Eight Ways to Beat the Heat at National Harbor This Summer

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NEWS Contact: Vicki Bendure
202-374-9259 cell/text
Vicki@Bendurepr.com

NATIONAL HARBOR, Md., July 29, 2026—National Harbor has long been known as the Washington region's premier waterfront destination. From boutique shopping and acclaimed restaurants to waterfront attractions, premium hotels and a full lineup of summer events, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy the season. And when temperatures soar, visitors can escape the heat while enjoying these eight indoor attractions:

Sing, dance and celebrate at Bobby McKey's Dueling Piano Bar
Turn up the fun this summer at Bobby McKey's Dueling Piano Bar. This high-energy spot blends live request-driven music, crowd participation, and lively themed weekends into an unforgettable night out. Throw on your best matching outfits and enjoy special theme lineups all month long including Prom Party (July 31-Aug. 1), Piano Man (Aug. 7-8), Groovy '70s & Motown (Aug. 14-15), '80s & '90s (Aug. 21-22) and Country (Aug. 28-29). For tickets and additional information, visit www.bobbymckeys.com/summer-concert-series. 172 Fleet St.

Take in spectacular views from a cool gondola on The Capital Wheel
Step into one of The Capital Wheel’s climate-controlled gondolas and enjoy panoramic views of D.C., Virgina, and Maryland from 180 feet above the Potomac River. Riders can take in breathtaking views of the Washington Monument, Masonic National Memorial and surrounding waterfront—all while staying cool. Purchase tickets and learn more at www.thecapitalwheel.com. 141 American Way.

Put problem-solving skills to the test at Escapology
Challenge family and friends with an immersive escape room adventure at Escapology National Harbor. The venue offers eight private escape experiences, including Scooby-Doo and the Spooky Castle Adventure, Cyber Heist, Batman: The Dark Knight Challenge and more. For hours and tickets, visit www.escapology.com/en/national-harbor-md. 230 American Way.

Make lasting memories and develop film at Sip & Develop
Discover the art of black-and-white photography at Sip & Develop, where guests learn to develop their own film in a relaxed, social setting. No experience is necessary, as instructors guide participants through the process while they sip beverages and create lasting memories. The studio also offers custom portrait photography for individuals and families. For reservations and information, visit www.sipndevelop.com. 136 Waterfront St.

Become a fashion designer at Thread & Sole
Get creative at Thread & Sole, powered by Ki-netics Lab, where visitors can customize sneakers, apparel, and accessories through interactive workshops and do-it-yourself stations. Guests may bring their own items or purchase products on-site to create one-of-a-kind designs. Learn more or reserve a workshop at www.kineticslabhq.com. 178 Waterfront St.

Find a great read at Mahogany Books
Escape into a great book at Mahogany Books, the nationally recognized independent bookstore specializing in works written for, by and about people of the African diaspora. Browse hundreds of award-winning titles while enjoying a cool drink from their cafe. For store hours and additional information, visit www.mahoganybooks.com. 121 American Way.

Search for hidden wildlife at Gaylord National
The Wildlife Rescue app at Gaylord National transforms the indoor atrium into an interactive safari, allowing guests to use augmented reality (AR) to locate and display virtual animals. Visitors can unlock digital badges and take photos with these creatures, saving them directly to their devices. For more information, click here. 201 Waterfront St.

Wander a whimsical landscape inspired by area landmarks at MGM National Harbor
Explore a cool escape at MGM National Harbor’s stunning 15,000-square-foot indoor conservatory, a vibrant tribute to America’s 250th anniversary. This immersive display takes visitors through a whimsical landscape inspired by iconic DMV landmarks. While visiting, guests can also discover the $12 million Heritage Collection scattered across the property, showcasing diverse works from over a dozen artists using mediums like steel, clay, aluminum, and photography. More information is available here. 101 MGM National Ave.

“In addition to our outdoor waterfront attractions, National Harbor offers plenty of unique indoor experiences where visitors can stay cool while enjoying shopping, dining, and entertainment.” said Deborah Topcik, senior director of marketing at National Harbor.

For more information about National Harbor, visit www.NationalHarbor.com.

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About National Harbor

Situated on the banks of the historic Potomac River and just minutes from the nation’s capital, National Harbor is a waterfront resort destination unlike any other. National Harbor is home to two of Maryland’s Four Diamond rated hotels—Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center, the East Coast’s largest non-gaming hotel and convention center and has almost 2,000 hotel rooms and 660,000 sq. ft. of meeting space and MGM National Harbor, an integrated luxury casino resort with renowned chef-driven restaurants, a 3,000-seat state-of-the art theater and one of the largest gaming floors outside of Las Vegas. The vibrant Waterfront District features boutique shops, restaurants and entertainment options along picturesque promenades. The iconic Capital Wheel, a180-ft observation wheel, Tanger National Harbor’s 85 designer brands, and a robust calendar of events round out this destination that welcomes more than 15.2 million visitors a year. For more information, visit www.NationalHarbor.com.