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Avoid the Chaos: Parking Hacks Around The Wharf

There are many ways to avoid driving to The Wharf. But sometimes it's just better to drive, so we’ve got some tips to keep the car but skip parking chaos.

Department of Transportation officials promise streets around The Wharf, especially Maine Street, will be heavily patrolled. If you violate the rules there -- which, in many places, restrict parking to residents -- expect a ticket or even a tow.

Instead, you can look for street parking on the L’Enfant Plaza promenade. The two-hour metered spaces are a quick walk away from The Wharf.

Or, you can try parking at the Anacostia Metro Station lot. From there, take the Metro two stops to the Waterfront station. A day of parking will cost $4.45. The Wharf is minutes away from that stop.

A 1,500-space underground parking garage sits near Maine Avenue Southwest. It has three entrances near Blair Alley, 9th Avenue and Water Street. But with 20,000 expected to visit The Wharf over opening weekend, don’t bank on finding a space -- plus, the convenience comes with a price.

Parking will cost you $11 for one hour and up to $26 if you plan to stay more than four hours, according to The Wharf website. You can get a $1 discount if you validate your parking with a retailer. Fish Market enthusiasts only will shell out $2 for an hour with proper validation.

There are 11 other parking garages nearby, according to The Wharf website.

If you’re taking Uber, Lyft or another ride-hailing service, ask to be dropped off a few blocks away to avoid wasted time and money. You can get out on G Street for easy access and traffic avoidance.

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