WTOP
By: WTOP staff writer
WTOP and National Harbor give you 103 great things to experience at National Harbor:
1. Take a long walk along the Harborwalk and experience the views of the mile and a quarter of Potomac River.
2. Set on a bench along the marina pier and take in the most spectacular sunset in the region.
3. Enjoy the Potomac River aboard our 64' Bluewater luxury motor yacht, The Pelican. The Pelican offers an "intimate Yachting Experience" for up to 49 guests.
4. If you are a boater, pull into the National Harbor marina where it just isn't a place to dock your boat, but a destination to be discovered. It is available for permanent slip renters as well as transient boaters just out to enjoy the day.
5. Have your next party under one of our beautiful tented structures along the marina pier where we can accommodate groups of up to 500 people. Enjoy the river unlike any other venue in the greater Washington area.
6. Experience the beloved giant emerging from the ground—The Awakening. In his new location at National Harbor, you will be able to enjoy this well known DC icon on his new beach along the waterfront.
7. For those who don't want to get in your car, hop on a water taxi from Alexandria and come to National Harbor by boat! The water taxi is operated by Potomac Riverboat Company and comes to and from National Harbor every half hour from 10am to 10pm.
8. While you are staying at National Harbor, you can grab a water taxi and cruise up to Georgetown for the afternoon. Along the trip, you will be able to enjoy the narrative and learn a little about the monuments and the history of the Nation's Capital.
9. Take a relaxing cruise down to Mt. Vernon and experience a little history of America's first hero. Mt. Vernon was the home of George and Martha Washington and sits along the beautiful Potomac River.
10. Seadog is the most thrilling attraction to hit National Harbor. Listen to the captains bark out humorous and informative descriptions of historical landmarks and monuments while riding aboard this 70 ft., turbo-charged speedboat.
11. Enjoy a lunch or dinner cruise aboard the Spirit of Washington. Cruises depart from National Harbor and from the Southwest Waterfront area in DC.
12. Have a special occasion? Celebrate on board the Odyssey Cruise boat and enjoy one of their famous brunch cruises offered on Saturday and Sundays.
13. Bass fishing is one of the most relaxing and fun activities to enjoy on the Potomac River. With National Bass Guide Service, an exciting day on the water can be customized for your party and departs from National Harbor seven days a week. This special guided tour will allow you to find the best fishing spots on the Potomac.
14. Have dinner at the newest addition to National Harbor—McCormick & Schmick's. The chef works with local reputable seafood purveyors to obtain only the freshest seafood from local waters and beyond. Their menu is printed daily to provide the freshest selections and provide a variety for guests each time they visit.
15. Grab a boxed lunch from Potbelly's Sandwich Works now open on National Plaza Blvd. Serving salads, sandwiches, soups and fabulous milk shakes, this great quick serve restaurant is perfect for grabbing something to go and sit outside along the waterfront.
16. Book a weekend at the Gaylord National and stay in one of their 110 lavish suites.
17. Make dinner reservations at Old Hickory Steakhouse and order one of the hundreds of bottles of wine on their menu! Wine Spectator magazine recently bestowed Gaylord Hotels' wine lists with their "Award of Excellence" for composition and depth of collection.
18. After dinner at the Old Hickory Steakhouse at Gaylord National, visit the intimate lounge for signature cocktails or a post-meal cordial. Then, indulge in a fine cigar from the Spanish cedar humidor on the cigar terrace.
19. After your luscious meal at Old Hickory Steakhouse at Gaylord National, ask for the maitre d'fromage and experience the many different artisinal cheeses from around the world. This is the perfect way to end or even start your incredible meal!
20. Need a little pampering? Then, make sure to see the upscale atmosphere of Relache, a world class day spa with the state-of-the-art fitness, wellness and salon treatment areas located inside Gaylord National.
21. Grab all of your buddies and watch the game on the 30 ft video wall at National Pastime Sports Bar & Grille located inside Gaylord National.
22. Want a girls night out? Head to Pose Ultra Lounge on the 18th floor of Gaylord National with its' sweeping views of the Potomac River and the best views of National Harbor and dance the night away!
23. Step into Moon Bay at Gaylord National for an eclectic menu of Mid-Atlantic seafood, where the chefs transform the traditional fruits of the Chesapeake Bay—including Maryland's famous crabs and oysters—into modern versions for today's culinary tastes.
24. Want to have the best Sunday brunch in the region? Head to Pienza Italian Marketplace at Gaylord National where you will experience six market inspired stations from a "make your own omelet" bar to fresh baked breads and pastries.
25. Learn a little Georgraphy and a bit of history, by visiting Chesapeake Journey, a beautiful piece of art by local artist Steven Weitzman depicting the Chesapeake Region with over 70 difference hidden icons.
26. The National bird can be seen at National Harbor with Albert Paley's stainless steel eagles that are 4,500 pounds each sitting atop 45' poles appearing as if they are soaring out to the Potomac River.
27. Walk down the Spanish steps at the heart of National Harbor and see two 25' panels made of broken glass done by local artist, Cheryl Foster. These two panels each highlight the rich fishing history of Maryland.
28. Along the Spanish steps you will discover two metal pieces of art flanking either side. These pieces are by local artist, Cheryl Foster and highlight the only Father/Son Triple Crown Winners which are both from Prince George's County.
29. Along the Spanish steps you will discover a metal piece of art created by local artist, Cheryl Foster. This piece of art is made out of aluminum, brass, copper and depicts the three oldest skipjack boats in the Maryland fleet. The skipjack is Maryland's state boat and a symbol of the culture and heritage of the Chesapeake Bay.
30. As you arrive at National Harbor, you will be welcomed by a vibrant, abstract sculpture by nationally known sculpture, Albert Paley. "The Beckoning" towers 85 ft. into the sky and symbolizes the exciting emergence of the new city rising from the banks of the Potomac River. 31. Experience the closeness of National Harbor to the Nations' Capital as we are easily accessible off of I-95, 295 and 495—minutes from the capital and all the monuments.
32. Bring the family and stroll along the water and make sure to stop by Ben & Jerry's for some ice cream. This Vermont based ice cream shop will cool you off on those hot summer days.
33. Need to pick up a unique gift for a friend? Stop by Jakes at National Harbor which is a Life Is Good boutique where you will find fun, whimsical items including t-shirts, hats, shorts and much more.
34. Stop by America!, a unique gift and souvenir shop, to pick out items to remember your stay in the Nations' Capital as well as a couple of items from National Harbor.
35. Make your reservations now at Hampton Inn & Suites at National Harbor. This beautiful hotel is located directly across from Gaylord National and features over 150 rooms and includes breakfast!
36. Stop by and see the original home plate for the Nationals Baseball team from the old RFK stadium which is located on the floor outside of National Pastime Sports Bar & Grille at Gaylord National.
37. Stop by and see a statue of Babe Ruth, one of the greatest baseball players in history. The statue is located outside of National Pastime Sports Bar & Grille at Gaylord National.
38. Grab your buddies and head to National Pastime Sports Bar & Grille at Gaylord National and challenge them to a game of golf at the golf simulator located inside. You never have to worry about the weather!
39. Stroll along the beautiful gardens outside the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center.
40. As you walk along the Harborwalk on the Potomac River, experience 5 In The Wine, a sculpture by local artist Norman Greene. This piece depicts the free spirit of the Potomac River and the life on the river.
41. Make your reservations at the lovely Westin Hotel located right on the Potomac River. This beautiful 195 room hotel features the famous Heavenly Bed and Heavenly Shower.
42. Looking for a new place to have lunch with your friends? Head to the Westin Hotel and stop by Sauciety where you will enjoy a variety of menu items from Rockfish to a Chicken Panini and have beautiful views of the National Harbor marina.
43. As you stroll along the water front at National Harbor, you will have amazing views of the new Woodrow Wilson Bridge.
44. If you are looking for a great place for happy hour this weekend, head over to McCormick & Schmick's Harborside located at National Harbor. Voted the best happy hour in the city, you will enjoy a nice selection of appetizers and drinks without making a dent in your wallet!
45. Enjoy the Sounds of Summer at National Harbor with it's free Friday night concerts on the water front. With a variety of different types of music each week, you are sure to find the perfect place to end your week as you relax and gaze out to the river as the sun is setting.
46. Stroll to the American Market each Saturday from 9am - 2pm. Here you will find vendors specializing in produce, flowers, baked goods, specialty foods and even some of the best local artists in the region!
47. Every May you will enjoy the annual Food & Wine Festival. This festival will pair outstanding cuisine with fine wines from around the globe. Guests have the opportunity to learn about the latest culinary and varietal trends including the expanding industry of artisanal culinary products and boutique wines in a beautiful and entertaining environment.
48. The Yacht Show is an annual event in an extraordinary new setting. The show features yachts that are 60' and larger as well as exhibits ashore, including yacht tenders, "toys" for yachts, engines, electronics, interior design and much more.
49. Build a new family tradition this holiday season by attending the first annual Tree Lighting and fireworks celebration at National Harbor which happens the day after Thanksgiving. This spectacular show will kick off the Christmas Season with an amazing musical production and reading of the Christmas Story. The evening is topped off with a spectacular fireworks display.
50. Bring the family every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from Thanksgiving to New Years to enjoy the Voices of National Harbor Candlelight Processional. This unique one hour show features a 150 person regional choir as they perform a variety of traditional Christmas music and read the Christmas Story.
51. Need a special gift for your wife? Make sure to stop by Erwin Pearl for a unique piece of jewelry.
52. Stroll into Art Whino, a unique gallery located on Waterfront Street. Art Whino has the largest collection of work from the current new art movement otherwise labeled as pop-Surrealism, Lowbrow and Urban Contemporary world wide. The collection of artists has grown to 133 strong.
53. Visit Govinda Gallery located on Waterfront Street between Gaylord National and the Westin Hotel. This gallery features a great collection of photography and is currently exhibiting an incredible selection of famous baseball photographs.
54. Want to live in one of the hottest condos in the region? Then, head to National Harbor to see what is available. Several of the buildings offer fabulous water views, amenities to include roof top pool, underground parking, concierge and much more!
55. Like all great cities in the world, National Harbor has a main street that will be full of life! American Way is designed after las Ramblas in Barcelona, Spain. This 100 ft. wide street will be very active with street performers and festivals as well as many pieces of public art.
56. Further accenting the grounds of National Harbor, you will discover many different stone formations. These stones were brought down from the New England area and personally selected by the development's creator Milton Peterson. The formations are all unique and creative pieces of art.
57. Parking at National Harbor is easy and inexpensive. With 4,500 spaces in the first phase of the project, each garage is conveniently located in each quadrant of the property. Parking is only $1/hour with a maximum of $10/day.
58. National Children's Museum will be calling National Harbor home in 2012.
59. Enjoy Foster's Downeast Clambake. The traditional New England Clambake feast awaits you along the banks of the Potomac. They use only the freshest foods perfectly steamed over a roaring wood fire—The Downeast Way! The main attraction for this feast is the succulent Maine Lobster.
60. Stop by Gaylord National's atrium every evening and be enchanted by the dancing waters fountain. The show plays every hour from 7pm - 10pm and the water puts on a show to a patriotic musical score. This fabulous fountains shoots 65' in the air.
61. The shopping at Gaylord National is one of a kind. Pajama Party is one of the many shops in the atrium and here you can pick out a comfy set of pj's for the entire family and have them monogrammed right on site.
62. Strictly First Glass, another unique shop inside of Gaylord National showcases fine works of art and custom glass jewelry by nationally renowned and local glass artists including students of the Washington Glass Studio.
63. Check out Gaylord National's 800 foot long convention center lobby. If the Washington Monument were laid on its side, the entire monument would fit inside.
64. Stroll along the piers and the Spanish steps at National Harbor and see all of our nations' state flags as well as the flags from the territories.
65. Sample some of the most innovative cocktails created at the one of a kind infusion bars located in Pose Ultra Lounge at Gaylord National. Some examples would be the Spicy Red Head featuring vanilla and cranberry infused spiced rum or the Blue Steel which is berry infused vodka.
66. Prepare for a show unlike you've ever seen before when Cique du Soleil's Kooza comes to National Harbor this October.
67. A night on the town will take on a whole new meaning when National Harbor's Fleet Street opens soon, with bars and lounges for everyone's taste.
68. In the mood for something decadent? Enjoy one of Warren Brown's tasty creations at Cake Love, coming soon.
69. Catch a glimpse of the Westin Hotel's glass sail, towering over the Potomac River.
70. Take an evening stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the sights and sounds of the National Harbor light show.
71. Get revved up for the Harley Davidson store which is now open on Waterfront Street.
72. The soon to come Bobby McKey's Dueling Piano Bar will have you tapping your feet and singing all night long.
73. Where else in the D.C. region will you be able to ride a mechanical bull once the Cadillac Ranch opens its doors.
74. National Harbor's state of the art security system and officers allow you to enjoy your stay, worry free.
75. The upcoming Fossil store will help you keep track of every minute you enjoy at National Harbor.
76. Rosa Mexicano's pomegranate margaritas will help cool down hot August nights. This well known DC hang out will be opening its' new location at National Harbor later this summer.
77. This September will bring to National Harbor some of Prince George's County's best tasting Chinese food with the opening of Grace's Mandarin. The two story restaurant will be located along Waterfront Street and have fabulous views of the Potomac River.
78. Add some style to your next trip to National Harbor with a visit to Jos. A. Bank, for you or the man in your life.
79. Spice up your fall while you spice up your burger as the Los Angeles favorite, Ketchup comes to National Harbor. Opening in the spring of 2009, this celebrity owned restaurants will be located on the lower level of the Aloft hotel.
80. Soon to open its first location outside New England at National Harbor, Stonewall Kitchen's delicious jams will have you smacking your lips.
81. For the laid back and free spirited, South Moon Under will help you in their uncommon mix of fashions. Coming Soon to National Harbor, this popular boutique will have all the latest fashions and trends for your closet.
82. You won't need to have an Italian grandmother to get traditional, family style Italian cuisine when Maggiano's Little Italy opens at National Harbor in 2009.
83. Need a special gift for that special someone? Visit the Gaithersburg-based Occasions to Remember, opening soon at National Harbor.
84. Public House will make you rethink the word pub, putting a sophisticated twist on the traditional watering hole. Opening soon on Fleet Street which will soon be bustling with nightlife.
85. A jazz lounge like no other, the Timothy Dean Bistro will soon come to National Harbor care of the famous chef Timothy Dean, protégé of acclaimed chef and restaurateur Jean-Louis Palladin.
86. Family programming at the American Market at National Harbor brings something fun and exciting for kids and parents to explore together. Learn about what types of fossils you might find while at the beach this summer, try custom designing your own city or see the children's show, "The Truth About Bunny," there's something new each weekend.
87. You've never tried Italian cuisine like that of famed eatery Dolce Enoteca e Ristorante which is scheduled to open this fall, Check out the comfortable, sleek lounge and modern restaurant, perfect for private events, large dinner parties or intimate dinners.
88. Need a vacation? Stop by the Wyndham Vacation Resorts Sales Center now open on Waterfront Street and find out how you can invest in your perfect getaway!
89. Enjoy a breeze coming off the Potomac River as you sit shaded under the shade of a leafy London Plane tree along National Harbor's American Way.
90. Take a moonlit stroll along the Harborwalk and enjoy the twinkling lights of Old Town Alexandria across the river.
91. A trip to the Oxon Hill Manor isn't complete without stopping at National Harbor for some afternoon tea and biscuits.
92. Pull up a lounge chair outside Gaylord Hotel's outdoor cabana and bask in the sun's rays.
93. Sit warm within Gaylord Hotel's 18-story glass atrium this winter sipping hot chocolate while snowflakes fall outside.
94. Take a seat on the Spanish steps and "people watch" along the Potomac River.
95. Enjoy an intimate meal and stroll along the river before taking in a performance of the Bowie-based National Ballet Company.
96. Stay cool this summer by walking along the river and checking out the boats and yachts docked at the National Harbor Marina.
97. Take your University of Maryland books outdoors and study while basking in the sun along the Potomac River.
98. Williamsburg, Virginia might be a bit far, but the Williamsburg Shop is located just inside the Gaylord Hotel atrium. The brick, two-story home is operated by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation and features gifts, collectibles and items for the home and garden.
99. Stop by National Harbor for a drink or two before hopping over to the new National's Stadium for a game. 100. Rub shoulders with Washington's "A" list celebrities at Gaylord National's Pose Ultra Lounge.
101. Take in a great breakfast and talk to one of the helpful concierges for directions to one of the twelve nearby golf courses.
102. Flip a coin into the cascading fountain at Gaylord National and wish to extend your stay at National Harbor.
103. Each time you come there will be something new and exciting to explore around every corner at National Harbor. Visit www.nationalharbor.com