8 Of Our Favorite Things To Do In Bethesda [Pictures]

Bethesda, Maryland, is a culturally-rich, bustling city less than an hour’s drive away from Annapolis and only 7 miles outside of Washington, DC! Bethesda history is rich and diverse, spanning over 300 years, from its early days as a rural farming community to its current status as a thriving urban center. From the performing arts to great food to picturesque parks, it’s no surprise that Bethesda is such a popular place to live and visit.

Whether you’re new to the area, looking for an excuse to get out of the big city, or you’ve lived in Bethesda for years, there are always new things to explore and discover. Here are our 8 favorite things to do in Bethesda.

1) Stroll Through Bethesda Row

No visit to Bethesda is complete without a leisurely stroll through Bethesda Row. This vibrant, walkable district effortlessly blends upscale shopping, dining, and charm into one of the town’s most beloved destinations. Tree-lined streets are dotted with boutique stores, national retailers, and cozy cafes—perfect for an afternoon of window shopping or grabbing a latte while soaking up the lively atmosphere. Whether you’re popping into Anthropologie or Warby Parker, or treating yourself to a sweet bite at Dolcezza Gelato, Bethesda Row offers something for everyone.

What makes Bethesda Row especially appealing is its blend of modern flair with a neighborhood feel. Outdoor patios buzz with activity, especially in the warmer months, and public art installations add an artistic flair to your walk. It’s a great spot to meet friends, take in some people-watching, or enjoy a low-key evening out. For visitors and locals alike, Bethesda Row is where community, culture, and commerce come together in the heart of the city.

2) Try Lebanese Food at Bacchus of Lebanon, One of the Local Restauraunts

Sometimes, it’s nice to switch up the restaurants you visit and order something other than a burger and fries. One of our favorite restaurants is Bacchus of Lebanon located in downtown Bethesda on Norfolk Avenue.

Their large menu always features incredible fresh ingredients from local farms. Start your meal off with the hummus and eggplant dip, then dive into their fresh salmon mechwi or lamb chops. There are also gluten-free and vegetarian options. Pair your meal with a tasty Turkish coffee or fresh guava nectar. ????

One of the biggest perks of Bacchus of Lebanon (besides their delicious food) is that they have a heated outdoor patio that can be enjoyed all year round!

3) Take a Creative Class at Glen Echo Park

We would be remiss not to mention Glen Echo Park on this list. As one of the largest cultural hubs in the area, Glen Echo Park is a Bethesda staple. What once was an amusement park in the early 1900s has now become a huge center for arts & culture. In fact, Glen Echo Park is home to 13 resident artists and cultural organizations, including:

• 2 award-winning children’s theaters
• A restored 1921 carousel
• Numerous art studios and galleries
• A nature and aquatic life program for kids
• A social dance program
• Free summer concerts
• Hundreds of classes for all ages
• And more!

The Park also features the Imagination Stage, a children’s theatre that encourages creativity and interactive participation among young audiences.

While there are numerous educational programs and classes for children, there are also tons of creative classes for adults. Try your hand at learning puppetry, glassblowing, or silversmithing while your kids learn about Irish dance or Egyptian mummies.

4) Explore the City on Two Wheels: Rent an Electric Bike

Whether you’re a tourist or a local, you can see Bethesda through the eyes of a tourist when you rent Pedego Electric Bikes. Grab your friends and family and book electric bikes for your own exploring, or schedule a guided tour through the National Mall in the nation’s capital, Washington, DC. You can also take a ride to North Bethesda, a vibrant locale known for its family-friendly outings and unique events.

Feel like a kid again on these fun electric bikes. The best part is that you only pedal as much as you like and can go farther in less time.

5) Stop & Smell the Flowers at McCrillis House and Gardens

One of the most beautiful parks in Bethesda can be found at the McCrillis House and Gardens. We’re always struck by how green this five-acre property is! When all the colorful flowers bloom in spring, this Bethesda gem feels just like a secret garden.

In fact, McCrillis Gardens is such a beautiful location that numerous people choose to host weddings and other events on the property each year. But even if you don’t have a wedding on the schedule, you can go to McCrillis Gardens to have a picnic, take family photos, or go for a nice walk.

When you’re in need of some peaceful time in nature, be sure to visit McCrillis Gardens.

6) Laugh Out Loud at a Laugh Riot Show With Live Music

If you’re looking for something different to do on a weekend, why not check out a stand-up comedy show? Every Saturday at Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery, you can attend a “Laugh Riot” show. All of the comedians who perform in Laugh Riot are local to Maryland, Washington D.C, and Virginia.

Doors open at 7:15 pm, and tickets are $20 (cash only). Tickets are first come, first-served, so plan to arrive early as shows can oftentimes sell out! Only drinks are allowed in the comedy showroom, so if you want to get dinner at Rock Bottom beforehand, make your reservations no later than 5:30 pm.

7) See a Show at the Round House Theater

As one of the “Big Six” professional theaters in the Washington, DC area, Round House Theatre consistently puts on incredible theatrical performances. This playhouse produces some of the newest titles in the theatrical world, so you will always be seeing something new and fresh when you visit. In addition to theatrical performances, the theatre also screens independent films, offering a distinct cinematic experience for the community.

Talented local & nationwide actors and designers come together to produce a riveting season each year. Before the show, you can grab casual food and drinks at the in-house restaurant— The Fourth Wall Bar & Cafe. Or, eat dinner at one of these local restaurants in the neighborhood before heading over to the theater:

• BIBIBOP Asian Grill
• Old Georgetown Grille
• The Thai Kitchen
• Flanagan’s Harp and Fiddle (The oldest bar in Bethesda!)
• Alatri Bros
• Shangri-LA Nepalese and Indian Cuisine
• Black’s Bar & Kitchen

8) Montgomery County Historical Society

For a deeper dive into Bethesda’s past, head to the Montgomery County Historical Society. Here, you can explore exhibits that highlight the area’s development, from its agricultural roots to its growth as a bustling urban center. The society also offers walking tours and lectures that provide fascinating insights into Bethesda’s history.

9) Explore the Capital Crescent Trail

For outdoor lovers and active adventurers, the Capital Crescent Trail is a must-experience gem in Bethesda. This scenic, tree-lined path stretches over 11 miles from Georgetown in Washington, D.C., through Bethesda, and into Silver Spring. Whether you’re walking, jogging, biking, or rollerblading, the trail offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city while still keeping you close to all the action. The paved surface and gentle grades make it accessible for all fitness levels and perfect for families or solo explorers alike.

What makes the trail especially appealing is its mix of natural beauty and urban views. Along the way, you’ll pass wooded areas, charming bridges, creeks, and even some historic railway remnants—since the trail follows the former B&O Railroad route. Bethesda is a perfect midpoint to start or stop your journey, with plenty of cafés and eateries nearby to refuel. Whether you’re looking to get your steps in or simply enjoy a quiet moment outdoors, the Capital Crescent Trail delivers the best of both nature and convenience.

Support Local Bethesda Businesses

We love getting out into our Bethesda community and checking out all these amazing local attractions and activities. Whether we learn about American history, listen to live music, or attend a happy hour at a great restaurant, we never get tired of spending time in Bethesda.

For those days when you just want to hang out at home, you need to make sure your home is in tip-top shape. When you need a local Bethesda for services like roofing, siding, windows, and more, trust the experienced team at Arch Exteriors. Contact Arch Exteriors today for all your exterior remodeling needs in Bethesda!