley, steps away from Thompson Boat House (photo of map enclosed).



Capital Bikeshare

Photos, courtesy of Capital Bike Share's website.