Things to do in Bethesda

    Discover amazing Bethesda activities and premium in-home experiences.

    Located just outside the vibrant pulse of Washington, D.C., Bethesda is a dynamic hub where cultural richness meets community warmth. Renowned for its eclectic culinary scene and art-filled streets, this city offers both urban sophistication and suburban comfort. Whether exploring local galleries or enjoying outdoor festivals, Bethesda invites you to experience a perfect blend of energy and tranquility in every visit.

    Popular Activities in Bethesda

    Private DC Potomac River Sightseeing Cruise

    Enjoy a customizable 2–4 hour private cruise showcasing Washington, D.C.’s waterfront landmarks.

    5.0 7 reviews

    Private Sunset Cruise on the Potomac River

    Savor golden hour views of DC landmarks on an intimate 2-hour charter for up to six guests.

    5.0 7 reviews

    Potomac River Night Fishing Charter

    Catch catfish under the DC skyline on a relaxing after-dark fishing adventure.

    5.0 7 reviews

    Kids Fishing Club Potomac River Fishing Charter

    Teach young anglers essential fishing skills on a fun, private Potomac River outing.

    5.0 7 reviews

    Cleveland Park and Cathedral Grounds Tour

    Stroll historic Cleveland Park and explore National Cathedral grounds on a 2-hour guided walk

    5.0 374 reviews
    $25/ person

    Historic Georgetown Walking Tour

    Trace Georgetown's evolution from gritty port to elite enclave on a guided 2-mile walk.

    5.0 374 reviews
    $25/ person

    Private Washington DC Design Walking Tour

    Discover DC's architecture and history on a flexible, guide-only private tour.

    5.0 374 reviews

    Private Virginia Wine Country Excursion

    Discover Northern Virginia's scenic vineyards in luxury transport with customizable winery stops.

    5.0 29 reviews
    $899/ vehicle

    George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate and Old Town Alexandria Tour

    Explore Washington's historic estate and charming Old Town with a private 5-hour guided tour

    5.0 29 reviews
    $1,299

    Washington DC Monument Cruise from The Wharf

    Sail past iconic monuments on a lively tiki boat with onboard bar and music.

    4.9 431 reviews
    $50/ person

    Private Boat Tour from Alexandria Old Town

    Cruise the Potomac on a customizable private charter with your own captain

    4.9 79 reviews

    Sunset Sightseeing Cruise on the Potomac River

    Watch Washington DC landmarks glow at dusk during a relaxing 45-minute narrated cruise.

    4.2 310 reviews
    $20/ person

    45-Minute Washington DC Sightseeing Cruise

    See iconic DC landmarks from the Potomac on a narrated 45-minute cruise.

    4.2 310 reviews
    $15/ person

    Private Mount Vernon and Arlington Cemetery Tour

    Explore national landmarks in comfort with a dedicated guide and private vehicle on this comprehensive 6-hour excursion.

    5.0 20 reviews

    Smithsonian National Museum of American History Semi-Private Tour

    Explore iconic American artifacts in an intimate group of no more than eight guests with an expert guide.

    5.0 171 reviews
    $55/ person

    Semi-Private Tour of National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum

    Explore two Smithsonian masterpieces with reserved entry and an expert guide in an intimate group of eight

    5.0 171 reviews
    $55/ person

    Arlington Cemetery and Changing of the Guard Guided Walking Tour

    Explore Arlington National Cemetery with an expert guide and witness the solemn Changing of the Guard ceremony.

    5.0 171 reviews
    $49/ person

    Capitol Hill Semi-Private Walking Tour

    Explore iconic government buildings and rare artifacts on a 2.5-hour small-group walk with an expert guide.

    5.0 171 reviews
    $49/ person

    National Gallery of Art Semi-Private Tour in Washington DC

    Explore masterpieces with an art historian guide in an intimate group of eight.

    5.0 171 reviews
    $55/ person

    Washington DC National Mall Walking Tour With Monument Ticket

    Explore iconic memorials in a small group and enjoy Washington Monument entry on this 2.5-hour guided walk.

    5.0 171 reviews
    $49/ person

    National Archives and American History Museum Combo Tour

    Explore founding documents and iconic artifacts with an expert guide in an intimate group of eight guests.

    5.0 171 reviews
    $105/ person

    Smithsonian Natural & American History Museums Semi-Private Tour

    Explore Smithsonian highlights with an expert guide in a small group of no more than eight guests

    5.0 171 reviews
    $105/ person

    Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History Semi-Private Tour

    Explore museum highlights in an intimate group of 8 with an expert guide.

    5.0 171 reviews
    $55/ person

    National Archives and Portrait Gallery Semi-Private Combo Tour

    Explore America's founding documents and iconic portraits in a small group led by a professional guide.

    5.0 171 reviews
    $105/ person

    Smithsonian Natural History and Air & Space Museum Combo Tour

    Explore two iconic Smithsonian museums in one guided semi-private tour for an in-depth look at history, science, and innovation.

    5.0 171 reviews
    $105/ person

    Skip the Line National Archives Museum Semi-Private Tour

    Explore America’s founding documents with an expert guide in a small group and skip the long entry lines.

    5.0 171 reviews
    $55/ person

    Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Semi-Private Tour

    Explore aviation and space milestones with an expert guide in a group of eight or fewer guests.

    5.0 171 reviews
    $55/ person

    U Street Cocktail and Jazz Tour

    Sip craft cocktails as a guide shares U Street's vibrant jazz history and culinary highlights.

    4.9 297 reviews
    $475/ person

    Massachusetts Avenue Food Tour

    Taste classic and contemporary Indianapolis flavors on a guided culinary stroll

    4.9 86 reviews
    $82/ person

    Old Town Alexandria Food Tour

    Taste signature dishes while exploring historic Old Town Alexandria on a guided walking tour

    $87/ person

    Double Kayak Rental for Two

    Paddle together on calm waters with flexible 2–4 hour rental options

    4.7 88 reviews

    Single Kayak Rental

    Paddle solo with flexible 2–4 hour rental options and gear included

    4.7 88 reviews

    Sunfish Boat Rental

    Enjoy flexible 2–4 hour outings on a nimble two-person boat

    4.7 88 reviews

    Stand-Up Paddleboard Rental

    Glide across the water on a stable stand-up paddleboard for a flexible 1- or 2-hour session

    4.7 88 reviews

    Canoe Rental for 2–3 People

    Paddle scenic waters with flexible 2–4 hour hire durations

    4.7 88 reviews

    Explore the Charm of Bethesda

    Bethesda offers a delightful blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both culture and tranquility. The city is known for its vibrant arts scene, with galleries and theaters that invite exploration. Stroll through the bustling streets lined with boutiques and cafes, where you can savor freshly brewed coffee or indulge in locally made pastries. The energy here is contagious, yet there's always a quiet corner to retreat to when you need a moment of peace.

    For outdoor enthusiasts, Bethesda provides easy access to the scenic Capital Crescent Trail. This tree-lined path is perfect for biking or walking as sunlight filters through the canopy above. Nearby parks offer lush green spaces where picnics are enjoyed amidst birdsong and gentle breezes. In autumn, the foliage transforms into a tapestry of reds and golds—a sight not to be missed.

    A visit wouldn't be complete without exploring nearby landmarks like Glen Echo Park or taking a short trip to Great Falls National Park for breathtaking views of cascading waters. Whether you're catching live music at one of Bethesda's intimate venues or dining al fresco under twinkling lights, you'll find that this area offers experiences as diverse as they are memorable—each promising discovery around every corner.

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