Happenings

The fall leaves are changing, the temperatures are dropping, and the Washington, DC area is seeing one of the most beautiful autumns in recent memory (we deserve it after this year, right?). So, who’s ready to get outside?!

I know I am! Hey, I’m Heather Bien and I’m back with another post (you may recall my last post here on the best home decor shops in Bethesda!). As a lifestyle blogger who loves to explore and share all the Washington, DC area has to offer, I’m so excited to bring you several of my favorite weekend activities that will get you out in the fresh air and enjoying these gorgeous fall days. Let’s get going!

Exploring the Best Weekend Activities in Bethesda

We’re rounding up the best weekend activities in Bethesda, all of which get you out into the fresh fall air and socially distanced from others. So, strap on your sneakers, dig out your hiking shoes, and grab your reusable tote because we’ve got a busy weekend ahead.

Walk, Run, Bike, or Blade the Capital Crescent Trail

No matter your favorite mode of recreational transportation, you’re welcome on the Capital Crescent Trail, a hard surface asphalt trail that traces the route of the former B&O railroad. Enjoy the scenery, including 6 bridges and a tunnel, the fresh air, and the people-watching. Plus, there are only mild gradients throughout the trail so it’s perfect for leisurely exercise (that’s what we want on a weekend, right?).

If you’re feeling ambitious, you can go the entire distance of the trail from Bethesda to Georgetown and back. You’ll clock just over 14 miles start to finish.

Shop Bethesda’s Farmers Markets

You have not one, but two, year-round farmers markets in Bethesda to choose from. The Montgomery Farm Women’s Cooperative Market is open Wednesday, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, while the Bethesda Central Farm Market are open on Sunday.

There’s no better way to get fresh, seasonal produce than to go straight to the source –– your local farmers. Stock up on apples and squash for all those cozy fall recipes, pick up a few pumpkins to decorate your home, and support your local community. It’s a win-win-win. And, if you need some inspiration for what to make with your farmers market haul, you can never go wrong with a classic apple crisp.

Enjoy the Fall Foliage in Great Falls Park

Looking for a family-friendly hike that can be as strenuous or as subdued as you choose to make it? Hit Great Falls Park and the trails that run along the C&O canal and the Potomac River. Not only does it feel like you’re miles and miles away from the city, but you’ll find incredible lookouts over the river, impressive waterfalls, and history around every turn.

If you’re up for a bit of a challenge, take to the aptly named Billy Goat Trail and get ready to scramble up and down the rocks throughout the 3.7 mile loop. Believe me, it’s a workout (but you’ll also grab a great Instagram shot or two).

Check Out a Socially Distanced Performance at Strathmore

Strathmore boasts an impressive arts center and venue but did you know they’re still bringing the arts to patrons? They’re hosting nightly timed, pay-what-you-can tickets to their outdoor art installation, Creative Forces. Spanning the entire campus, this immersive art experience includes 3D portraits projected in massive scale onto trees and nature.

Prefer to stay virtual? Check out Strathmore’s streamed concerts, including Día de los Muertos Featuring Brahms’s Requiem on October 31.

Get Cultured at Glen Echo Park

While Glen Echo’s retro carousel and park may be closed, the arts community is still thriving. The Park’s studios and galleries reopened to the public in September and visitors can stroll through the studios admiring –– and investing in –– art. Check out ceramic, glass, paintings, photography, and more.

Prefer to browse art from home? Check out their online market here.

Of Course, There’s Always Shopping in Downtown Bethesda!

You knew we couldn’t wrap up a list of weekend activities in Bethesda without shopping! From home decor shops (check out our favorites here!) to high-style fashion boutiques, salons, bakeries, toy stores, and more, you could spend an entire weekend popping in and out of all of Bethesda’s hundreds of retailers.

Then, when you’ve had enough retail therapy, grab a seat outside at a restaurant, order a glass of wine…and maybe plan that hike for tomorrow.

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