National Harbor: Top Things to Do
The next time you find yourself in the DC area, drive a few more minutes to the National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland. Lawrence and I can guarantee that you will not be disappointed. National Harbor is a land of entertainment. With over 40+ restaurants, 8 hotels, and an abundance of events, National Harbor is the place to go for a night out with friends, or a getaway with the family. There are so many things to do and see, that I’ve decided to break down this National Harbor guide into three categories: Eat, Play, Sleep.
So without further ado, let's get to the information!
EAT: The most important category as we all know
With over 40 restaurants to choose from, the National Harbor is anything but short of options. There are restaurants for every occasion, but here are my top 5.
Cadillac Ranch - According to my mother, they have the best pork chops! You can find out more information about this location here.
Crab Cake Cafe- Because you can’t come to Maryland and not have a crab cake. If you're not into crab cakes they have soups, salads, and few other options you can indulge in.
Nando’s- For the lover of Peri-Peri style chicken. If you love good chicken, you will love this place.
Rosa Mexicano- Modern Mexican chain with delicious drinks and a killer bottomless Sunday brunch deal. Find out more about their deals here.
Thai Pavilion- Of course, their Pad Thai is amazing but they also have a friendly staff and delicious drinks.
*Follow-up your meal with dessert from Ben and Jerry’s, do I even need to explain?!
PLAY: A list that both children and adults will enjoy
Let the kids run free at The Awakening, a 72-foot statue of a giant embedded in the Earth. The children will be super excited to take their shoes off and run free in the sand.
Go 180 feet above the Potomac on the Capital Wheel. This awesome ferris wheel is open all year long, with pods that are climate-controlled. Get tickets for the experience here!
Take an hour-long tour of the replica of Air Force One. The tour is a mobile audio tour that usually takes about one hour to complete. Although the audio tour is one hour, feel free to go at your own pace. The audio tour is guided by Air Force Chief Master Sergeant, Howie Franklin. Master Sergeant Franklin was Air Force One’s head flight attendant for 18 years.
Ride the bull at Cadillac Ranch, (or watch others struggle!) Whether or not you take on the bull yourself, you’ll have a good time.
There’s a Build a Bear Workshop for the kiddos, and a carousel right next to the playground.
*Adults only: Go across the street to the MGM Casino and lose all of your money!*
SLEEP: Luxury to Budget
Luxury - Stay at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center or the MGM National Harbor for a more luxurious visit.
Boutique- For a boutique hotel experience stay a night or two at The AC Hotel or The Harborside Hotel
Budget-Friendly - Residence Inn, Club Wyndham Hotel, or the Hampton Inn & Suites
If you’ve made it this far, thank you so much for taking the time to read this article! What are you waiting for? Time to hit the road and visit the National Harbor.