I know when most folks visit the DMV area, they always focus their trips on exploring Washington DC, the historical White House and/or the monuments. That is fine, but I must say you are missing out if you don’t visit the neighboring states of Maryland and Virginia. There is more to the DMV, than just exploring Washington DC. Whether you live in the DMV or you are visiting for the first time, here a few places to visit to have the best of your stay:
1. Rockville Pike:
(Approximate Travel Time from DC: 40 minutes)
Rockville Pike has so much to offer, and it is one of my favorite places to hang out. It is an ideal location for shopping, food, and entertainment. Rockville Pike is known for having several popular restaurants such as Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse and Summer House Santa Monica if you are looking for a great brunch option. If you’re up for shopping, there is Uniqlo, Sephora, and H and M. Rockville Pike is always very relaxing, and some other amenities at this location, including a dog park, the IPic movie theater, and so on. So, if you’re looking for a relaxing day, make sure you check out Rockville Pike. Parking is also very affordable as the first two hours is free, and only 1 dollar thereafter.
For more information and more ideas on what to do, visit this link https://pikeandrose.com/
2. Bethesda Row:
(Approximate Travel Time from DC: 30 minutes)
Bethesda Row located in Montgomery County, Maryland boasts lots of shopping, and restaurant options. Bethesda row has everything you may need for a fun, and relaxing day. From fashion, health, home & decor, food, and drinks; the options are unlimited. Some of the best restaurants in Maryland are in Bethesda row. There’s also an apple and Amazon store for all your tech shopping needs. For more information and for event planning, visit https://www.bethesdarow.com/
3. Rio Lakefront Gaithersburg, Maryland:
(Approximate Travel Time from DC: 40 minutes)
What is there not to love about Rio Lakefront in Gaithersburg Maryland. Rio Lakefront is built around a small lake in Gaithersburg, MD, and it is also one of the top places to shop, dine, and/or just go for a walk around the boardwalk. There are over 40 shopping options at Rio, so after a long day of shopping you can grab some food to eat at one of the restaurants, and then end the day with a movie at the AMC Loews Rio Cinemas located in the heart of the downtown center. Stroll along the waterfront, soak in the scenery, and wander into boutiques like White House Black Market (they always have some great deals).
It is an excellent location for the whole family, so once you are here, take lots of pictures and remember to be back for more fun.
For more information, click this link https://www.riolakefront.com/
4. Ellicott City:
(Approximate Travel Time from DC: an hour 10 minutes)
Ellicott City is known as a historic and shopping district, and I must say it is a hidden gem for everyone looking to appreciate the Asian culture. Ellicott City has several Asian grocery stores like H-Mart, to our favorite South Korean bakeries like Tous les Jours, and Shilla Bakery, and Bubble tea shops like the famous Gong Cha and Tea Top. There are also several South Korean restaurants in the area; My favorites are Rainpia, K Pocha, and Kim Bob Na Ra. I always go here if I am craving any South Korean food as the options are unlimited.
5. Arlington Virginia:
(Approximate Travel Time from DC: 15 minutes)
Arlington Virginia is a very popular location and is worth the visit. It was recognized recently by Niche.Com as the “Best City to Live in America”. Arlington is a historical city, and it is the home of the Pentagon, the Marine Corps War Memorial, the Arlington National Cemetery, and the United States Air Force Memorial. Arlington is a buzzing city especially for the youths as it boasts several shopping and dining areas. There are lots of activities to do in Arlington, and you can plan a full day just exploring the area. From shopping, to food, to sightseeing, Arlington has it all. So, leave the busy city of Washington DC behind and hop on a taxi or metro to Arlington for a very fun day.
