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 person taking a photo with a camera, a body of water, and a brightly lit Ferris wheel in the background.
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.

Shop at stylish fashion boutiques, browse gourmet farmers markets, enjoy a romantic dinner, then stroll along the riverfront and watch a movie under the stars.

The National Harbor, near Washington D.C., runs along the beautiful Potomac River. With more than 70 shops and a range of restaurants, waterfront residences, parks, family areas and first-class marinas, this is the perfect place to unwind while enjoying the nation’s capital.

Have lunch with the family and then meander through the parks and along the water. In the evening, stroll under the stars, admire the glittering lights of the city, have a romantic glass of wine or share a drink with friends.

With an impressive range of retail stores, you can spoil yourself with a day of shopping. From designer brands to independent arts, funky boutiques and classic chic, there is something for every shopper’s needs. At the upscale American Market, find handmade crafts and locally sourced gourmet, specialty food. Afterward, visit the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center, the largest non-gaming hotel on the East Coast. Then, as you wander along the waterfront, see The Awakening, an enormous aluminum sculpture of a bearded giant emerging from the sand.

Inspire your children at the National Children’s Museum, ride on the Americana-themed carousel and have fun with your toddlers at the playground. In the summertime, watch the sunset, then enjoy a Sunday family movie under the stars.

Take advantage of the water activities on the Potomac River. Enjoy a relaxing cruise or sail, kayak, ride a paddle boat or take a guided fishing tour. If you are in town on business, stay fit with a jog or bike ride on the designated trails through the parks and along the waterfront.

The National Harbor is on the Potomac River in Prince George's County, Maryland. It is 15 minutes from Washington D.C., and is easily accessible by water taxi or car. With a tranquil atmosphere and a variety of shopping and dining options, the National Harbor is the perfect place to unwind and relax.

Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center

Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center

4 out of 5
201 Waterfront Street Fort Washington MD
$269 nightly
The price is $318 total per night from Nov 29 to Nov 30
$318 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 ...
Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center
Hyatt Place National Harbor

Hyatt Place National Harbor

3 out of 5
123 Waterfront Street Oxon Hill MD
$110 nightly
The price is $129 total per night from Nov 23 to Nov 24
$129 total
Nov 23 - Nov 24
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 ...
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 11 to Nov 12
$298 total
Nov 11 - Nov 12
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 ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,001 reviews)
"Not much to do there other than gamble. Everything is so far from each other inside the hotel. There’s no fridge in the room other than the wet bar fridge which is stocked and you have to pay if you use anything out of it. So if you want a refrigerator for your own use, you have to pay $35. Will ..."

Reviewed on Nov 4, 2026

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 ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (3,380 reviews)
"Clean room. Friendly staff. Convenient for our purpose. Lots of cafes and restaurant choices. Overall safe neighborhood on main street."

Reviewed on Nov 5, 2026

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! (238 reviews)
"Parking is an issue since there’s on street parking meters on the street. They do offer garage parking a block away but you must park by 10pm for $40 which was not convenient since we were there for a fashion show and wanted to go out for dinner. Armand was very sweet and helpful and offered us to ..."

Reviewed on Nov 5, 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.

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