Location: 201 Waterfront St., National Harbor, Md.
Drive time: A little less than three hours.
Cost: Rates vary widely throughout December, but you’ll find the lowest prices—$139, double occupancy—between the 17th and the 30th. Other times of the month, rates range from $199 to $239.
The scoop: Opened in 2008, the 2,000-room Gaylord is the centerpiece of National Harbor, a 300-acre resort town located about 15 minutes north of Washington, D.C. Rooms are posh yet comfortable, furnished in warm woods with Chesapeake-inspired accents.
Amenities: Seven on-site eateries and drinkeries range from a high-end steakhouse to a sports bar, to a contemporary lounge/dance club. Relâche Spa offers a full menu of services.
Don’t miss: Gaylord National’s ICE!, an interactive, walk-through display that recreates Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas out of 2 million pounds of ice.
Contact: (301) 965-4000, gaylordhotels.com
