Summertime is for Locals
Over the past 10 years National Harbor has established itself as a destination for travelers from all over visiting the Washington, DC area or attending one of the many conventions held there each year. But, when summer finally arrives and business travel slows down National Harbor turns its attention to catering to families and locals who want a staycation but not venture too far from home.
Every summer brings something different. Here’s what you can expect this year.
Summer Fest at Gaylord National Resort
Gaylord National is the largest non-gaming hotel on the East Coast so it’s no surprise they can offer just about everything you would want in a family vacation under one roof when the days get longer and Summerfest begins. Need a pool to keep the kids happy? No problem. Gaylord National’s large, indoor pool never gets deeper than four feet so kids can splash happily without accidentally wandering into the deep end. There are plenty of swim noodles and other swim toys available to use. Want more water? There is a nice outdoor splash pad for the little ones — and hot tubs for the grownups.
Summer Fest by Night
What about when the sun goes down? First, start of your night at Gaylord National with an elaborate laser fountain show. Water that dances in time to music along with changing colors never ceases to amaze children. Before it’s completely dark, head outside for a guided Ghost Tour. No real ghosts are spotted, but visitors are spooked by tales of hauntings that occurred nearby. The tour is geared towards families so there is nothing too scary and children are even given an enchanted button at the end. Next, head to a Movie Under the Stars (in pjs or regular clothes) and pull up a beanbag to watch a recent animated hit in the Gaylord’s soaring atrium. If you manage to stay awake for the movie (or if movies are a little too relaxed for you) head to Gaylord’s Silent Disco Party where guests of all ages wear headphones and choose from one of three DJ stations to dance the night away. It’s all free for hotel guests!
The Capital Wheel
The Capital Wheel has become an iconic part of the National Harbor skyline and a ride is a must-do for anyone who visits National Harbor. The views from the top are unparalleled and riders can see all the way into DC on clear days. Even riders afraid of heights will feel secure in the Capital Wheels’ completely enclosed, climate-controlled cars. Don’t miss views of the Capital Wheel at night when the wheel is lit up in beautiful colors that reflect in the Potomac.
Head to the Beach
Warm days by the water call for a beach and National Harbor has plenty of sand. Right by the Capital Wheel, look for the historic statue The Awakening and head down. Kids are welcome to climb on the enormous statue and otherwise use it as a playground or they can just enjoy digging and running in the sand. Prefer an actual playground? There is a playground and carousel nearby.
Eat!
With so much to do so close to home, it’s easy to come back completely refreshed having made lots of fun memories without the stress of going to the airport or spending hours in the car with bored kids.