National Harbor, MD

Travel Guide

A sunset with a Ferris wheel and boats at a marina.
A vibrant sunset with a colorful Ferris wheel and a marina filled with boats.
A large Ferris wheel reflecting on calm water at dusk with a bridge and boats in the background.
A large Ferris wheel, a white yacht, and a calm waterfront at sunset.
A large Ferris wheel reflecting on calm water at sunset.

Wander through the Potomac River Waterfront Park, explore local shops, and discover cultural gems in neighboring towns.

National Harbor is an ideal destination for city and family travelers. You can explore the Potomac River Waterfront Park for outdoor recreation or enjoy a performance at The Theater at MGM National Harbor. If shopping is on your agenda, the Tanger Outlets offers a wide range of retail options. For a cultural experience, visit the American Market at National Harbor, which features local vendors. Nearby, you can also check out the Torpedo Factory Art Center for art exhibitions, Gadsby's Tavern Museum for a dose of history, and Market Square for a modern gathering place.

Make sure to explore the distinct neighborhoods near National Harbor, each with its own attractions. Oxon Hill is known for romantic experiences and features Topgolf, a popular driving range. Another nearby area, Arlington, offers family-friendly activities, including the Fashion Center at Pentagon City and Signature Theatre. Likewise, Alexandria is home to historic sites like George Washington's Mount Vernon and the Birchmere for music events. Each of these neighborhoods provides unique experiences that enhance your visit.

The best time to visit National Harbor is from June to September, when the weather is warm, mostly dry, and often sunny. This period sees a steady flow of visitors, making it vibrant but also slightly busier. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting in January to February or October, when demand is a bit lower. The pleasant conditions during the warmer months can enhance your outdoor activities and overall experience.

Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center

Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center

4 out of 5
201 Waterfront Street Fort Washington MD
$251 nightly
The price is $296 total per night from Nov 29 to Nov 30
$296 total
Nov 29 - Nov 30
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this spa resort in National Harbor. Enjoy a full-service spa, 3 restaurants, and a marina. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,305 reviews)
"Staff was very pleasant. Room was clean but we didn’t get our rooms cleaned until late afternoon. The coffee maker was very dirty. We brewed just hot water for tea and it came out very dirty. Hair was in the bathroom. Which just indicated that it wasn’t clean thoroughly."

Reviewed on Nov 13, 2026

Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center
Hyatt Place National Harbor

Hyatt Place National Harbor

3 out of 5
123 Waterfront Street Oxon Hill MD
$118 nightly
The price is $139 total per night from Nov 22 to Nov 23
$139 total
Nov 22 - Nov 23
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Oxon Hill. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and the ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (2,501 reviews)
"Get the corner water view room!! It has an amazing view. Very clean. Friendly staff. Informative and very professional. We will be returning."

Reviewed on Nov 14, 2026

Hyatt Place National Harbor
MGM National Harbor Resort & Casino

MGM National Harbor Resort & Casino

4.5 out of 5
101 MGM National Avenue Oxon Hill MD
$253 nightly
The price is $298 total per night from Nov 23 to Nov 24
$298 total
Nov 23 - Nov 24
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury resort in National Harbor. Enjoy an outdoor pool, a full-service spa, and 13 restaurants. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our ...
MGM National Harbor Resort & Casino
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Glover Park Hotel Georgetown

Glover Park Hotel Georgetown

4 out of 5
Washington DC
Stay at this aparthotel in Washington. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Our guests praise the restaurant and the helpful staff in our ...
Glover Park Hotel Georgetown
Mint House Washington DC Downtown by Kasa

Mint House Washington DC Downtown by Kasa

3 out of 5
1010 Vermont Ave NW Washington DC
Stay at this aparthotel in Washington. Enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions White House and Capital One Arena are ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (244 reviews)
"Excellent location with central access to sites and great restaurants. Host/service was great. Room was tasteful and well appointed even if it felt a bit cramped. I thought the value for the quality and location was excellent."

Reviewed on Nov 12, 2026

Mint House Washington DC Downtown by Kasa
2500 Penn, a Placemakr Experience

2500 Penn, a Placemakr Experience

4 out of 5
2500 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington DC
Book a stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in Washington. Enjoy free WiFi, a 24-hour fitness center, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful ...
2500 Penn, a Placemakr Experience
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular National Harbor attractions

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

Is National Harbor worth visiting?
National Harbor is worth visiting for its standout attractions and experiences. Travelers can enjoy the scenic Potomac River Waterfront Park, perfect for a stroll or relaxing by the water. The destination also features entertainment at The Theater at MGM National Harbor, offering a variety of performances and events.
When is the best time to visit National Harbor?
The best time to visit National Harbor is from April through June, when the weather is typically pleasant for exploring. For travelers seeking fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of November through February are a good option, offering a milder climate and a more relaxed experience.
What is National Harbor known for?
National Harbor is known for its Potomac River Waterfront Park, a scenic area along the river. Travelers can also find entertainment at The Theater at MGM National Harbor and explore the National Children's Museum, making it a destination for both recreation and family-friendly activities.
What is a good itinerary length for National Harbor?
A good itinerary length for National Harbor is one to two days to enjoy highlights like the Potomac River Waterfront Park, The Theater at MGM National Harbor, and the National Children's Museum, plus a ride on the Capital Wheel. An extended stay of three to four days allows for a more relaxed pace to experience these attractions and explore the area fully. See National Harbor Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around National Harbor?
National Harbor offers travelers a mix of entertainment, shopping, and scenic waterfront experiences.


How do I plan a trip to National Harbor?
To plan your trip to National Harbor, search for hotels and book flights in advance. Secure tickets for activities like the Capital Wheel, The Theater at MGM National Harbor, and National Children's Museum. For outdoor experiences at Potomac River Waterfront Park, plan for early morning or late afternoon.
Can I book a refundable hotel in National Harbor?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in National Harbor by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to National Harbor with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your National Harbor trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in National Harbor?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in National Harbor can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my National Harbor trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your National Harbor trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my National Harbor trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your National Harbor trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to National Harbor?
If it's your first trip to National Harbor, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my National Harbor hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your National Harbor hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near National Harbor

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