National Harbor Maryland Accommodations

When to Visit National Harbor, MD

If you're planning a stay in National Harbor, you probably have at least one or two D.C. attractions on your itinerary, and one of the best times to visit D.C. is in the spring. Thanks to the Cherry Blossom Festival and the eponymous trees lining the city, late March and early April have become a popular season for tourism. Not only are the cherry blossoms gorgeous, but they are an iconic feature of the capital city — something you should see in person at least once in your life.

Another excellent choice is fall. During the months of September through November, fall foliage paints the area in vibrant colors, and the heat of summer gives way to cool breezes. Just keep in mind that the better the weather, the higher hotel prices will be. It's no secret that spring or fall is the ideal time to visit, so the city may be crowded.

You can find lower prices during winter, but you run the risk of getting snowed in. Summer, meanwhile, often brings sweltering heat. The weather may be of less concern, though, if you plan to spend most of your time indoors browsing the city's many museums.

Best Discounts in National Harbor, MD

The Country Inn & Suites in Woodbridge, Virginia offers an excellent government and military discount that brings room rates below $100 for a room with two queen beds. AAA and AARP members can find rates around $130. Both are particularly good bargains when you consider the hotel's excellent reviews, location, food, service, and cleanliness. Guests receive complimentary breakfast along with free Wi-Fi, parking, use of a nearby fitness center, and newspapers.

The Comfort Inn & Suites in nearby Waldorf, Maryland offers similar discounts and even better prices, with rates below $100 per night for AAA members, AARP members, senior, and military or government employees. Previous guests have praised the spacious rooms and complimentary buffet breakfast. The free Wi-Fi, parking, and newspapers add a little extra value.

Other chain hotels offer similar discounts. Some even have rewards programs with a points system for loyal customers, vacation packages, and last-minute booking deals. On the other end of the spectrum, you can often save money by booking online in advance or booking several rooms at a group rate.

Best Value Options in National Harbor, MD

Many hotels in the area find a happy medium between luxury and affordability. The Best Western Plus in La Plata, Maryland is about 20 miles away from National Harbor. However, rates range from around $110 to $150, and for that price, you get access to several great amenities. Business travelers will appreciate the meeting space, fax and photocopy services, and business center. The newly-renovated rooms include a microwave and refrigerator, HBO movies, and a desk area. All guests can take advantage of the exercise facilities, outdoor pool, and complimentary breakfasts, while Best Western Rewards members have access to executive/club floors and VIP services.

If you'd like to stay a little close, the La Quinta Inn & Suites in Waldorf has guest rooms for less than $100 per night and suites for less than $150. Its convenient location, combined with the complimentary Wi-Fi, parking, and breakfast, make it a great value for the money. Pets are allowed, and guests have free access to a nearby fitness facility. Rooms include cable programming, refrigerators, and flat-screen TVs.

You could also try the Comfort Inn Joint Andrews in Clinton, Maryland, the Comfort Inn Gunston Corner in Lorton, Virginia, or the Country Inn & Suites by Carlson in Waldorf. All three offer rates that start around $100 and stay below $140, as well as basic amenities. The Quality Inn Camp Springs and the Comfort Suites of Woodbridge/Potomac Mills are also excellent choices with rates below $150 per night.

Attractions in National Harbor, MD

In your excitement to hit the biggest tourist attractions in Washington, D.C., don't forget about the ones in National Harbor itself, starting with the 36-foot carousel. Decorated in an Americana theme, the Carousel at National Harbor is open Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 12 to 8 p.m. Hours are extended to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and the carousel opens an hour early on Wednesdays. A picnic and playground area can be found nearby, and birthday party packages are available.

The Capital Wheel, a 180-foot Ferris wheel on the Potomac River waterfront, is another year-round family attraction. Open every day from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., the Capital Wheel features 42 climate-controlled gondolas with stunning views of the area, including the White House and Capitol, the National Mall, and Arlington Cemetery. It can even be booked for private events, with catering available from Wolfgang Puck.

Summer in particular brings a variety of other outdoor activities. If you are in town during late spring, summer, or early fall, check out the Miller Farms Farmer's Market for some fresh local produce, flowers, baked goods, and more. Then catch a date night movie (Thursdays at 7 p.m.) or a family movie (Sundays at 6 p.m.) courtesy of Movies on the Potomac.

For those who want to spend some time on the water, Boating in DC rents out kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. Kayak tours and lessons are also available, with the season running May through September. You can charter a yacht through National Elite Private Yacht or book a Potomac River cruise on the Odyssey or Spirit of Washington.