Top 9 Things to Do at National Harbor, Maryland

Soaring 180 feet above the Potomac River, Capital Wheel is one of National Harbor's most popular attractions. From the top of the ferris wheel, you can see sweeping views of the Washington, D.C. area. Plus, the climate-controlled gondolas make it a comfortable ride no matter the season.

Enjoy a full night of entertainment at MGM National Harbor. The $1.4 billion Vegas-style hotel and casino features 3,100 slots and 140 table games, many restaurants and bars, high-end shops, and a 3,000-seat theater. Performances include world-class concerts, comedy shows, cabaret-style acts, boxing events, and more.

National Harbor is home to many unique shops. Browse Crabtree & Evelyn for skin care products, South Moon Under for boho-chic clothes, and Potomac Gourmet Market for artisanal cheese and wine. The Tanger Outlet Shopping Mall also has brand-name stores, including Calvin Klein, H&M, Gap Factory Store, Adidas, Tommy Hilfiger, Banana Republic Factory, White House Black Market, J. Crew Factory, and more.

The Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center has 2,000 guest rooms, six restaurants, retail shops, a full-service spa and fitness center, a nightclub, and an indoor/outdoor swimming pool. The resort has a regular light and fountain show that's a favorite for families.

Special events are held year-round at National Harbor. Taste more than 150 international wines, spirits, and beers at the National Harbor Food and Wine Festival, catch some free outdoor films at Movies on the Potomac, or kick up your heals and dance at the free summer concerts. Later in the year, you can drink German beer at the annual Oktoberfest and celebrate the season with a variety of holiday events along the waterfront.

At Bobby McKeys, dueling pianists lead a high-spirited, interactive sing-along for everyone to enjoy. This is a popular place to unwind, have a drink, and show off your vocal skills with a group of friends.

National Harbor hovers on the shore of the Potomac River, and one of the best ways to take in the scenery is by boat. Sign up for a yacht or sailboat cruise to see the capital's most famous monuments or explore George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate. There are also lunch and dinner cruises, with multi-course meals and live bands.

Canoe, sailboat, kayak, and paddle board rentals are available for a day of outdoor fun on the Potomac waterfront. Get some exercise and take in the views of National Harbor, Alexandria, and Washington, D.C.

Families love the playground, picnic tables, and 36-foot carousel at National Harbor. Admission is $7 for an all-day pass, and accompanying parents can ride for free with their children.