Unique attractions and weekly events abound at the National Harbor with
plenty of things to do that will get the whole family excited. The National
Harbor is the perfect place for parents to play with their kids. Here are
some of our recommendations for a day of exciting activities with your
family. For information on more fun things to do, visit
nationalharbor.com/play
Movies on the Potomac
Spend an evening under the stars. During the summer months the National
Harbor presents free movies on Thursday and Sunday evenings on the Plaza.
Seating is not provided, so pack your lawn chairs or a blanket. Coolers and
outside food and beverages are prohibited, but there are plenty of nearby
dining establishments. The 2017 season runs from May through September.
Films begin at 6 p.m. on Sundays and 7 p.m. on Thursdays. (Double feature
movies on Sundays begin at 4 p.m.) The Plaza is located on Waterfront
Street in the National Harbor. For the full movie line-up, visit
nationalharbor.com/movies-on-the-potomac
The Capital Wheel
See incredible views of the Potomac River waterfront from 180 feet in the
air on National Harbor’s enormous ferris wheel. Take in sights of the
Washington Monument, National Cathedral, Masonic Temple, City of
Alexandria, parks throughout the DC-Maryland-Virginia region and more.
WaveOne Swimming
Experience and enjoy the most current open water swimming in the country in
a safe, controlled environment. WaveOne supports the development of safe
open water practices and events throughout the country, while working to
protect and preserve the waters of the world.
Urban Pirates
Join the Urban Pirates and climb aboard the the 54′ pirate ship Fearless
for a swashbuckling adventure sailing from the Capital Wheel Pier in
National Harbor, MD April through October. A lively crew will teach you how
to dress, talk, dance and play games like a real pirate, blast enemies with
water cannons and navigate treacherous waters to discover hidden treasures.
Enjoy a family cruise Wednesday through Sunday ($22 per ticket), or for you
older swashbucklers, an adult only ‘Bring Your Own Grog’ voyage on Friday
and Saturday nights ($25 per ticket). There is a pirate adventure for
everyone. Each cruise lasts 1-1/2 hours; the ship docks at the base of the
Capital Wheel at the end of the pier. For more information, visit
urbanpiratesnh.com/nationalharbor_home.html
On the Water
Take in the sights of National Harbor by spending time on the water. Rent a
kayak, pedal boat or stand-up paddleboard, or enjoy an evening kayak tour.
Stand-up paddleboarding is an incredible combination of canoeing, kayaking
and surfing all in one, and is appropriate for ages 8 and up. Kayaking is a
great way to get exercise and do some exploring with your family, and pedal
boats are a relaxing way to have fun in the sun.
Rentals are by the hour or day, or you can purchase an unlimited season
pass – May through September. Rentals include life jacket and paddle, and
introductory lessons and classes are offered. Orientation for kayaking and
stand-up paddleboarding is available for $35 per person.
Rates:
- Single Kayak $16/hr
- Double Kayak $22/hr
- (2 adults & 1 small child)
- 4-Seat Pedal Boat $30/hr
- (4 passenger boat)
- Stand-up Paddleboard $22/hr
For boathouses and other useful information, visit
boatingindc.com/boathouses/national-harbor
Parking:
National Harbor has three covered public parking garages with convenient
Pay-on-Foot machines. Rates begin at $2 for the first hour and reach a
daily maximum of $10.
- Fleet Garage: Entrance located on Fleet Street
- Mariner Garage: Entrance located on Mariner Passage
- St. George Garage: Entrance located on St. George Blvd
- parking.nationalharbor.com
