Things to do in Bethesda

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Bethesda, MD featuring a house and a park
Bethesda showing street scenes and cafe scenes
Strathmore featuring performance art and interior views as well as a large group of people
Bethesda, MD which includes street scenes and heritage elements
Bethesda, MD featuring signage

Bethesda Attractions

Do you appreciate delicious food or shopping? Or perhaps you just prefer to get familiar with a new place like a true local. While staying in Bethesda, it doesn't matter which category you fall in — this interesting metropolis has all the sights and experiences you could ever hope for.

If you're ready to explore Bethesda, sign up for one of the top tours & day trips on offer, and have a local expert show you the most popular sights. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our {450 fun activities in Bethesda fun activities in Bethesda} are also worth browsing through.


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What to do in Bethesda

Free Things to Do in Bethesda

A break in Bethesda doesn't have to break the bank. You can leave your wallet behind if you check out:

Ratner Museum - Speak to the staff and learn all about the interesting collections exhibited at this museum.

Clara Barton National Historic Site - If you're captivated by bygone times, this is one stop you won't want to miss.

Chinatown - This bustling spot is a favorite hangout of both visitors and locals.

National Institute of Health Campus - Pay a visit and find out the importance of this place to the locals.

Aubudon Naturalist Society - If you relish digging around the garden, this attraction will satisfy your green thumb.

Things to Do in Bethesda with Kids

There's fun for all the family no matter where you go in Bethesda. Here are a few family friendly experiences to try together that are bound to make your trip a blast:


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Bethesda? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in Bethesda

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Bethesda

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Brookmont

If you're spending some time in Brookmont, Potomac River and Chesapeake and Ohio Canal are top sights worth seeing.

Brookmont
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Woodmont Triangle

4.5/5(9 area reviews)

Though Woodmont Triangle might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like The Bethesda Theater and Bethesda Row.

Woodmont Triangle
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Bannockburn

When in Bannockburn, you can plan a visit to Burning Tree Country Club and CIA Headquarters, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Bannockburn
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Woodacres

When in Woodacres, you can plan a visit to Bethesda Row and CIA Headquarters, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Woodacres

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Bethesda

Frequently asked questions

Is Bethesda worth visiting?
Renowned for its culture and dining, discovering fun things to do in Bethesda is easy. Remember to add National Mall to your trip itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Bethesda?
Kick-start your day with a visit to Smithsonian Institution and Smithsonian's National Zoo. Then, tour other areas of Bethesda for local restaurants and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Bethesda?
National Mall is one of the top tourist attractions in Bethesda and should feature high on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Bethesda?
Three days will be enough time to check out many city attractions, like Smithsonian's National Zoo, Washington National Cathedral and Lincoln Theater. The average stay in Bethesda is three days. If you have the time to extend your getaway, Washington isn't far away.
Is Bethesda a walkable city?
Some key attractions in Bethesda, such as National Museum of Health and Medicine and Imagination Stage, are within walking distance. You can also discover several of the city's popular neighborhoods on foot. Just 3 miles from the city center of Bethesda is Forest Hills and Friendship Heights is 2 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Bethesda with kids?
What to do in Bethesda for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Bethesda, with experiences for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at K Street or Sixth and I Historic Synagogue.
Are there free things to do in Bethesda?
One of the easiest ways to learn about free things to do in Bethesda is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on interesting neighborhoods, parks and other attractions you can experience without taking your wallet out. Washington National Cathedral is one place that doesn't charge an entrance fee.