Must-Visit Attractions and Activities in Bethesda, MD

Looking for things to do in Bethesda, Maryland? The thriving urban community is home to a variety of attractions, parks, recreational facilities, shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Bethesda is a popular destination to visit from around the capital region and has convenient access to downtown Washington DC and I-495. Click through the following to learn about the “must-sees” of Bethesda.

01. Dining

Downtown Bethesda is renowned for its dining options in Montgomery County, Maryland. Visitors can find fine restaurants serving contemporary American, Mediterranean, French, and Latin American cuisine. Enjoy savings at some of the best dining experiences during Bethesda Montgomery County Restaurant Week, held each winter and summer. During the warmer months, outdoor dining enhances the experience.

02. Walk or Bike Along the Capital Crescent Trail

The Capital Crescent Trail is an ideal path for walking, jogging, biking, or rollerblading. It conveniently extends from Georgetown in DC to Silver Spring, Maryland, offering a picturesque recreation spot in Downtown Bethesda.

03. Visit Glen Echo Park

Glen Echo Park is a National Park for the Arts, providing year-round activities in dance, theater, visual arts, and environmental education. Visitors can enjoy an antique carousel, picnics, dance classes, and various art shows or special events throughout the year.

04. Enjoy a Concert at Strathmore

This state-of-the-art concert hall, with a capacity of 2,000 seats, features world-class performances across genres including folk, blues, pop, jazz, classical music, and more. The Mansion offers a more intimate setting for smaller performances alongside outdoor summer concerts.

05. Explore Cabin John Regional Park

Learn more about Cabin John Regional Park for detailed information.

06. Attend Special Events

Bethesda hosts several popular events throughout the year, including:

• Bethesda Literary Festival
• Bethesda Fine Arts Festival
• Imagination Bethesda
• Bethesda Outdoor Movies
• Taste of Bethesda
• Bethesda Row Arts Festival

07. See a Show at the Round House Theatre

As a thriving non-profit theater company in Montgomery County, Round House Theatre produces nearly 200 performances each season across its locations in Bethesda and Silver Spring. The main theatre in Bethesda accommodates 400 seats, while the Silver Spring venue features 150 seats and an education program. Read more about Roundhouse Theatre for additional information.

08. Take the Kids to Imagination Stage

Imagination Stage offers a variety of theater productions targeted at children year-round. The organization also hosts classes and summer camps focusing on essential skills such as drama, acting, dance, musical theater, and filmmaking for learners of all ages.

09. Listen to Music at Bethesda Blues & Jazz

The Bethesda Blues & Jazz Supper Club offers live music in a state-of-the-art venue set in a historic building. Patrons can enjoy delicious New Orleans-style cuisine while experiencing vibrant performances.

10. See an Independent Film at Bethesda Row Cinema

The eight-screen movie theater, located in the heart of Bethesda, specializes in first-run independent films and foreign language selections, as well as documentaries and classic revivals. This venue serves as an ideal spot for film enthusiasts looking for unique cinematic experiences.

Explore more about Bethesda, Maryland for additional insights and information.