Top Rated Attractions in Bethesda

Founded in 1993, the Waverly Street Gallery has since been a veteran organization that promotes and exhibits both traditional and contemporary art. The gallery collaborates with a range of international artists and local talent to host regular exhibitions across genres of painting, sculpture, photography and pottery. Emerging artists are showcased through their exhibitions every second Friday of the month, which is also when the Bethesda Art Walk commences. In the past, the gallery has worked with artists such as Kate Radi, Pat Silbert, Sandra Zacharia and Kanika Sircar, among several others.

Established in 1978, the Round House Theatre in Bethesda has been entertaining locals for more than three decades. The theater has an array of shows and classes for adults and children. Every season features a mind-blowing 200 performances. Its summer classes for kids include puppet-making, sound design, dance, music and storytelling. If you're looking for a great theater experience, come to the Round House Theater and enjoy a good movie or play.

Escape a few miles north outside of the hectic district and beltway and relax at the stylish, trendy, and quaint Bethesda Row. Choose from a wide variety of over 30 international restaurants including Irish, Thai, American, Asian, Spanish, Mediterranean, and American for a nice outdoor lunch or dinner. Enjoy desserts at specialty shops such as Dolcezza Gelato or Sweetgreen. There are plenty of new boutiques and stores to please all types of shoppers. Bethesda Row also holds many events such as Movie Nights and art fairs.

Gallery B is an art gallery that has caught the eyeballs of many contemporary art lovers. The space is usually rented by budding as well as established artists, to showcase their work. This spacious gallery is used exhibiting paintings, sculptures and even photography, making it one of the most visited art galleries in the city.

What once stood as the historic Bethesda Theater in 1938 has now been transformed into suave live music supper club. Still carrying the glory of the yesteryear, Bethesda Blues and Jazz houses a small concert hall that serves brilliant continental fare. While 300 seats are ticketed as dinner seats, there are an additional 200 performance seats made available later. Come and enjoy this acoustically enhanced wonder on a fine evening.

The thriving Downtown Bethesda neighborhood is located at the intersection of the Wisconsin Avenue, Old Georgetown Road and East-West Highway. It features some of the most vibrant areas in the city, including the Bethesda Row, a hub for arts and culture. Besides a range of eating establishments and entertainment centers, Downtown Bethesda is also home to one of the Madonna of the Trail monuments and the Capital Crescent Trail.