Washington, D.C.'s Charming Northern Neighbor Is A Walkable Town With Trendy Shops And Vibrant Eateries

Just a 20-minute drive northwest of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area is the cozy community of Bethesda in Maryland. Initially an expansion zone for government offices and clinical research facilities, most notably the National Institutes of Health campus, Bethesda has transformed in recent years into a vibrant neighborhood boasting artsy events, unique stores, and diverse cuisine. The walkable downtown area, a designated Arts and Entertainment District, is lined with almost 700 retailers to satisfy your shopping needs. Trendy boutiques, art galleries, beauty salons, and lifestyle stores are situated in a tight cluster, so you could choose a new hairstyle, admire local artwork, and pick up some cute clothes and home décor all in one afternoon.

The community comes to life with regular events organized by the Bethesda Urban Partnership, a committee of local residents and businesses whose mission is to promote cultural events and maintain downtown Bethesda as a thriving metropolis. Exciting attractions include the Summer Concert Series, with local bands performing on Friday evenings from May through September, inviting crowds to enjoy outdoor live music for free. There's also the Bethesda Art Walk with select dates every few months, where downtown galleries open for visitors to explore the artwork, chat with the artists, and enjoy complimentary light refreshments.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find a paradise of scenic landscapes just a short drive away from Bethesda, with regional parks offering extensive hiking trails, cycling paths, and pristine lakes for cooling off. And the best part is you can be back in town in a jiffy for a delicious meal afterwards. Whether you're in the mood for pizza, a bite of Japanese, or perhaps a Greek salad, Bethesda's vibrant eateries have it all.

No matter your interest, Bethesda has an event just for you. Cinephiles should consider attending the Bethesda Film Fest, a splashy annual celebration of short documentaries selected by a jury of seasoned filmmakers. More casual film lovers will enjoy the Bethesda Outdoor Movies event, held at the corner of Norfolk and Auburn Avenues. Blockbuster movies are screened on several nights during July and August, free of charge. Just bring your own lawn chair, as seating is limited.

Pet owners can bring their furry friends to the Yappy Hour pop-up dog park event at Elm Street Park, which runs on select dates from July until October and includes live music, drinks, and bites provided by local eateries. And if you're looking for festive fun, don't miss the Winter Wonderland event held in December, when downtown Bethesda sparkles with Christmas cheer. Bring your children to meet Santa, browse the holiday market for goodies, witness ice sculpting demonstrations, and enjoy a choir concert.

If the crowds start to overwhelm, a 20-minute drive southwards will bring you to Falls Church, Virginia, a serene city called "America's healthiest community". With plenty of historic sites and green spaces, Falls Church is a charming day trip from Bethesda. If you want to explore more of the excitement Maryland has to offer, head 40 minutes outside of Bethesda to Frederick, a historic city with award-winning food, art, and fun.

With so much to do in Bethesda, you're bound to get hungry. Not to worry, a delicious bite is easily found here. Visit in late February and you'll get a taste of Bethesda's Restaurant Week, when participating local eateries offer lunch and dinner deals for $10, $20, and $35. Among them is Casa Oaxaca, a tequila bar with a fantastic menu of Mexican cuisine. Try their birria tacos and steak fajitas, and for vegetarian options, perhaps the mango salad and mushroom quesadillas. Other highly rated restaurants are the Bethesda Crab House, where you can get your fill of all things seafood, and Mon Ami Gabi, a classy French bistro with dishes like ratatouille tarte tatin and côte de boeuf.

Health fiends will love Joe & the Juice, a juice bar specializing in organic drinks and protein shakes, along with specialty coffee and delicious sandwiches. For a sweet treat, stop at Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams to indulge in unique flavors like rose sorbet and brown butter almond brittle. Crispy croissants, chocolate muffins, and fruity scones can be found at the Tatte Bakery & Café, which also offers mouthwatering breakfast and lunch dishes.

Foodies definitely shouldn't miss the Taste of Bethesda event, another annual celebration held in October that brings together the best of Bethesda's culinary offerings. This all-day festival not only involves pop-up restaurant stalls where you can grab street food bites like shawarma, bao buns, and sliders, but there are also various concert stages with live music to keep you entertained throughout the day. While Washington, D.C. is considered one of the best cities in America for tourism, a little jaunt to Bethesda is a fun detour with culture, cuisine, and charm of its own.