Washington, D.C. is more than the capital of United States and the home to a number of government agencies and contractors. It is a hub of diversity and innovation, with several technology startups, according to Hatch IT and BuiltIn. SHARE members will relish the luxurious surroundings of the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center at National Harbor for five days of technical education and networking.
SHARE members will have a unique opportunity to see some of the more unique aspects of the nation’s capital. A short distance from the Gaylord Convention Center is Seward Johnson, Jr.’s “The Awakening,” which was moved from Hains Point in East Potomac Park. This 70-foot giant buried in the sand has become a favorite for visitors. Or walk down the pier to The Capital Wheel and take a ride 180 feet above the historically significant Potomac River in one of 42 climate-controlled gondolas, taking in the Washington Monument and more.
Spirit Park is one of the newest editions to National Harbor, in which 13 American flags stand tall for the 13 original colonies. It also features one-of-a-kind installations, including the scrap iron and cast-bronze bison created by artist John Lopez.
Take a Moment to Relax and Refuel
Try your luck at MGM National Harbor or take in a show. Grab a nightcap at Felt where the mixologists craft seasonal favorites and in-the-moment cocktails in a lively space. Or stop by Blossom for a more relaxed atmosphere where SHARE members can sit back and talk about what they’ve learned from the latest sessions amid the cherry blossoms.
Asian to Mexican, National Harbor has endless options for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Check out the laid back Brother Jimmy's BBQ, where you can fill up on appetizers from catfish bites to frickles or grab a smoked brisket sandwich or a platter of pulled pork, but don’t forget the cornbread. Rosa Mexicano has traditional Mexican cuisine, such as ceviche and flautas, and its where they make the guacamole tableside. Fogo de Chão offers fare in the Brazilian tradition of churrasco grilling, and dishes of lamb, fish, or chicken that can be paired with a South American wine, beer, or one of their signature cocktails.
Looking for a classic steak or elegant seafood for dinner with locally sourced ingredients, check out Voltaggio Brothers Steak House, and don’t miss out on the blue crab pop tart. Italian lovers should check out Fiorella Italian Kitchen and Pizzeria and those looking for Korean-influenced Southern cuisine shouldn’t miss James Beard Award winner, Chef Edward Lee’s menu at Succotash.
For a taste of the night life, stop by Bobby McKey’s Dueling Piano Bar where the high-energy show is guaranteed to make you laugh and be entertained. Everyone needs a stress reliever now and again. Check out some of the artists here. Want to exercise your analytical skills? Check out Escapology with their immersive experiences in which SHARE members and their colleagues can work together to find clues, decipher codes, and solve puzzles.
Other Area Attractions Within Driving Distance:
SHARE members can take in the sights and sounds of the area to rejuvenate their minds with the intricacies of the nation’s history and culture. Over a meal or cocktail, members can discuss the latest technology trends and share their experiences. SHARE Washington, D.C. offers a unique way to experience history and innovate for the future.
Register now for SHARE Washington, D.C., Feb. 23-27, to lock in your early-bird rate.
Serena Agusto-Cox has more than 20 years of editorial experience and six years of experience writing about mainframe and information technology. She interviews and crafts forward-looking and engaging technical updates related to the mainframe ecosystem, highlights the experiences of thought-leaders in the community, and shares important updates to technical education and training.