Things to do in Bethesda

Not Just Any Hotel – Only the Best Things to do in Bethesda, Selected for You!

Jun 08, 2025 - Jun 09, 2025
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Good (479)

Cabin John Regional Park

8:00 AM–sunset
Park
7400 Tuckerman Lane
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Cabin John Regional Park offers 8.8 miles of wooded trails for walking and biking, located in Bethesda, Maryland, just outside Washington, D.C.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free.

Good (38)

The Ratner Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
10001 Old Georgetown Rd
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The Ratner Museum in Bethesda, Maryland, showcases a unique collection of art and artifacts, emphasizing cultural appreciation and historical significance.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Good (111)

Clara Barton National Historic Site

10:00 AM–4:30 PM
Museum
5801 Oxford Rd
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Clara Barton National Historic Site is the home and office of Red Cross founder Clara Barton, established in 1891 in Glen Echo, Maryland.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free. Special programs may have fees.

Good (109)

Glen Echo Park

10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Park
7300 Macarthur Boulevard Northwest
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Glen Echo Park, located in Bethesda, Maryland, offers year-round dance, theater, and arts activities along with a historic carousel and children's shows.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Carousel rides cost $1.25, operating from May to September.

Good (41)

KID Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
6400 Democracy Blvd Davis Library
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KID Museum in Bethesda, Maryland, offers interactive exhibits focusing on innovation, creativity, and hands-on learning for children and families.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special programs may require a paid ticket.

Good (15)

National Institutes of Health

8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Public Building
9000 Rockville Pike
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The National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, US, is a leading medical research agency focusing on health innovations, nutrition, and metabolism.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special programs and events may require a paid ticket.

5301 Tuckerman Ln (at Rockville Pike)
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The Dorothy M. and Maurice C. Shapiro Music Room in Bethesda offers a versatile performance space for various musical events and community gatherings.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free. Some events may require a ticket purchase.

Burning Tree Country Club

7:00 AM–7:00 PM
Golf Course
8600 Burdette Rd
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Burning Tree Country Club, founded in 1923, offers an exclusive golfing experience in Bethesda, MD, featuring natural beauty and historic architecture.

Duration: 4 hours.

Membership required. No public access.

Columbia Country Club

7:00 AM–9:00 PM
Golf Course
7900 Connecticut Ave (at East West Highway)
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Columbia Country Club is a historic country club and golf course in Chevy Chase, Maryland, offering a blend of recreation, dining, and scenic beauty.

Duration: 3-4 hours.

Membership required for access; guests must accompany members.

Consumer Product Safety Commission

9:00 AM–5:30 PM
Public Building
Maryland
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The Consumer Product Safety Commission in Bethesda, MD, ensures the safety of consumer products through regulation, research, and education.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Most services and materials are available without charge.

Imagination Stage

10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Theater
4908 Auburn Ave
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Imagination Stage in Bethesda focuses on youth performances, educational programs, and offers a creative space for children to explore the arts.

Approximately 2 hours.

Prices vary by show; adults typically around $20, children $15. Discounts for groups and educational programs may apply.

Bethesda Theatre

1:00 PM–12:00 AM
Theater
7719 Wisconsin Ave
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Bethesda Theatre, located in Bethesda, MD, offers a diverse selection of films and live performances, featuring a charming atmosphere and modern amenities.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Adults: $12, Children: $8. Discounts available for seniors and students.

Good (26)

Cabin John Local Park

Open 24 Hours
Amusement Park
7401 Macarthur Blvd
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Cabin John Local Park in Bethesda, MD, features extensive green spaces, playgrounds, and picnic areas, ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free.

St. Jane Frances de Chantal

7:30 AM–5:00 PM
Church
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St. Jane Frances de Chantal is a Catholic school chapel located in Bethesda, Maryland, serving students and families with a spiritual community.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations welcome for maintenance and community programs.

10701 Old Georgetown Rd (Tuckerman)
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Saint Marks United Presbyterian Church in Bethesda, MD features vibrant worship, community events, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations accepted for special events.

Greek Orthodox Church of Saint George

10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Church
7701 Bradley Blvd
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The Greek Orthodox Church of Saint George in Bethesda, US, is a significant spiritual home for the local Greek community, known for its rich traditions and stunning architecture.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed to support church activities.

North Bethesda United Methodist

9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Church
10100 Old Georgetown Rd
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North Bethesda United Methodist offers a welcoming environment for worship and community engagement in Bethesda, Maryland, with a rich history dating back to 1961.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed to support church programs.

Bethesda United Church of Christ

9:00 AM–12:00 PM
Church
Maryland
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Bethesda United Church of Christ, established in 1845, is a historic church in Bethesda, Maryland, known for its community outreach and stunning architecture.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

Bradley Shopping Center

10:00 AM–10:00 PM
Mall
Bradley Boulevard (at Arlington Road)
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Bradley Shopping Center in Bethesda, Maryland offers a diverse shopping experience with over 50 shops, dining, and entertainment options.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Parking may incur costs depending on duration.

Round House Theatre

10:00 AM–9:00 PM
Theater
4545 East West Hwy (at Waverly St.)
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Round House Theatre, a non-profit theater located in Bethesda, Maryland, offers innovative productions and engages diverse audiences.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Tickets typically range from $25 to $75 depending on the show and seating choice. Discounts available for students and seniors.

6701 Wisconsin Ave
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St. John's Episcopal Church Norwood Parish in Bethesda, established in 1856, features beautiful Gothic architecture and a serene outdoor setting, welcoming visitors of all backgrounds.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

Adventure Theatre MTC

10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Theater
7300 MacArthur Blvd
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Adventure Theatre MTC in Bethesda, United States, offers engaging musical theater experiences for children, located in the scenic Glen Echo Park.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Tickets typically range from $15-$20 for adults and $10-$15 for children, with discounts available for groups.

4301 Jones Bridge Rd
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Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences is the U.S. federal government health science university located in Bethesda.

Duration: Varies, mostly for enrolled students.

Free, access is generally restricted to enrolled students and military personnel.

St. Jane Frances de Chantal Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Church
9601 Old Georgetown Rd (at Interstate 495)
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St. Jane Frances de Chantal Church in Bethesda is known for its stunning architecture and active community. A site for worship and cultural events, it promotes spiritual growth.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations for specific events may be welcome.

Bradley Hills Presbyterian Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM
Church
Maryland
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Bradley Hills Presbyterian Church in Bethesda, USA, offers a vibrant community with engaging worship services and a rich history dating back to its founding in 1950.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcome for community programs.

The Puppet Co. At Glen Echo Park

10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Theater
7300 MacArthur Blvd (at Goldsboro Road)
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The Puppet Co. at Glen Echo Park offers enchanting puppet shows for audiences of all ages in a historic setting known for its artistic heritage.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Tickets typically range from $10 to $15. Discounts for groups and children may apply.

Hermon Presbyterian Church

10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Church
Bethesda
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Hermon Presbyterian Church in Bethesda, MD, is a historical site known for its unique architecture and commitment to community service since 1888.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated.

River Rd
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Saint Andrew Romanian Orthodox Church serves the Romanian community in Bethesda, offering a space for worship, cultural events, and community gatherings.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome but not required.

Viers Mill Baptist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM
Church
12221 Veirs Mill Rd
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Viers Mill Baptist Church in Bethesda, MD, features stunning architecture and rich history, offering a welcoming environment for worship and community events.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are accepted for church programs.

Wildwood Shopping Center

10:00 AM–9:00 PM
Mall
10241 Old Georgetown Rd (at Democracy Blvd)
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Wildwood Shopping Center in Bethesda offers a variety of retail stores, dining options, and community events, fostering a vibrant shopping atmosphere in Maryland.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free. Retail shopping and dining are accessible without an entrance fee.