Visiting The Wharf is always an exciting experience, especially with the ongoing winter specials. To enhance your visit, understanding the parking options and how to navigate them efficiently is key. While The Wharf encourages the use of public transportation to minimize environmental impact and traffic congestion, on-site parking is available and increasingly streamlined through modern, “car scan” technologies. This guide will walk you through parking at The Wharf, focusing on how you can leverage features like contactless payment and parking apps for a smoother, faster experience.
Winter Parking Specials and Garage Options
The Wharf provides several parking deals, particularly during the winter months. Currently, you can take advantage of discounted rates at Garages 1, 2, and 3. Garages 1 and 2 offer a $10 flat rate for up to two hours on Mondays through Wednesdays. Garage 3 extends this offer to Sundays through Wednesdays, providing a $10 flat rate for up to three hours. These winter parking specials are a great way to save, but remember they are only valid until the end of February.
The Wharf houses three underground parking garages, all operating 24/7. Each garage is well-signed and accessible from multiple entry points. For a detailed view of these entrances, you can refer to the Parking Map of The Wharf.
Weekday and Weekend Parking Rates
Standard parking rates apply outside of the winter special hours. Here’s a breakdown of the weekday and weekend parking costs:
Weekday Parking Rates:
- 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:
- 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
Special event rates are activated from 4 PM on days with events at The Anthem and other special occasions. Parking rates are reset every day at 4:00 AM. Keep in mind that restaurant validations can affect these standard rates. Always take your parking ticket with you as you explore The Wharf.
Contactless Payment and App-Based “Car Scan” Options
To streamline your parking experience, The Wharf embraces modern technology, allowing for what we can call “car scan” methods through contactless payment systems and mobile apps. All pay-on-foot machines accept contactless payments like Samsung Pay, Apple Pay, and Google Pay, allowing for a quick tap-and-go payment process.
Additionally, you can scan the QR code on the back of your parking ticket to pay via your smartphone. This minimizes contact with surfaces and speeds up your exit. If you opt for QR code payment, ensure you exit the garage within 15 minutes of payment.
For an even more integrated “car scan” parking solution, utilize the ParkMobile App. By using Zone 326 within the app, you can link your parking ticket to your ParkMobile account upon entry. When you are ready to leave, simply notify the app, and your account will be automatically charged based on your parking duration. This truly embodies the “car scan” concept, offering a seamless, ticketless experience after the initial ticket pull. Remember, similar to QR code payments, you must exit within 15 minutes of paying through the app.
Fish Market Parking Validation
Patrons of the Fish Market enjoy a special parking rate in Wharf Garage 1. You can park for just $2 for the first hour. To avail of this discount, remember to take your parking ticket and Fish Market receipt to the staff member in the parking lobby located in Market Square, near District Doughnut, for validation.
Additional Parking and Alternatives
Handicap-accessible parking is available in all garages. The height clearance for all garages is 8′ 2″.
In case the garages at The Wharf are full, L’Enfant Plaza, situated just two blocks north, offers additional parking options with two garages and a total of 1800 spaces. You can get directions to Ace Parking at L’Enfant Plaza or L’Enfant East Parking Garage. A map of nearby parking garages is also available for your convenience: Nearby Parking Map.
However, The Wharf strongly encourages using public transportation options like the Metro and the free SW Shuttle. Choosing these alternatives helps reduce traffic and environmental impact and can save you money on parking fees.
For driving directions to The Wharf, you can use Google Maps.
Conclusion
Parking at The Wharf is made easier and more efficient through various options, including winter parking specials and advanced “car scan” payment methods like contactless systems and the ParkMobile app. While these technologies streamline the process, consider the environmental and congestion benefits of public transportation. Whether you drive or take public transit, The Wharf is readily accessible for a memorable visit.
