Things to do in Bethesda

Activities, attractions and tours

Bethesda, MD which includes a park and a house
Bethesda
Bethesda
Bethesda, MD which includes heritage elements and street scenes
Bethesda, MD featuring signage
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What to do in Bethesda

Popular places to visit

White House

White House

4/5(142 reviews)

Explore the home and workplace of the president of the United States. See entertainment areas and state rooms and learn about the history of this famous building.

White House
National Mall which includes an administrative building, a city and heritage architecture

National Mall

4.5/5(65 reviews)

Inspiring architecture, magnificent museums and the icons of American history await on Washington’s famous two-mile (three-kilometer) strip.

National Mall
National Air and Space Museum

Smithsonian Institution

4.5/5(3 reviews)

Smithsonian Institution is a popular museum in Washington with a rich history. Discover the area's acclaimed theatre scene and notable monuments.

Smithsonian Institution
United States Capitol

United States Capitol

4.5/5(144 reviews)

Sitting on top of Capitol Hill is a Washington landmark that’s been the home of American democracy for more than 200 years.

United States Capitol
Capital One Arena

Capital One Arena

4.5/5(40 reviews)

Catch an event at Capital One Arena during your trip to Washington. Discover the area's fascinating museums and notable monuments.

Capital One Arena
Arlington National Cemetery showing a cemetery, a memorial and a square or plaza

Arlington National Cemetery

4.5/5(109 reviews)

Pay tribute to those who lost their lives fighting for their country in the best-known military cemetery in America.

Arlington National Cemetery
University of Maryland, College Park

University of Maryland, College Park

4.5/5(11 reviews)

Take a campus tour or just explore the area of University of Maryland, College Park during your travels in College Park. Experience the area's fascinating museums and lively festivals.

University of Maryland, College Park
Nationals Park

Nationals Park

4.5/5(17 reviews)

Catch an event at Nationals Park during your trip to Washington. Add the area's notable monuments or shops to your travel plans.

Nationals Park
Union Station Shopping Center

Union Station Shopping Center

3.5/5(3 reviews)

During your trip to Washington, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Union Station Shopping Center. Experience the area's fascinating museums and acclaimed theatre scene.

Union Station Shopping Center
Washington

Washington

Frequently asked questions

Is Bethesda worth visiting?
Known for its culture and dining, discovering fun things to do in Bethesda is easy. Be sure to add National Mall to your itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Bethesda?
Start your day with a visit to Smithsonian Institution and National Museum of African American History and Culture. Then, tour different areas of Bethesda for a quick bite and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Bethesda?
Don't go home without visiting National Mall, ranked the top tourist attraction in Bethesda.
Is three days enough to stay in Bethesda?
Three days in Bethesda is plenty of time to enjoy the city's leading attractions. Many travellers stay for three days on average. Smithsonian's National Zoo, Washington National Cathedral and Lincoln Theatre are top-rated sights. Like to discover more? Hang around a bit longer to check off nearby hotspots like Washington.
Is Bethesda a walkable city?
Some leading sights in Bethesda, including National Museum of Health and Medicine and Rock Creek Park Nature Centre and Planetarium, are within walking distance. You can also discover several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Just 5 kilometres from the city centre of Bethesda is Forest Hills and Friendship Heights is 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Bethesda with kids?
Deciding what to do in Bethesda with kids has never been simpler. Whether you're taking a trip with little ones or teenagers, there are many family-friendly attractions to keep everyone entertained here.

What to do in Bethesda for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Bethesda, with activities for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to K Street or Ellsworth Place.
Are there free things to do in Bethesda?
From visiting parks to wandering around exciting neighbourhoods, it's easy to discover free things to do in Bethesda. If you're stuck for ideas, ask a local tour guide for some tips. Washington National Cathedral is a top spot for anyone looking to save on their sightseeing adventures.