So you're planning a trip to National Harbor? Smart move. I remember my first time there - walked in expecting a generic waterfront area and walked out completely blown away by how much there was to explore. This place has seriously evolved from just being a Potomac River backdrop to a full-blown entertainment hub. Whether you're rolling in with kids, on a romantic getaway, or just looking for a solo adventure, let's break down everything you need to know about the best things to do at National Harbor. And hey, I'll even share some hard-learned tips (like where parking turns into a nightmare on weekends).
Must-See Attractions: The Big Players
Look, if you don't hit these spots, did you even visit National Harbor? Here's where your camera will get the heaviest workout.
The Capital Wheel Experience
Okay, let's address the elephant in the room - yes, it's touristy. But here's the thing: riding this 180-foot Ferris wheel at sunset might just ruin other city views for you forever. Tickets run $15 for adults (kids 3+ are $13.25), and they operate from 10am to 11pm Sunday-Thursday, till midnight on weekends. Pro tip? Buy tickets online to skip the queue - I made the mistake of waiting 40 minutes in line once. The glass gondolas are climate-controlled too, which matters more than you'd think during DC's swampy summers.
The Awakening Sculpture
This massive buried giant emerging from the sand is free to visit 24/7 and honestly more impressive in person than photos suggest. Located near the Marriott, it's perfect for kids to climb on (just watch those little fingers near the giant hand). Come at golden hour for killer photos without the midday crowds.
MGM National Harbor Casino
Even if gambling isn't your thing (I lost $40 in 10 minutes last visit - not bitter), this place deserves a walkthrough. The conservatory's botanical displays change seasonally and are free to enter. Their theater hosts big-name acts too - check their calendar because scoring last-minute tickets for someone like Bruno Mars is like finding unicorns. Gaming floor opens 24/7 but the vibe shifts dramatically after 10pm.
| Attraction | Address | Hours | Price | Insider Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Capital Wheel | 141 American Way | Sun-Thu: 10am-11pm Fri-Sat: 10am-12am |
Adults: $15 Kids: $13.25 |
Sunset slots book 3 days ahead |
| The Awakening | Waterfront near Marriott | 24/7 | Free | Go before 9am for empty shots |
| MGM Conservatory | 101 MGM National Ave | 24/7 | Free | Christmas display is insane |
Waterfront Activities Beyond the Obvious
Most people stick to the shoreline like seagulls chasing fries. Don't be most people. Here's how to actually experience the Potomac:
Boat Tours & Water Taxis
The Potomac Riverboat Company runs narrated tours that beat any history class. Their Harbor Cruise ($28/adult) gives you the DC skyline from angles you've never seen. For something more functional, the water taxi to Old Town Alexandria ($10 one-way) is both transportation and sightseeing. Schedules change seasonally though - learned this the hard way when I showed up in January expecting service.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
National Harbor Marina rents kayaks ($25/hour) and SUPs ($30/hour) from May through October. The protected cove area is beginner-friendly, but venture toward the Woodrow Wilson Bridge for epic city views. They don't advertise this, but Thursday evenings they do "glow paddle" sessions with LED-lit boards.
Waterfront Pro Tip: The marina's public docks are free to walk. Go around 5pm to watch mega-yachts arrive - it's like reality TV without the screen.
Eating Your Way Through the Harbor
I've eaten at every restaurant here - some multiple times (for research, obviously). Here's the real deal beyond the tourist menus:
Top 3 Can't-Miss Eateries
- Old Hickory Steakhouse (Gaylord Hotel): Dropped $200 here for anniversary dinner. Dry-aged ribeye? Life-changing. Dress code enforced though - saw a guy turned away for wearing Jordans.
- Grace's Mandarin (142 Waterfront St): Their General Tso's cauliflower had this skeptic converted. Lunch specials under $15 make it a bargain compared to others.
- Public House (156 Waterfront St): Craft beer selection (32 taps!) with killer burgers. Happy hour 3-6pm weekdays - $6 drafts and half-price apps. Their truffle fries should be illegal.
Quick Bites That Don't Suck
When you're starving and don't want sit-down drama:
- Elevation Burger: Organic beef, sweet potato fries
- Ben & Jerry's: Because obviously
- Sauciety: Build-your-own pasta bowls under $12
| Restaurant | Type | Price Point | Must-Order | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Old Hickory Steakhouse | Upscale American | $$$ ($50-75/entrée) | 42oz Tomahawk Ribeye | 5pm-10pm daily |
| Grace's Mandarin | Chinese Fusion | $ ($12-18/entrée) | Peking Duck Tacos | 11am-10pm daily |
| Public House | Gastropub | $$ ($15-25/entrée) | Truffle Burger | 11am-1am daily |
Free Things to Do at National Harbor
Because your wallet needs breathers too:
- Sunset Yoga (June-August): Free classes Wednesday evenings on the plaza - BYO mat
- Fountain Shows at Waterfront Street every 30 minutes after dark
- Art Walk: 15+ installations scattered around - grab a map from Guest Services
- Friday Night Fireworks (Memorial Day to Labor Day): Best viewing near Gaylord Hotel
Honestly? Just walking the 1.5-mile waterfront path at sunrise is magical. Saw a bald eagle hunting fish once - beat any paid attraction.
Seasonal Stuff You Can't Plan Around (But Should)
Depending on when you visit, your activities at National Harbor change drastically:
Winter
The ICE! exhibit at Gaylord (Nov-Jan) is legit impressive - keep your parka though, it's 9°F inside. Their outdoor ice rink ($18 admission) has views of the Capital Wheel. Hot tip: buy the "Frostbite Package" for skating + hot chocolate.
Summer
Free outdoor movies every Thursday on the plaza - arrives early because seating fills fast. The beach area opens with free sand toys for kids. Summer concert series brings decent tribute bands (saw a surprisingly good Fleetwood Mac cover group).
Where to Stay: No BS Breakdown
Crash tested these myself so you don't have to:
| Hotel | Price Range | Perks | Gotchas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gaylord National | $250-$400/night | Indoor atrium pool, walk to everything | $45 resort fee + $38 parking |
| MGM Grand | $300-$600/night | Luxury spa, 24/7 room service | Casino noise until 4am |
| AC Hotel | $180-$250/night | Modern rooms, quieter location | 10-min walk to attractions |
Splurge if it's a special occasion, but honestly? The AC Hotel delivers 80% of the experience for half the price. Their rooftop bar has sneaky-good views too.
Getting Here Without Losing Your Mind
Transportation can make or break your National Harbor experience:
- Driving: Parking garages cost $25/day weekends - street parking is non-existent. Use the ParkWhiz app to reserve spots early.
- Metro: Take Yellow Line to Huntington Station then NH2 bus ($2 exact change). Adds 25 mins but worth avoiding parking drama.
- Water Taxi: From DC Wharf or Alexandria - scenic but slow (45 mins from DC). Costs $20 roundtrip.
- Rideshare: Uber/Lyft drop-off zone near Capital Wheel. Surge pricing hits hard when events end.
My brutal opinion? Unless you're hauling kids or gear, metro+bus is the move. Drove once during a convention - circled for 40 minutes hunting parking.
Local Secret: The National Harbor Trolley runs every 15 minutes FREE between attractions. Stops aren't always obvious - look for purple signs.
Kid Stuff That Won't Make You Miserable
As a parent who's survived multiple trips, here's what actually works:
Top Activities for Families
- Carousel ($4/ride): Classic merry-go-round with harbor views
- Sandbox Beach (free): Giant sand area with toys provided
- Fountain Splash Pad (free): Bring swimsuits May-Sept
- Bobby McKey's Dueling Pianos: Surprisingly kid-friendly before 8pm
Skip the Build-A-Bear unless you enjoy financial masochism - it's 20% pricier than mall locations. Instead, hit the candy store for $5 scoop bags.
After Dark: More Than Just Bars
When the sun dips, National Harbor transforms. Beyond the obvious clubs:
- Moonlit Kayaking (summer only): Guided tours with illuminated boats
- Comedy Club at MGM: Tuesday amateur nights = cheap laughs
- Top of the Wheel: Completely different vibe at night - city lights sparkle
- Movie Theater: 14-screen spot with full bar - yes, you can drink during Spider-Man
Tried the "haunted harbor" ghost tour last October? Total tourist trap. Save your $35.
Essential FAQs About Things to Do at National Harbor
Is National Harbor walkable?
Absolutely. The entire waterfront stretches about 1.5 miles end-to-end. Comfortable shoes recommended - those cobblestone sections look charming but murder on heels.
How much time should I budget?
For just highlights? 5-6 hours covers the Wheel, Awakening statue, lunch and shopping. To properly experience activities at National Harbor without rushing? Plan two full days.
What should I avoid?
The overpriced souvenir shops near the Wheel ($12 for a keychain? No thanks). Also skip weekend dinners without reservations - waits can hit 90 minutes. Oh, and that "imported Italian gelato" spot? It's repackaged supermarket stuff.
Can I visit without staying overnight?
100%. Most visitors day-trip from DC. Last metro back to city center leaves Huntington at 12:07am.
Is everything dog-friendly?
Shockingly yes! Most outdoor areas allow leashed pups. Even some restaurants like Public House have patio seating for dogs. They'll bring water bowls without asking.
What's the best viewpoint?
Top of the Capital Wheel beats all, but for free options: the 3rd-floor terrace outside Gaylord's conference center. Or the footbridge near Awakening sculpture at golden hour.
What unique activities does National Harbor offer?
Besides the obvious? Try the electric boat rentals ($45/hour) - no license needed and way more fun than expected. Or hunt for the "hidden" miniature doors scattered around the property - kids adore this scavenger hunt.
Final Take: Is It Worth the Hype?
After a dozen visits? Mostly yes. The convenience of having everything - hotels, dining, entertainment - in one walkable area is unbeatable for families or groups. Some spots feel overpriced (looking at you, $18 cocktails) but free activities balance it out. Just manage expectations: this isn't "undiscovered" anymore. Summer weekends get packed. Still, for a hassle-free getaway with killer views? Few places deliver like National Harbor. Now if they'd just fix that parking situation...
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