31 Things to Do in Bethesda, MD

Bethesda is a vibrant city rich with cultural, recreational, and culinary experiences for residents of all ages. Whether hiking in the park with the kids or meeting friends for drinks, there are always fun things to do in Bethesda, making it an ideal place to call home. This dynamic lifestyle makes Bethesda an ideal place to call home.

Cultural and Historical Explorations

Bethesda offers history buffs and art lovers a wealth of cultural and historical sites to enjoy.

Museums and Art Galleries

The museums and galleries in Bethesda offer insights into the local art scene as well as stunning works from around the world, showcasing some of the best things to do in Bethesda, MD. Even kids can enjoy the art and culture of Bethesda!

Strathmore. 5301 Tuckerman Ln, North Bethesda, MD 20852.
- This premier arts venue hosts concerts, art exhibits, and educational programs.
Imagination Stage. 4908 Auburn Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814.
- A children's theater and arts center offering a variety of performances and arts education programs.
Waverly Street Gallery. 4600 East-West Hwy, Bethesda, MD 20814.
- A cooperative gallery showcasing contemporary works by local artists.
Glen Echo Park. 7300 MacArthur Blvd, Glen Echo, MD 20812.
- A theater, event, and activity center offering classes, performances, and festivals.

Historical Landmarks

Bethesda has been around for a long time, since long before Europeans settled the area. Enjoy all that the city’s historical landmarks have to offer.

Lockhouse 6 - C & O Canal Trust. 6100 Clara Barton Parkway. Bethesda, MD 20816.
- Supreme Court Justice William Douglas sought to protect this land as an outdoor sanctuary for public recreation. Lockhouse 6 is one of the canal quarters in the area.
Five Points Historic Crossroads. Intersection of Old Georgetown Road (Maryland Route 187) and Wisconsin Avenue (Maryland Route 355).
- Commercial crossroads in use for nearly 300 years.
Battery Bailey. 5315 Elliott Road, Bethesda, MD 20816.
- Battery Bailey was constructed during the Civil War as part of a string of connected batteries to guard the reservoir of the Washington aqueduct and the Potomac River shoreline against the Confederate Army.

Outdoor Activities and Nature in Bethesda

Bethesda is a great destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering numerous things to do in Bethesda, Maryland!

Parks and Recreational Areas

Enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities offered by Bethesda's parks. Here are just a few to get you outside!

Cabin John Regional Park. 7400 Tuckerman Ln, Bethesda, MD 20817.
- Features playgrounds, hiking trails, and sports facilities. Includes a dog park so you can enjoy the outdoors with your four-legged friends!
Locust Grove Nature Center. 7777 Democracy Blvd, Bethesda, MD 20817.
- Offers educational programs, nature trails, campfire rings, and a picnic pavilion.
Battery Lane Urban Park. 4960 Battery Ln, Bethesda, MD 20814.
- Take the kids to this playground that’s a favorite among locals.

Annual Outdoor Events

Bethesda hosts various outdoor events throughout the year, perfect for family outings and community gatherings, making it one of the best places to find things to do in Bethesda, MD.

Taste of Bethesda. The event is held along Norfolk, St. Elmo, Cordell, Del Ray, and Auburn Avenues in Bethesda's Woodmont Triangle.
- An annual food and music festival showcasing local restaurants and performers.
Bethesda Outdoor Movies. Corner of Norfolk & Auburn Avenue.
- Offers free outdoor movies all summer long.
Bethesda Fine Arts Festival. Woodmont Triangle.
- An annual arts festival featuring the nation’s best artists.
Winter Wonderland. Norfolk & Cordell Avenues.
- Family-friendly winter activities, including ice sculpting, face painting, and visits with Santa Claus!

Dining and Shopping Hotspots

Bethesda is a foodie and shopper paradise!

Top Restaurants and Cafés

Bethesda's diverse culinary scene offers top-rated restaurants and cozy cafés.

Black's Bar & Kitchen. 7750 Woodmont Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814.
- Known for fresh, regional seafood specialties.
Woodmont Grill. 7714 Woodmont Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814.
- Upscale modern American classics served in an intimate atmosphere.
Alatri Bros. 4926 Cordell Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814.
- Casual pizza and sandwich place.
Barrel & Crow. 4867 Cordell Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814.
- Brunch and dinner restaurant featuring updated American cuisine and regional classics.
Gringos & Mariachis. 4928 Cordell Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814.
- Mexican street fare and tequila bar.
Grace Street Coffee Roasters. Window location at 5021 Wilson Lane, Bethesda, MD 20814.
- Tea, pastries, and, of course, fresh roasted coffee.
Ceremony Coffee Roasters. 7475 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814.
- Small bites, traditional coffee shop favorites, and seasonal coffee specialties.
Tatte Bakery & Cafe. 7276 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814.
- Seasonal savory and sweet baked goods, coffee, and teas.

Shopping Districts

Shop ‘til you drop at Bethesda’s finest high-end stores and local boutiques.

Bethesda Row. 4841 Bethesda Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814.
- A lively district with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Westfield Montgomery Mall. 7101 Democracy Blvd, Bethesda, MD 20817.
- Indoor mall beloved by locals.
Pike and Rose. 11580 Old Georgetown Rd, North Bethesda, MD 20852.
- North Bethesda’s premier destination for entertainment, shopping, dining, and living.

Entertainment and Nightlife

Live Music and Theaters

Fans of live entertainment have plenty to do in Bethesda.

Round House Theatre. 4545 East-West Hwy, Bethesda, MD 20814.
- World-renowned for its contemporary theater productions.
Bethesda Theater. 7719 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814.
- Bethesda’s premier venue for live music, comedy, and dining.

Bars

Raise a glass with friends at these trendy watering holes.

Hip Flask Rooftop Bar. 7707 Woodmont Avenue, Bethesda, MD, 20814.
- Bethesda’s only rooftop bar features a sophisticated atmosphere and unique cocktails.
The Salt Line. 7284 Woodmont Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814.
- Trendy cocktail bar featuring seafood and dessert.
Caddies on Cordell. 4922 Cordell Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814.
- Sports bar featuring American comfort food, trivia night, and outdoor dining.
Tommy Joe’s. 7940 Norfolk Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814.
- Sports bar featuring rooftop tables.

Live Near the Action in Bethesda

Experience all the fun things to do in Bethesda by living right in the heart of it. Our team at Abrams Residential is here to help you find your dream home, perfectly situated to enjoy the best of Bethesda. Whether you are drawn to the vibrant cultural scene, the beautiful parks, or the trendy dining and shopping spots, we can guide you to the neighborhood that best fits your lifestyle.

31 Things to Do in Bethesda, MD