National Harbor | Prince Georges County

Information

Landmark: National Harbor
City: Prince Georges County
Country: USA Maryland
Continent: North America

National Harbor, Prince Georges County, USA Maryland, North America

National Harbor is a waterfront development located in Prince George's County, Maryland, USA.

It functions as a mixed-use destination featuring retail, dining, entertainment, and residential spaces along the Potomac River.

Visual Characteristics

The architecture of National Harbor comprises modern multi-story buildings constructed primarily from brick, concrete, and glass. Building facades exhibit a range of earth tones, including beige, grey, and muted red. The development is characterized by wide promenades, a central Ferris wheel (The Capital Wheel), and a marina with docked boats. The waterfront area features paved walkways and landscaped sections with trees and seating.

Location & Access Logistics

National Harbor is situated approximately 15 miles south of Washington D.C. Access is primarily via Interstate 95 South, exiting onto Oxon Hill Road. From Washington D.C., visitors can take the Woodrow Wilson Bridge. Parking is available in multi-level garages, with hourly and daily rates. Public transport options include the NH2 bus line from Southern Avenue Metro Station and water taxi services from Alexandria, Virginia, and Georgetown, Washington D.C.

Historical & Ecological Origin

National Harbor was developed starting in 2007 by Peterson Companies. The site was previously undeveloped land along the Potomac River. The project's original purpose was to create a comprehensive entertainment and residential district to revitalize the waterfront area and provide a destination for regional visitors.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include riding The Capital Wheel for panoramic views, exploring the shops and restaurants, visiting the National Children's Museum, and attending events at The MGM National Harbor. Boat tours and cruises depart from the marina. The Awakening sculpture is a notable public art installation.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available in public areas and within most establishments. Shade is provided by awnings, umbrellas, and trees in designated areas. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong throughout the development. Numerous food vendors and restaurants are present on-site.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning or late afternoon offers favorable lighting conditions, particularly for capturing the waterfront and The Capital Wheel. The months of April through October generally provide the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Weekends and evenings are typically the busiest periods.

Facts & Legends

The Capital Wheel stands 180 feet tall and features 28 climate-controlled gondolas, each capable of holding up to eight passengers. A local anecdote suggests that the development was strategically planned to be visible from the National Mall in Washington D.C., enhancing its profile as a regional attraction.