
MGM National Harbor
Best for nightlife, gaming, big-group events and a waterfront resort feel with many dining options.
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MGM National Harbor is a 5-star casino resort on the National Harbor waterfront with a large spa, seasonal rooftop pool and a 3,000-seat theater—good for travelers who want lively nightlife, entertainment and many on-site restaurants. The St. Regis Washington, D.C. is a traditional five-star luxury hotel in central DC—best for travelers who prioritize classic luxury, a quiet downtown location, and proximity to the White House and museums.
Updated · about 8 km apart

Best for nightlife, gaming, big-group events and a waterfront resort feel with many dining options.

Best for a quiet, classic five-star stay steps from the White House, museums and DC business addresses.
When MGM National Harbor wins: choose MGM National Harbor if you want casino gaming, a large live-entertainment theater, a rooftop seasonal pool and a wide variety of casual-to-upscale dining on-site.
When The St. Regis Washington, D.C. wins: pick The St. Regis for a more traditional, quiet five-star hotel in central DC with short walks to Lafayette Square, K Street and many downtown attractions.
Bottom line: both are upscale 5-star choices; pick MGM National Harbor for resort energy and entertainment on the Potomac, or The St. Regis for classic downtown luxury and proximity to DC landmarks.
| Category | MGM National Harbor | The St. Regis Washington, D.C. |
|---|---|---|
| Overall vibe | Resort-style, lively, casino and entertainment focus | Classic, traditional five-star downtown hotel |
| Location | National Harbor waterfront, Maryland side of the Potomac | 16th St NW near Lafayette Square and the White House, downtown Washington, DC |
| Size | 308 rooms (includes 74 suites); large meeting/ballroom complex and 3,000-seat theater | 182 guestrooms; conference/meeting space ~2,508 sq ft |
| Ages / access | All ages welcome in rooms and pool; 21+ to check in and gamble; spa 18+ | Welcomes all ages (18+ check-in age per supplier listing); not adults-only |
| Pools | Seasonal rooftop outdoor pool (Memorial Day–Labor Day typical) with cabanas | Not published |
| Restaurants & bars | 12–15+ on-site venues including Voltaggio Brothers Steak House, food hall, casual and nightlife spots | 1 restaurant (The Alhambra) plus 24-hour room service; Mediterranean fine dining highlighted |
| Spa & wellness | The Spa & Salon — two levels, 27,000 sq ft, hydrotherapy, Vichy room, adults-only policy for spa use | Health or beauty spa nearby; fitness/concierge services listed (supplier listing does not detail an on-site full spa) |
| Known for | Casino gaming, theater shows, large events and a broad dining lineup | Traditional St. Regis service and a central, walkable DC address near the White House |
| Parking & transport | On-site parking (self and valet for a fee); close to water taxi and National Harbor attractions | Valet parking (surcharge); central DC walking access to many sights and transit |
| Wi‑Fi | Wi‑Fi included via resort fee (resort fee applies) | Free WiFi (supplier listing) |
MGM sits on the National Harbor waterfront in Oxon Hill, MD, minutes from Potomac attractions and a short trip to downtown DC.
Choose MGM if you want a waterfront resort base with easy access to National Harbor attractions and river transport.
The St. Regis is in central Washington, within a few blocks of Lafayette Square, K Street and the White House.
Choose The St. Regis for a central DC location and short walks to key federal and cultural sites.
MGM offers 308 rooms across 23 floors with a range of resort room types and suites.
MGM’s rooms suit guests who want modern resort accommodations and easy access to on-site entertainment.
The St. Regis has 182 guestrooms with classic, traditional five-star room types and several named suites.
The St. Regis suits travelers who value classic luxury rooms, signature suites and attentive service in a downtown setting.
MGM is a multi-venue resort with casual, midrange and upscale options across 12–15+ dining outlets.
MGM is best if you want variety on property—from quick bites to special-occasion steakhouses and nightlife dining.
The St. Regis emphasizes traditional fine dining with a single highlighted restaurant and 24-hour room service.
The St. Regis fits travelers who prefer an in-hotel fine-dining experience plus easy access to DC’s restaurant scene.
MGM’s signature amenity is a seasonal rooftop outdoor pool with river views and cabanas.
MGM delivers a resort-style pool experience for summer stays and families.
The supplier listing for The St. Regis does not publish an on-site pool.
If a seasonal outdoor pool is a priority, MGM is the clearer choice; The St. Regis does not publish a pool on its supplier listing.
MGM pairs a large Clarins-partnered spa with a casino, bars and a theater for nightlife and wellness.
MGM combines a substantive wellness facility with active nightlife and live entertainment.
The St. Regis emphasizes traditional concierge-led luxury and quieter, refined nightlife nearby.
Pick The St. Regis for subdued, polished service and easy access to downtown evening options rather than on-site casino nightlife.

MGM National Harbor — full casino floor, 3,000-seat theater and multiple nightlife venues.

The St. Regis Washington, D.C. — short walks to Lafayette Square, the White House and downtown museums.

MGM National Harbor — 12–15+ restaurants and casual options including a food hall.

The St. Regis Washington, D.C. — a traditional St. Regis experience with formal service and signature suites.
MGM National Harbor is more family-friendly for casual dining and the seasonal pool; it’s a resort with family-oriented options despite a casino focus. The St. Regis is more adult-oriented in atmosphere but families can stay there too.
The St. Regis Washington, D.C. — its central location puts many embassies, law firms and downtown offices within walking distance.
Yes. MGM National Harbor has The Spa & Salon (27,000 sq ft). The St. Regis listing notes a health/beauty spa nearby but does not publish details of an on-site full spa in the supplier listing.
Yes — MGM National Harbor has a casino; guests must be 21 or older to gamble and to check in as the primary guest.
Explore how MGM National Harbor stacks up against other hotels nearby:
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