When it comes to things to do each week, there’s no place quite like Montgomery County. The region is a hub for activities of all sorts, from art exhibits and theater to craft fairs, food festivals and inventive workshops. Yet with all the happenings across the area, it can be a challenge to figure out exactly what to do. To get started, here are our top picks for the week.

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Friday and Saturday: The Long Branch Festival

8746 Flower Ave., Silver Spring
Sept. 13, 5-9 p.m.; Sept.14, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.

This neighborhood festival brings the community together to celebrate its diversity through a zumba class, live music, a science show and more. Attendance is free with food, drink and goods for purchase.

Saturday: Colores art exhibit opening reception

Blackrock Center for the Arts, 12901 Town Commons Drive, Germantown
Sept. 14, 4-7 p.m.

The viewing of this art exhibit of local Latino artists is from Sept. 7 through Nov. 3, but the opening reception is on Sept. 14. Enjoy appetizers, a cash bar and networking opportunities with a free ticket.

Saturday: Armenian Cultural Night

F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre, 603 Edmonston Drive, Rockville
Sept. 14, 6 p.m.

The Armenian Youth Center of Greater Washington Inc. will celebrate Armenian heritage through folk dance and song. Tickets start at $75 for non-members.

Sunday: Ride for the Reserve

Sugarloaf Citizens Association, 20900 Martinsburg Road, Dickerson
Sept. 15, 8 a.m.

The Montgomery County Farm Tour is a bike ride around Montgomery County and/or a picnic at Linden Farm. Bike ride lengths span up to 62 miles. Tickets start at $17.96 and help support Montgomery County’s rural economy. 

The whole weekend: The Washington Ukrainian Festival

St. Andrews Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral, 15100 New Hampshire Ave., Silver Spring
Sept. 13, 5-8 p.m.; Sept. 14, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Sept. 15, 11 a.m. – dusk

This three-day festival features Ukrainian food, performances, children’s activities and a Kozak beer garden. Friday is free admission, Saturday and Sunday together costs $20 and Sunday alone costs $15. Those under the age of 21 receive free admission, and a portion of proceeds provides humanitarian aid to Ukraine.

And one event worth the trip: In the Streets in Frederick, MD

Downtown Frederick, MD
Sept. 14, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Take a trip up to the historic downtown of Frederick, MD, for its In the Streets Festival. The streets shut down and the businesses open up for a day of food, music, vendors and fun. Before businesses hit the streets, you can partake in the Market Street Mile race. Afterward, check out the Up The Creek Party for ages 21 and up or the family-friendly Great Frederick Fair.

For more events this fall, check out our September and October calendar of events.

Aquí está qué hacer en el Condado de Montgomery esta semana

Muy pronto.

Looking for more things to do around Montgomery County this week? Our arts and culture section spotlights the latest and greatest things to do in the region. Plus, take a peek at our family and education content for happenings impacting you and your family.

For foodies, our food and drink vertical has everything you need to know about openings, closing and the hottest spots to eat throughout the community. You won’t want to miss any of it!

Please call ahead or check online to confirm events for potential cancelations and updates.

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Yoga for All

When Arlet Koseian-Beckham, owner and founder of extendYoga in North Bethesda, looked around the wellness world in 2021, she saw a community that didn’t reflect the diverse population of folks who lived near her studio. With inclusivity in mind, the first-generation Armenian, 42, and employees Ayanna Wells (pictured above), 37, a Black woman, and Zahra Abbassi, 40, a Muslim woman, came up with the Repped Inclusive Yoga Series. A community is chosen to be the focus of a month of Sunday afternoon yoga sessions led by a teacher from that community, plus there’s representation in the art on the walls and the products in the boutique. September will be Latinx month, with three classes in Spanish and a trip to the Latin American Film Festival at AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center in Silver Spring. October will be a warrior series with trauma-informed yoga, sessions for breast cancer survivors and a session for those living with addiction.

12106 Wilkins Ave., North Bethesda, 301-881-3330, extendyoga.com 

Great Wall

There’s so much to take in when looking at “Wheaton Lives,” a mural completed in June on the side of Elbe’s Beer & Wine store, that your eye may not know where to go first. Start at the right side, above the store entrance, and “read” to the left, moving through time from past to present. A Native American village, 18th-century European settlers, the founders of Elbe’s back when it was a neighborhood grocery store, a youth kicking a soccer ball, a present-day woman cooking pupusas—these images and more make up a tapestry of Wheaton life. The mural was painted by Baltimore artist Bridget Cimino, 42, who says she “wanted to create a piece with lots of color and movement.” Her favorite touches: the plowmen and their horses, and the Piscataway village.  

 2522 University Blvd. W., Wheaton, wheatonartsparade.org/elbesmural

Fall for this 

To the mix of pumpkin spice lattes, harvest ales, apple fritters and other quintessential fall faves, we add the apple cider doughnut sundae at Jimmie Cone in Damascus. It starts with an apple cider doughnut from Gaver Farm in Mt. Airy, Maryland. Piled on is soft-serve vanilla ice cream drizzled with hot caramel sauce. To top it off: whipped cream and a cherry, of course. Look for this year’s sundaes to hit the iconic ice cream shop around mid-September, and you can expect prices close to last year’s $8 or a little more. 

 26420 Ridge Road, Damascus, 301-253-2003, jimmiecone.com

Naturally Fun 

The best way to get out of a playground rut? Discover a spot with new things to explore. Beeline to the Nature Play Space at Woodend Nature Sanctuary in Chevy Chase for a water feature that’s activated by kid power, a group of boulders to scale, a slide encased in a wooden wood thrush (seen in the photo here) and a “bird nest” climbing structure made of giant logs. Opened in the fall of 2023, the play space is meant for kids up to age 10 and is designed to be accessible to all. It includes a small parking lot nearby, a pair of bathrooms with composting toilets (no water or chemicals), a water bottle filling station and a changing table stall. Keep the exploration going by trekking around some of the trails on the 40-acre property and checking out the gardens, meadows and pond.  

 8940 Jones Mill Road, Chevy Chase, 301-652-9188, natureforward.org

Stretch Out Summer

We’re not ready to say goodbye to days spent cooling off at the pool. With county-run outdoor pools (and many private ones) closing right after Labor Day, it’s a good time to splash the day away at the new indoor Silver Spring Recreation and Aquatic Center. Open year-round, it has the only county-run aquatic climbing wall. Climbers move untethered up the 10-foot rock wall, which means that falling into the water (from the top or on the way up) is part of the fun. The aquatic center, which opened in February in downtown Silver Spring, also has lap lanes, two hot tubs, diving boards, water-dumping buckets and a couple of slides. See the website for prices and the schedule; the climbing wall is open during rec swim. Look for metered parking on the street or in the garage at 8700 Cameron St. 

 1319 Apple Ave., Silver Spring, 240-777-6900, montgomerycountymd.gov

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FESTIVALS & COMMUNITY EVENTS  

Sept. 7-8 
Bethesda Row Arts Festival  

Original artwork in categories including painting, sculpture, photography, digital art, woodworking, textiles and jewelry is on display and for sale at this outdoor show in downtown Bethesda. A jury of local artists chooses a winner in each discipline and a Best in Show grand prize winner bethesdarowarts.org

Sept. 8 
Salvadoran Independence Festival  

Sept. 15 marks the 203rd anniversary of El Salvador’s independence, and thousands of people are expected to celebrate the occasion at this festival at the Montgomery County Fairgrounds. Musical guests include Zacarias Ferreira, Orquesta Hermanos Flores, Marito Rivera and Grupo Bravo, Orquesta San Vincente, and La Maquina. festivalsalvadoreno.com

Sept. 13-15
Washington Ukrainian Festival 

Experience traditional Ukrainian music, dance, clothing and food at this event on the grounds of the St. Andrew Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral in Silver Spring, where you’ll also find handmade crafts by folk artisans and activities such as face painting for children. ukrainefestdc.com

Sept. 14
A Day of Belonging 

Veterans, active-duty military personnel, their families, caregivers and community members are invited to participate in art workshops, demonstrations, performances and readings at this event produced by Community Building Art Works and Strathmore. The gathering at The Mansion at Strathmore is open to anyone age 16 and older. strathmore.org

Sept. 21
Parks Ale Trail  

Part festival, part hike, this event includes a walk by Lake Needwood in Rock Creek Regional Park in Rockville as well as beer stations, live music and food trucks. Start at the main festival area, where you can see live bands and grab a bite or a beverage. Kids can play on inflatables. Then hit the 2.5-mile round-trip trail, where you’ll find another beer garden and acoustic musical performances mid-hike at Needwood Mansion. montgomeryparks.org/event/parks-ale-trail

Sept. 28
Polo Classic   

Wear your fanciest topper to Habitat for Humanity Metro Maryland’s fifth annual polo event to benefit the nonprofit. In addition to the matches at the Congressional Polo Club in Poolesville, there will be a “divot stomp” and contests for best hat, best dressed and best tailgate. classy.org/event/5th-annual-polo-classic/e575708 

Sept. 28
Rocktobierfest    

Beer and bands are among the highlights of this free German-themed festival in Rockville Town Center. Live performances—rock music and traditional German music and dance—take place on two stages. You also can enjoy drinks from local breweries, food and checking out the crafts for sale. rockvillemd.gov/1952/rocktobierfest

Sept. 29
Wheaton Arts Parade & Festival     

Watch as spectacular floats, dance groups, bands and artists march around the Wheaton triangle to start this festival dedicated to art and community. The event at Marian Fryer Town Plaza also features a visual arts market, live musical performances by local talent and activities for kids such as face painting and balloon art. wheatonartsparade.org

Oct. 5
Harvest Festival   

Candle dipping, tin smithing, quilting and yarn spinning are a few of the traditional hands-on activities you can try at this event at the Agricultural History Farm Park in Derwood. You also can paint a pumpkin, make a scarecrow, go on a hayride and enjoy live music and storytelling. Don’t forget to check out the farm equipment demonstrations and say hello to the resident farm animals. montgomeryparks.org/event/harvest-festival

Oct. 5
Taste of Bethesda    

You can sample cuisine from newcomers and old favorites during this annual event in the Woodmont Triangle neighborhood. More than 30 restaurants are expected to participate in the festival, which also features five stages of live entertainment. bethesda.org/bethesda/taste-bethesda

Oct. 13
Oktoberfest    

This fall festival in the Kentlands features Bavarian music and dancing, performances by local bands, and traditional American autumnal activities, such as pumpkin carving and painting, and cider pressing demonstrations. For kids, there’s also face painting, balloon twisting and inflatables, while grown-ups can try beverages from local breweries and cider and mead distilleries. gaithersburgmd.gov/recreation/special-events/oktoberfest

Oct. 19
Rockville Antique and Classic Car Show    

There’s sure to be something that will rev your engine at this free event, where you can see all types of automobiles dating from the 1920s to the ’80s and ’90s. The show, which takes place on the grounds of Glenview Mansion at Rockville Civic Center Park, has a car sales area, flea market, live music, and food and drinks for purchase. rockvillemd.gov/667/antique-classic-car-show

MUSIC 

Sept. 13-14 
Will Downing  

Early in his career, the R&B singer was a backing vocalist for artists such as Kool & The Gang, Billy Ocean and Jennifer Holliday. Later, his album All the Man You Need was nominated for a Grammy Award. He’ll stop by the Bethesda Theater for two shows. bethesdatheater.com/shows

Sept. 14
The Sweater Set 

Lifelong friends Maureen Andary and Sara Curtin make up this contemporary folk music duo known for charming harmonies. They’ll perform a free outdoor concert at Good Hope Neighborhood Recreation Center in Silver Spring. Pack a picnic and chairs or blankets, but no alcohol. strathmore.org

Sept. 20
Yo-Yo Ma 

The world-famous cellist joins conductor Jonathon Heyward and the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra (BSO) for this concert at The Music Center at Strathmore. The concert is the classical season opener for the BSO and its largest fundraiser of the season. Expect appearances by special guests, including student musicians. bsomusic.org

Sept. 21 
Musica Viva Kentlands  

Head to the Kentlands Clubhouse lawn for a free outdoor classical music concert by a professional orchestra. The performance is part of an ongoing initiative sponsored by the Kentlands Community Foundation, which aims to bring affordable, high-quality classical music concerts to the community, presented in a relaxed atmosphere for audiences of all ages. kentlands.org

Oct. 4 
Blockbuster Broadway  

The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra is led by conductor Stuart Chafetz and joined by guest vocalists in this tribute to the Great White Way at The Music Center at Strathmore. Expect songs from Broadway favorites including The Phantom of the Opera, Jersey Boys, Wicked, Annie, The Sound of Music, Cats and The Lion King, just to name a few. bsomusic.org

Oct. 11 
Elle King 

The “Ex’s & Oh’s” singer and four-time Grammy nominee is back on the road. King, whose dad is actor Rob Schneider, stops by The Fillmore Silver Spring on a tour promoting her single “Baby Daddy’s Weekend.” livenation.com/venue/kovzpza6tfla/the-fillmore-silver-spring-events

Oct. 18 
Afro-Cuban All Stars  

If you were around in the late 1990s, you probably remember the Buena Vista Social Club, the name of both an album by a group of aging Cuban musicians and a documentary about them. Bandleader Juan de Marcos González was an instrumental member of that project and has devoted his career to keeping Cuba’s musical heritage alive. With the Grammy-nominated Afro-Cuban All Stars, he’ll bring the sounds and rhythms of Cuban music to The Music Center at Strathmore. strathmore.org

FILM 

Oct. 25
The Nightmare Before Christmas  

Just in time for Halloween, see a screening of the Disney film by Tim Burton while the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra plays Danny Elfman’s memorable score at The Music Center at Strathmore. The movie follows the misadventures of Halloween Town’s Pumpkin King Jack Skellington as he attempts to take over Christmas. bsomusic.org

ON STAGE

Sept. 13-29 
Red Herring 

Set in 1952, this black comedy at the Arts Barn in Gaithersburg follows the attempts of three couples to overcome the obstacles of love and marriage, while also solving a murder mystery and uncovering a Soviet spy plot. The show is presented in partnership with The Montgomery Playhouse. gaithersburgmd.gov

Sept. 20-29 
Veronica’s Room   

This thriller written by Ira Levin, author of Rosemary’s Baby, is full of twists and turns. A young couple, Susan and Larry, are out on a date when they meet the Mackeys, a sketchy older couple who serve as caretakers at the Brabissant mansion. They convince Susan to pose as the long-dead Veronica Brabissant to console Veronica’s dying sister, but the line between reality and fantasy soon begins to fade in this production by Rockville Little Theatre at the F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre. rlt-online.org/veronicas-room

Oct. 1 
Better With Age Comedy Special  

Think aging is no laughing matter? This free comedy show presented by Montgomery Parks as part of Active Aging Week will prove you wrong. Comedians will riff on growing older, family, friends, relationships and all the trials and tribulations that go with them. The event at Martin Luther King Jr. Recreational Park in Silver Spring is geared toward audiences 55 and older. montgomeryparks.org

UP AND RUNNING

Setting a goal,  trying something new, spending time with friends—people join races for all kinds of reasons. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced marathoner, there’s a run nearby that’s just your speed.  

Sept. 7 
Damascus Freedom 5K 

This family-friendly 3.1-mile race at Damascus Recreational Park commemorates 9/11, honors veterans and first responders, and raises money for organizations that support members of the military and their families. The out-and-back route is a partly paved trail, with a portion on a wooded grassy path. There’s also food, entertainment and a quarter-mile fun run for kids. damascusfreedom5k.com 

Sept. 8 
Parks Half Marathon 

Imagine running through parkland as the sun rises above the trees—along with about 2,000 others. Known for its friendly vibes, it’s a favorite among casual and competitive runners, and is open to participants age 13 and older. The course starts near the Shady Grove Metro station, winds through Rock Creek Park and ends with a Finish Festival on Beach Drive in Kensington. parkshalfmarathon.com 

Sept. 15 
Revenge of the Penguins 

This race gets its name in part from marathoner and author John Bingham, who promoted jogging and walking marathons and was nicknamed “The Penguin” for his slow pace. Choose the 10-mile or 20-mile course; both follow the flat, shady and tree-lined C&O Canal towpath. The race is organized by Marathon Charity Cooperation, a nonprofit that raises money for charities that work to improve the lives and comfort of disadvantaged children and families. mc-coop.org/rotp 

Oct. 12 
Black Hill 10K 

The scenic route snakes through Black Hill Regional Park in Boyds. The race, introduced in 2009, is organized by the Montgomery County Road Runners Club, which offers training programs, group runs and races for participants of all levels. mcrrc.org/calendar-event/black-hill-10k-2024

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Best Hike 

More than 12 miles long, the Herrington Manor and Swallow Falls Trail is a sinuous out-and-back path that begins in Swallow Falls State Park before snaking into Garrett State Forest and ending at Herrington Manor State Park. Often following old logging roads and railroad grades with several hilly sections, the moderate trek takes most hikers a little more than four hours to complete. The walk is mostly shady since the pathway cuts through woodlands picturesquely punctuated with burbling creeks, though the best water feature is Swallow Falls, a majestic waterfall worth checking out before or after your walk. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way, including white-tailed deer, turkeys, bobcats and black bears. 

 2470 Maple Glade Road, Oakland, dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/pages/western/swallowfalls.aspx 

Best Boat/SUP/Kayak Rental

Spread across 3,900 acres and plunging down as far as 72 feet, Deep Creek Lake is Maryland’s largest freshwater body, essentially a giant aquatic playground. To take full advantage, hit up Aquatic Center, a waterfront rental shop where you can gear up for the day or your entire vacation. Self-propelled options include single and double kayaks, as well as a rainbow of stand-up paddleboards. Those looking for a leisurely cruise can rent a pontoon boat. Speed demons can score a sport boat for zipping around.  

 634 Deep Creek Drive, McHenry, aquatic-center.com

Best Farmers Market 

Rain or shine, the weekly Deep Creek Farmers Market showcases about two dozen of the region’s farms, crafters and food producers. Finds might include regeneratively farmed meats from Wildom Farm, fresh vegetables from Honey Moon Farm, coffees from The Travel Mug, scoops from Go Go Gelato, and just-baked loaves from Wild Ember Bread. The season is punctuated with concerts, artist demos and face painters, so check the events calendar. Open Fridays from 3 to 6 p.m. through Oct. 11. 

 Garrett College, Parking Lot A, 687 Mosser Road, McHenry, deepcreekfarmersmarket.com

Best Edutainment for Kids 

Kids will go wild for the Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center, a 6,000-square-foot immersive educational facility on the shores of Deep Creek Lake. Learn about the migration of monarch butterflies, touch fossils and a black bear paw print, and find out about life underwater, along the shoreline and in the surrounding forests. As part of its Scales and Tales program, the center fosters injured birds of prey that aren’t able to survive in the wild—including an Eastern screech owl, a golden eagle and hawks, all on view. There are special programs on weekends, such as reptile encounters, crafting sessions and the chance to follow rangers as they feed animals at the center.  

 Free, but donation suggested. 898 State Park Road, Swanton, discoverycenterdcl.com

Best Restaurant for a Date Night

Savage River Lodge is a backwoods getaway with stylish yurts and luxury cabins in a 450-acre tract of the Savage River State Forest, roughly 30 miles from Deep Creek. You don’t have to be an overnight guest to treat yourself and your date to dinner at Catalpa, a 56-seat restaurant at the lodge that serves artful New American cuisine, such as creamy crab dip, pistachio-crusted halibut, and wild game Bolognese ladled over bucatini. The wine list emphasizes French and California varietals. After your meal, stretch out the romantic evening by sinking into one of the comfy chairs in the great room or heading out to the porch to stargaze. Reservations are required; call 301-689-3200.  

1600 Mount Aetna Road, Frostburg, savageriverlodge.com

Best Souvenirs 

Bear Creek Traders is more than a little bit extra. The sprawling gift shop is packed from floor to ceiling, and back to front, with every kind of tchotchke and tourist bait bric-a-brac imaginable. In the market for a souvenir magnet that doubles as a bottle opener, log cabin-shaped piggy bank, or Deep Creek Lake emblazoned pottery coffee mug? They’ve got you covered. Take your time to wander the whole store, which features sections devoted to kitchenware, gourmet goodies, clothing, toys, pet accessories, jewelry, candy and country kitsch Christmas collectibles. As you might guess from the name, there is a bounty of bear paraphernalia. Does that make it bearaphernalia? 

 24586 Garrett Highway, McHenry, bearcreektraders.com 

Best Hostess Gifts 

You’ll be the best guest ever if you show up with a grazing board from FireFly Farms Market, a charming boutique shop. Either buy a premade platter or custom build one yourself with cheeses made just down the road by FireFly—such as spruce bark-wrapped goat cheese, punchy blues, and the pyramid-shaped Mountain Top with a showstopping green-gray rind—as well as other cheeses sourced from around the globe, charcuterie, crackers and breads, sweet and savory spreadables, and other tasty snacks. Do not sleep on the cheese-centric sandwiches—perfect for a picnic or lunch on a hike—including a sweet-savory standout with goat cheese, prosciutto and fig jam, and an indulgent grilled cheese oozing smoked Gouda, bread-and-butter pickles and caramelized onions.  

107 S. Main St., Accident, fireflyfarms.com

Best Play Space for Dogs

Find paradise for your pooch at Garrett County Dog Park, a 40,000-square-foot off-leash outdoor facility with a double-door entry system to prevent runaways. There are two sections: one for petite pups (30 pounds or lighter), the other for big dogs. Adults can bring up to three canines, which must have up-to-date vaccinations and licenses. Dogs can run free from dawn until dusk while owners lounge in the shade or sit at one of the picnic tables. Food and alcoholic beverages aren’t allowed, but there’s running water so your canine companion never goes thirsty while frolicking with new friends. 

1249 Bumble Bee Road, Accident, deepcreeklions.org/park-projects/dog-park

Best Outdoor Dining 

With a patio elevated above the shoreline, Ace’s Run offers guests a wide-screen view of the lake below, perfect for watching boaters, water sports enthusiasts and the action at the dock. As you’re taking in the scene, dine on a family-friendly 

selection of well-crafted comfort food. Shareable starters include flash-fried local cheese curds with a spicy remoulade for dunking, and an oversize pretzel slathered with crab dip and melted cheese, while entrees span satiating salads, hefty burgers that require both hands, wild mushroom ravioli, and maple bourbon glazed scallops. Save room for dessert, including thick milkshakes, creamy New York cheesecake, and warm banana Nutella bread pudding doused in rum sauce.  

20160 Garrett Highway, Oakland, acesrun.com

Best Ice Cream 

For nearly three decades, beloved scoop shop Lakeside Creamery has served up housemade ice cream in just-griddled waffle cones that have rightfully earned a fervent following. There are always house favorite flavors on hand—such as mint chocolate chip, peanut butter fudge and maple walnut—as well as ever-rotating specials, such as dulce de leche, Butterfinger and tangy orange. Slurpable options include floats, shakes and smoothies. If you’re feeling ambitious, tackle a sundae, such as the intensely chocolatey Muddy Creek. Enjoy your treat at one of the sunny picnic tables overlooking the lake. If you want to extend the good times, grab pints of fave flavors to go.  

20282 Garrett Highway, Oakland, lakesidecreamery.com

Best Coffee Shop 

You don’t even need to get out of your car to get caffeinated at Espresso Alley, a charming drive-thru coffee shop housed in a converted shed. The espresso menu always features the classics, as well as sweet seasonal sips, such as blueberry cobbler macchiato, Oreo cold brew and iced lavender chai. For those eschewing java, there are boba teas, lemonades, smoothies, teas and Italian sodas. Don’t hit the accelerator before picking up some pastries, such as the gargantuan chocolate chip muffins, icing-slathered cinnamon rolls and fist-size apple fritters. For a savory nosh, opt for a pepperoni roll, avocado toast, or bacon, egg and cheese ciabatta sandwich.  

25901 Garrett Highway, McHenry, espressoalleydeepcreeklake.com

Best Mini Golf 

The 18-hole course at the jam-packed amusement center Funland is a rollicking good time for golfers of every age. (Bonus: Putters 3 years old and younger play for free.) With a massive waterfall at its center, the green challenges players to navigate slopes, twists, turns and rocky obstacles. Once the round is over, the fun continues with opportunities to drive bumper cars and go-karts, scale the climbing wall, take a spin on the carousel atop one of the pastel-hued ponies or play video games. If you’re feeling hungry, order a pizza, sub, salad or such kid-friendly apps as potato wedges, mozzarella sticks and nachos.  

 24450 Garrett Highway, McHenry, deepcreekfunland.com

Best Pizza 

Enjoy a taste of the Bronx deep in northwestern Maryland at the always-bustling Brenda’s New York Style Pizzeria. Primo pies a New Yorker could love come topped as you like, though specialty rounds—including one inspired by Buffalo chicken wings and the spicy Firecracker with jalapeños—are worth exploring. Those dining in with a crowd should consider a 26-inch Abbondanza (serves six to eight), which starts with red sauce or a three-cheese white base, then gets customized with toppings—from classic pepperoni and sausage to creative options, such as sundried tomatoes, feta and green olives. For a sweet finale, there are Italian classics, such as tiramisu, cannoli and New York-style cheesecake. 

 21311 Garrett Highway, Oakland, brendaspizzeria.com

Best Photographer for Family Photos  

Longtime portrait photographer Kirsten Getz has a knack for capturing the spark of joy in families, so her warmhearted pictures practically pop off the screen and out of frames. She advises holding photo shoots at one’s rental home, though Swallow Falls and Deep Creek Lake state parks are excellent alternatives. For the most candid results, she recommends against folks preparing much, though a couple of beloved activities should be lined up, whether that’s roasting marshmallows over the firepit or taking a boat out for a spin. After your 45- to 60-minute session, Getz will deliver 50 or more edited photos in an online gallery with free downloads and a discount on prints.  

kirstengetzphotography.com

This story appears in the July/August edition of Bethesda Magazine.

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Bay Stays

Opened in June 2023 with a half-mile bayfront promenade, Sun Outdoors Chincoteague Bay is a family-friendly haven of outdoor fun complete with a pool, a playground, pickleball courts and a private fishing pier (no fishing license needed). Choose a glamping tent, cottage or RV site to set up your home away from home.  

Each of the 28 khaki-colored, wood-framed glamping tents has air conditioning and heating, a full bathroom, kitchenette (with mini-fridge, microwave and stovetop), bunk beds sleeping area, private bedroom with a queen bed, and covered porch with a picnic table. Community firepits with Adirondack chairs are scattered around the tent area. All glamping tents are nonsmoking and inaccessible by car; however, golf cart rentals are available. There are no locks on the tents, and pets are not permitted. 

The 24 waterfront and 16 waterview cottages, painted sailor blue, are pet-friendly. Each has a kitchen, full bathroom, set of bunk beds and separate queen-bed bedroom, plus a screened porch, patio and picnic table. Waterview cottage bonus: a rooftop sundeck. 

Sun Outdoors’ 149 pet-friendly RV sites are closest to the bathhouses, pool and camp store. Full hookup back-in RV sites offer 20-, 30- and 50-amp electric service. Site amenities include Wi-Fi, a picnic table and a fire ring. 

Check the events schedule for live music on the pool deck and wine tasting nights. Off property, explore nearby Assateague Island National Seashore, Assateague Lighthouse and Maui Jack’s Waterpark (discounted tickets are available at Sun Outdoors’ welcome center). Rent an open-air “Moke” road vehicle—they look like a cross between a jeep and a golf cart—to make cruising the attractions part of your fun; rentals are available on-site for $195 per day. 

Nightly rates begin at $80 for an RV site, $300 for a cottage, and $200 for a glamping tent.

Sun Outdoors Chincoteague Bay, 2272 Main St., Chincoteague, Virginia, 855-462-3423, sunoutdoors.com/virginia/sun-outdoors-chincoteague-bay 

Beachside Bliss

Located a short walk from Bethany Beach’s oceanfront shops and bandstand, the Bethany Beach Ocean Suites Residence Inn by Marriott is not your average chain. Fully renovated in 2023, the Delaware hotel is akin to a coastal inn, boasting 112 spacious suites (each with a private balcony or terrace to enjoy the sound of the sea), a heated indoor/outdoor saltwater pool, and Via Sophia by the Sea, a restaurant and bar that’s a sibling of D.C.’s Via Sophia. The menu features pasta specialties and seafood dishes, including a delicious salmon entree with wild mushrooms and walnut gremolata. Dine indoors, at the bar, or alfresco on the ocean-facing covered porch. The hotel’s living room-style lobby, adjacent to Via Sophia, is dotted with several cozy seating areas where you can relax, dine with your dog on food ordered at Via Sophia’s bar, or chat with fellow guests.  

Hints of balsam and juniper berry waft through guest suite hallways (thanks to scent dispensers). The one-bedroom and studio suites include a king or two queen beds—each with a comfortable mattress and duvet—sofa bed, bathroom with a walk-in shower (some rooms have tubs), and kitchenette with a full-size refrigerator, small cooktop, microwave and dishwasher (note there is no oven). A handful of first-floor suites have walk-out terraces just a few steps above Bethany’s boardwalk, making it easy to dash past the dunes to catch the sunrise from the beach. 

Summer activities for kids include a mermaid swim, face painting, a magician and movies. Bike rentals are available on-site. Suite rates begin at $709 per night and include coffee and tea all day and a full breakfast buffet.

Bethany Beach Ocean Suites Residence Inn by Marriott, 99 Hollywood St., Bethany Beach, Delaware, 302-539-3200, marriott.com/en-us/hotels/rehri-bethany-beach-ocean-suites-residence-inn/overview

Yak It Up on the Tracks

Chat up friends, family or your date as you pedal alongside the Great Allegheny Passage on a tandem or quad railbike from Tracks and Yaks. Opened in Frostburg, Maryland, in May 2021, Tracks and Yaks tours depart from the historic Frostburg Depot and run along Western Maryland Scenic Railroad’s smooth steel tracks, offering gorgeous mountain views and a fun pedal through the 914-foot Brush Tunnel. The rides, which are all guided, are leisurely paced and the bikes are easy to handle, making the tours accessible for people of all ages. A variety of tours are available, including the popular Helmstetter Hotshot, a 10-mile, two-hour pedal through the most scenic part of the railway, with a shuttle bus return (from $99 for a tandem bike). Or try the Track and Yak Express, a three-hour tour that pairs a 10-mile railbike ride with a shuttle bus to the North Branch of the Potomac River for a 3-mile kayak or tube float (from $139). Additional tours are available, including one that combines railbiking with a return trip aboard the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad’s Frostburg Flyer.  

A second Tracks and Yaks location in Berlin, Maryland, about a 30-minute drive from Bethany Beach, opened in July 2023 and offers a 6-mile, 1½-hour tour, or a 13-mile, 2½-hour tour on straight and level tracks. Both traverse farmland, wetland and coastal forests of pine. The longer excursion includes a stop at the historic Queponco train depot, which now serves as a museum dedicated to the history of the railroad and its importance on the Eastern Shore. Be sure to pack water, sunscreen, snacks and closed-toe shoes. Open six days a week (closed on Tuesdays) throughout the summer. Visit the website for tour schedules and prices. —C.K.F. 

Tracks and Yaks, 19 Depot St., Frostburg, Maryland, 301-349-3699; 115 Broad St., Berlin, Maryland, 443-856-3309, tracksandyaks.com 

This story appears in the July/August edition of Bethesda Magazine.

The post Put pedal to the metal on a railbike in Maryland’s mountains appeared first on MoCo360.

Music 

July 10 through Aug. 21: Live from the Lawn

Pianist Mark G. Meadows and singer Rochelle Rice celebrate blues music in an all-ages version of the concert they present each year to Montgomery County Public Schools fifth graders. The show is the first of Strathmore’s outdoor summer concert series. The lineup also includes an Aug. 7 appearance of EU featuring Sugar Bear, which is expected to be one of Strathmore’s most popular shows of the season. strathmore.org

July 11 through Aug. 1: Cool Concerts for Kids 

Strathmore’s outdoor summer children’s concert series begins with a performance by the Grammy-winning bilingual duo 123 Andrés, which packs energy, education and positive vibes into its family-friendly music. Vocalist Jazzy Ash and the New Orleans-style jazz band the Leaping Lizards, “kindie” rockers Marsha and the Positrons, and hip-hop artist Fyütch fill out the lineup of Thursday evening shows. strathmore.org

July 11 through Aug. 15: Montgomery Parks Summer Concert Series

The series kicks off with a concert by a local band, The Nighthawks,on July 11 at Black Hill Regional Park and continues through mid-August with a different band playing at a county park every Thursday. montgomeryparks.org

July 25: A Night With Norm Lewis

It’s a double celebration at Olney Theatre Center as film, television and Broadway actor Norm Lewis performs a concert to salute the Olney Outdoors season opening and the theater’s 86th birthday. An Emmy, Tony and SAG Award nominee, Lewis made history as Broadway’s first African American phantom in Phantom of the Opera and has appeared in Broadway shows including Porgy & Bess, Chicago and Les Misérables. olneytheatre.org

Aug. 8: Straight No Chaser

Get a shot of nostalgia when the all-male a cappella group takes on the ’90s in a concert featuring pop hits from that decade at The Music Center at Strathmore. strathmore.org

Aug. 15: The Righteous Brothers

Bobby Hatfield and Bill Medley formed the soulful rock ’n’ roll duo in the 1960s, but their songs have endured for decades. Some of their most famous hits were featured in blockbuster movies in the ’80s and ’90s—Tom Cruise’s rendition of “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’ ” in Top Gun and Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze’s pottery scene with “Unchained Melody” in Ghost—making the tunes iconic. After Hatfield’s death in 2003, Medley teamed with vocalist Bucky Heard to revive the group’s repertoire. They will stop by The Music Center at Strathmore on their farewell tour. strathmore.org

Aug. 17: A BandHouse Gigs Tribute to DC Legends

An impressive number of musical superstars have called the D.C. area home. This show at The Music Center at Strathmore, featuring performances by current regional musicians and vocalists, pays homage to the area’s homegrown talent. Expect songs by Marvin Gaye, Roberta Flack, Patsy Cline, Joan Jett, Nils Lofgren, Emmylou Harris and Duke Ellington to name just a few. strathmore.org

Aug. 24: Santigold

Punk, hip-hop, pop and dub are just some of the influences for this genre-defying indie musician. Expect cuts from her 2022 album Spirituals and more from her oeuvre at The Fillmore Silver Spring. livenation.com

Aug. 24-25: War

The “Low Rider” band rolls into town for two shows at the Bethesda Theater. Formed in the 1960s, the group fuses funk, rock, soul and Latin music for a distinctive sound. Other hits include “Why Can’t We Be Friends?” and “Spill the Wine.” bethesdatheater.com

Theater

Through Aug. 10: Miss Nelson is Missing!

The fifth graders at Smedley Elementary School are in for a surprise when their sweet teacher, Miss Nelson, disappears and is replaced by the dreaded substitute, Viola Swamp. The musical adaptation of the children’s book by Harry Allard is performed at Imagination Stage and recommended for children age 4 and older. imaginationstage.org

July 3 through Aug. 25: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical

This jukebox musical at Olney Theatre Center features hits such as “So Far Away,” “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” and “Will You Love Me Tomorrow” by the famous singer-songwriter, and tells the story of her life from a hopeful 16-year-old trying to sell a song to music publishers, to one of the 20th century’s greatest tunesmiths. olneytheatre.org

July 6 through Aug. 4: The Wizard of Oz

Journey down the yellow brick road with Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion in this musical production of the classic American fairy tale at The Puppet Co. in Glen Echo Park. The show, which runs about 55 minutes, is best for age 4 and older. thepuppetco.org

July 6 and 9: Shakespeare in the Parks

Meadowside Nature Center and Brookside Gardens transform into open-air theaters for free performances of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Bring a picnic or, at Brookside, pick up a bite from an on-site food truck. montgomeryparks.org

Aug. 15 through Sept. 8: DinoRock Productions: Dinosaur Babies

With prehistoric characters and original music, this show, which first graced The Puppet Co.’s stage in 1998, is for large reptile lovers. About 45 minutes long, it’s recommended for children age 5 and older. thepuppetco.org

Fairs & Festivals

July 14: International Food and Craft Festival

Experience flavors from around the world at this event at Veterans Plaza in Silver Spring. In addition to delicious things to eat, vendors will showcase handmade items and other wares for sale. chiceventsdc.com

July 21: Afro Latino Festival

Celebrate the culture of the community through more than 40 vendors, live music, food and crafts that represent Afro Latino heritage at this free festival at Silver Spring’s Veterans Plaza. afrolatinofestival.net

July 27: Tastes of Calleva

At this progressive-style meal, guests tour Calleva Farm in Dickerson and stop at different stations, each featuring an artist or musician from the community along with small plates highlighting eggs and meat from the farm, produce and herbs grown there, and locally sourced beer, wine and cocktails. In addition, there will be zip lines, wagon rides, lawn games, garden tours, a campfire and a sing-along. calleva.org/farm/tastes-of-calleva

Aug. 10: Montgomery County Children’s Business Fair

Up to 40 young entrepreneurs will be open for business at this one-day marketplace at Rockville Town Square designed to inspire businesspeople ages 6 to 15. Kids are invited to create a product or service (think baked goods or paintings), market it and then sell it at the fair. mocochildrensbusinessfair.org

Aug. 17-18: RisuCon

Comic, anime and cosplay fans can meet voice actors, artists and illustrators at this comic convention at the Bethesda North Marriott Hotel and Conference Center. The family-friendly event features Q&As, panel discussions and autograph signings. Attendees are encouraged to wear costumes. risucon.com

Aug. 24: Maker’s Market and Festival

Shop the wares of creative vendors and neighborhood businesses at the summer installment of this seasonal sidewalk festival in Friendship Heights. The free event, along Wisconsin Avenue from Jenifer to Garrison streets, also includes community hangout zones, oversize games, music and dancing. friendshipheights.com

Aug. 25: African + Caribbean Music & Arts Festival

Live music, including a steel orchestra and jazz ensemble, takes center stage at this free festival at Veterans Plaza in Silver Spring. Arts and crafts representing African and Caribbean culture are also featured. carnivalnation.com

Film

July 26; Aug. 2, 9: Bethesda Outdoor Movies

Bethesda Urban Partnership presents free outdoor films at the corner of Auburn and Norfolk avenues in downtown Bethesda. First up? Men in Black. Dine at a nearby restaurant before the show and make it dinner and a movie. bethesda.org

July 31 through Aug. 21: Movies in the Parks

This free Wednesday evening film series features family-friendly movies in a different Rockville park each week. Bring your own chairs, blankets and picnics to Fallsgrove Park for The Emperor’s New Groove, the first of the set. The lineup also includes The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Encanto and Matilda. rockvillemd.gov/1755/movies-in-the-parks

Aug. 2: James Baldwin: The Price of the Ticket 

Marking the 100th birthday of the American writer and civil rights activist, Strathmore launches its series on James Baldwin with a screening of the documentary James Baldwin: The Price of the Ticket at the AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center in Silver Spring, followed by a conversation led by Keith Clark, a professor at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. The series continues into October with concerts and lectures. strathmore.org

Dance

July 6: Bumper Car Squares

Want to swing your partner or learn how to do-si-do? Check out this square dance event at Glen Echo Park’s Bumper Car Pavilion. After a lesson for dancers of all levels, a caller will lead a square dance with a live band. The event is for all ages; free for kids 12 and younger. Footwear with a back is suggested—wouldn’t want to lose a shoe while you promenade. glenechopark.org/events-calendar/202407

Fourth of July

July 4: Germantown Glory

Head to South Germantown Recreation Park starting at 7 p.m. for music from a live band before the fireworks kick off. Bring chairs or a blanket and a picnic, or grab a bite from a food vendor on-site. montgomerycountymd.gov

July 4: Poolesville’s Annual 4th of July Fireworks Celebration

The community celebrates with music, food and fireworks at the soccer fields off Hughes Road. Gates open at 5 p.m. poolesvillemd.gov/225/events

July 4: Rockville’s Independence Day Celebration

Uncle Jesse, a cover band playing hits from the ’90s and 2000s, provides the tunes at the city’s July Fourth event, which also includes a 20-minute fireworks display at Mattie J.T. Stepanek Park. rockvillemd.gov/663/independence-day

July 6: Mid-County Sparkles

Keep the celebration going into the weekend with a live band and fireworks at Albert Einstein High School in Kensington. The event begins at 6 p.m. montgomerycountymd.gov

This story appears in the July/August edition of Bethesda Magazine.

The post What to do in Montgomery County in July and August appeared first on MoCo360.

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Best of Lewes

Best of Bethany Beach

Best of Rehoboth Beach

Best of Fenwick Island

Best of Dewey Beach

Best of Ocean City

Best of Lewes

The first town in the first state is famous for its maritime history, state park and dining

Best Historic Area

In 1631, the Dutch arrived in what is now Lewes to start a whaling colony, and fishing remained the leading industry for generations. In the 1950s, Lewes was a top fishery for menhaden, used to make fish meal and fish oil. Locals called the pungent aroma the “smell of money.” It kept developers from building motels downtown. When the fish factories closed, the old buildings were still standing. Thanks to the Lewes Historical Society, many were restored, and in 1977 the Lewes Historic District entered the National Register of Historic Places. Worth visiting: the society complex at Shipcarpenter Square (a collection of buildings representing Sussex County history), the Lewes History Museum, the Zwaanendael Museum and the Cannonball House, hit by the British during the War of 1812.

 Lewes Historical Society, 110 Shipcarpenter St., historiclewes.org; Lewes Chamber of Commerce, 120 Kings Highway, leweschamber.com

Best Park

Cape Henlopen State Park is a haven for swimmers, surfers, hikers, campers, bicyclists and birders. Back in the 1940s, it was home to Fort Miles, a World War II Army installation. The concrete fire towers used for target practice dot the sand from the cape to the Indian River Inlet. Battery 519, a bunker built into the Great Dune, is now the Fort Miles Museum. But most people come for the 6 miles of sparkling coastline and the fabulous trails. Seaside Nature Center boasts a touch tank and a borrow-a-bike program. The beach by the bathhouse has lifeguards. Entrance to the park is $10 for out-of-state vehicles.

 15099 Cape Henlopen Drive, destateparks.com/beaches/capehenlopen

Best Rail Trails

Former railroad tracks are becoming flat trails for runners, bicyclists and walkers. The Georgetown-Lewes Trail runs on the Delaware Coast Line Railroad’s old bed. When complete, the trail will be 17 miles and end in Georgetown. For now, it’s 10 miles with endpoints at Fisher Road and Gills Neck Road. The trail cuts through Lewes—and over some busy roads—and links to the Junction & Breakwater Trail, which runs to Rehoboth. At various points along the trail there’s free parking, including a lot next to the trail at Old World Breads (32191 Nassau Road in Lewes).

delawaregreenways.org

Best Farmers Market

Savvy shoppers know to head to the Historic Lewes Farmers Market, open 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays through Sept. 28. This is a producer-only market, meaning you won’t find third-party vendors, and all 35 of the Saturday morning participants must commit to every event but two. Along with produce, you’ll find mushrooms, eggs, chicken, dairy products and artisanal goods.

George H.P. Smith Park, Johnson and Dupont avenues, historiclewesfarmersmarket.org

Best Chocolate

Edie Bee’s is a Parisian-style boutique artfully packed with sweet delights. Individual chocolates seem almost too beautiful to eat—almost. In 2020, Michelle Teed purchased the shop from founder Leisa Berlin, and the quality remains. Along with exquisite chocolates, you’ll find hard candies, gummies, chocolate-covered pretzels and caramels.

115 Second St., ediebeeslewes.com

Best Dining Atmosphere

For a big serving of charm, head to the three Victorians lined up on Savannah Road. Heirloom is an acclaimed establishment in a circa-1899 Victorian. Owner Meghan Lee outfitted the multiroom restaurant with vintage plates, mismatched silverware and botanical prints. The menu changes seasonally, and the cocktails are  creative. At Raas, an Indian/pan-Asian restaurant with a wraparound porch and attached gazebo, the menu is an upscale approach to familiar dishes, including tandoori and crabcakes. Bramble & Brine at The Buttery serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, and has a lounge with craft cocktails. It occupies the mansion at the corner of Savannah Road and Second Street. The name pays tribute to owner Megan Kee’s first restaurant, Bramble & Brine, in Rehoboth Beach, and The Buttery, a restaurant that once occupied the grande dame.

Heirloom, 212 Savannah Road, heirloomdelaware.com; Raas, 210 Savannah Road, raaslewes.com; Bramble & Brine at The Buttery, 102 Second St., bramble-brine.com

Best Family-Friendly Brewpub

Backyard barbecues and lazy afternoons in a hammock inspired the beach-themed Crooked Hammock Brewery. The owners had small children when the brewpub opened in 2015, and the enclosed yard features cornhole games, a playground for kids and a firepit. In warm weather, garage-style doors open to the beer garden and backyard. The menu has such cookout favorites as grilled meats and refreshing salads, and there’s a kids menu. A huge pretzel—a brewery requisite—is a bestselling appetizer. 

36707 Crooked Hammock Way, crookedhammockbrewery.com

Best Cruises

The Parsons family’s red-and-white boats are familiar sights on the Lewes and Rehoboth Canal; the family has been running fishing expeditions from Lewes Harbour since 1937 through its business, Fisherman’s Wharf. Over the years, sightseeing excursions and cruises have been added, including whale and dolphin watches, seal watches, and fireworks cruises. One of the most beautiful outings is a two-hour sunset cruise past the Harbor of Refuge and East End lighthouses.

107 Anglers Road, fishlewes.com

—Pam George

Best of Rehoboth Beach

A mile-long boardwalk anchors this town. Keep an eye out for President Biden, who has a home here.

Best Non-Beach Outdoor Experience

The partly shaded Gordons Pond Trail is a welcome option for a scenic walk, run or bike ride in season, when Rehoboth’s beach and boardwalk are less accessible to dogs and cyclists. The 3.2-mile crushed-gravel course inside Cape Henlopen State Park skirts a 900-acre marsh surrounding a serene brackish-water lagoon and features a half-mile stretch of elevated boardwalk to protect the wetlands. Look for snowy egrets, willets, laughing gulls, ospreys and more at the three overlooks. The ocean beach here is less congested than Rehoboth’s. Free to walk or bike in; $10 per out-of-state car. Dogs on leashes no longer than 6 feet are allowed on the trail and beach.

North end of Ocean Drive, destateparks.com/wwwroot/maps/cape-henlopen/wolfe-neck-gordons-pond.pdf

Best Place To Be Inspired 

A pine-shaded, birdsong-filled historic site tucked away in upscale Henlopen Acres, the Rehoboth Art League provides a cool escape. Art lovers can wander several galleries offering rotating exhibitions and works by members, and stop by the creatively stocked gift shop. The docent-staffed, Colonial-era Homestead is also free to visit. On the National Register of Historic Places for its architectural significance, it displays furniture, artifacts and decorative items of that time, and includes a historically accurate formal garden.

12 Dodds Lane, rehobothartleague.org

Best Takeout

It’s window service only at Frank & Louie’s Italian Specialties, a family-run eatery named after brothers Frank and Louie Bascio, who you’ll see on-site. The hearty sandwiches are made to order, with freshly sliced meats and cheeses served on crusty ciabatta rolls delivered daily from a New York bakery. You also can get cooked and chilled entrees such as eggplant Parmesan, mushroom-stuffed chicken and lasagna. The hand-baked desserts are mom Diane’s recipe; the cookies—pignoli and macaroons among them—are especially in demand. There’s no online ordering, so call in your request (302-227-5777).

 58 Baltimore Ave., frankandlouies.com

Best Breakfast/Brunch

A recent expansion has made it a bit easier to nab a table at Egg, open daily from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the historic McQuay’s Market building. The charming whitewashed interior is warmed by wood accents and splashes of red—and images of chickens everywhere. The menu ranges freely from eggs (of course) with a variety of breakfast meats (including pecan wood-smoked bacon), to crab and avocado toast, to poblano stuffed with eggs, cheese and chorizo, to a wine and cocktail list. Can’t decide? You can order just one of an item that typically comes in twos; for example, half a serving of rich eggs Benedict or one lemony crepe. 

 510 Rehoboth Ave., eggrehoboth.com

Best Raw Bar

Henlopen City Oyster House is a crowd-pleasing restaurant (the Bidens dined there in February) that doesn’t take reservations or offer a happy hour. Folks queue up for tables in the summer and arrive early to snag a spot in the offseason. What’s the hook? The vibe is friendly, the staff is knowledgeable, and the seafood, such as the crispy scallops appetizer and the meaty lobster roll, is top-notch. The ever-changing raw bar menu reads like a sommelier’s pitch—an oyster might be described as having a “subtle salinity” and “hint of sweetness”—and your choices will arrive thoroughly cleaned, skillfully shucked and beautifully presented. 

50 Wilmington Ave., hcoysterhouse.com

Best Family Outing

Located on Rehoboth’s mile-long boardwalk, Funland, a pint-size, family-owned amusement park, is packed with 19 rides, 11 games and infinite nostalgia. Several antique attractions are only part of the retro charm that draws legions of returning families. Tots who wave with tentative pride from the 1940s-era boats (one ticket) grow into teens who shriek happily on the modern Superflip 360 (six tickets). Entry is free. The 75-cent ride tickets never expire. Save by purchasing 25-, 50- or 100-ticket books; you can also preorder online. Perpetually favorite games include Skee-Ball (50 cents) and Derby ($2). New this year: a duck pond game. 

6 Delaware Ave., funlandrehoboth.com

Best Bookstore

Established in 1975, when Jaws was this beach town’s top-selling book (check the outdoor mural for more), Browseabout Books is a singular survivor among independent bookstores. It has grown into a bustling 13,000-square-foot space offering 35,000 titles—bestsellers, staff picks, local interest, manga, romance, etc., plus a robust selection for kids. Summer events will include local authors Maribeth Fischer and Ethan Joella, and New York Times bestselling novelists Liz Moore and Mary Kubica. You’ll find a coffee bar, as well as an ample array of toys, puzzles, beachy gifts and decor, clothing, jewelry and greeting cards. 

133 Rehoboth Ave., browseaboutbooks.com

Best Pickleball Courts

The four free courts at Rehoboth Beach Elementary School are only a few years old—and still pristine. Plus, they’re dedicated pickleball courts, not tennis courts painted with pickleball lines. Play is limited to after 4:30 p.m. and weekends during the school year, but come summer vacation, picklers can start at 7 a.m. daily. The crowd is friendly, but waits are likely at this first-come, first-served facility. There are also two tennis courts and a basketball court in this complex. Bonus for parents: The school’s large playground is open to the public when school is out. 

500 Stockley St.

—Elizabeth Chang

Best of Dewey Beach

Live music, cocktails and water sports draw fun-seekers to this happening town

Best Place to Hear Rock ’n’ Roll

If you grew up in the D.C. area, chances are you found your way to Bottle & Cork at some point during your youth. The beloved dive bar has a slicker appearance these days, and it remains one of Delmarva’s top venues for curated music in an intimate open-air setting. The cash-only bar is for age 21 and older. Grab a cold beer, find a place to stand and get ready to shake it up with the likes of country artist Justin Moore or British rockers the Struts. 

1807 Coastal Highway, bottleandcork.com

Best Beach to Bring Your Dog

Furry friends are allowed on the beach year-round, making Dewey Beach a favorite vacation destination for dog lovers. You can take long walks along the shoreline and, during the offseason, they can play off-leash all day (but must be controllable by voice commands). From Saturday of Memorial Day weekend through Sunday following Labor Day your pooch is allowed on the beach before 8:30 a.m. and after 5:30 p.m. All owners must purchase a Dewey Beach license for their dog online or at the kiosk beside town hall. Many hotels are dog-friendly, too, and cleanup bags are available at each dune entrance. Dewey is the site of the Golden Jubilee in May and September, when hundreds of golden retrievers converge on the beach. 

105 Rodney Ave., townofdeweybeach.com

Best Brewery

Within the tiny enclave of Dewey Beach is the mighty Dewey Beer Co. (DBC). Open since 2015, the brewery began producing pale ales and fruity sours, and rapidly gained a following. This year, the brewery was named best brewpub in the nation in USA Today’s10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. Along with a rotation of about a dozen beers on tap, the gastropub serves a lineup of sandwiches and appetizers. DBC has opened new outposts in Denver and Harbeson, Delaware, but Dewey is where this party started.

2100 Coastal Highway, deweybeerco.com

Best Outfitter

Dewey Beach Water Sports has everything you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Located on the northeast corner of Rehoboth Bay, the outfitter begins with safety instructions and demonstrations, and then it’s all aboard. Get the family together for an afternoon on a pontoon boat. Skim the surface on a guided personal watercraft tour. Choose a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to navigate the coves around Thompson Island. Families can ride on a Banana Boat.

113 Dickinson St., deweybeachwatersports.com

Best Local Produce 

Frederick Fifer opened his first farm stand in 1919, and today, the family has an orchard and two markets, including a seasonal location in Dewey Beach. Fifer’s Farm Kitchen in Dewey sells produce from the family’s farm and orchards, along with ready-made products and grocery items. Fifer’s Farm Kitchen also has a small deli, where you can order breakfast, sandwiches and salads to-go. Feel like picking your own? Pluck strawberries, peaches and more at Fifer’s Orchard in Camden, Delaware. Open seasonally; call 302-227-8680 for hours.

200 Cullen St., fiferorchards.com

Best Bloody Mary

The Starboard opened for business around 65 years ago and quickly became a revered Dewey Beach destination. Why this spot? It’s a year-round bar that serves tasty food, hosts live music and is an overall friendly hangout. The menu is big, but the bloody marys are a standout—the perfect accompaniment to a Starboard breakfast. Choose to layer your vodka and tomato juice with olives, bacon, veggies and even crabmeat. Starboard leans into the iconic Delmarva crush cocktail—a combination of vodka, triple sec, soda and fresh squeezed juices over ice—and now serves nine variations. 

2009 Coastal Highway, thestarboard.com

Best Tours

Flanked by the Atlantic Ocean, Rehoboth Bay and Indian River Bay, Delaware Seashore State Park is a public beach and home to Indian River Life-Saving Station. This building was constructed in 1876, when the United States Life-Saving Service was called upon to rescue victims of shipwrecks—these teams were the precursor to the U.S. Coast Guard. At the Life-Saving Station, you can listen to a self-guided tour of the small museum on your phone or sign up for a $10 guided or moonlight lantern tour that explains how shipwrecked sailors were saved.

 25039 Coastal Highway, destateparks.com

Best Crabcake

Critics often call the tender jumbo lump crabcake at Woody’s Dewey Beach “the best,” and we agree. There’s almost no filler and minimal seasoning, just a quick char on the baseball-size jumbo lump crabmeat, and voila. Try a crabcake on a platter, as a sandwich or on a salad. Add to the experience with a bowl of Maryland crab or cream of crab soup. Woody’s has a lively bar area, a 25-seat patio, and a late-night menu offered until 1 a.m. for revelers enjoying Dewey’s nightlife options. 

1904 Coastal Highway, deweybeachbar.com

—Renee Sklarew

Best of Bethany Beach

An iconic surf shop, a trolley and good eats help make the quiet beach town lively

Best Yoga Experience

The Bethany Beach Summer Exercise Classes are cherished by locals and visitors alike. Bright and early, people carrying yoga mats convene on the beach to salute the sun as it rises over the waves. Led by local instructors, Sunrise Yoga begins with traditional poses, while Vayu Yoga (a seated, gentle version of yoga) is the second practice. On some days, yoga classes are held in Bethany’s Central Park. Try sports performance, boot camp or Pilates classes, too, or the latest addition: Sunset Yoga with Sound Healing.

Classes ($10-$20 each) are held in Central Park, on the beach in front of Garfield Parkway, and on the beach in front of Ocean View Parkway. townofbethanybeach.com/383/summer-exercise-classes

Best Seafood Restaurant 

Bluecoast Seafood Grill and Raw Bar delivers an optimal waterfront dining experience thanks to stunning views of Salt Pond and a wide array of seafood. Founded by late James Beard Award-winning chef Matthew James Haley (of Matt’s Fish Camp), this destination restaurant serves classics such as crabcakes and shrimp and grits. Arrive between 4 and 6 p.m. for whatever oysters or clams are available that day for $1 each. Or try fried baby lobster tails and steamed shrimp dumplings to lead off your meal. Accompaniments include curated cocktails, sinful desserts and an overflowing wine list.

30904 Coastal Highway, bluecoastbethany.com

Best Sweet Treats

Check out the crowds strolling the Bethany boardwalk and chances are they’re sipping a coffee or slurping ice cream from Maureen’s Ice Cream and Desserts. It’s been a staple for 20 years and remains a beloved tradition. Begin your day with zesty coconut oatmeal, then stop by in the afternoon for a refreshing fruit smoothie or Oreo-topped doughnut. After dinner, choose gelato or a frosty milkshake.

99 Garfield Parkway, maureensicecream.com

Best Prepared Foods and Carryout 

DiFebo’s Cafe & Deli has you covered for a delicious night at home, whether you’re seeking a small carryout meal or require enough to fill a hungry group of 12. The market prepares trays of rigatoni and meatballs, spicy Firenze chicken with penne pasta, and heaping bowls of antipasto salad that will leave everyone grateful when you say, “Mangia!” Prefer to dine in? Find Italian classics and an expansive wine list. Reservations are recommended.

789 Garfield Parkway, difebos.com/bethany-beach

Best Views

Nestled beside the majestic Indian River Inlet Bridge, Big Chill Beach Club resembles a posh resort with multiple bars and a full restaurant. With panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, the elevated Sunset Lounge is protected from wind and rain by mobile garage doors. There’s also the fully open-air South Bar, where you can sip a cocktail while taking in the sounds of the surf or digging your toes into the sand by the firepits. Big Chill is within Delaware Seashore State Park ($10 parking for non-Delaware residents). 

27099 Coastal Highway, bigchillbeachclub.com

Best Transportation

In much of Bethany, visitors can leave their car behind and ride the Bethany Beach Trolley, an open-air bus that resembles a vintage railcar. Operational from the Friday before Memorial Day through mid-September, the free trolley runs from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. with 17 regular stops (you also can flag down the driver). The trolley is convenient for getting to and from the beach without worrying about parking—and an easy way to entertain a toddler.

townofbethanybeach.com

Best Surfing Store

Since it opened in 1980, Bethany Surf Shop has been regarded by many as Delaware’s most prestigious store for surfing wear. Kids hanker for that logo on their clothes, and surfers can find cutting-edge gear. But the shop goes beyond that with instruction and rentals, offering hourlong stand-up paddleboard excursions around the coves of the Assawoman Canal. You can rent surfboards, bodyboards and skim boards, and watch the shop’s pro skim riders on Mondays in the summer from 6 to 7 p.m. on the main beach. 

99 Garfield Parkway, bethanysurfshop.net

—Renee Sklarew

Best of Fenwick Island

Crack crabs, visit a marine museum and catch the sunset in this tiny beach town

Best Landmark

Drive over the causeway and you can imagine why the Fenwick Island Lighthouse played an outsize role in the town’s history. The 87-foot tower was operational from 1859 to 1978. Before it was moved inland, ships could see this beacon of light from 15 miles away and know they were approaching land. The keeper’s residence sits beside the tower, and both are maintained by the Friends of the Fenwick Island Lighthouse. While you can’t climb to the top, you can visit the small museum on Friday through Sunday in June, and Thursday through Sunday in July and August to soak up Fenwick’s maritime history.

103 146th St., fenwickislandlighthouse.org

Best Museum

Learn about a pirate’s life on a visit to the charming DiscoverSea Shipwreck Museum. Founded by historian Dale W. Clifton Jr., the free marine archaeology museum is home to an extensive array of treasures recovered from centuries-old, international shipwrecks. Clifton developed his passion for collecting when he uncovered his first treasure in 1979. His mission became researching and acquiring artifacts from the colonial seafaring era, then exhibiting them at this small museum. Among the relics is a Mayan statue, a FeeJee Mermaid and a gold chain designed for Spanish Queen Isabella. Open from late March until November, the museum is located above Sea Shell City, a souvenir shop.

708 Coastal Highway, discoversea.com

Best Entertainment for Younger Kids

Enter the gates of Viking Golf and Thunder Lagoon Water Park and expect to keep cool and carry on (the fun). While this entertainment complex has activities geared for younger kids, adults and teens will love the options, too. Families can chip away at Viking-themed mini golf, launch themselves down a tubular waterslide, zoom around a go-kart track or bob along a lazy river. Viking also has concessions stocked with kid-friendly food, so no one gets cranky. 

38960 Island St., fenwickfun.com

Best Vintage Crab Restaurant

The competition for best pick-and-eat crab spot in Delmarva is stiff, but Fenwick Crab House has attracted loyal crowds of crab lovers for 62 years. Served alongside the bushels of steaming hot crabs are bountiful seafood platters and entrees made with tried-and-true regional recipes. For sides and salads, owner Scott Fornwalt buys produce from nearby farms and purchases seafood directly from local watermen. While the vibe is vintage, the menu has such modern dishes as avocado shrimp ceviche and salmon tacos, along with a lineup of microbrews. 

100 Coastal Highway, fenwickcrabhouse.com

Best Gift Shop

Step inside the Seaside Country Store to find an eclectic collection of merchandise. The two-story red barn is packed with dishware, clothing, seasonal decor and nautical-themed items. Food gifts are the main attraction, and here you can sample before you buy, including creamy fudge and house-blended cheeses. A family business for generations, Seaside opened in 1969 and has long been a Fenwick Island landmark. 

1208 Coastal Highway, seasidecountrystore.com

Best Restaurant To Watch the Sunset

As the sun sinks below the horizon, raise your glass to the waterfront views at Harpoon Hanna’s. This lively spot overlooking the Fenwick Island Bridge features a drink menu with eight types of crush cocktails (Delmarva’s classic vodka, soda, triple sec and juice concoction) and seven frozen drinks. At the tiki bar, there’s live music most evenings during the summer. The family-friendly restaurant is hailed for its hefty crabcakes delicately spiced with Old Bay seasoning and the baskets of complimentary corn muffins served with honey butter. 

39064 Harpoon Road, harpoonhannasrestaurant.com

Best Seafood Classics

Matt’s Fish Camp has earned a devoted following in Delmarva for more than a decade thanks to the staff’s attention to detail and commitment to quality. Part of the SoDel Concepts restaurant group, this menu skews Americana—think deviled eggs and mac and cheese. If you crave the seafood classics, this is your place. The raw bar showcases a variety of succulent clams, crab legs and oysters. The grits and catfish entree is stellar, and don’t miss the Maine-style lobster roll. Check out the daily specials, too, including half-price wine bottles on Friday nights and $12 lunch combos. 

 700 Coastal Highway, mattsfishcampfenwick.com

—Renee Sklarew

Best of Ocean City

Water sports, dining and party places abound in the ‘White Marlin Capital of the World’

Best Rooftop Dining

The menu at Spain Wine Bar features tapas, paella and other dishes from the Iberian Peninsula. The view, however, is decidedly local. Peter Elias’ beautiful restaurant is on the roof of the Cambria Hotel, enabling breathtaking views from indoor and outdoor dining areas. Guests can spot the Route 50 drawbridge, the Ocean City Inlet, West Ocean City and even Assateague. Get ready to post on Instagram, with photo ops including the Ocean City boardwalk’s amusement park and the yacht-filled White Marlin Marina, the headquarters for the annual billfish tournament. (In 1939, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt dubbed Ocean City the White Marlin Capital of the World.) While the vistas make an impression, people return for the exceptional food, bottomless brunch, Spanish wines and innovative cocktails.

13 St. Louis Ave., spainwinebar.com

Best Place To Get Your Groove On

The Jamaica-themed Seacrets boasts resort-style amenities. If you like craft cocktails, you’ll appreciate the on-site distillery. Love oysters on the half shell? The raw bar has won awards. And if you like music, check out the summer concert series, the DJs and the lineup of musicians. To preview the action, go to the website, where you can view live cams of the venue, including a nightclub, pier stage on the bay, tiki stage and beach stage. (Minors accompanied by an adult are welcome in the dining areas until 10 p.m.)

117 49th St., seacrets.com

Best Beach Bar

Coconuts Beach Bar & Grill at the Castle in the Sand Hotel brings the tropics to the mid-Atlantic with frozen drinks, palm trees and fresh seafood. Beach servers bring rum punch and other libations to lazy sunbathers. Happy hour is just that: from 5 to 6 p.m. Order two for one. Try O.C.’s famous crushes made with vodka, triple sec, soda and juices over ice. During the summer, the establishment showcases two bands a day for afternoon and evening entertainment. 

3701 Atlantic Ave., castleinthesand.com

Best Place To See a Show

At 10 years old, the Ocean City Performing Arts Center is a youngster on the city’s cultural landscape, but it’s made a lasting impact. A Jay Leno show in May was part of the 2024 lineup, and the venue hosts plays, musicals, tribute bands and symphony performances. It’s also an example of repurposing. Located inside the Roland E. Powell Convention Center, the space once was home to Exhibit Hall C and the ballroom above it. The two were transformed into a two-story auditorium with 1,216 seats, including a removable orchestra section that extends the stage. Parking is free.

4001 Coastal Highway, ococean.com/performing-arts-center

Best Sunsets

Ocean City is situated on a slender strip of land, which is a perk for those who enjoy sunrises and sunsets over water. Admittedly, many people prefer the latter, and locals say Northside Park provides the perfect sunset vantage point. The 58-acre park—Ocean City’s largest—has a long pier that juts into Assawoman Bay for uninterrupted views.

200 125th St., oceancitymd.gov/oc/departments/recreation-parks/northside-park

Best Boardwalk Rides/Games

Ocean City is famous for its nearly 3-mile oceanfront boardwalk, and the games and rides sweeten the appeal for visitors of all ages. A stop at Trimper Rides is a tradition; it’s been a landmark since the early 20th century, when Margaret and Daniel Trimper created the oasis of fun. The rides range from the little tykes’ carousel to the Tilt-A-Whirl, a looping roller coaster. Trimper owns Marty’s Playland, a five-minute walk from the amusement park, which includes a vintage fortune teller, antique pinball machines and Skee-Ball alleys.

Trimper Rides 700 S. Atlantic Ave., trimperrides.com; Marty’s Playland, 5 Worcester St., martysplayland.com

Best Water Sports Rentals

The Croker family opened Odyssea Watersports in 1997, and it’s still a family affair that consistently wins Best Jet Ski Rental in OceanCity.com’s Best of Ocean City contest. Customers praise the friendly service and state-of-the-art equipment. The company started with eight personal watercrafts. Not only have they expanded their fleet, but they also offer pontoon boats.

120 52nd St., odysseawatersports.com

Best Dining Experience

When Ocean City foodies mention L.A., they don’t mean Los Angeles. They’re singing the praises of Liquid Assets, which evolved from a beer-and-wine store to a liquor shop with a cocktail bar to a full-service restaurant that still sells packaged alcohol. At this acclaimed eatery, even familiar foods are finessed. Consider a French onion potpie made with short ribs, onion broth, Gruyere and an onion pastry. Don’t miss the Smith Island cake.

9301 Coastal Highway, la94.com

—Pam George

This story appears in the July/August edition of Bethesda Magazine.

The post From shore to boardwalk: the ultimate beach guide appeared first on MoCo360.

July 4: Germantown Glory

Head to South Germantown Recreation Park starting at 7 p.m. for music from a live band before the fireworks kick off. Bring chairs or a blanket and a picnic, or grab a bite from a food vendor on-site. montgomerycountymd.gov

July 4: Poolesville’s Annual 4th of July Fireworks Celebration

The community celebrates with music, food and fireworks at the soccer fields off Hughes Road. Gates open at 5 p.m. poolesvillemd.gov/225/events

July 4: Rockville’s Independence Day Celebration

Uncle Jesse, a cover band playing hits from the ’90s and 2000s, provides the tunes at the city’s July 4th event, which also includes a 20-minute fireworks display at Mattie J.T. Stepanek Park. rockvillemd.gov/663/independence-day

July 6: Mid-County Sparkles

Keep the celebration going into the weekend with a live band and fireworks at Albert Einstein High School in Kensington. The event begins at 6 p.m. montgomerycountymd.gov

–Stephanie Siegel Burke

Even more places to celebrate:

June 29: Summerfest at Boher Park
Live music and food trucks from 6 to 11 p.m. at Summer Hill Farm.
https://www.gaithersburgmd.gov/recreation/special-events/summerfest

July 4: Upper Montgomery Volunteer Fire Department Independence Day Celebration
Located at Hughes and Sugarland Roads. Gates open at 5 p.m. https://umcvfd.org/independence-day-celebration/

The post Where to watch Independence Day fireworks in Montgomery County appeared first on MoCo360.

Maybe your life is feeling chaotic. Maybe you’re quietly going through the blahs. Or maybe things are fine—good, even!—but you could use a little inner peace. Who couldn’t?

Happily, there are plenty of local places to relax and rejuvenate. From connecting with nature to writing in a journal to lingering over a great cup of coffee, options abound for every budget and schedule. Investing in some quality “me time” won’t only benefit yourself—that positive energy also can affect the well-being of those around you. 

1. Walk a labyrinth

Just off busy Montrose Road, Faith United Methodist Church has an outdoor labyrinth made of bricks in a peaceful memorial garden. There is ample free parking for anyone who wants to come 24/7 to stroll through the circular maze. It is next to a water fountain that does its best to be heard above the white noise of the whirring traffic. A labyrinth is an opportunity to just be present, says the Rev. Laura Norvell, the church’s pastor. “Most people continually walk until they feel complete. It takes a couple times to let go of everything else that’s going on,” she says. “I also find that you naturally slow down the longer you walk until you become more attuned.”

6810 Montrose Road, Rockville, faithworkshere.com

2. Pamper yourself

Do you yearn to feel calm or resilient? Energized or confident? Woodhouse Spa matches your mood with its services and custom aromatherapy scents. If your intention is peace of mind plus deep relaxation, the spa offers a meditative mood soak that includes exfoliation, massage and a mineral bath. Clients are given a thin, beaded, volcanic rock bracelet infused with their chosen scented oil. For a little bit of everything, the head-to-toe relaxation package is a popular choice with a facial, massage and pedicure, says Justine Nguyen, spa director. The experience begins with ambient music playing in the softly lit relaxation room stocked with chocolate and a variety of hot teas. Everybody is offered complimentary champagne and mimosas during their visit.

2 Paseo Drive, North Bethesda, woodhousespas.com

3. Take the plunge

If you love the soothing feel of water and are game for a different type of spa visit, stop by Hope Floats in downtown Bethesda. To experience float therapy, you’ll lie on your back in an individual enclosed tank containing about 10 inches of water and 1,000 pounds of Epsom salt to make your body buoyant. After about 15 minutes of meditative music, the rest of the 60- to 90-minute session is silent and completely dark. “The air in the tank, the water and your skin are all the same temperature. You literally don’t know what’s in the water and what’s out,” says manager Lynette D’Arco. “You float effortlessly. It relieves your body from all the ties of gravity.”

7625 Wisconsin Ave., Bethesda, hopefloatsusa.com

4. Start a journal

Many people think they’re failing if they don’t have the discipline to write in a journal every day—but nothing could be further from the truth, says Julia Tagliere, a writer who lives in Sandy Spring and is an instructor at The Writer’s Center in Bethesda. Journaling can take many forms, such as jotting thoughts on a sticky note, making a recording, drawing a sketch, or writing in a composition notebook, she says. Tagliere says it’s valuable to take the time to reflect on your life and later go back to reread how you felt about those experiences. “It’s an interesting exercise to see things like growth, clarity, mercy or grace starting to flow through those moments,” says Tagliere, founder of the MoCo Underground Writers Showcase. “It’s a way of getting back into an intimate knowledge of your own self.” 

4508 Walsh St., Bethesda, writer.org

5. Hush up

Across many religions and Indigenous wisdom traditions, being silent in nature is a valued practice, says Nat Reid, director of the Dayspring Silent Retreat Center. Owned by an ecumenical church, the center is located on 210 acres in Germantown with ponds, meadows, woods and trails. At monthly weekend retreats, you start with a meal and program on Friday night—then stay silent until midmorning Sunday. The center has private rooms for 18 people. Most sign up individually, but often form a community over the weekend, Reid says. While the retreats are based on Christian theology, people of all faith traditions (or none) are welcome. On weekdays, Dayspring has self-guided retreat days and quiet days. “It’s quite remarkable how almost everybody who comes just feels deeply blessed by the silence,” Reid says. “Even people who are nervous and don’t know if they can be quiet.”

11301 Neelsville Church Road, Germantown, dayspringretreat.org

6. Gaze at the stars

There’s something about looking up at the night sky that puts everything in perspective. Observatory Park in Gaithersburg is a good spot to stargaze—and it’s even more fun when you can watch with others. The city of Gaithersburg’s Skywatching Program hosts events at the park when there are noteworthy shows above. Visitors can bring blankets and lawn chairs, and volunteers are on hand to answer questions, says Karen Yaffe Lottes, the program coordinator. On July 27 at 6:30 p.m., you can learn how to use a telescope. Come Aug. 10 from 9:30 p.m. through 1 a.m. for an outdoor movie followed by a meteor shower. Skywatching programs are free, but registration is required. Look for upcoming dates on the website.

100 DeSellum Ave., Gaithersburg, gburg.md/skywatching

7. Grow a plant

For people looking to fill empty corners or shelves, plants can spruce up a home and be like “living furniture,” says Joe Ressler, CEO of Rewild, a company with indoor plant stores in Potomac, Virginia and Washington, D.C. It can be rewarding to get into a routine of tending to plants and then seeing how they change with the seasons. A go-to plant for beginners? A monstera. The tropical climber doesn’t require a lot of light, Ressler says, and it’s always putting out new growth, which is fun to watch.

7937 Tuckerman Lane (Cabin John Village), Potomac, rewilddc.com

8. Love on an animal

Why is stroking warm fur so soothing? It just is. Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary relies on the community to help support the farm animals and wildlife that it rescues. When you volunteer at the farm or sponsor an animal ($5 a month for a chicken to $30 a month for a horse), you can visit the 400-acre refuge year-round. There are also group tours most Saturdays from April through October by appointment. “The animals are so loving and want to be around people,” says Terry Cummings, co-founder and co-director of the sanctuary. “It’s just a really enjoyable thing that makes people feel really happy and peaceful.”

15200 Mount Nebo Road, Poolesville, animalsanctuary.org

9. Explore Yoga or Tai Chi

You know these things are supposed to be good for both mind and body—you probably have friends who swear by them—but how do you get started if you’re among the uninitiated? Body & Brain in North Potomac will do a private introductory session to assess your flexibility, balance, stress level, breathing patterns and balance, then recommend a class. The studio offers online and in-person sessions in yoga, tai chi, qigong, core strengthening and meditation.

12116 Darnestown Road, Suite 7, North Potomac, bodynbrain.com

10. Connect with local booksellers

At People’s Book in Takoma Park, you can buy a $2 cup of coffee, listen to author talks on Sundays, and drop into a variety of book clubs that meet monthly. “Part of my vision of this store was people coming in, pulling chairs together and having a place to talk about books,” says Megan Bormet, who opened People’s Book with her husband, Matt, in June 2023. “We now have 12 different book clubs hosted by people in the neighborhood who have a passion about some type of genre, so there really is something for everyone.” The store’s website lists all the clubs (time travelers, graphic novels, poetry and more), upcoming books and meeting times.

7014-A Westmoreland Ave., Takoma Park, peoplesbooktakoma.com

11. Stroll and reflect

The 1-mile loop around the perimeter of Brookside Gardens in Wheaton is a popular draw for walkers all year long. The path is paved and level and has the added perk of offering lush views of plants and flowers that change with the seasons. Brookside offers an eight-week guided class in the spring and fall called Strolls for Well-Being. Participants are given a journal with prompts and are invited to take 12 separate walks through the garden, each with a theme (such as awareness, joy or trust) to reflect upon individually. The group meets at the beginning, middle and end of the program.

1800 Glenallan Ave., Wheaton, montgomeryparks.org

12. Listen to a great view

The entrance to Great Falls National Park in Potomac is at the end of MacArthur Boulevard, just beyond the intersection of Falls Road. Visitors are welcome from sunrise to sunset. There is an entrance fee, which you can pay online if the booth isn’t staffed, along with plenty of parking. Grab a trail map at the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center to choose an easy, moderate or strenuous hike. Just five minutes down the C&O towpath is the beginning of the Olmsted Island Trail. You can hear the rushing water hitting the rocks, providing a natural soundtrack for your hike. Along the boardwalk, it’s just a quarter mile to a spectacular view of the Potomac River. 

11710 MacArthur Blvd., Potomac, nps.gov/grfa

13. Try Reiki

“What you experience in a Reiki session is typically magical,” Saya Barkdoll, owner of Ohana Wellness, says of the Japanese technique to reduce stress and promote healing. “Reiki is energy work. It’s really specific to the energy that we all have surrounding us,” Barkdoll says of sessions that are generally quiet and last 30, 60 or 90 minutes. “[The practitioner] will hold their hands above you—sometimes placing them gently on your body—depending on you and what is going on.” The focus is on areas of congestion or tension where the person might be holding in trauma to allow time and space to move the energy along and provide relief, she says. Reiki is one of many relaxing services offered at Ohana, including massage therapy, cupping, reflexology and acupuncture. 

4813 St. Elmo Ave., Bethesda, ohanawellnessbethesda.com

14. Stock up on healthy products

Bethesda Co-op is a gourmet and organic market that has been around since 1975. Wandering through the store, you can inhale the aroma of fresh produce, assorted incense, scented soaps—and an entire aromatherapy section with essential oils and sprays. Need a comfy place to Zen out? Pick up a colorful handmade meditation pillow and some votive candles. The co-op is also a good place to find local products, including elderberry jam, apple butter, honey and bee pollen. It has a vast wine selection (with posted recommendations) and more than 100 kinds of beer. Along the back wall, bulk bins feature tasty snacks (dark chocolate pecan granola, organic Greek yogurt pretzels, spicy Cajun snack mix) and on shelves are packages of healthy dried fruit. If you want to send some good vibes to others, the co-op has beautiful greeting cards with photographs and artwork that go beyond the typical chain store offerings. 

6500 Seven Locks Road, Cabin John, bethesdacoop.org

15. Visit sacred grounds

While Washington National Cathedral is known for its architecture, the grounds surrounding the building are impressive, too. Wander through the Bishop’s Garden, which is carefully landscaped with a variety of plants and sculptures. There are places to rest and soak in the beauty, including a gazebo. A manicured lawn, enclosed by stone walls, provides a safe space to picnic with kids or pets (on leashes). Beyond the garden, you’ll find a stone footpath through Olmsted Woods, a forest of oak and beech trees. It’s free to explore the grounds daily, dawn to dusk.

3101 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Washington, D.C., cathedral.org

16. Dine in a cozy restaurant

Nestled in a quiet residential neighborhood in Garrett Park, Black Market Bistro occupies a converted historic Victorian home with wooden floors, high ceilings and dining in three intimate rooms. A front porch surrounded by a lush canopy of trees provides seating for diners in warm weather. The bistro has one menu for the day featuring appetizers (mussels, cornmeal-crusted oysters), soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, pizza and entrees (hardwood grilled Atlantic salmon and pan-seared mountain trout). Some popular items have a New Orleans flair, including shrimp and grits, and beignets with powdered sugar, both of which are on the Sunday brunch menu. Local artists rotate their work in the gallery at the rear of
the restaurant. 

4600 Waverly Ave., Garrett Park, blackmarketrestaurant.com

17. Learn to meditate

You may not consider yourself the kind of person who uses a mantra, but meditation is for anyone seeking balance in their life, says Trisha Stotler, an instructor with Insight Meditation Community of Washington. “It’s investing in getting to know yourself, how you tick, what your stressors are, how you respond to things, and working with that over time,” she says. It’s not a short-term fix, Stotler says, but meditation can be transformative—especially when practiced in community. Drop-in classes (in-person and online) are available throughout the area, including one at River Road Unitarian Universalist Church in Bethesda on Wednesdays from 7-8:30 p.m. taught by Stotler, Kyaw Win and Vicki Goodman. The sessions include about 30 minutes of guided meditation, followed by an instructor talk on a topic, such as compassion, and a group discussion. There’s no fee, and registration isn’t required, but donations are accepted. 

6301 River Road, Bethesda, imcw.org

18. Enjoy a sweet treat

Oh, that first delicious bite of a fresh cookie, piece of fudge or your favorite childhood candy. It’s a simple pleasure—and one that we all deserve now and then. If you’re going to splurge, you might as well go for the good stuff. Henry’s Sweet Retreat has an in-house pastry chef who makes cookies, bars, fudge, cupcakes and pies. The store also has fine chocolates, flavored popcorn and more than 100 jars of candy—plus coffee drinks and housemade hot chocolate to pair with your dessert. Enjoy your treats upstairs, where you’ll find chess, checkers and other board games to play as you linger. 

4823 St. Elmo Ave., Bethesda, henryssweetretreat.com

This story appears in the May/June edition of Bethesda Magazine.

The post 18 ways to bliss out appeared first on MoCo360.

Silver Spring may have gotten its name from a small spring discovered in the 1800s, but today it’s better known as one of the most diverse cities in the U.S. And with nearly 30 Ethiopian restaurants—not to mention Senegalese, Nepali, Creole, Thai and other dining experiences—located in or just outside its compact downtown district, Silver Spring also boasts one of the country’s most diverse food scenes. 

Pair a new cuisine with a concert, theatrical performance, movie or poetry reading and make a day or an evening of it. Arts and entertainment venues The Fillmore, Silver Spring Black Box Theatre, and AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center all sit on the same block of Colesville Road in the heart of town—and if a jolt of caffeine is needed, nearly two dozen locally owned coffee and tea shops are within walking distance, too, many owned by folks from across the African diaspora.   

Play

Home to three pools, a gymnasium, a seniors lounge and the Montgomery County Sports Hall of Fame, the Silver Spring Recreation and Aquatic Center is the county’s newest and most state-of-the-art recreation complex. Opened in February, the 120,000-square-foot, $72 million facility offers free or low-cost programming to county residents—everything from water aerobics, fitness and art classes to pickleball, basketball and badminton. 1319 Apple Ave.; montgomerycountymd.gov  

Sip

Sleek, upscale Citizens & Culture is a recent entry into the downtown Silver Spring scene. Head upstairs for a bar with a retractable roof and a wall of plants. 8113 Georgia Ave.; citizensculture.com

Party

With its festive decor and Cuban vibe, El Sapo Cuban Social Club is the place to enjoy some ropa vieja and a lavender margarita any day of the week. But if you can catch one of El Sapo’s drag brunches, held every other month, all the better. Host Brian Rivera—known as Ashley when in drag—sews his own outfits, makes five costume changes per performance, and “keeps it classy,” he says, so the whole family can partake. 8455 Fenton St.; elsaporestaurant.com

Drink

Now open in the space formerly occupied by Astro Lab Brewing, Third Hill Brewing Co. has quickly established a loyal clientele who come for its curated assortment of microbrewed IPAs, pale ales and lagers. Plus, there’s Capital Trivia night every Thursday. 8216 Georgia Ave.; thirdhillbrewing.com

Shop

For one of the best selections of bras for large cup-size women—and a personalized bra-fitting by a pro—stop by Dor-Ne Corset Shoppe. The small but well-stocked retailer has been around since 1932 and carries bras up to size 52 O. 8126 Georgia Ave.; dornecorset.com

Splurge

Treat yourself to either “sugary” or “chewy” (or both) at The Original Velatis, which began selling its handcrafted Italian-style caramels back in 1866 at its long-shuttered D.C. location. A fixture of Silver Spring since 2009, the enticing little shop sells them by the piece and in boxes themed for nearly every holiday and occasion. 8408 Georgia Ave.; velatis.com

Browse

Just blocks from the town center, the new Analog Market serves coffee from its sister company, local purveyor Bump ‘n Grind, as well as vintage clothing and crafts by Silver Spring-based artisans—from hand-painted lamps to Goth-themed scented candles. Named “Best Luddite Shopping Experience” by Washington City Paper last year, the old-school shop has DJs who spin vinyl on weekends. Upstairs is the Silver Spring outpost of Loyalty Books, with a large selection of titles by Black, Latino and queer authors and other marginalized groups. The market and bookshop are only open Thursdays through Sundays. 923 Gist Ave.; bumpngrind.co

Eat

The reputation of Ethiopian restaurant Beteseb carries all the way home to Africa. That’s according to celebrity chef and restaurateur Marcus Samuelsson, who showcased the family-run eatery in No Passport Required, his award-winning PBS series. The 2018 episode featured chef/co-owner Darmyalesh Alemu teaching the famous chef how to make kitfo, a spiced raw beef delicacy. But the most popular dish at Beteseb these days is its veggie combo: traditional vegan stews served with injera, the spongy pancake that’s a staple of Ethiopian cuisine. 8201 Georgia Ave.; betesebrestaurant.com 

Coming Up

Events at Veterans Plaza, 1 Veterans Place, silverspringdowntown.com

Silver Spring’s 2024 Summer Concert Series kicks off June 20 and runs from 7 to 9 p.m. every Thursday evening through Aug. 1, except July 4. Bring the whole family and groove to a mix of crowd favorites and new musical offerings while the kids enjoy lawn games and more. 

Montgomery County Pride in the Plaza comes to town from noon to 8 p.m. on June 30, featuring a drag story hour, LGBTQ+ entertainers, activities and a concert during the day, and a Pride ball in the evening.

This story appears in the May/June edition of Bethesda Magazine.

The post Where to shop, sip and party in Silver Spring appeared first on MoCo360.