Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center for Family Travel

A detailed photo tour and review for Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center at 201 Waterfront Street, National Harbor, Maryland 20745. This resort is located in the heart of the National Harbor area in Oxon Hill, MD and most assuredly has something amazing and unique to offer each season. Head to the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center during the holiday season and experience the ICE! extravaganza with hand carved ice sculptures and slides. During the summer season, rent a kayak, pedal boat or paddleboard to explore National Harbor by water. Catch a movie on a large screen by the water on weekends in October. Open all year long, experience the view and thrill of The Capital Wheel. A gondola will take you up 180 feet for aerial views of Washington D.C. and Virginia. Additionally, the area has an enormous variety of restaurants and different shops to enjoy. (Take the kids to the colorfully delicious Peeps store and for those who like culinary finds, don't miss Stonewall Kitchen.)  

The resort itself is spectacular with gorgeous decor and a multitude of activities perfect for the family. See below for information on rooms, restaurants, and activities. Virtually explore by clicking on each picture to expand and see details on the pictures below. ​
​Virtual Hint: It's definitely a large resort so make sure to ask for a map upon arrival. Of course, if you are a planner like me, click HERE TO SEE MAP ahead of time.

Rooms at Gaylord National Resort in Washington, D.C.

We stayed in an Executive Suite on the 11th floor. With a fantastic view of the river, the Capital Wheel and even the Washington Monument, it is a perfect layout for families. This same type room is also available as an Atrium view which overlook the festivities and have balconies. In the Executive Suite, the king bed is separate from the living area and has its own entrance to the expansive bathroom with double sinks and large glass enclosed shower. There is another bathroom entry door from the living area, which has a terrific pull-out sofa bed, large TV, mini-refrigerator, and safe.  There is a divider wall to separate the dining area with a round table and 4 chairs (it was great for room service breakfasts  in the mornings.) It even had enough space for a roll-away bed to give us more private sleeping room. 

Dining ​at Gaylord National Resort in Washington, D.C.

Every dining option at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center is unique. Take a look at our favorites that we experienced during our stay. Further details and pictures can be found by clicking on the button to take you to each specific restaurant review.
​Virtual Hint: So important! When visiting with family or even as a couple, definitely make reservations at each of the restaurants below ahead of time. Since they are so popular, the wait times can get extremely long.  
Try the Old Hickory Steakhouse for an elegant, upscale dining experience. The ambiance is stunning and it's truly a special occasion spot or a spot to just feel like you are celebrating a special occasion.
With huge television screens, enjoy delicious casual fare, as well as watch multiple sports games and admire the sports memorabilia seen throughout National Pastime Sports Bar and Grill. 
Or, centrally located, Pienza is a great place for everyone to find something they are hungry for at an expansive breakfast or lunchtime buffet, while still being able to enjoy the warm decor and beautiful hotel around them. 
Virtual Hint: When you first check-in, the front desk will give you a "Resort Information" booklet. Unfortunately, we didn't realize it early enough, but it has lots of great coupons to use during your stay. 

Activities ​at Gaylord National Resort in Washington, D.C.

The Gaylord National, as well as the National Harbor area, has phenomenal activities all year round. We took advantage of the holiday time to visit for the magical experience of ICE! Annually, the Gaylord Hotel brings in professional ice carvers who amazingly make the most beautiful ice characters, sculptures and designs. It's a terrific exhibit and I highly recommend it. See ICE! 2015 to virtually take you to experience the magic.​ 
Besides the specialized conventions and exhibits that are brought in by the Gaylord National, anytime is the perfect time to visit and experience all of the activities it has to offer. Besides the wonderful dining, lounges and bars, you can: 
  • Take advantage of their enormous spa. They provide a variety of specialized treatments for your skin, relaxation and beauty.
  • Don't forget to bring your work out clothes and visit the fitness center with its numerous machines and types of equipment.
  • Take a dip in the large indoor pool,  open for children and adults.
  • The hotel shopping is exquisite with multiple luxury boutiques and souvenir shops.
Whatever season you are visiting, definitely research and explore the National Harbor website. They provide a listing of the wonderful dining and various activities offered each season.  With so much to do, you can visit numerous time throughout the year and always find something new to experience.