Fri Sep 11, 2026

Celebrate America's 250th at theWaterfront!

Soar to New Heights

Tickets

Waterfront Lounge

Flight Deck

Classic fun & new memories

Spirit Park Carousel

Celebrate crisp autumn days and America’s 250th anniversary at National Harbor—where history, heights, and cozy fall vibes collide. From the iconic glow of the Washington Monument framed by vibrant foliage to the cool autumn breezes along the Potomac River, join us for a season-long tribute to the red, white, and blue. Whether you’re soaring 180 feet into the fall sky, cozying up for date night, or catching spectacular sunsets over the river, every moment is a landmark occasion.

Discover the 250 Celebration:

The Capital Wheel: Soar above the vibrant autumn skyline for magnificent views of the Washington Monument and Capitol Building in climate-controlled comfort.
Flight Deck Waterfront Bar & Lounge: The ultimate spot for fall date nights, spectacular sunsets over the Potomac, and seasonal drinks along the crisp riverfront.
Spirit Park Carousel: Timeless family fun featuring our new Wildlife Package for the ultimate autumn day of play and treats.
National Harbor Waterfront: Explore 300 acres of waterfront adventure, from premier dining and boutique shopping to cozy sunset strolls along the river.

What's Spinning

Upcoming Events

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Teacher Appreciation Month

Saturday, September 5, 12, 19 and 26

Teachers ride free every Saturday in September at The Capital Wheel, just show a valid teacher ID and soar 180 feet over the Potomac taking in the beautiful skyline. Available at Ticket Booth only.

Beertober

Cheers to Fall – celebrate Octoberfest at Flight Deck waterfront lounge and bar where the beers are cold and tasty. Draft beer $8 all month. Available during Flight Deck hours of operation.

Breast Cancer Awareness

Wednesday, October 7, 14, 21 and 28

Light up pink for a powerful cause! Join us for Breast Cancer Awareness Wednesdays at The Capital Wheel, featuring a customized pink lighting display to support the fight against breast cancer.

Harbor Halloween

Sunday, October 25

Kids in costume ride free all day with an adult ticket!

Harbor Halloween Trick or Treat

Sunday, October 25 from 12-2 p.m.

Harbor Halloween Trick or Treat at Spirit Park Carousel, 12-2 pm, candy and free rides for all kids in costume

Howl-o-ween

Sunday, October 25

Waggin’ at the Wheel presents Howl-o-ween: Dogs ride free with a paying adult (up to 2 dogs per ticket) all day at The Capital Wheel!

Harbor Holidays

Saturday, November 7

Meet Santa from Noon to 4 p.m. and greet toy soldier stilt walkers before the tree at National Harbor comes to life for the first time of the season. The tree lighting ceremony begins at 5:30 with fireworks immediately following.

Veterans Day

Tuesday, November 11

All Active & Retired Service Members Ride The Capital Wheel Free. Accompanying family members are eligible for the military discount. Valid ID required.

Photos with Santa Paws

Saturdays November 28 - December 19

Meet Santa from Noon to 2 p.m. every Saturday where dogs ride free with a paying adult.

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Fireworks at National Habor

Saturdays November 7 - December 26

View the National Harbor fireworks from the best seat at the top of The Capital Wheel! Every Saturday at 5:30 from November 8 through December 27.

Photos with Santa

November 27, 28 and 29. December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 and 20

Meet Santa at The Capital Wheel every Saturday and Sunday beginning November 29!

Celebrate Your Event in Lights

Whether you’re planning a gender reveal, proposal, anniversary, or any other momentous occasion, The Capital Wheel is the perfect way to share your exciting news in dazzling, colorful lights. Create an unforgettable experience that friends, family, and loved ones will talk about for years to come.

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Silver Spin

Purchase a regular priced General Admission ticket to The Capital Wheel and present your ticket at Silver Diner to receive a free dessert with the purchase of an entrée.

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The National Harbor

OUR PLACE ON THE POTOMAC: A LEGACY 250 YEARS IN THE MAKING

National Harbor sits proudly on the banks of the historic Potomac River, just minutes from the heart of our nation’s capital. As we join the country in celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States, this 300-acre waterfront destination stands as a modern tribute to American ingenuity and spirit. Developed by Peterson Companies, this vibrant district has become a "must-visit" landmark, home to 160 stores, 40 restaurants, and the best sunsets in the D.C. area. The Waterfront District offers a revolutionary blend of boutique shops and entertainment along picturesque promenades. At its center, The Capital Wheel—our 180-ft observation wheel—invites guests to soar for unprecedented views of the Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol, truly the "high point" of any 250th-anniversary pilgrimage. National Harbor is also home to two of Maryland’s Four Diamond rated hotels, The Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center: The East Coast’s largest non-gaming hotel, featuring nearly 2,000 rooms and sprawling event spaces. Along with MGM National Harbor: A luxury integrated resort with chef-driven dining, a state-of-the-art theater, and world-class gaming. From the incredible deals at Tanger Outlets to interactive public art and a robust calendar of patriotic events, National Harbor welcomes more than 12 million visitors a year. Whether you are a resident or a guest, come experience the Spirit of '76 and beyond at the premier destination on the Potomac.