Sphere-style venue near National Harbor could signal broader entertainment expansion

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY, Md. (7News) — Prince George’s County leaders said a planned sphere-style entertainment venue near National Harbor could mark the beginning of a broader push to transform major sites across the county into year-round entertainment and economic hubs.

County officials view the project as more than a single attraction, calling it part of a larger strategy to bring destination-style development to Prince George’s County — and reduce its long-standing reputation as a bedroom community.

Just miles away, another massive property is drawing renewed attention: the nearly 500-acre Six Flags America site in Bowie, which has closed and is now up for sale. County leaders said the land presents a rare redevelopment opportunity, with interest in large-scale entertainment concepts that could include hotels, attractions, and potentially gaming-related uses designed to draw visitors beyond the summer season.

Once the Washington Commanders relocate, focus is also expected to shift to the future of Northwest Stadium in Landover.

Leaders have signaled interest in reimagining the site as a mixed-use entertainment and commercial district, potentially featuring dining, retail, and other attractions, with even gaming or casino-style entertainment also being discussed as possibilities.

Northwest Stadium, home of the Washington Commanders, in Landover, Md. on Dec. 18, 2024. (Brad Bell/7News)

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Prince George’s County Council Chair Krystal Oriadha said the goal is to create destination spaces that generate sustained economic activity and new revenue streams for the county.

“What the county executive has been laser focused on, what the council has been laser focused on, is looking for opportunities for destination spaces here in Prince George’s County,” Oriadha said. “We’re thinking about how to generate revenue and economic development that goes beyond being a bedroom community.”

Oriadha added that leaders continue to monitor multiple redevelopment opportunities, including the Six Flags site, the stadium property, and areas along the Blue Line corridor.

For Prince George’s County, the convergence of these opportunities represents a rare moment, with several large, high-profile sites simultaneously in play. While no final redevelopment decisions have been made, county leaders said the long-term vision centers on job creation, increased tourism, and establishing Prince George’s County as a regional entertainment destination.