Event Photos

The $1.4 billion MGM National Harbor casino on the Potomac River near Washington, D.C. opened doors to the public Thursday, December 8th around 10:30 at night. The casino floor was promptly flooded by 5,000 customers. Around midnight access was restricted because the casino had reached capacity.

The public started getting its first view of the 24-story hotel Saturday night with unique views of the D.C. skyline. The first luxury gaming resort in the nation’s capital has 308 rooms with premier amenities.

During the first week the casino has continued reaching capacity level crowds since the grand opening.

Some first-hand observations by Fantini staff:

• The property gives off a luxurious feel and does seem like a slice of Las Vegas on the East Coast as CEO Jim Mullen has touted. Murren said he expects National Harbor to draw customers from throughout the country and not just divide the Washington-Baltimore market.

• Before the casino floor had opened to the public at the VIP event, the lowest table minimums were at $25.

• The hotel lobby is small, and is on the opposite end of the property from the parking garage.

• The 3000-seat theater offers Vegas style entertainment and featured Cirque du Soleil opening night, along with the JabbaWockeex and The Blue Man Group

• The curated art program features more than 70 artists including pieces from Alice Aycock, folk singer Bob Dylan and John Safer.

• The expansive casino has over 3,300 slot machines, 126 table games, 39-table poker room, a luxury high-limit gaming room and semi private salons.

• The Conservatory boasts a 15,000 square foot floral arrangement that changes seasonally. The inaugural exhibit called Holiday Reflections was crafted by designer Ed Libby and is covered with 150,000 flowers.

• Outdoor smoking areas are located conveniently from the slot floor, and include heating stations and fireplaces along with views of National Harbor.