Bethesda

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Bethesda's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Bethesda
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Bethesda Row, grabbing a coffee at a local café. Explore unique shops and art galleries along the way.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants that showcase diverse cuisines. Spend your afternoon strolling through the lush parks, such as the quaint Willow Park.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a leisurely dinner at a rooftop restaurant. Enjoy the beautiful views of the city while savoring delicious local dishes.

day 2
Nature Escape
morning
:

Visit the Brookside Gardens for a peaceful morning among beautiful floral displays. Take a self-guided tour to admire the various themed gardens.

afternoon
:

Head to the adjacent Wheaton Regional Park for a lively picnic. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or a paddleboat ride on the lake.

evening
:

Return to Bethesda and have dinner at a cozy bistro. Consider catching a local music act for some entertainment.

day 3
Arts and Culture
morning
:

Start your day at the Bethesda Arts & Entertainment District, known for its street art and murals. Grab breakfast at a local diner before your cultural exploration.

afternoon
:

Visit the iconic Strathmore for art exhibitions or a music performance. Enjoy lunch in the Strathmore's café overlooking the stunning grounds.

evening
:

Conclude your artsy day with dinner at a seafood restaurant. Enjoy the fresh catch of the day while reflecting on your artistic discoveries.

day 4
Culinary Delight
morning
:

Begin your morning with a food tour that highlights Bethesda's best breakfast spots. Sample everything from gourmet pastries to savory dishes.

afternoon
:

Attend a cooking class hosted by a local chef to learn new culinary skills. Enjoy your homemade lunch as you bond with fellow foodies.

evening
:

Treat yourself to a fine dining experience at one of Bethesda's upscale restaurants. Savor a multi-course meal paired with exquisite wines.

day 5
Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Kick off your day with a hike on the Capital Crescent Trail, taking in the scenic views. Breathe in the fresh air as you navigate through picturesque landscapes.

afternoon
:

Go biking along the trail or rent a kayak for a fun water adventure on the Potomac River. Pack a light lunch to eat at a scenic spot during your activities.

evening
:

After a fulfilling day outdoors, relax at an outdoor patio bar. Enjoy casual bites and refreshing drinks while sharing stories of your adventures.

day 6
Shopping Spree
morning
:

Start by visiting the Bethesda Farmers Market to explore local produce and artisan goods. Grab a light breakfast from one of the vendors.

afternoon
:

Spend time shopping at the various boutiques and stores around NIH and downtown Bethesda. Enjoy lunch at the bustling Bethesda Row.

evening
:

Complete your shopping spree with dinner at a trendy steakhouse. Indulge in a satisfying meal while reflecting on your successful finds.

day 7
Sports Fun
morning
:

Get your adrenaline pumping with a morning game of tennis at one of the local courts. Enjoy the competitive atmosphere while warming up with friends.

afternoon
:

Afterward, head to a sports bar for lunch and catch up on the latest games on TV. Take part in some friendly discussions about your favorite teams.

evening
:

Seal the day by attending a local sporting event, such as a soccer or baseball game. Join in the excitement with fellow fans while enjoying stadium snacks.

day 8
Game Day
morning
:

Begin your day at a local game café or board game store. Gather with friends for a fun morning of chess, card games, or board games.

afternoon
:

Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby eatery known for its game-themed décor. Continue the playful spirit by visiting a local arcade or escape room.

evening
:

End your game day at a themed restaurant with trivia nights. Test your knowledge while enjoying a hearty meal with friends.

day 9
Bicycle Day
morning
:

Rent a bicycle and explore the scenic views of the Capital Crescent Trail. Enjoy a leisurely ride while soaking in the outdoor beauty.

afternoon
:

Stop by a park for a picnic lunch, enjoying the tranquility of nature. Afterward, bike to the nearby historical sites for some educational exploration.

evening
:

Finish your bicycle day with a sunset ride. Return to the city and find a lakeside restaurant for a relaxing dinner.

day 10
Mystery Day
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to a local escape room for some mystery-solving fun. Gather your friends for an exhilarating experience full of puzzles.

afternoon
:

Afterward, grab lunch at a themed café that focuses on mysteries or detective novels. Discuss the morning's challenges with your team over delicious bites.

evening
:

Take in a suspenseful movie at a nearby theater for an entertaining end to the day. Don’t forget to enjoy popcorn as you dive into the thrilling plot.

Discover Bethesda

Read more in our Bethesda 2024 Travel Guide.

Bethesda Travel Guide