Bethesda is a thriving suburban city located in Montgomery County, Maryland. It's just a few miles from Washington D.C. and a great place for capital city residents to escape. Bethesda is known for its popular shopping and dining hubs, as well as its art and culture scene. In addition to all its other attractions, Bethesda is home to many parks and outdoor recreational facilities, making it an ideal place to take a date.
1. Bethesda parks and places for a walk on a first date
A walk in the park is a great way to get to know someone on a first date. Bethesda offers plenty of parks and outdoor spaces to explore. Start with a stroll through the charming streets of Bethesda Row and then head to one of Bethesda’s many parks, such as Cabin John Regional Park, Norwood Park, or Glen Echo Park. Each of these parks offer plenty of trails and green spaces to explore, so you can find the perfect spot for a romantic walk. If you’re looking for a more active outdoor date, you could take your date to Bethesda’s Adventure Park for rock climbing, zip-lining, and other outdoor activities.
2. Places for a coffee date in Bethesda
A coffee date is a classic for any first date. Bethesda has plenty of cafes and coffee shops that make for a great meeting spot. Check out one of the unique cafes on Bethesda Lane, like the Red Bandana Bakery and Café or the Bethesda Bagels, both of which offer a cozy atmosphere and delicious food. For the more adventurous date, you could go to the Teaism Bethesda and enjoy a mid-day matcha. Or, for a lively date, try one of the many hip coffee spots like Urban Roots Café or Vigilante Coffee.
3. Bethesda galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
If you’re looking for a more culture-focused first date, Bethesda offers some great galleries, museums, and exhibitions to check out. Start with a visit to the National Gallery of Art, and then check out the National Geographic Museum or the Bethesda Arts and Entertainment District. If you’re in the mood for something a little more unusual, go to the Art Barn to see their rotating exhibits. You can also visit the National Mall to take in the monuments and memorials, or the Smithsonian to explore the many different collections.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Bethesda
If you’re looking to add some music and entertainment to your first date, Bethesda has plenty of venues to choose from. Check out the Bethesda Blues and Jazz Supper Club for some live music, or The Fillmore for a great selection of shows. For more of an independent feel, head to the Black Rock Center for the Arts or the Mansion at Strathmore for smaller performances. For a bit of comedy, try out the Bethesda Comedy Club or any of the venues in the area.
5. Bethesda pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
For a first date drink or food, Bethesda has plenty of options. Check out one of the many restaurants on Bethesda Row for a nice dinner, or local pubs like Quarry House Tavern or The Black is Back for some drinks and bar food. For a more relaxed atmosphere, try out a local brewery like Denizens or Waredaca. Or, try one of the many wine bars in Bethesda, like The Urban Winery or Gusto Pizzeria & Wine Bar.
6. Other date ideas to try in Bethesda
If you’re looking for something a little different, Bethesda has many other date ideas to try. Take a cooking class at Kith and Kin or visit the many art galleries in the area. Or, take a bike ride on the Capital Crescent Trail, a path that runs along the Potomac River and is great for a tranquil ride. If you’re looking for something more daring, check out the Axe Throwing sport at the AXEmonkeys or the unique escape rooms at Escape Room Live. No matter what you choose, Bethesda offers plenty of great first date ideas.
