First-rate networking opportunities, engaging talks, and inspiring panels have been the cornerstone of Elevate, ATPCO’s global conference. This year, we are thrilled to host at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center near Washington, DC. With your head buzzing from the incredible insights you’ll have picked up during the conference, it’s time to take a moment for yourself and experience what this unique venue has to offer before you fly home. Be our guest as we share a perfect Thursday spent at the National Harbor and Downtown Washington, DC.
A Thursday in the city – exploring the National Harbor and Downtown Washington, DC
0800 – Begin your day with a quick bite to eat at the Gaylord’s Harbor Marketplace. From pre-made offerings to made-to-order specialties, you’ll find what you’re craving as you start your day.
0900 – Step outside the Gaylord at the corner of Fleet St and Waterfront St to check out the scenic Potomac River with a Capital Bikeshare ride. Take in views like the Potomac’s soft river waves and the enthralling monolith of the Capital Wheel.
1000 – Bike your way to the Tanger Outlets, only 15 minutes away. Stay a while – you can dock your bike at their Outlet location and take a few hours to shop the stores like Elie Tahari, Hugo Boss, and Michael Kors. You never know what you’ll find!
1230 – Grab a Lyft and head back to the Gaylord to drop off your shopping bags – it’s time for lunch! Enjoy the views at the Walrus Oyster & Ale House on Waterfront Street. I recommend the tuna à la tartare or a half dozen fresh oysters for a light and fresh starter and ending with the pan-seared scallops – they’re cooked to perfection.
1430 – After lunch, walk down to the waterfront and hop onto the Water Taxi to take a leisurely boat ride down the Potomac River to Georgetown. Enjoy the Washington monuments with an incredible view during this hour-long ride.
1600 – The cobblestone streets of Georgetown are rich with history, lined by gorgeous architecture, and filled with lovely little shops. Satisfy your sweet tooth by popping into Baked and Wired for a scrumptious cupcake, or bask in the sunlight as you walk down the old Georgetown C & O Canal.
1800 – Jump back onto the Water Taxi to head back to National Harbor. There’s nothing more beautiful than the lights of the monuments against the backdrop of an evening sky.
1930 – End your perfect day at Bobby McKey’s Dueling Piano Bar! This fun bar showcases two piano players trying to out-do one another as they sing songs from yesterday and today.
There are countless ways you can spend a Thursday to get a sense of the excitement and fun National Harbor and Washington, DC, have to offer. Switch out your bike ride for a relaxing massage. Spend your afternoon at the MGM Grand Resort & Casino trying your luck at the slots. Picnic on the National Mall while taking in the sights of the Washington Monument and the Capital. The possibilities are endless. And at the excellent rate of $205 per night we’ve snagged at the Gaylord, there’s no reason not to extend your stay by one day. We’ll see you in October, and I can’t wait to hear about what you have planned to explore!
