Holiday Magic (and Real Talk) at National Harbor
For Christmas, I love being able to take trips and enjoy unique experiences rather than purchasing a lot of gifts. My children get toys, technology, and clothes all throughout the school year. By the time Christmas comes around, they already have enough. Getting them more, in my opinion, would not serve them. To drive my point home, here is a quick story time. I was cleaning out my daughter’s closet and found unopened toys. Things they have not yet opened. This was my sign to focus again this year on our annual activity tradition. In today’s blog post, I am sharing our holiday experience (real talk) at National Harbor.
Holiday Magic (and Real Talk) at National Harbor
This year, I decided to try something new. Two years ago, we went to the Christmas Events, ICE!, at the Gaylord National Harbor. I will link that blog and video down below. We stayed at MGM National Harbor this time because I booked during a Marriott promotion that made the rate more affordable. The location was convenient for enjoying seasonal activities, especially traveling back and forth to ICE! at the Gaylord National Resort. While the convenience was a plus, the service at MGM was very disappointing. From a challenging check-in experience to slow responses, it did not reflect the level of service I expected. Next year, we may reconsider where we stay, but for proximity to the holiday attractions, it served its purpose. I will say that the conservatory was phenomenal and beautiful to look at. Their decorations were top-tier.
The food at the MGM National Harbor was pretty good as well. Some days the options are limited, but the weekends have plenty of options. Compared to the food we experienced at the Gaylord was much better. We ate at Ginger, Bread + Butter, the Sunday Jazz Brunch at Osteria Costa, Bellagio Patisserie, Diablo’s Cantina.
ICE! at the Gaylord
ICE at the Gaylord remains a holiday experience our family looks forward to each year. While this year felt a bit less winterized and festive than in the past, it still delivered memorable moments. The theme was The Polar Express, and even with a more subtle presentation, the experience was enjoyable. We came better prepared for the cold temperatures with proper layers, which made a noticeable difference. Watching the kids take in the ice sculptures and experience the magic of the season through their excitement made the visit worthwhile.
We also made time for snow tubing, which turned out to be one of the highlights of the trip. The laughter and excitement made it a moment we will remember. This year, we chose to skip the Snowball Blast and the holiday scavenger hunt. That decision allowed us to slow down and enjoy being together without feeling rushed. Sometimes doing less creates space for more meaningful memories.
Overall, our National Harbor trip reminded me that creating holiday memories starts with intention. Making time means being willing to plan ahead and protect space on the calendar. Planning helps manage expectations and reduces stress when traveling with kids. Budgeting makes these experiences more attainable by prioritizing what matters most and taking advantage of promotions when possible. With thoughtful preparation and realistic choices, experiences like this can become meaningful traditions that moms can enjoy alongside their families.
Final Thoughts: Worth the Chill and the Memories
Trips like this remind me that holiday memories are more impactful on us than presents. My motto is “presence over presents”. Moments like this require intention. Making time for seasonal experiences means being willing to pause busy schedules and choose moments that bring your family together. To make moments like this successful, a little advance planning goes a long way. Booking early, reviewing schedules, and setting realistic expectations help reduce stress and allow you to enjoy the experience as it unfolds.
Budgeting also plays a key role. Taking advantage of promotions, choosing which activities matter most, and skipping others without guilt make these trips more accessible. You do not have to do everything to create meaningful memories. With thoughtful planning, smart budgeting, and a commitment to making time, experiences like National Harbor can become traditions your family looks forward to year after year.
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