Hotels in National Harbor

Harboring Dreams: Explore the Vibrant Soul of National Harbor

Discover National Harbor, Maryland, a vibrant waterfront destination on the Potomac River that blends luxury, leisure, and culture. Stroll along the scenic promenade, where stunning views meet eclectic shops and restaurants. Experience the thrill of MGM National Harbor's entertainment, or take a short trip to the iconic National Mall. With its charming waterfront parks, including Glover Park, and a range of activities from boating to outdoor festivals, National Harbor is perfect for romantic getaways or family adventures. Embrace the unique charm and dynamic atmosphere that make this destination truly special! For the best hotel rates in National Harbor and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in National Harbor

Some of the best places to stay in National Harbor are Downtown Washington D.C., Northwest and Georgetown. Downtown Washington D.C. is perfect for first-time visitors due to its iconic landmarks and vibrant atmosphere. Northwest offers a mix of trendy neighborhoods and green spaces, while Georgetown boasts historic charm and waterfront views. Hotel accommodations in these areas range from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly options, with many featuring spacious rooms and convenient amenities. In National Harbor, you can find resorts like the Gaylord National Resort, ideal for conventions and leisure, along with various harbor hotels that enhance your stay. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in National Harbor:

1. Downtown Washington D.C.Opens in a new window: If you're looking for a vibrant area rich in history and culture, Downtown Washington D.C. is the perfect choice. You'll find iconic landmarks like the White House and the National Mall, along with family-friendly attractions and cultural experiences. For your stay, consider Willard InterContinental Washington, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star hotel catering to families and business travelers alike, featuring a business center and childcare amenities. The Ritz-Carlton, Washington, D.C.Opens in a new window, another 5-star option, also offers extensive business facilities and kid-friendly services. Lastly, The St. Regis Washington, D.C.Opens in a new window is a pet-friendly 5-star hotel that allows for both business and family stays, with convenient amenities designed for your comfort.
2. NorthwestOpens in a new window: This area combines urban convenience with family-friendly attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring Washington D.C. Highlights include the proximity to the White House and the Smithsonian Institution. The Watergate HotelOpens in a new window, a 5-star hotel, provides excellent business services and pet-friendly options. Park Hyatt WashingtonOpens in a new window is another 5-star choice, featuring romance packages and wellness amenities like a pool and spa, perfect for a relaxing getaway. Lastly, The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown, Washington, D.C.Opens in a new window offers adventure-themed activities along with business amenities, catering to both thrill-seekers and professionals.
3. GeorgetownOpens in a new window: Known for its charming streets and historic architecture, Georgetown is a fantastic location for families and culture lovers. With attractions like the National Mall nearby, it's a great spot to explore. Le Meridien ArlingtonOpens in a new window is a 4-star hotel that caters to business and family needs, offering pet-friendly policies and essential amenities. Hyatt Centric ArlingtonOpens in a new window, also a 4-star hotel, features a business center and family-friendly services, ensuring a comfortable stay. For a more luxurious experience, The Ritz-Carlton, Tysons CornerOpens in a new window is a 5-star option with a full spa and pool services, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploring.

Things to do in National Harbor for first time

Three days in National Harbor offers the perfect blend of live music, shopping, and vibrant sunsets along the Potomac River. Enjoy a variety of entertainment options, from dancing to outdoor activities, making it an ideal getaway for travelers seeking a lively atmosphere and stunning views. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to National Harbor:

• Day 1: Begin your exploration at the iconic White House, where you can appreciate the architecture and take some memorable photos. Next, stroll over to Freedom Plaza, a vibrant public space perfect for enjoying the atmosphere and perhaps grabbing a coffee. Conclude your day with a walk along K Street, a bustling area filled with shops and eateries, where you can find a delightful spot for dinner and soak in the local vibe.
• Day 2: Start your adventure at the National Mall, where you can admire the impressive monuments and memorials that adorn this historic area. After a leisurely walk, head to the National Building Museum, where you can delve into fascinating exhibits about architecture and design. Wrap up your day at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library, a cultural hub where you can explore literature and history, and perhaps attend a local event or reading.
• Day 3: Kick off with a visit to the Smithsonian Institution, home to a vast array of museums and galleries offering something for everyone. Afterward, make your way to George Washington's Mount Vernon, where you can tour the estate and learn about the life of America’s first president. Finally, visit the Washington Monument, an iconic symbol of the nation, where you can take in panoramic views of the city from the top or enjoy the surrounding park.

5 tips to find a great National Harbor hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly months to visit National Harbor are January, August, and December, when hotel prices are significantly lower. For international travelers, booking your flight at least 8 months in advance can help secure more affordable fares. To fully experience the main attractions, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended. Key highlights in National Harbor include its beautiful parks and vibrant tourist precinct, making it a great value for money destination for those on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to National Harbor, you're in luck! To explore great options on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section. Here, you may discover hotels with good availability and discounted rates as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, so you could find out about flash sales and special promotions, helping you secure the best value for your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to various factors like the location, star rating, and the time of year. So, if you're flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in National Harbor.
4. Consider your location: Staying near the city center and local attractions in National Harbor is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further away, you can utilize transportation options like a car or water taxi to explore the area and potentially save on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next booking in National Harbor and sign up to Hotels.com's free One Key program, letting you earn and use reward points on your next stay. Progress through the Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Don't hesitate, sign up today.

What to eat in National Harbor

Here are some popular dishes in National Harbor, Maryland, United States of America:

• Crab Cakes: A Maryland staple, these delicious cakes are made with lump crab meat, seasoned with Old Bay seasoning, and often served with a tangy remoulade sauce. They are a perfect reflection of the region's rich seafood heritage and are commonly enjoyed in casual dining settings, making them a must-try for visitors.
• Lobster Rolls: While originally from New England, you can find fantastic variations in National Harbor. These rolls feature fresh lobster meat tossed with a light dressing, served in a buttery, toasted bun. Enjoying a lobster roll by the waterfront adds to the delightful culinary experience, embodying the spontaneity of grabbing a quick yet satisfying bite while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Best time to go to National Harbor

National Harbor experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 35.1°F (1.7°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 79.2°F (26.2°C). July is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in National Harbor, April, July, and December are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, February, and October are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.