The hype
Guests love the location and views but consistently grumble about the small beds and expensive add-ons.
The Westin Washington National Harbor
$165-260/ night
Book this if You want the best Potomac River views in National Harbor without the chaotic mega-resort vibe of the Gaylord next door.
Why People Love It
- Stunning floor-to-ceiling waterfront views from river-facing rooms
- Walkable access to MGM, Tanger Outlets, and The Capital Wheel
- Pet-friendly policy that actually welcomes dogs (up to 40lbs)
Quick Take: A solid, scenic business hotel that charges luxury prices for 'full' size beds and $60 valet parking.
Reviewed by @letsgetstamps: I needed a reliable spot in the DMV and this was perfect. The location is unbeatable for hitting up National Harbor, and the room was super clean. Putting on that robe and checking out the view was my favorite part.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Recent reports of missed housekeeping details (hair on pillows, stained duvets) contradict the generally 'spotless' reputation.
- You prioritize a water view over room size
- You are attending a conference at the Gaylord but want a quieter place to sleep
- You are traveling with a dog
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Generally reliable daily service, though recent reviews cite missed details like hair on pillows.
- Bathroom hygiene: Sparkling. Grout is usually white, and glass showers are streak-free.
- Maintenance: Good condition. Renovated in 2019, so it doesn't feel dated yet.
- Linens & towels: Crisp and white, but check your duvet cover upon arrival (recent stain complaints).
- Odors & scents: Signature Westin 'White Tea' scent in the lobby; rooms are generally fresh.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Hallway chatter due to gaps under doors
- Occasional aircraft noise (DCA flight path)
- Street noise on lower city-view floors
Before you book
Good to know
- The 'Destination Fee' includes bike rentals and a daily F&B credit — use it or lose it.
- Mariner Garage is a 2-minute walk and costs ~$25/night vs. the hotel's $60 valet.
- Check-in is at 4pm, and they are strict about it; early check-in is rarely free.
What to pack
- Earplugs for the hallway noise
- Walking shoes for the trek to MGM or the Outlets
- A sweater for the aggressively air-conditioned lobby
Room Genie
Best picks
- River View King (High Floor): Unbeatable sunset views over the Potomac.
- Corner Rooms: slightly more square footage and dual-aspect windows.
Rooms to avoid
- City View Double: You get a parking lot view and tiny full-size beds.
- Rooms near the ice machine/elevator banks: High foot traffic noise.
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love to request a high-floor River View room (5th or 6th floor) away from the elevators. Please confirm if my double room has Full or Queen beds, as we need the extra space.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is breakfast included?
No. It's an expensive buffet or à la carte at Sauciety ($16-$30/person). Walk to a nearby cafe instead.
How bad is the parking situation?
Valet is $60/day with in/out privileges. Self-park at the Mariner Garage (183 ft away) for ~$25/day.
Are the beds really that small?
Yes. The 'Double' rooms have 53-inch wide Full beds, not 60-inch Queens. It's a tight squeeze for couples.
Is there a pool?
Yes, a heated indoor pool and whirlpool, open 8am-10pm. Good for laps, not a resort-style hang.
Can I walk to the MGM Casino?
It's a bit of a hike (uphill, ~20 mins) or a very short Uber/shuttle ride. Not a casual stroll in heels.
Is it pet friendly?
Yes, very. 2 pets up to 40lbs allowed for a $50 non-refundable fee per night.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Skip the hotel Starbucks line; go to MahoganyBooks Coffee Bar for better local coffee and vibes.
- ✨
The 'Destination Fee' often includes a daily credit for the lobby market — grab your waters/snacks there before checkout.
- ✨
Watch the sunset from the public pier near the Capital Wheel instead of paying for a view room if you're on a budget.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'City View' is often just a view of the parking garage across the street.
💡The elevators can be painfully slow during checkout time (10-11am).
💡There is no free shuttle to the MGM; you have to pay for the Harbor Circulator or Uber.
💡The bathroom sliding doors in some rooms offer zero acoustic privacy.
💡You can hear the atrium music in the lower-floor rooms.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Westin Washington National Harbor is located and what's nearby.