Gaylord Convention Center National Harbor: Parking, Events, Hotels & Map
Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center is a waterfront convention resort at 201 Waterfront Street, National Harbor, MD 20745, overlooking the Potomac River outside Washington, D.C.
The property combines a major convention center with guestrooms, ballrooms, exhibition facilities, restaurants, a 19-story indoor garden atrium, an indoor pool and resort amenities. Whether you are attending a conference or planning an overnight stay, this guide explains parking, venue access, event space, transportation and nearby attractions.
Gaylord National Convention Center: Quick Facts
Gaylord National Harbor Parking Rates: Self-Parking & Valet
Marriott publishes separate short-term, longer-stay and valet parking prices for Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center.
| Parking duration | Self-parking | Valet parking |
|---|---|---|
| 0–1 hour | $25 | $48 for up to 2 hours |
| 1–3 hours | $44 | $48 for up to 2 hours |
| More than 3 hours | $50 | $75 for 2–24 hours |
| Daily published rate | $50 | $75 |
Self-Parking vs Valet: Which Is Better?
Self-Parking
$50 DailyBest for visitors comfortable locating a parking space and walking through the garage to the resort.
Confirm any height restrictions, whether spaces are available and how the daily billing period is calculated.
Valet Parking
$75 DailyUseful for guests arriving with luggage, families needing a closer drop-off or travelers who prefer valet service.
Confirm the valet pickup procedure and allow retrieval time after large events.
Nearby National Harbor Parking Alternatives
Convention attendees who do not need overnight hotel parking may compare public garages elsewhere in National Harbor.
| Alternative | Example published address | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| St. George Garage | 251 Mariner Passage, Oxon Hill, MD | Hourly/daily rates, walk to resort and overnight rules. |
| Mariner Garage | 164 Mariner Passage, Oxon Hill, MD | Availability, price and walking route. |
| Other National Harbor facilities | Various locations | Operator restrictions and event-specific prices. |
For reference, a 2026 conference visitor guide lists St. George and Mariner garages at approximately $25 for stays of 4.5–24 hours. Treat that as an organizer-published reference rate, not a guaranteed price for your future visit.
How to Park for a Convention
- Check your convention organizer’s arrival and parking instructions.
- Decide between Gaylord’s on-site parking and a public National Harbor garage.
- Navigate to the specific garage entrance or hotel valet area.
- Confirm the posted parking charge before entering.
- Record your parking level and return route.
- Follow signs to the convention-center registration area.
- Check exit procedures, especially if your event ends late.
Gaylord National Convention Center: Exhibit Halls, Ballrooms & Capacity
The convention component of Gaylord National Resort is one of the property’s defining features. Marriott’s current events inventory lists 543,889 square feet of event space, with extensive exhibition halls, ballrooms and breakout facilities.
Major Convention and Event Spaces
| Event space | Published size / feature | Best use |
|---|---|---|
| Prince George’s Exhibition Hall | Large exhibition area; largest configurations support up to 10,000 attendees. | Trade shows, major conventions and large public events. |
| Potomac Ballroom | Over 50,000 sq. ft.; includes a 4,300-sq.-ft. theatrical stage. | General sessions, major banquets and keynote presentations. |
| Maryland Ballroom | 31,127 sq. ft. plus 15,965 sq. ft. of prefunction space. | Conferences, galas and large receptions. |
| RiverView Ballroom | 16,000 sq. ft. with extensive Potomac views. | Waterfront weddings and special events. |
| Woodrow Wilson Ballroom | 13,780 sq. ft. | Mid-size conferences and corporate events. |
| Cherry Blossom Ballroom | Flexible ballroom with an 11,582-sq.-ft. prefunction area. | Banquets, celebrations and smaller meetings. |
| Executive boardrooms | Presidential and Fort Washington boardrooms. | Leadership meetings and private sessions. |
How to Find Your Conference Hall or Ballroom
- Check your event registration confirmation.
- Identify the exact ballroom, exhibit hall or meeting-room name.
- Open the official Gaylord National floor plans.
- Locate the convention registration or badge pickup area.
- Follow resort wayfinding toward the appropriate convention level.
- Check the organizer’s event app for any changes.
- Allow additional time for moving between distant meeting areas.
Official floor plans, capacity charts and convention planning ↗
Gaylord National Harbor Events, Conventions & Seasonal Attractions
The resort hosts trade shows, conferences, industry conventions, weddings, receptions and family-friendly seasonal entertainment. Public access and ticketing depend on the specific event.
ICE! Featuring Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
Gaylord National has announced the 2026–27 return of ICE!, its seasonal attraction featuring large ice sculptures, immersive holiday displays and ice slides.
Dates: November 14, 2026, through January 3, 2027.
Important: ICE! admission is separate from ordinary convention registration and may require its own ticket. Ticket availability and operating times vary.
Are Convention Events Open to the Public?
| Event category | Access expectations |
|---|---|
| Professional convention | Usually requires registration or industry credentials. |
| Trade show | Access determined by event organizer and badge type. |
| Corporate meeting | May be private or invitation-only. |
| Wedding or banquet | Restricted to invited guests. |
| Seasonal attraction | May offer public tickets or resort-guest packages. |
| Resort dining | Reservations and access policies depend on outlet and date. |
How to Attend an Event
- Find the official event organizer or conference website.
- Confirm the event is at Gaylord National in Maryland.
- Check dates and attendee eligibility.
- Register or purchase tickets through the organizer.
- Check recommended hotel blocks and parking.
- Save the event room, badge pickup location and schedule.
- Review any photography, bag or security restrictions.
Gaylord National Resort Rooms, Atrium Views & Suites
Gaylord National is a full-service resort with standard guestrooms, upgraded views and suites. The property’s enormous glass-enclosed atrium and location overlooking the Potomac River make room-view categories particularly relevant.
Atrium-Facing Rooms
Selected guestrooms look toward the resort’s landscaped interior atrium, which maintains a comfortable indoor atmosphere throughout the year.
Confirm that your booked rate explicitly identifies an atrium view if it matters to you.
River and Exterior Views
Other room categories may overlook the Potomac River, National Harbor or surrounding landscape.
View descriptions can differ by room type and availability.
Suites
Suites may provide additional living space and upgraded furnishings for longer stays, families and executive visitors.
Accessible Rooms
Marriott offers designated accessible room categories. Confirm the exact bathroom and mobility accommodations before making a reservation.
How to Choose a Room
- Open Marriott’s official Gaylord National room page.
- Enter your arrival dates and total guests.
- Compare standard, atrium-view, river-view and suite options.
- Check the complete bedding and occupancy information.
- Review accessibility needs and connecting-room requirements.
- Check cancellation terms and any destination or resort-related fees.
- Compare your event’s discounted room-block rate with public rates.
Restaurants, Breakfast, Rooftop Lounge & Dining Options
Gaylord National offers a variety of dining experiences throughout the resort. Breakfast is available for a charge unless your reservation or package includes it.
Old Hickory
An upscale American restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Menus include steaks, Maryland seafood, breakfast dishes and other selections.
Recommended for business dinners, special occasions and guests wanting a full-service dining experience.
Harbor Social
A lively sports bar and social venue with dining, televisions, games and duckpin bowling.
Marriott currently advertises evening service. Bowling may require separate reservations or charges.
Potomac District Café & Market
Casual breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee and grab-and-go options in the resort’s atrium area.
Belvedere Lobby Bar
A lobby gathering spot for drinks and informal meetings.
The Capital Confectionery
Sweet treats, desserts and café-style selections for resort guests and visitors.
Pose Rooftop Lounge
A rooftop setting for views, cocktails and seasonal programming. Availability may depend on special events or operating schedules.
Breakfast and Meals: What Costs Extra?
| Dining option | Included automatically? | Planning advice |
|---|---|---|
| Old Hickory breakfast | No | Check current menu and opening times. |
| Potomac District Café breakfast | No | Convenient for coffee and casual morning meals. |
| Lunch and dinner | No | Reserve in advance during major conventions. |
| Room service | No | Additional charges may apply. |
| Conference-provided meals | Depends on event | Check attendee registration inclusions. |
Official resort restaurants, menus and dining reservations ↗
Gaylord National Indoor Pool, Whirlpool, Spa & Atrium
Unlike resorts centered around outdoor water parks, Gaylord National’s signature leisure features include its glass-enclosed atrium, indoor pool and spa.
19-Story Garden Atrium
The landscaped indoor atrium is maintained at approximately 72°F and provides a distinctive environment for relaxing, walking and viewing resort displays.
Some seasonal experiences inside the resort may require tickets.
Indoor Swimming Pool
The property lists an indoor pool and whirlpool for relaxation and recreation.
Check current pool hours and guest-access restrictions before visiting.
Relâche Spa
The resort’s full-service spa offers treatments such as massage and facials. Appointments and treatment charges are separate from ordinary room reservations.
Fitness Center
A fitness center supports guests maintaining their exercise routines during business travel or resort stays.
Gaylord National Convention Center Address & Interactive Map
Correct Property Address
Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center
201 Waterfront Street
National Harbor, Maryland 20745
Telephone: 301-965-4000
Location: National Harbor waterfront, Prince George’s County, Maryland.
The map identifies the resort complex. Follow your event organizer’s instructions for the correct conference entrance and parking area.
Transportation: DCA, IAD, BWI, Metro & Water Taxi
National Harbor is accessible by car, taxi, rideshare and several regional public transportation combinations. Unlike downtown Washington, the resort does not have a Metro rail station directly at its entrance.
Nearest Airports
| Airport | Marriott-listed distance | Hotel airport shuttle |
|---|---|---|
| Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) | 6.9 miles | Not provided |
| Washington Dulles International (IAD) | 32.3 miles | Not provided |
| Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) | 42 miles | Not provided |
Arriving From Reagan National Airport
- Confirm your arrival terminal and baggage collection.
- Choose a taxi, rideshare, rental vehicle or a feasible transit combination.
- Enter 201 Waterfront Street, National Harbor, Maryland, as the destination.
- Allow for bridge and metropolitan traffic.
- Ask the hotel about baggage storage if arriving before check-in.
- Confirm your event or guestroom registration location.
Metro and Bus Connections
National Harbor does not have direct Metro rail service at the resort. Visitors may use Metrorail to a suitable station and continue by bus, taxi or rideshare, depending on current routes and operating times.
Check WMATA’s official trip planner before traveling, especially for late-night conference departures or trips with luggage.
Official Washington Metro and bus trip planner ↗
Potomac Water Taxi
Water taxi services connect selected waterfront destinations, including National Harbor and Old Town Alexandria, when operating.
Service is seasonal or schedule-dependent and should not be treated as a guaranteed airport connection or direct transport to downtown convention venues.
Check the current National Harbor departure point, tickets and last sailing before including a water taxi in your plans.
Official Potomac Water Taxi routes and tickets ↗
National Harbor Attractions, Restaurants & Things to Do Nearby
Gaylord National is within the National Harbor waterfront development, where many shops, restaurants and attractions can be reached on foot.
| Destination | Why visit | Planning note |
|---|---|---|
| The Capital Wheel | Observation wheel with views over National Harbor and the Potomac River. | Separate admission may apply. |
| National Harbor Waterfront | Promenade walking, outdoor scenery and restaurants. | Public areas may have event restrictions. |
| MGM National Harbor | Casino resort, restaurants and entertainment. | Separate property; check transportation. |
| Old Town Alexandria | Historic streets, shopping and waterfront dining. | Travel by car, transit or seasonal water taxi. |
| Tanger Outlets National Harbor | Outlet shopping and retail brands. | Requires additional travel from the waterfront. |
| Washington, D.C. | Museums, monuments and national landmarks. | Allow for travel across the river. |
| National Harbor dining district | Casual cafés, sit-down restaurants and evening dining. | Reservations help during large conventions. |
National Harbor vs Downtown Washington, D.C.
National Harbor offers a waterfront resort atmosphere, but downtown D.C. museums and major attractions are not within a short walk. Visitors planning extensive sightseeing should account for round-trip transportation time and cost.
For a convention-centered trip, staying at Gaylord National can reduce daily commuting to conference events, because the guestrooms and convention facilities are integrated into one complex.
Check-in, Checkout, Pets, Smoking & Accessibility
| Policy | Official property information |
|---|---|
| Check-in | 4 PM |
| Checkout | 11 AM |
| Minimum check-in age | 18 |
| Pets | Not allowed |
| Service animals | Permitted under applicable accessibility rules |
| Smoking | Smoke-free property |
| Self-parking | $50 daily |
| Valet | $75 for 2–24 hours |
| Breakfast | Available for a fee unless included in selected package |
| Indoor pool | Available; confirm guest-access rules |
| Fitness center | Available |
| Spa treatments | Paid services |
| Airport shuttle | Not provided |
| Cancellation policy | Depends on room rate and reservation conditions |
Accessibility at Gaylord National
Marriott lists accessible on-site parking, accessible public routes, elevators and accessible room options.
- Reserve an appropriately designated accessible guestroom.
- Confirm the specific bathroom and mobility facilities required.
- Ask about van-accessible parking.
- Check the easiest accessible resort and convention entrance.
- Confirm elevator access to your assigned meeting room.
- Request event-specific communication accommodations through the organizer.
- Check accessible pool and fitness center routes if needed.
Official Marriott accessibility and hotel policy information ↗
Gaylord National Resort Total Stay Cost: What to Budget
A room price alone does not reflect the full cost of staying at this large convention resort. Parking, breakfast, meals and any applicable mandatory fees can increase your total.
| Expense | Budget treatment |
|---|---|
| Room rate | Changes by date, view, room type and convention demand. |
| Self-parking | $50 daily. |
| Valet parking | $75 for 2–24 hours. |
| Breakfast | Paid unless included in booking. |
| Restaurant meals | Additional spending. |
| Spa treatments | Additional purchase and appointment. |
| Seasonal attractions | May require separate tickets. |
| Airport transfer | Not provided by hotel; separate expense. |
| Taxes and mandatory fees | Review the full checkout total before paying. |
| Convention registration | Separately determined by event organizer. |
Example Three-Night Budget
Assume a hypothetical room rate of $260 per night and three charged days of self-parking.
Room: $260 × 3 = $780
Self-parking: $50 × 3 = $150
Illustrative subtotal: $930 before hotel taxes, mandatory fees, meals and optional services.
The $260 nightly rate is an example, not a live quotation. Confirm the actual number of parking charges and all mandatory fees in your reservation.
How to Save Money on a Convention Stay
- Ask whether your event organizer has a Gaylord National hotel block.
- Compare room-block rates against public Marriott offers.
- Check whether parking or breakfast is included in an eligible package.
- Consider a nearby National Harbor garage for shorter convention-only visits.
- Compare the total cost of not renting a car.
- Review room cancellation conditions before booking.
- Check any resort fee, taxes and optional charges in the final total.
Hosting a Conference or Trade Show at Gaylord National
Meeting planners can organize large conventions, executive conferences, association gatherings, banquets, weddings and private events within the same resort complex.
Large Conventions
Prince George’s Exhibition Hall and the major ballrooms support trade shows, general sessions and exhibitions serving thousands of participants.
Executive and Association Meetings
Boardrooms and breakout suites offer smaller spaces for leadership meetings, workshops and parallel conference sessions.
Weddings and Waterfront Receptions
RiverView Ballroom, outdoor terraces and other special-event facilities offer riverfront settings for celebrations.
Exhibitor Services
On-site audiovisual partnerships, printing, parcel handling and convention services help support trade-show operations.
Meeting Planner Checklist
- Identify preferred dates and alternate dates.
- Estimate delegate attendance and room nights.
- Choose exhibition, ballroom and breakout requirements.
- Request current room capacity charts and floor plans.
- Specify catering, audiovisual, lighting and network needs.
- Plan exhibitor freight, printing and material handling.
- Discuss accessibility and attendee transportation.
- Request a written Marriott event proposal.
- Review venue rental, service charges, attrition and cancellation terms.
FedEx Office and Shipping
The resort lists an on-site FedEx Office Print & Ship Center on the ballroom level between the hotel and convention center.
Published service hours: 7 AM–7 PM daily.
Telephone: 301-567-0457.
Package handling charges may apply. Exhibitors and delegates should confirm delivery details and applicable receiving fees before shipping materials.
Official convention planning and event proposal information ↗
How to Book Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center
- Visit the official Gaylord National Marriott page.
- Verify the address is 201 Waterfront Street, National Harbor, Maryland.
- Enter your dates and all room occupants.
- Compare standard, atrium-view, river-view and suite categories.
- Check any eligible Marriott Bonvoy or convention rates.
- Review the room rate, taxes and mandatory fees.
- Add parking and paid breakfast to your expected budget.
- Confirm cancellation and prepayment terms.
- Complete the booking and save the confirmation.
- Contact the resort in advance about special accessibility or arrival needs.
Final Gaylord National Booking Checklist
- Correct National Harbor, Maryland property
- Exact room and view category
- $50 daily self-parking or $75 valet budgeted
- Breakfast inclusion checked
- All mandatory booking fees reviewed
- Check-in at 4 PM and checkout at 11 AM
- No ordinary pets allowed
- Airport ground transportation arranged
- Conference hall and badge location saved
- Seasonal attraction tickets purchased separately where required
Gaylord Convention Center National Harbor: 10 FAQs
1. Where is Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center located?
Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center is at 201 Waterfront Street, National Harbor, Maryland 20745, on the Potomac River southeast of Washington, D.C.
2. How much is parking at Gaylord National Convention Center?
Marriott currently lists self-parking at $25 for up to one hour, $44 for one to three hours and $50 for more than three hours or daily parking. Valet costs $48 for up to two hours and $75 for two to 24 hours.
3. How big is Gaylord National Convention Center?
Marriott lists 543,889 square feet of total event space, 93 event rooms, 101 breakout-room configurations and a largest-space capacity of up to 10,000 attendees, depending on layout.
4. Is Gaylord National Convention Center inside the hotel?
Yes. The meeting and convention facilities are integrated into the Gaylord National resort complex, allowing many hotel guests to access conference facilities without traveling to a separate property.
5. Does Gaylord National have an indoor swimming pool?
Yes. The resort lists an indoor pool, whirlpool, fitness center and Relâche Spa. Pool access and spa bookings depend on guest eligibility and operating conditions.
6. Is breakfast free at Gaylord National?
No. Breakfast is available for a fee at restaurants including Old Hickory and Potomac District Café & Market, unless an eligible room package includes it.
7. What are Gaylord National check-in and checkout times?
Marriott lists check-in at 4 PM and checkout at 11 AM. The minimum check-in age is 18.
8. Does Gaylord National provide an airport shuttle?
No. Marriott states that the resort does not provide shuttle service from Reagan National, Dulles or Baltimore/Washington International airports. Visitors should arrange transportation separately.
9. Are pets allowed at Gaylord National Resort?
No. The resort’s official policy does not permit ordinary pets. Qualifying service animals are allowed under applicable accessibility requirements.
10. Is Gaylord National in Washington, D.C.?
No. Gaylord National is in National Harbor, Maryland, not downtown Washington, D.C. It is a waterfront destination across the Potomac River from the capital area.
Official Gaylord National Hotel, Parking & Convention Resources
| Official resource | Best use |
|---|---|
| Official resort overview | Address, parking rates, check-in, guest amenities and reservations. |
| Rooms and suites | Room types, view categories, accessible rooms and rates. |
| Convention and event spaces | Floor plans, capacity charts, ballrooms and meeting proposals. |
| Restaurants and dining | Old Hickory, Harbor Social, breakfast and dining reservations. |
| Holiday attractions | ICE!, seasonal experiences, tickets and holiday programming. |
| Official photo gallery | Atrium, guestrooms, ballrooms, restaurants and waterfront photos. |
| National Harbor visitor information | Waterfront attractions, shopping, restaurants and transportation. |
| Washington Metro and bus | Current public transportation schedules and route planning. |
| Potomac Water Taxi | Current waterfront transport routes and schedules. |
Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center
Address: 201 Waterfront Street, National Harbor, MD 20745
Phone: +1 301-965-4000
Fax: +1 301-965-4098
Official website: Marriott Gaylord National