MGM National Harbor | Prince Georges County

MGM National Harbor is a casino resort located in Oxon Hill, Maryland, within Prince George's County.

The property features a large, modern casino floor, multiple dining establishments, a hotel, and entertainment venues.

Visual Characteristics

The resort complex is characterized by its contemporary architectural design, primarily utilizing glass, steel, and concrete. The main hotel tower stands at approximately 250 feet (76 meters) and is clad in a combination of reflective glass and metallic panels. The casino structure is a lower, expansive building with a prominent, illuminated facade. The exterior colors are predominantly neutral, with accents of blue and white lighting.

Location & Access Logistics

MGM National Harbor is situated at 101 National Harbor Boulevard, Oxon Hill, MD 20745. It is approximately 10 miles (16 km) south of Washington D.C. The resort offers on-site parking with a multi-level garage. Public transportation options include the NH1 and NH2 bus lines operated by the Maryland Department of Transportation, which connect to the Southern Avenue Metro station (Green Line).

Historical & Ecological Origin

The site was developed by MGM Resorts International and opened in December 2016. The original purpose was to establish a large-scale integrated resort and casino in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area, capitalizing on the region's population density and proximity to federal government centers. The land itself was previously undeveloped or used for light industrial purposes.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include gaming on the casino floor, dining at celebrity-chef restaurants, attending live performances at The Theater at MGM National Harbor, and utilizing the hotel's amenities. The resort also features a large public art collection displayed throughout the property.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available throughout the casino floor, hotel, and dining areas. Significant portions of the resort offer climate-controlled environments, providing shade. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong within the property. Multiple food vendors and full-service restaurants are located on-site.

Best Time to Visit

For photography of the exterior lighting, the hours between dusk and midnight offer optimal conditions. The resort operates 24/7, making any time suitable for casino activities. Hotel occupancy and restaurant wait times can be higher on weekends and during major events.

Facts & Legends

A notable feature is the "The Awakening," a large sculpture by J. Seward Johnson Jr., depicting a giant emerging from the earth, which was relocated from Washington D.C.'s Hains Point. The sculpture is a popular photo opportunity.

Nearby Landmarks

• National Harbor Waterfront (0.2km West)
• The Capital Wheel (0.3km West)
• Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center (0.4km West)
• Tanger Outlets National Harbor (0.6km Northwest)
• Fort Washington Park (4.5km Southwest)