Location: National Harbor
Top Things to do in National Harbor
Countries
Top 10 Things to do in National Harbor, United States
National Harbor is a development along the Potomac River in Oxon Hill, Prince George's County, Maryland just south of Washington, D.C. near the Woodrow Wilson Bridge. It originated as a 300-acre (1.2 km) multi-use waterfront development. The development was delineated as a census-designated place for the 2010 census, at which time its population was 3,788.
Restaurants in National Harbor
1. Tomb of the Unknowns
Overall Ratings
5 based on 3 reviews
Guarded around the clock by the Army's 3rd infantry, this memorial in Arlington National Cemetery honors unidentified American soldiers from the two World Wars and the Korean War.
Reviewed By Heather G - Anderson, Indiana
Great experience with teenagers. Arrived and waited forty-five minutes for the next changing of the guards and it was worth the wait.
2. Harborfront Area
Overall Ratings
4 based on 1 reviews
Perched on the historic Potomac River, National Harbor is a unique, all-in-one destination and all-American tradition, offering unrivaled shopping, dining and attractions and a roster of year-round, family-friendly events. Featuring expansive views from the riverbank-and from 180 feet up on The Capital Wheel, the waterfront's newest iconic draw-National Harbor combines an approachable, resort-like personality with a singular, dynamic experience for local residents and visitors alike. Attractions include: The Capital Wheel The Awakening The Carousel Tanger Outlets Waterfront Dining Boat Cruises & Tours Kayak & Paddleboard Rentals Free Events & Entertainment
Reviewed By Tom M
I love the Harborfront. Walk close to the water, browse the shops and eat at one of many amazing locals with a variety of choices. I'm here in March, so I brought a coat and had an amazing time just strolling along and enjoying the atmosphere.
3. MGM National Harbor
Overall Ratings
4 based on 350 reviews
Reviewed By commonsense3517 - Washington DC, District of Columbia
PARKING is a nightmare. Parking should be designed to be pleasant, easy to use, and easy to enter to the complex. It should provide a good first impression of the facility. Instead, it's a confusing, frustrating and ugly rabbit warren with low ceilings. First problem: very few signs, if any, point the way to the entrance after you have parked your car. Second problem: There seems to be only one entrance per floor, so you may have a very long walk -- which makes it difficult for persons with disabilities. Third problem: if MGM doesn't believe in signage or arrows, why not staff the garage with people who can point you to the entrance? In summary, poor design and poor planning.
4. Old Town
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
Quaint old seaport section of Alexandria on the National Register of Historic Places.
Reviewed By sullific - new haven, ct
I was in the area for only a couple of days, visiting a friend and staying at the L'Orien Hotel in Old Town. The first day there, we strolled to the waterfront down King Street (also availed ourselves of the free King Street Trolley). If I had more time I would have seen more, or if I lived in the area I could see that I would probably find Old Town more of a destination - but having only a couple of days and trying to squeeze in, say, a Smithsonian museum or two - Old Town is down on the list of priorities.
As far as history, there are historical sites there, such as an old apothecary museum, but I didn't have time to see them. As far as shopping - I am a consummate expert - and I was disappointed. Most of the numerous shops were either chain stores - albeit nicer ones (Anthro, White House, LouLou, etc.) or something more for locals, like florists and furniture. Of all the shops on the street I found only one to buy something in (it too was more furniture than anything, but they had some lovely midcentury Japanese wooden animals in the window). There is the Torpedo Art Center (reviewed under TAC).
The waterfront is probably the high point, with some nice vantage points over the Potomac. We ate there, then spent quite a bit of time in the Torpedo Art Center (which does have more unique wares for purchase, but even it fades out into mostly paintings).
We ate in Old Town on a few occasions. There are plenty of restaurants, most as you get closer to the waterfront. The area nearest the King Street subway is rather dicey at night or early morning - nor is there anything much there. It also appeared to be an area that was both hopping (bars and restaurants) and deserted (shops) at night.
So yes, I wish I had more time to explore the historical venues and maybe go down a few side streets In Search Of a more unique shopping experience. Perhaps next time.
5. The Awakening Sculpture
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 463 reviews
Reviewed By Phxhandz - Gloucester, Virginia
My husband and I stayed near the National Harbor and walked to this sculpture. I remember seeing this when I was visiting DC when I was a teenager, but it was located in a different area. since it was raining, we had the entire place to ourselves. It was interesting to see again.
6. Woodrow Wilson Bridge Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 34 reviews
Reviewed By travellingforfun72 - Bedford, United Kingdom
I arrived at my hotel and was told that I could not walk to Alexandria so caught a taxi to get me to the Metro to subsequently get me into Washington DC. I later stumbled across this route the following morning and only walked across 3/4 way. I then took part in a 5km run that took in the garden bridge only, and finally on my last day I walked all the way across to Alexandria.
The walk by the road is very noisy as there is only a low barrier between you and the lanes of cars/lorries but it is pleasant enough, with the information stations. It is a well used route by walkers, runners etc...
7. Alexandria's Christ Church
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 334 reviews
Reviewed By Adam N - Jacksonville, Florida
This is the church that two of the greatest generals of two great nations attended. You can see the family pew of both the Washingtons and the Lees (Update: They took away the family plaque marking their pews). Beautiful Colonial Construction and history with every step.
8. National Harbor
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 136 reviews
Reviewed By Keemman - Boston, Massachusetts
It’s a great location with bunch of nice options and restaurants, playground for kids, parking for EV cars but I have noticed that non EV cars will park there and block these valuable spots. Basically no enforcements or rules in this area. Other than that. It is a nice spot to hang around and spend a nice day to enjoy the sunset.
9. MGM National Harbor Casino
Overall Ratings
4 based on 125 reviews
Reviewed By danakate - Washington DC, District of Columbia
Early on a Friday afternoon, surprisingly very busy and the poker room was full with a long waiting list. Lowest stakes 10/25, Huge number of slots but very tight - did not hear any winners at all... Food is completely separate from the action down a long corridor - not even cutouts or windows, you might as well be in a mall food court. Parking was easy but I did not see any security at all. I was glad to see however about a dozen $15 blackjack tables which, compared to earlier reviews, seems reasonable. You aren't going to get $5 and $10 at a place like this.
10. Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 214 reviews
The Apothecary served local customers, including the Washingtons and Robert E. Lee, between 1792 and 1933. The shop was transformed into a museum shortly after its closing and visitors can still view the original ingredients, products, and documents left behind by this 141-year-old family business.
Reviewed By Gary V - Pleasant Valley, New York
Very interested in the authenticity of this tour. We were given the tour by Ann who was very informative and pleasantly helpful. The artifacts were very good and the displays were spot on for the periods of it's first existence. I gave a fine view of the early apothecary's toolsand supplies.
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