Reunite this summer at Gaylord National Resort
By WP Creative Group
The newly renovated Maryland resort offers stunning river views and activities for everyone in the family.
If last summer was the season of cautious backyard hang-outs and postponed plans, this is the summer of reunions.
For those who have waited months to hug their loved ones, it’s a joyous time. With most covid-related restrictions in the D.C. area lifted, the possibility of gathering again is cause for celebration. And this year, the whole crew is invited.
Local families looking for a place to relax and reunite need not search far: Gaylord National Resort, nestled along the Potomac River just minutes from Washington D.C., offers breathtaking views and activities and amenities for every member of the family.
“Gaylord National has something for everyone, from little kids to tweens, teenagers and adults,” said Jennifer Cerasani, Director of Marketing and Public Relations for the resort. “There is plenty of room to spread out and explore both at the expansive resort and throughout National Harbor. Inside or out, it’s time to be together.”
From a radical 80’s-themed rooftop pop-up bar to the brilliant new outdoor light installation, here’s a glimpse at an unforgettable family weekend at Gaylord National Resort.
A stylish home base
Gaylord National is one of the area’s most well-known resorts. For families visiting National Harbor—whether locals, transplants or out-of-towners—it makes a truly memorable home away from home. The lush garden atrium and stunning 19-story picture window featuring a sweeping view of the Potomac gives the impression of being outside.
Beginning July 1, the resort is celebrating a grand reopening following a year-long, $64 million renovation. With reimagined guest rooms and thoughtful design touches that nod to the area’s history and numerous waterways, Gaylord National promises to be the perfect home for any D.C. area vacation or staycation.
“More than ten years ago, Gaylord National Resort was the first hotel to open here at National Harbor,” explained Kent Digby, Executive Vice President of Asset Management, Operations and Marketing at National Harbor. “It has all kinds of history, and it’s a very unique hotel. Standing in the atrium and looking out across the Potomac… it’s second to none. That view is incredible.”
For families, the resort is an ideal venue for highly anticipated reunions. With the Summer of More package, guests can check in early and lounge by the riverfront pool deck, where there’s a dedicated splash pad for kids. Adults can enjoy a coffee or expertly crafted cocktail at the Harbor Marketplace or the Belvedere Lobby Bar. The whole family will relish a relaxing stroll through the extensive resort.
“Visitors can rest assured that safety is always a priority at the resort,” Cerasani added. “As part of Marriott International’s family, we have put in place a multi-pronged approach designed to meet the health and safety standards outlined in Marriott’s Commitment to Clean. The resort has also expanded contactless check-in options through the Bonvoy app, including keyless room entry and food delivery options.”
Soak up waterfront views at sunrise and sunset
Visitors to D.C. often associate the city with majestic monuments and its impressive collection of museums. But locals understand that there’s much more to the area—in fact, D.C. is very much a waterfront hub these days.
From sightseeing vessels to paddle boats to private charters, there’s no shortage of ways to explore resplendent riverside vistas with Gaylord National as your home base.
“Very few people see D.C. from the water,” said Digby. “It’s pretty magical and beautiful.”
Sunrise and sunset are particularly striking times of day out on the water, both Cerasani and Digby noted. Strolling the pedestrian walkway that lines Woodrow Wilson Bridge is a peaceful way to start the day, suggested Digby.
If your family’s weekend routine involves sun salutations, another meditative way to welcome the morning is with waterfront yoga. This summer, Gaylord National Resort will be hosting all-levels yoga classes—free for guests—at 8:30 a.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
During sunset, a ride on The Capital Wheel, the 180-feet tall giant observation wheel, perfectly encapsulates the area’s quintessential “summertime Americana” atmosphere. “The Capital Wheel is completely different depending on the time of day,” said Digby. “[During the day], it’s magical, and at night, the city starts really popping out.”
Back at the resort, a nightly fountain and laser show marks the transition from day to night. “If you have a room with an atrium, you can watch the laser show [from there],” said Cerasani.
Enjoy retro vibes at Replay
Another amenity available to both hotel guests and National Harbor visitors is Replay at Pose Rooftop Lounge, an ‘80s-themed pop-up bar located on the 19th floor of the hotel. The pop-up rooftop bar and arcade features neon lights, Instagram-worthy backdrops and an enticing selection of fun themed beverages.
“It’s got the most spectacular views of the whole destination,” said Cerasani. “You can look into Alexandria, even into the District of Columbia from the wraparound deck outside. It’s just a really cool place to celebrate summer.”
In addition to arcade-style games and a throwback soundtrack, Replay has something special for kids and adults with a sweet tooth. The lounge menu features “over-the-top” milkshakes, including adult boozy versions, said Cerasani.
Immerse in the area’s thriving art scene
National Harbor has “an ongoing commitment to public art,” noted Digby. Some of the area’s must-see installations include towering sculptures, statues and spectacular murals.
This summer, Gaylord National will be hosting #PotomacLights, a bright new walkthrough exhibit welcoming visitors from July 1 through August 18. Eleven unique light installations beckon passersby to meander among illuminated sculptures, snap selfies or simply enjoy the show from a nearby rooftop.
For kids who can’t put down their devices, there’s also a new interactive experience that lets them explore their immediate environment while learning about the natural world. The Wildlife Rescue – An Augmented Reality Experience presented by bubly™ creates a virtual scavenger hunt in augmented reality throughout the hotel’s 19-story atrium, in which kids search for various animals and “capture them” with their phones. Animals range from endangered to local, making the adventure both educational and fun.
Fun for Mom and Dad
Locals may already know and love the resort’s Old Hickory Steakhouse and its exquisite menu of prime cuts of beef, artisanal cheeses and handcrafted cocktails. But they may not know about the back terrace, where it’s possible to order a drink and enjoy a cigar from the in-house humidor. “It’s a great little hidden gem,” said Cerasani.
Another can’t-miss activity for the adults in the family includes a visit to MGM casino, just a 10-minute drive from Gaylord National Resort. Free shuttle rides to and from the grounds are included with guests’ stay.
During a rainy day or planned downtime, a visit to Relâche Spa is another absolute must. Guests can book a rejuvenating treatment, or simply enjoy the spa’s extensive facilities. Services include couples’ massages, aromatherapy sessions, reflexology and more.
National Harbor showcases a side of the D.C. area that’s more serene than some of the city’s mainstream attractions. For those who want to experience both, the waterfront vistas are just a stone’s throw—or a water taxi ride—from the hustle and bustle of the city. But the truth is that there’s plenty to keep the entire family occupied for a short or long-term stay right in National Harbor. In fact, it’s possible to plan a full weeklong itinerary without even leaving the hotel.
“It’s more than a place where you just go and have an outstanding meal and a good sleep then leave the next morning,” said Cerasani. “While the renovated guest rooms provide a nice oasis from the action, there is so much to see and do, you won’t want to miss a thing.”
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