Whether you’re visiting for a convention at the Gaylord, planning a weekend getaway, celebrating a special occasion, or simply exploring the DC area, you’ll quickly discover there’s no shortage of things to do around National Harbor.
From waterfront attractions and historic neighborhoods to live entertainment and iconic monuments, here’s our guide to some of the best experiences in National Harbor, Old Town Alexandria, and Washington, DC.
Dollar for dollar, Bobby McKey’s may be the most fun you’ll have all weekend.
Located in the heart of National Harbor, Bobby McKey’s Dueling Piano Bar isn’t just a place to hear live music, it’s a fully interactive experience where the audience becomes part of the show. Our talented musicians take requests spanning every decade and genre, from classic rock and country favorites to today’s biggest hits and nostalgic throwbacks.
One minute you’re singing along with friends, the next you’re watching a birthday guest dance on stage or celebrating alongside complete strangers who quickly become new friends. No two nights are ever exactly alike.
Whether you’re visiting for a conference, planning a date night, celebrating a birthday, organizing a bachelorette party, or looking for the best nightlife near Washington, DC, Bobby McKey’s delivers an unforgettable night of music, laughter, and audience participation.
Towering nearly 180 feet above the Potomac River, the Capital Wheel offers some of the best views in the region. From the top, you’ll see all of National Harbor, Old Town Alexandria, and even many of Washington, DC’s iconic landmarks. Sunset rides are especially popular and make for incredible photos.
One of the best things about National Harbor is simply taking time to enjoy the waterfront itself. Walk along the Potomac River, enjoy public art installations, browse local shops, grab a drink overlooking the water, or relax and watch boats move up and down the river.
Throughout the year, National Harbor also hosts seasonal festivals, outdoor concerts, farmers markets, and special events that make every visit a little different.
Just minutes from the waterfront, MGM National Harbor offers much more than gaming. Visitors can enjoy upscale dining, live entertainment, luxury accommodations, and one of the area’s most impressive resort experiences.
Even if casinos aren’t your thing, the restaurants, architecture, and nightlife make MGM worth exploring.
Looking for a little retail therapy? Tanger Outlets features dozens of popular brands and outlet stores, making it a favorite stop for visitors looking to score deals while exploring the area.
One of the most enjoyable ways to spend an afternoon is hopping aboard the water taxi and heading across the Potomac River to Old Town Alexandria.
The short ride offers beautiful views of the waterfront and delivers you directly into one of the most charming historic districts in America.
King Street is the heart of Old Town Alexandria and is lined with locally owned boutiques, restaurants, coffee shops, galleries, and historic buildings dating back centuries.
Unlike many modern shopping districts, Old Town feels authentic, walkable, and full of character. It’s easy to spend an entire afternoon exploring the side streets, grabbing lunch, and discovering hidden gems along the way.
Located on Alexandria’s waterfront, the Torpedo Factory Art Center is one of the country’s most unique creative spaces. Visitors can watch artists at work, browse galleries, and purchase original artwork directly from local creators.
It’s a great stop whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for something different to experience during your visit.
Before Alexandria became one of the DC area’s most desirable destinations, it was one of the nation’s busiest colonial ports.
Today, visitors can walk along the waterfront, admire historic architecture, visit museums, enjoy waterfront dining, and experience a side of American history that feels remarkably preserved.
Just a short drive from National Harbor, the National Mall is home to many of America’s most recognizable landmarks.
Visitors can explore the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, World War II Memorial, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and countless other historic sites that attract millions of visitors every year.
One of Washington’s greatest treasures is its collection of free Smithsonian museums.
Popular favorites include the National Air and Space Museum, National Museum of American History, National Museum of Natural History, and National Museum of African American History and Culture. Whether you’re interested in science, history, aviation, art, or culture, there’s something for everyone.
Located along the Potomac River, George Washington’s Mount Vernon offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the life of America’s first president.
The beautifully preserved estate includes the mansion, gardens, museum exhibits, and sweeping river views that make it one of the most popular historic attractions in the region.
After a day spent exploring museums, waterfronts, historic neighborhoods, shopping districts, and iconic monuments, there’s no better way to wrap up your adventure than with a night of live music and nonstop energy.
At Bobby McKey’s, you’ll find locals, tourists, convention attendees, birthday groups, and first-time visitors all singing along together. It’s the kind of experience that turns a great trip into a memorable one—and often becomes the story people tell long after they get home.
If you’re planning a visit to National Harbor, Old Town Alexandria, or Washington, DC, be sure to save a night for the area’s one-and-only dueling piano bar.
