The National Harbor as seen from across the Potomac River. — Photo courtesy of National Harbor

The National Harbor in Fort Washington, Maryland is already one of the hottest shopping and dining destinations in the Washington, D.C. area. With dozens of stores, shops, boutiques and a wide variety of restaurants, the National Harbor is a favorite place for area residents to spend a day. Add in the beautiful location along the tree-lined banks of the Potomac River and the beautiful marina on-site and it's easy to understand why.

Diners enjoy a meal next to the Potomac River at the National Harbor. — Photo courtesy of National Harbor

Now comes word that the shopping options at the National Harbor are going to soon expand. Tanger Outlet Center has broken ground on a $100 million development at the Harbor. If you are planning a trip the Washington, D.C. area later in 2013, you can be among the first to shop at the new center. It's expected to open sometime in summer or early fall.

Shoppers enjoy the wonderful experience at the National Harbor. — Photo courtesy of National Harbor 

The new outlet mall will cover some 35 acres and feature at least 90 different stores from well-known brands. Look for names such as Calvin Klein, H&M, IZOD, Tommy Hilfiger, Banana Republic, White House/Black Market, Chico's, J. Crew and Le Creuset. It will feature both covered and open-air pathways and a park-like setting. This is the first D.C. area outlet center from the well-known Tanger family of outlet malls.