Welcome to Bethesda
For those wanting to keep the hectic, energetic vibes of Washington D.C. within arm’s reach, but prefer not to live in the midst of it, few places satisfy more than Bethesda, Maryland. Less than 30 minutes from downtown D.C., should you need to venture there, a quick visit can be made by car or via the Metro.
Bethesda, however, is very much a place you'll want to stay. The unincorporated area of nearly 65,000 residents provides an enviable range of lifestyles. There are pockets of light urban cityscapes, traditional mid-town and suburban neighborhoods, and rural, bucolic enclaves located around Bethesda Country Club, Burning Tree, and Congressional.
In line with the varying lifestyles, housing in Bethesda is similarly diverse. Although a majority of the community is suburban, with a wide selection of well-appointed homes for expanding families, young singles and professionals will also find high-rise living readily available. At the other end of the home-owning spectrum, should you want a little extra room to roam, head northwest where large estates on multiple acres are standard.
What to Love
- Wonderfully diverse D.C. suburb offering a range of lifestyle choices
- Beautiful, established neighborhoods close to excellent schools and a plethora of amenities
- Lively urban centers of Bethesda Row, Woodmont Triangle, and Pike and Rose
- Great suburban location less than a 30-minute drive into D.C. and Arlington, Virginia
People & Lifestyle
Bethesda is unique in that although it's predominantly a suburban community, there's enough variety to satisfy a number of tastes. If you're looking for high-end, high-rise living, it can certainly be found in Bethesda.
That said, Bethesda's real charm, and indeed its most enticing draw for those relocating here, is the single-family neighborhoods. Whether it’s a modest, upscale dwelling or a grand estate, you'll discover options along winding streets shaded in thick foliage, close to great schools and top-notch amenities.
Dining, Shopping & Entertainment
Bethesda Row is the heartbeat of the area's dining and nightlife scene. Home to over 80 upscale restaurants, stores, and services, there's no shortage of things to eat, drink, and buy.
Immediately north is Woodmont Triangle, an equally vibrant business and entertainment district. Highlights here include the Bethesda Blues and Jazz Supper Club and the Woodmont Grill.
In Bethesda's northern reaches is the mixed-used development of Pike and Rose. Including over 50 restaurants and stores, Pike and Rose supports an incredibly active social calendar with events that include live music and outdoor gatherings.
Things to Do
There's no shortage of activities for those opting for Bethesda's slower suburban pace. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to Burning Tree Country Club, Bethesda Country Club, and nearby Congressional. For outdoor recreation of a different sort, the Capital Crescent Trail is an 11-mile paved hiking and biking path connecting Bethesda to Georgetown in D.C.
The Strathmore Performing Arts Center is a cultural highlight well known for world-class orchestral performances. Furthering Bethesda's commitment to the arts, the community also hosts the annual Bethesda Fine Arts Festival and the Bethesda Art Walk, held the second Friday of every month.
And certainly not to be missed is the Taste of Bethesda, the community's annual celebration of its eclectic dining scene, featuring over 60 restaurants and vendors and five stages of live entertainment.
Schools
Bethesda is home to a number of excellent schools. Some of the most celebrated educational opportunities include:
- Bethesda Country Day School
- Walt Whitman High School, 9-12
- Holton-Arms-Girls Prep School, 3-12
- Landon School-Boys Prep School, 3-12