National Harbor

Acroterion, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons; Image Size Adjusted

Vibrant waterfront development featuring shopping, dining, entertainment, and event venues along a scenic promenade.

General Information

Hours:
Open 24 hours for public access
Individual business hours vary by store, restaurant, and attraction
The Capital Wheel: typically 10am to 10pm (seasonal hours may apply)
Fees:
Public access: Free
Capital Wheel: Adults $17.50, Children (3–11) $13.50
Parking: $5–$25 depending on duration and garage
Events and attractions may have separate admission fees
Pet Policy:
Pets are allowed in outdoor public areas and some pet-friendly hotels and patios
Closest cities with hotels:
Alexandria, VA (7 mi)
Seasons:
All year
Location:
165 Waterfront St, Oxon Hill, MD 207

From Alexandria, VA (7 mi): Take US-1 N to I-95/I-495 E toward Baltimore, then take Exit 2A for National Harbor Blvd and follow signs to Waterfront Street.

The National Harbor is a dynamic waterfront destination that blends urban sophistication with riverside charm. Spanning over 350 acres along the Potomac River, it features a curated mix of more than 160 shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Visitors can ride the iconic Capital Wheel for panoramic views, stroll the promenade, or enjoy seasonal events like outdoor movies and holiday markets. The area is also home to the MGM National Harbor casino resort, the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, and a marina that welcomes boaters and water taxis.

Designed as a walkable community and entertainment hub, National Harbor offers something for everyone—from family-friendly attractions to upscale dining and nightlife. Public art installations, including the striking sculpture "The Awakening," add cultural depth to the experience. With year-round programming and easy access from Washington, D.C., and Northern Virginia, National Harbor has become a premier destination for both locals and tourists seeking a vibrant and scenic escape.

This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the National HarborCreative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0

Stephen Kellam, cropped & retouched by Peter Fitzgerald, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons; Image Size Adjusted
Stephen Kellam, cropped & retouched by Peter Fitzgerald, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons; Image Size Adjusted
Stephen Kellam, cropped & retouched by Peter Fitzgerald, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons; Image Size Adjusted
Stephen Kellam, cropped & retouched by Peter Fitzgerald, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons; Image Size Adjusted
Stephen Kellam, cropped & retouched by Peter Fitzgerald, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons; Image Size Adjusted
Stephen Kellam, cropped & retouched by Peter Fitzgerald, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons; Image Size Adjusted
Stephen Kellam, cropped & retouched by Peter Fitzgerald, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons; Image Size Adjusted