City vs. Suburban Living in and around Bethesda, MD

In an Aug. 10 article by The Delaware News Journal, it was determined that a growing number of Baby Boomers and empty-nesters from Virginia and Maryland were opting out of suburban life and moving into the city.

Whether you’re a life-long resident of Bethesda or brand new to the area, it is home to sprawling homes, town homes and condominiums. 

Granted, Bethesda has a noticeably slower pace than nearby Washington, D.C., but makes up for it with its own bustling, urban centers and ever-growing residential hubs that can be found throughout the downtown area.

Downtown Life

Downtown Bethesda, also called “Intown”, consists primarily of town homes and condos. Many people that live downtown own property that they consider a second home.

Living downtown gives them access to city conveniences and the ability to ‘lock it and leave it’ when they travel. If you are looking to downsize, but require certain amenities then the downtown area is sure to please.

Even though Bethesda is small when compared to cities like Dallas or Los Angeles, there is a lot to see and do. The downtown area is thriving with art galleries, restaurants, live theaters and boutiques.

View a Map of Restaurants near Bethesda, MD

There is no shortage of shopping in Bethesda. The city has more than 200 shops which include book stores, pet care and home improvement centers, specialty markets, and so much more.

If you like the nightlife, check out the Bethesda Blues and Jazz Supper Club. It was built in 1938 and is listed in the National Historic register.

The small concert hall seats 500 and is a short walk to nearby Metro stations. There are a number of clubs, lounges, and sports bars to meet up with friends and have a game of pool. 

If you need to slow things down a little, check out Capital River Cruises. They are daily cruises from April through October. The Locust Grove nature Center is a great spot for bird watching and has hands-on exhibits for children.

Downtown Bethesda is an Arts and Entertainment District which offers tax incentives to artists and benefits from an Artist Market, Dance Bethesda, Fine Arts Festival and the Bethesda Art Walk. 

Suburban Sanctuaries

For those that still require an exit strategy, of sorts, from the hustle and bustle of city life, there’s the option of keeping or upgrading your suburban location.

Neighborhoods like Edgemoor and Chevy Chase Village to name a few, combine the elegance of colonial mansions with newer, modern homes. These communities have everything from public parks and walkways to top-rated schools and easy, quick access to public transportation.

Here are a few examples of some immaculate, suburban homes in and around the area:

• 14620 Carrolton Road, Manor Park, Rockville, MD 20853
• 521 Ridgewell Way, Kemp Mill Forest, Silver Spring, MD 20902
• 1803 Sterling Glen Way, Sterling Glen, Mount Airy, MD 21771

With all the space in the suburbs, residents make wonderful use of their backyards. Children have always loved tree forts, and in Bethesda you can find hand-crafted tree houses, also called Pied-à-air.

These structures are usually custom built to match the home and personal tastes of homeowners. These retreats are ideal places to escape with your children and grandchildren for an afternoon or two of rest and relaxation.

Bethesda is a place where people put down roots and feel comfortable. If you are looking to downsize to a condo or town home, check out Bethesda. This small town with strong character has a great deal to offer.