Welcome to Bethesda
One of the best places to live and raise a family near Washington D.C. Explore Bethesda real estate!
A community in southern Montgomery County, Bethesda is home to about 68,000 people. An urban center, it’s a vibrant place to live. It’s just to the northwest of DC, which provides a good level of access to the region. It’s also the home of the National Institutes of Health Main Campus and the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.
The cultural diversity in Bethesda helps make it a thriving place to live. There are plenty of things to do and experience in this bustling town, including some of the area's best high-end dining and shops. For those thinking about buying Bethesda real estate, there are many options. Though densely populated, many choose the luxury condos near the downtown area to call home. Much of the city boasts beautiful older homes. Larger, modern housing options built in the last few decades also exist here, offering home buyers a nice mix of options.
What to Love
- A thriving community with youthful energy
- Close proximity to Washington D.C; excellent for commuters
- An urban center in its own right
- Plentiful downtown boutique shops and cafes
People and Lifestyle
Life is busy in Bethesda, but people find it’s quite easy to get around. It’s a pedestrian-friendly community that’s supported by the Metro and bus services. Bethesda is a thriving community of people on the go, whether they are touring one of the art galleries, taking in a show at the theater, meeting for business downtown, or enjoying meals at one of the fine dining establishments. The area is also home to a large number of medical centers and professional buildings, meaning many don’t have to travel far to get to work.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Enjoying a meal is easy with the numerous eateries, fine dining establishments, and bistros located throughout the city. Woodmont Grill is the perfect spot for upscale American fare and live jazz music. True Food Kitchen is another excellent choice. It offers seasonal and sustainably crafted meals for health-conscious and vegan lifestyles. Bethesda Bagels is a popular go-to location for breakfast on the way to work.
For shopping, a visit to Bethesda Row is in order. This upscale mall is home to a number of retailers, including the Apple Store, Anthropologie & Co, and BHLDN Wedding Boutique. There’s a movie theater here and several restaurants to enjoy as well. Getting around to any of the shops and restaurants is easy using the Bethesda Metro Station. It’s within walking distance of Bethesda Row and the Trolley Trail for those who plan to do some cycling.
Things to Do
It’s easy to enjoy a vibrant life in this thriving community. There’s the Bethesda Central Farm Market that occurs in the downtown area of the city. It’s one of the largest in the area. The Woodmont Street area is a popular area for walking and doing some sidewalk shopping. It's in the heart of the city, near some of the area's luxury condo and apartment communities that make Bethesda real estate appealing to those wanting to live near Washington, DC.
During the month of October, the Taste of Bethesda takes place, an event that brings together around 40,000 people to celebrate diversity in food. It's one of several events taking place in the region.
For those looking to enjoy the outdoors, the Capital Crescent Trail is moments from the heart of the city. It’s ideal for biking, walking, and jogging.
Schools
Students living in Bethesda attend Montgomery County Public Schools. Schools in the area include:
- Walt Whitman High School, 9 – 12th grade
- Walter Johnson High School, 9 – 12th grade
- Bethesda Chevy Chase High School, 9 – 12th grade
- Pyle Middle School, 6 – 8th grade
- Bethesda Elementary School, Pre-k – 5th grade
- Georgetown Preparatory School, 9th – 12th grade, Jesuit boarding school
- Landon School, 3 – 12th grade, a private school for boys
