Gaithersburg Travel Guide

Discover the vibrant city of Gaithersburg with our comprehensive travel guide. Find out the best places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


Gaithersburg is a charming city located in Montgomery County, in the Capital Region of Maryland, Mid-Atlantic, United States of America. With a rich history, vibrant culture, and exciting outdoor adventures, it’s a hidden gem that’s waiting to be explored by tourists. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll show you the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and where to eat in Gaithersburg.

Introduction to Gaithersburg

Gaithersburg is conveniently located less than an hour away from the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. The city boasts of a diverse population and a rich history that dates back to pre-colonial times. Today, it’s a thriving urban destination with a suburban feel, with well-manicured parks, excellent dining options, and exciting cultural festivals.

List of Places to Visit in Gaithersburg

Here is a list of the top places to visit in Gaithersburg:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Gaithersburg Community Museum: An excellent place to learn about the city’s history, with exhibits that showcase the area’s agricultural roots, industrial development, and the contributions of influential residents.
  • John Poole House and Historic Cemetery: This historic house dates back to the 1770s and offers a glimpse into the life of Colonial Maryland.
  • The Gaithersburg-Washington Grove Fire Museum: Showcases the evolution of firefighting equipment and techniques.

Natural Attractions of Gaithersburg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Seneca Creek State Park: This state park has over 6,000 acres of streams, woodland, and trails. Visitors can kayak, fish, hike, bike, and camp here.
  • Lakeforest Mall: A popular shopping destination with a serene lake located beside it. You can take a stroll around the lake or rent a paddle boat to explore the water.
  • Bohrer Park: This Park features a water park, mini-golf, an ice-skating rink, and picnic areas which make it great for family visits.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gaithersburg

Seneca Creek Greenway Trail is a popular, 26-mile hiking route connecting Seneca Creek State Park to the Potomac River.

Best Things to Do in Gaithersburg: Activities and Tours

  • Take a food tour: The city is famous for its ethnic food scene, and a food tour is a great way to discover the best eateries, both old and new.
  • Visit the annual Gaithersburg Book Festival: Happening around May, It’s a literary paradise, with renowned authors and illustrators giving presentations, book signings, free face painting, and more.
  • Attend the Montgomery County Agricultural Fair: A week-long event held every August, featuring concerts, carnival rides, and agricultural exhibits.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gaithersburg

Day 1: Visit the Gaithersburg Community Museum and learn about the city’s rich history. Afterward, explore the rest of the Kentland area and enjoy over 200 stores, restaurants, and shops.

Day 2: Visit the John Poole House and Cemetery to learn about life in Colonial America. Up next, visit Rio of Gaithersburg, a lakeside plaza filled with dining, movies and shopping entertainment in the Lakeside setting for more adventure.

Day 3: Hike the Seneca Creek Greenway Trail. It’s a seven-mile hike that offers stunning views of the Potomac River.

Day 4: Visit the Lakeforest Mall to check out its diverse selection of retail vendors or its indoor ice skating rink located in the district.

Day 5: Visit the Hillstrom Museum, which features a collection of photography, sculpture, pottery, and oils from artists worldwide.

Day 6: Drive to the nearby cities of Washington D.C. and Baltimore, which are a short ride away. Explore the museums, monuments, and other attractions in these cities.

Day 7: Visit the Montgomery County Agricultural Fair and enjoy the carnival rides, agricultural exhibits, and live entertainment.

Food and Drink Scene of Gaithersburg

Gaithersburg is a foodie’s paradise, with a plethora of cuisine offerings from various cultures. Here are a few must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Crab cakes: Made with the freshest Maryland crabs, these cakes are a regional specialty.
  • Fish Tacos: A Mexican classic that’s been given a fresh twist at local eateries.
  • Kolaches: Traditional Czech rolls filled with sweet or savory ingredients.

Local Beverages

  • Brews from Waredaca Brewing Company: A brewery offering fantastic beer and a farm-to-table experience with locally grown ingredients.
  • Wine from Urban Winery: A winery in Rockville with a unique concept, crafting wines from around the world using Maryland terroir.

Where to Stay in Gaithersburg: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Gaithersburg offers various accommodation options with something to suit every taste and budget.

Some hotels are worth checking out:

  • Hilton Washington DC/Gaithersburg: This upscale hotel also has a bar and restaurant, fitness center, and outdoor pool.
  • HYATT house Gaithersburg: This hotel offers suites with full kitchens and free breakfast.
  • Courtyard by Marriott Gaithersburg: This accommodation is near Rio attractions and has a hotel bar, meeting facilities, and a fitness center.

What to Buy in Gaithersburg: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some local products to bring home while leaving Gaithersburg:

  • Honey from the Busy Beehive: This local honey and beekeeping store offers varietal honey infused with spices and other flavors, and natural candles made with beeswax.
  • Custom Bikes from Villain Cycling: This custom bike shop offers gorgeous, incredibly designed bikes for the most discerning cyclist.

Local Culture and Customs of Gaithersburg

The city’s culture is defined by its diverse population, which offers a blend of customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Gaithersburg

The best time to visit Gaithersburg is from March through November, with pleasant temperatures and clear skies. During this time, the city celebrates various festivals, including the Arts on the Green and the Sugarloaf Craft Festival.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gaithersburg

Do:

  • Visit the city’s various parks and nature reserves for outdoor fun.
  • Explore the local food scene.
  • Learn about the rich history of Gaithersburg.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public places.
  • Wear inappropriate clothing in places of worship.
  • Use offensive language or gestures.

Safety and Health

Safety in Gaithersburg

Gaithersburg is an overall safe city, but visitors should take regular precautions and avoid traveling alone, even in well-lit areas.

Health in Gaithersburg

Visitors should ensure they have adequate health insurance and have taken necessary vaccinations. In emergency cases, there are many hospitals located nearby, including Shady Grove Adventist Hospital and Holy Cross Germantown Hospital.

Getting to Gaithersburg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Gaithersburg

The nearest airport is Washington Dulles International Airport, located 30 miles southeast of Gaithersburg. Other airports in the region include Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Baltimore-Washington International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Gaithersburg

Travelers can book intercity bus services from Greyhound, which has a bus station in downtown Gaithersburg.

Other Options

Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport is connected to the region by Amtrak stations in Baltimore, Washington D.C.

How to Get Around in Gaithersburg

Travelers can navigate around Gaithersburg using the metro system, and there are also several taxis, car rental services, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft available.

Where to Go Next from Gaithersburg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations to explore:

  • Washington, D.C.: The nation’s capital is only a few miles southeast of Gaithersburg and offers a plethora of historic and cultural attractions, museums, and memorials.
  • Annapolis: An urban hub, offering a glimpse into America’s naval origins and seafood cuisine.
  • Baltimore: A vibrant port city that combines historical significance with vibrant nightlife experiences and excellent cuisine.

Conclusion

Gaithersburg is a hidden gem of Mid-Atlantic, offering visitors a rich blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures. With so much to see and do, this city is a must-visit destination, sure to capture the hearts of all who come to visit.