Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Bethesda, Maryland and Olney, Maryland

Bethesda and Olney, two charming towns in Maryland, offer great road trip opportunities for locals and tourists. Whether you're in the mood for outdoor adventures, historical sites, or leisurely strolls, this road trip has everything you need. A must-visit spot is Gaithersburg, Maryland, located halfway between Bethesda and Olney.

Take a Hike at Great Falls National Park

Great Falls National Park is the place to go if you're a nature lover seeking some adventure. Located just a 30-minute drive from Bethesda, the park offers stunning views of the Potomac River and the Great Falls. Hikers can choose from multiple trails of varying difficulty levels, with some leading to an overlook where you can see the Mather Gorge.

Fun fact: The Great Falls of the Potomac River are one of the most dangerous whitewater rapids in the world, with a classification of up to Class VI.

Visit the Restored Glen Echo Park

Glen Echo Park in Glen Echo, Maryland is a historical site that is worth visiting for its restored Art Deco architecture and its colorful history. Originally a controversial amusement park, the park later served as an educational space and hosted a variety of ethnic festivals and performances. Nowadays, the park offers classes and workshops in art, dance, and music in restored structures like the Spanish Ballroom, the Carousel, and the Adventure Theatre.

Fun fact: The park was deemed "a central slum" by the Montgomery County Council and closed in 1968. Through the efforts of local arts groups and the National Park Services, it was restored and reopened in 1971.

Take a Scenic Drive at Catoctin Mountain Park

A 45-minute drive from Olney, Catoctin Mountain Park offers some of the most stunning views in the state. Visitors can take scenic drives through the park's winding roads or take part in multiple outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and fishing. History buffs can also enjoy a unique presidential experience through the park's Camp David Museum.

Fun fact: President Franklin D. Roosevelt established Camp David in 1942 as a Presidential Retreat. It has since hosted various diplomatic and political meetings, including the famous Camp David Accords of 1978.

Visit the Historical Antietam National Battlefield

For history enthusiasts, the Antietam National Battlefield in Sharpsburg, Maryland offers a glimpse of one of the most infamous battles of the Civil War. A one-hour drive from Olney, the site allows visitors to trace the footsteps of the soldiers who fought on Maryland soil. Visitors can view live-action demonstrations, visit the museum, and hike the trails.

Fun fact: Known as the Battle of Sharpsburg during the Civil War, the battle took place on September 17, 1862, and was the bloodiest single-day battle in American History, with over 23,000 casualties.

Shop and Dine at Bethesda Row

After a long day of exploration, visitors can unwind with some shopping and dining at Bethesda Row in Downtown Bethesda. The street features an array of trendy shops, international cuisine, and boutique restaurants, along with cinema and artisanal markets. Bethesda Row is a vibrant place to catch up with friends, relax, and have some good food.

Fun fact: Downtown Bethesda is also known as the "Gold Coast" because of the upscale shopping and lively nightlife.

Conclusion

Overall, this road trip from Bethesda to Olney offers something for everyone, from nature lovers to history buffs. With a halfway point in Gaithersburg, visitors can break the five-hour drive into two manageable chunks. From hiking at Great Falls National Park, to exploring the history of Camp David, to spending a relaxing afternoon at Bethesda Row, there’s something for everyone in this trip. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this road trip is one that you don't want to miss.