The Yards Park can be rented "a al carte," meaning that locations can be rented alone or locations (or parts of locations, eg the boardwalk) can be combined for larger event space.  The entire park can not be rented out; there must be an area always available for the public to enjoy and the Riverwalk Trail thoroughfare must be maintained. 

Boardwalk

The entire boardwalk is about 41,000 square feet but it can be rented in portions (eg. right in front of the lawn steps, by the light tower, etc.).  The boardwalk is made of IPE wood.  It accommodates a stage for a band or space for a large reception or art display.

Canal and Waterwall

Situated at the southern end of 3rd Street, SE, the Canal and Waterwall are both at river level and surrounded by a wide perimeter boardwalk.  The Canal is about 11 inches deep and perfect for wading!  The Waterwall, at the north end of the Canal, releases a constant flow of water that people can walk behind.  The vertical Fountains about the Canal welcome visitors to the Yards Park and offer another feature that children can play in. 

Dog Run

At the far west side of the park, the Dog Run is a fenced in and mulched area with attractive wooden benches around the perimeter.  This is an ideal spot to celebrate dog birthdays or for simple doggie-friendly events.  The dog run is about 1700 square feet.

Great Lawn

The largest area in the park, the Great Lawn is a large, grassy space with fairly even terrain.  A sidewalk with wavy wooden benches surrounds the perimeter.  The southern side includes an access point to Nationals Ballpark with the Anacostia Riverwalk trail bridge.  This access point must be open to the public at all times.  Tented events are not allowed on the Great Lawn.

Lawn Steps

The Lawn Steps create an amphitheater setting for the boardwalk.  The steps can be rented separately but are often rented with a portion of the boardwalk where a stage can be set up.  The very deep Lawn Steps, with hardscape on the edges, accommodate about 2,500 theater style or 1,700 picnic style.

Overlook

Overlooking the river, the Overlook is perfect for receptions, staff retreats, corporate picnics, etc.  The raised circular area at one end of the bridge provides the best views in the park.  About half of the space is shaded with a mesh-like tent fabric and uplighting.  There is a small grassy area on the north side.  Two entrances make this area easy to rope off from the public.

River Street Gardens

The River Street Gardens include the boardwalk area along the river and the adjacent gardens.  The natural landscaped gardens include walkways, unique benches, wooden chaises, and a circular inlet perfect for a small stage, food stations or wedding ceremony.  The boardwalk portion of the gardens measures 25' deep by 290' wide, and nicely accommodates a large tent and tables for a dinner or reception atmosphere.