MGM National Harbor Opens in U.S. Capital Region

They’re calling it Las Vegas on the Potomac. MGM’s latest super-venture, the new MGM National Harbor opens its doors to the public tonight at 11 p.m.

“This level of private investment is unprecedented in the region, and so is what we’ve built,” said Jim Murren, chairman and CEO of MGM Resorts International. “MGM Resorts has long promoted global trade and travel – and MGM National Harbor will be a significant driver of both, strengthening Washington, D.C. as a tourist magnet.“

The hotel, located near Washington D.C., or in what’s known as the Capital Region, is located on top of a hill overlooking the region’s historic Potomac River. It will become the first gaming resort in the region that is better known for political wrangling and backroom deal making.

Of course, American politicians are all gamblers of a sort. Just ask a billionaire businessman from New York City whether he was willing to bet on a future as president of the United States. So maybe the region is ready for a more traditional house of gaming.

Even if you’re not into gaming, the resort is worth checking out, just for the views alone. The resort’s architecture is inspired by the where it is located, but it also surrounded by the lush woodlands and rolling riverscape of Prince George’s County. From within the resort grounds, guests can see the Washington Monument, National Mall, U.S. Capitol, Potomac River, National Harbor and Old Town Alexandria. Not a bad way to start off a stay.

The $1.4 billion MGM National Harbor project, which is being billed as “more than simply a casino or hotel,” takes much inspiration from its Las Vegas brethren. Some 15 on-site food venues and restaurants are helmed by the likes to such celebrated chefs as José Andrés, Marcus Samuelsson, and Michael and Bryan Voltaggio.

Unlike its sister properties, however, the hotel features just 308 rooms, including 74 suites. Rooms range from 400 to 3,210 square feet, and all feature floor-to-ceiling views to capitalize on the capital view of the Capitol. The on-site 125,000-square-foot casino features an Asian gaming pit with 16 Macau-style Baccarat tables; more than 3,300 slot machines, 126 table games, a 39-table poker room and a luxury high-limit gaming room.

Shades of Bellagio, the resort includes The Conservatory at MGM National Harbor, a 15,000-square-foot floral attraction created by acclaimed designer Ed Libby that will be updated seasonally. The opening exhibit, “Holiday Reflections,” is comprised of more than 150,000 flowers. The resort also includes a curated art program with works from more than 70 local and national artists, including Alice Aycock and John Safer. The sculpted iron archway was designed by Bob Dylan, the folk artist’s first permanent display of public art

There’s also an eclectic retail district with numerous high-end offerings, including Fink’s Rolex, Stitched and Ella Rue as well as the first standalone boutique for SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker. A 3,000-seat entertainment venue will play host to a variety of A-list performers, including Bruno Mars, Cher, Ricky Martin, Sting, Lionel Richie and Duran Duran. Nightlight options are further extended with two original nightlife concepts from Clique Hospitality, which are rolling out the region’s first tableside mixology program.

For rest and relaxation, there’s an on-site, two-level 27,000-square-foot Spa & Salon with 11 treatment rooms, a hydrotherapy room, a Vichy room and an exclusive wellness program developed by Clarins.

Room reservations can be made for stays starting December 10 at www.mgmnationalharbor.com. Room rates start from $299 and suite rates begin at $399.

Follow @MonicaPoling