Looking for family-friendly fun, green spaces, and easy access to D.C.? Head to Gaithersburg and Germantown, Maryland! These vibrant Montgomery County communities offer parks, shopping, cultural events, and international cuisine—all just a short ride from the nation's capital.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Gaithersburg and Germantown is in spring and fall (April–June and September–October). These seasons offer pleasant weather, blooming gardens, and community festivals. Summers are lively, while winters are quieter with occasional snow.

How to Get There

  • By Car: Both towns are accessible via I-270 and MD-355, about 45 minutes northwest of Washington, D.C.
  • By Train: MARC Train (Brunswick Line) stops in both towns with connections to D.C.
  • By Air: Fly into Washington Dulles (IAD) or Reagan National Airport (DCA), both under an hour’s drive away.

Where to Stay

  • Gaithersburg Marriott Washingtonian Center – Lakeside location with walking access to shops, dining, and trails.
  • Courtyard by Marriott Gaithersburg – Business-friendly option near the RIO shopping and entertainment district.
  • Hampton Inn & Suites Germantown – Comfortable, modern hotel with free breakfast and easy highway access.

Top Attractions

1.Experience Performances and Exhibits at BlackRock Center for the Arts

Experience Performances and Exhibits at BlackRock Center for the Arts

© BlackRock Center for the Arts

BlackRock Center for the Arts is a leading performing arts center and visual arts gallery space. The center provides high-quality performances, visual art exhibitions, and community art education. The venue hosts top talent from around the area, nation, and world. Performances run the gamut of genres and include pop, jazz, blues, rock, world, classical, and folk music as well as dance performances, theatrical shows, and even contemporary circus performances. Tickets for shows and the performance calendar can be found on their website as well as information about any ongoing gallery shows and community classes. In addition to self-touring the galleries during public open hours, groups can arrange for a guided tour of the center.

BlackRock Center for the Arts, 12901 Town Commons Drive, Germantown, MD 20874, Phone: 301-528-2260

2.Splash, Skate, or Stroll Through Bohrer Park at Summit Hall

Splash, Skate, or Stroll Through Bohrer Park at Summit Hall

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Bohrer Park at Summit Hall is a community park that offers a range of activities for all ages. The paved, multi-use path is perfect for walking, in-line skating, biking, or jogging and makes a loop around the park. The park is also home to a miniature golf course, an activity center, a water park, and a skate park. In addition, there are several open fields and two ponds where fishing is allowed. There are playgrounds for children and a horseshoe pit and volleyball net for additional activities. There are multiple picnic pavilions and picnic areas that are perfect for hosting parties.

Bohrer Park at Summit Hall, 506 S. Frederick Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD 20877, Phone: 301-258-6350

3.Pick Your Own Produce and Enjoy the Seasons at Butler’s Orchard

Pick Your Own Produce and Enjoy the Seasons at Butler’s Orchard

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Butler’s Orchard is farm and market in Germantown that has been operated by the same family for three generations. The farm grows more than 25 different varieties of produce, flowers, and trees on 300 acres of land. They have been offering pick-your-own produce opportunities to the public since the 1950s. They also offer a host of family-friendly activities throughout the year, including hayrides, bonfires, tours, and pumpkin harvest days. The market sells a variety of produce items that are grown on the farm as well as preserves, local honey, seasonal decor, apple cider, and more. Their largest attraction is the seasonal Pumpkinland, which is a display of interesting creatures all built out of pumpkins.

Butler’s Orchard, 22222 Davis Mill road, Germantown, MD 20876, Phone: 301-972-3299

Attractions for Couples

4.See Local Theater and Art Classes Come to Life at the Gaithersburg Arts Barn

See Local Theater and Art Classes Come to Life at the Gaithersburg Arts Barn

© Gaithersburg Arts Barn

The Gaithersburg Arts Barn is an arts center housed in a beautifully renovated old stable. The Arts Barn is a part of the larger Arts on the Green, which is a collection of visual and performing arts venues. The center has a 99-seat theater where various performing arts programs are conducted throughout the year. They also have gallery space for rotating visual art exhibits as well as art studios where visitors can see resident artists in action. They offer a selection of educational programs, camps, and classes for community members. The center’s City Art Shop offers a selection of art-inspired gifts, jewelry, and apparel for purchase.

Gaithersburg Arts Barn, 311 Kent Square Road, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, Phone: 301-258-6394

5.Explore Local History and Rail Heritage at the Gaithersburg Community Museum

Explore Local History and Rail Heritage at the Gaithersburg Community Museum

© Gaithersburg Community Museum

The Gaithersburg Community Museum is a museum dedicated to transportation and the history of the area, specifically the railroad. The museum is housed inside a restored B&O Railroad Station that dates to 1884 and was once a vibrant and bustling rail complex. The museum consists of a variety of educational programs and interactive exhibits. In addition to the educational exhibits in the Freight House, the complex also has a history park and a rolling stock exhibit. The rolling stock, or train collection, is held in the yard outside and includes a 1950s Budd car, a C&O Railroad caboose, and a 1918 steam locomotive.

Gaithersburg Community Museum, 9 S. Summit Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD 20877,Phone: 301-258-6160

6.Hike and Connect With Nature at Great Seneca Stream Valley Park

Hike and Connect With Nature at Great Seneca Stream Valley Park

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The Great Seneca Stream Valley Park is a beautiful natural park and getaway. The park has the Greenway Trail running through it with many natural sights. The trail follows a beautiful stream and connects to other trails in the greenbelt system. The trail is popular among hikers, mountain bikers, and runners. Wildlife sightings are possible, including many species of birds. The park hosts a variety of events and activities and has amenities such as paddleboat and canoe rentals. They have a family-friendly playground as well as pavilions and picnic tables for family events. It is a fabulously quiet, natural environment for relaxing and escaping the hustle and bustle of the city.

Great Seneca Stream Valley Park, Watkins Mill Road, Germantown, MD 20876, Phone: 301-495-2525

Recommended Activities for Families

7.Look to the Stars at the Historic Latitude Observatory

Look to the Stars at the Historic Latitude Observatory

© Sergei Timofeev/stock.adobe.com

More than 100 years ago an unpretentious little observatory was established in Observatory Park in Gaithersburg. This little observatory is linked to 5 other observatories in cities around the world, all of which tracked the wobble of the earth on its polar axis, in order to aid navigation.

Today, the early sky watchers have been replaced by computers, but Observatory Park in Gaithersburg still hosts periodic sky-watching sessions for the public. If you take the time to visit the park you will find that it has been laid out to represent the earth’s motion by means of strategically placed benches, paths and landscaping.

Observatory Park, 100 DeSellum Ave, Gaithersburg, MD 20877, Map

8.Ride, Learn, and Bond With Horses at Hunt View Riding Academy

Ride, Learn, and Bond With Horses at Hunt View Riding Academy

© Hunt View Riding Academy

Hunt View Riding Academy is a professional horse riding school and boarding stable facility. The facility has several certifications, including some from the Maryland Horse Industry and the Maryland Department of Agriculture. The academy owns acres of land for students to practice riding in a variety of environments. Class options include both private and group lessons and are offered in several styles, including English and Western style as well as trail riding. Students can start at the age of 6 and there is something for every experience level. The class schedule is flexible and can generally be scheduled around each student’s needs.

Hunt View Riding Academy , 15006 Berryville Rd, Darnestown, MD 20874, Phone: 240-477-9491

9.If You’re Craving Amish Baked Goods, Visit the Lancaster County Dutch Market

If You’re Craving Amish Baked Goods, Visit the Lancaster County Dutch Market

© Lancaster County Dutch Market

Lancaster County Dutch Market is a farmer’s market that has been in business for more than 20 years. The market has a large variety of vendors and offers fresh, locally grown produce, home-made baked goods, cheeses, candy, and cut flowers as well as Amish soft pretzels and other Amish goods for purchase. The market is very family friendly and operates each weekend. Dining opportunities include a small, full-service restaurant as well as a barbecue pit that serves chicken and occasionally rotisserie rabbit. Visitors can also purchase ready-made local furniture or design their own custom furniture at Lapp’s Furniture. The market frequently hosts special events and holiday celebrations.

Lancaster County Dutch Market, 12613 Wisteria Drive, Germantown, MD 20874, Phone: 301-515-1019

Where to Eat

  • Coastal Flats (Gaithersburg) – Crowd-pleasing seafood and Southern dishes with great lakefront views.
  • Sabai Sabai Simply Thai (Germantown) – Authentic Thai cuisine with flavorful curries and creative cocktails.
  • Dogfish Head Alehouse (Gaithersburg) – Brewpub serving craft beers and hearty pub fare in a casual setting.

Local Events

  • Gaithersburg Book Festival (May) – Annual celebration of literature with author talks, readings, and workshops.
  • Germantown Oktoberfest (October) – Family-friendly event with food vendors, live music, and cultural performances.
  • SummerFest (July) – Fireworks, music, and fun in the heart of Gaithersburg every Independence Day weekend.

Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Gaithersburg and Germantown, Maryland

  • Seneca Creek State Park (10–15 min) – Hike wooded trails, rent a paddleboat, or picnic by the lake at this popular outdoor retreat.
  • Downtown Crown (Gaithersburg) (5–10 min) – Dine, shop, and stroll this modern walkable district with cafés, breweries, and seasonal events.
  • Black Hill Regional Park (10–15 min) – Enjoy kayaking on Little Seneca Lake, explore nature trails, or play at the adventure playground.
  • Rio Lakefront (Gaithersburg) (5–10 min) – Walk the lakeside boardwalk, shop, or catch a movie at this family-friendly shopping and dining hub.
  • Butler’s Orchard (10–15 min) – Pick seasonal fruits, attend farm festivals, and shop homemade jams and pies in the farm store.
  • Great Seneca Stream Valley Park (5–10 min) – Hike quiet trails, spot deer, and enjoy a peaceful escape close to suburban neighborhoods.
  • Germantown Town Center Urban Park (0–5 min) – Relax by the central fountain, enjoy public art, or visit the nearby library and arts center.
  • Clarksburg Premium Outlets (15–20 min) – Shop over 90 designer and brand-name stores in an open-air setting just off I-270.
  • Rockville Town Square (20–25 min) – Explore local shops, enjoy global dining, or catch live music and outdoor events downtown.
  • Lake Needwood (Rock Creek Regional Park) (20–25 min) – Rent kayaks, fish, or bike wooded trails around this scenic lake in nearby Derwood.

FAQ

  • Question: What are two towns with main attractions in Montgomery County, Maryland?
    Answer: The towns of Gaithersburg and Germantown.
  • Question: When was Gaithersburg established, and how has it grown?
    Answer: Gaithersburg was established in 1878 and has grown from a rural farming community to an urban city with many high-tech headquarters.
  • Question: What characterizes Germantown compared to Gaithersburg?
    Answer: Germantown retains some of its small-town charm despite its rapid growth.
  • Question: What outdoor attractions are in the area?
    Answer: Outdoor attractions include Butler’s Orchard, Bohrer Park, and Great Seneca Valley Stream Park.
  • Question: What other activities and attractions can visitors enjoy in the area?
    Answer: Visitors can explore arts centers, galleries, farms, markets, museums, restaurants, and shopping venues.

At a Glance


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Pleasant temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms. Gaithersburg Marriott Washingtonian Center – A lakeside hotel with easy access to shops and dining. Explore Rio Lakefront – Enjoy waterfront dining, shopping, and paddle boating.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and ideal for outdoor activities. Homewood Suites by Hilton Germantown – A comfortable stay with extended-stay amenities. Visit Seneca Creek State Park – Hike, kayak, and picnic in a scenic setting.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air, fall foliage, and great for festivals. Courtyard by Marriott Gaithersburg – Conveniently located with modern amenities. Attend Oktoberfest at the Kentlands – Enjoy live music, craft beer, and cultural performances.

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