Looking for a unique day trip with vintage charm and riverside beauty? Head to Glen Echo, Maryland! Just outside Washington, D.C., Glen Echo is a historic town known for its artistic spirit, preserved amusement park, and access to nature. Whether you're dancing in a historic ballroom or hiking along the Potomac, Glen Echo offers a magical mix of nostalgia and nature.
Glen Echo, MD Highlights:
- For Couples: Waltz through Glen Echo Park’s Spanish Ballroom – Dance to live music in a beautifully restored 1933 Art Deco venue.
- For Families: Ride the historic Dentzel Carousel – Hand-carved animals and old-fashioned music make this a timeless treat for all ages.
- For Adventurous Travelers: Hike the C&O Canal Towpath – Access miles of scenic trails along the Potomac River and enjoy nature and history combined.
- For Art Lovers: Take a class or view exhibits at Glen Echo Park – Home to art studios, galleries, and theater performances year-round.
- For History Buffs: Explore the National Park Service visitor center – Learn the story of Glen Echo’s transformation from amusement park to arts hub.
🌤 When I like to visit Glen Echo, MD
The best time to visit Glen Echo is in the spring (April–June) and fall (September–October), when the weather is perfect for outdoor exploration, live events, and scenic views along the Potomac. The carousel operates seasonally (typically May–September), making summer a lively time as well.
🗺 My tips for getting to Glen Echo, MD
- If you are traveling by car: Glen Echo is located just off MacArthur Boulevard, about 20 minutes from downtown Washington, D.C., and 15 minutes from Bethesda, MD.
- By Metro: Take the Red Line to Bethesda Station, then connect via Ride On Bus Route 29 to Glen Echo Park.
- By Bike or Foot: The Capital Crescent Trail and C&O Canal paths provide scenic access for cyclists and walkers.
🏬 Where I like to stay near Glen Echo, MD
- American Inn of Bethesda – Affordable and close to Metro access, just 15 minutes from Glen Echo by car.
- Bethesda Marriott – Upscale lodging with amenities and a convenient location for visiting D.C. and Glen Echo.
- Vacation Rentals – Consider charming stays in Cabin John, Bethesda, or D.C. for easy access and local character.
😍 Best Things to Do in Glen Echo, MD
1. Create, Play, and Explore at Glen Echo Park
A popular Washington, D.C.-area amusement park in Glen Echo, Maryland from the early 1900s to the 1960s, Glen Echo Park is today the arts and cultural center and one of the more important Washington, D.C. cultural resources. The center offers a range of classes, workshops and performances in the performing and visual arts. The facility is famous for its Art Deco architecture, a restored antique Dentzel carousel, a historic Spanish Ballroom, social dance programs, children's theaters and popular public festivals. Family Day and the Washington Folk Festival are just two of them. Every year, over 400,000 people take part in events and instructional activities at the park. Park history tours are offered by The National Park Service.
7300 Macarthur Blvd, Glen Echo, MD 20812, Phone: 301-320-1400
2. If You Love American History, Step Into the Clara Barton National Historic Site
Established in 1974 in Glen Echo, Maryland, the Clara Barton National Historic Site, which includes the Clara Barton House, tells the story about the life of Clara Barton, an American humanitarian, pioneer teacher, nurse and the founder of the American Red Cross. The site covers nine acres of land and Clara’s 38-room former residence. The large frame house was constructed in part from lumber salvaged from emergency buildings built by the Red Cross. It is the first national historic site dedicated to the achievements of one woman. It tells the poignant story of the early history of the American Red Cross. The house served as an early headquarters of the American Red Cross. The National Park Service, which manages the site, has restored eleven rooms, the Red Cross offices, parlors and Clara Barton's bedroom. The guided tours take visitors through three levels of the house.
5801 Oxford Rd, Glen Echo, MD 20812, Phone: 301-320-1410
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
3. Delight Young Audiences at Adventure Theatre MTC
Adventure Theatre, founded in 1951, is an arena-style theater in Glen Echo, Maryland, that merged in 2012 with the Musical Theater Center founded in 1986. Together, under the name Adventure Theatre MTC, they are now hosting professional theatrical and musical productions meant for children. It is the longest-running theater program for children in the Washington metropolitan area. The ATMTC Academy provides the highest quality musical theatre training for young people, including classes, camps, student productions and workshops. Adventure Theatre opened its first season in 1952 at a local high school with a production of "Jack and the Beanstalk". The theater has been in continuous operation since 1972, producing seven or eight plays each season.
7300 Macarthur Blvd, Glen Echo, MD 20812, Phone: 301-634-2270
4. Get Hands-On and Craft at Glen Echo Pottery
Glen Echo Pottery is a pottery school founded by director Jeff Kirk thirty years ago in Glen Echo, Maryland, offering adult and teen classes for all skill levels. The founder’s goal was to enable students to give shape to their individual creativity and meaning to their visions. The pottery school is located in the Glen Echo Park’s yurt structures. The pottery program has greatly expanded since its beginning and produced a great number of extraordinary potters. To show the range of work created in the school, the Pottery Gallery is open to the public every weekend from April through December. During the show demos are offered to the visitors and the craft is discussed with everyone interested.
7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, MD 20812, Phone: 301-229-5585
Where to Eat:
5. Savor Classic Fare at The Irish Inn at Glen Echo
From a family home in the 30's to a biker bar in 80's and the Inn at Glen Echo in the 90's, charming house that is today home to the Irish Inn at Glen Echo has seen it all. A neighborhood Irish Bar & Restaurant today, the Inn has a cozy, lively and friendly feel where folks come all the way from DC and Bethesda for the authentic Irish fare, superb quality meats and fresh seafood. Plenty of craft beer on draft and great wine selection accompany excellent menu. Everything is made to perfection, whether you feel for a lab chop jumbo lump crab cake or traditional Irish Shepherd’s Pie. There is a lovely terrace outside for the warm days of summer.
6119 Tulane Ave, Glen Echo, MD 20812, Phone: 301-229-6600
More Places to Eat near Glen Echo, MD
- Fish Taco (Cabin John) – Casual and delicious tacos, burritos, and bowls just a few minutes from the park.
- Wild Tomato (Glen Echo) – Cozy bistro offering American fare with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
- Old Angler’s Inn (Potomac) – Elegant dining with a historic ambiance and patio seating near the C&O Canal.
🎟 If you are interested in local events:
- Carousel Day (May) – Celebrate the Dentzel Carousel with free rides, music, and family activities.
- Art Walk in the Park (Monthly, May–September) – Open studios, live music, and evening art strolls at Glen Echo Park.
- Fall Frolic (October) – Autumn celebration with crafts, treats, and family fun at the park.
🚙 If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Glen Echo, Maryland:
- Georgetown (Washington, D.C.) (20–25 min) – Stroll the waterfront, shop local boutiques, or bike the Capital Crescent Trail.
- Great Falls Park (20–25 min) – Hike along dramatic cliffs and watch the powerful Potomac River waterfalls.
- Downtown Bethesda (15 min) – Enjoy upscale shopping, galleries, and a wide range of restaurants.
- National Mall, D.C. (25–30 min) – Visit Smithsonian museums, monuments, and iconic landmarks.
- Cabin John Regional Park (10 min) – Ride the mini train, hike shady trails, or let kids enjoy the playgrounds.
📔 I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
- Where is Glen Echo located?
- Glen Echo is a small town in Montgomery County, Maryland, on the Potomac River.
- What is Glen Echo famous for?
- The town is famous for its old amusement park, the famous Glen Echo Park, now a National Park and a popular arts and cultural center.
- Who was Clara Barton, and what is her connection to Glen Echo?
- Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross, lived in Glen Echo towards the end of her life, and her house is declared a National Historic Site and is open to the public.
- When is the best time to visit Glen Echo?
- The town is a wonderful spot to visit any time of the year and there is a festival for any occasion and any season, but it is particularly beautiful in the fall when the trees are in their full glory.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming cherry blossoms.
Courtyard by Marriott Bethesda Chevy Chase – A comfortable stay near Glen Echo Park.
Visit Glen Echo Park – Enjoy art exhibits, live performances, and historic carousels.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and ideal for outdoor activities.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Bethesda – A great option for families and longer stays.
Kayak or paddleboard on the Potomac River – Rent gear at nearby Fletcher’s Cove.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and stunning autumn foliage.
Hilton Garden Inn Bethesda – A well-located hotel with easy access to D.C.
Hike along the C&O Canal Towpath – Enjoy scenic river views and fall colors.
Winter (December-February) – Cool temperatures with festive holiday lights.
Residence Inn Bethesda Downtown – A cozy extended-stay option.
Experience the Washington, D.C. holiday season – Just a short drive to the National Christmas Tree and winter markets.
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