The city's long past began with the Native American Trail. The area was home to the Piscataway tribe and settlers to the area grew tobacco as their primary way of making a living and remained so throughout the 1700s.
In 1871 the area, known at that time as Darcy's Store, was renamed Bethesda. The 19th century brought a streetcar line and suburbanization resulting in an increase in the city's population.
Neighborhoods were established and the impending war continued to support growth for the fledgling city. It continued to grow drawing medical professionals and government contractors.
Today, Bethesda is a thriving community and a popular destination for business and leisure travelers.
Best Time to Visit Bethesda, MD
Bethesda has a nice climate for travel or business plans. With nearly 200 sun-filled days and summer temperatures averaging near 90 degrees and winter lows dipping to the mid-20s, there's a season for all reasons for visiting Bethesda.
Visitors have several options for travel time to Bethesda. It all depends on what you have on your itinerary. For the best in pricing and minimal leisure and business crowds, winter is the season. Unfortunately, you can expect cold temperatures and wet days.
Fall is always a nice time to visit to enjoy cool temperatures and observing the brilliance of the seasonal changing of the leaves.
Spring brings the cherry blossoms in D.C. and with them, crowds, congested traffic, and an increase in hotel rates and a decrease in hotel availability is a possibility.
Summer is the best time for many vacationers. This is the high season and the temperatures, rates, and the demand for accommodations show it. While this is a busy time of year, the temperatures can be brutal. It's recommended if visiting during this time to plan outdoor excursions in the early morning or early evening and avoid being at outside attractions during the heat of the day.
Overall, March through May and mid-October to mid-November are the most comfortable times when it comes to temperatures. March through July is the time that visitors will see an increase in hotel rates.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Bethesda, MD:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs displaying average price patterns by star rating class in Bethesda, MD. Analyze these line graphs to determine the cheapest time to book in Bethesda for your upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotels in Bethesda, MD
4 Star Average Prices: $158.94
Residence Inn Bethesda Downtown is an ideal choice for extended stays whether you're traveling on business or for pleasure. Enjoy the convenience of the D.C. Metro rail located one block from the hotel. The suites are “sweet” with separate sleeping, living, and dining areas for the maximum in comfort and quiet. Suites also feature a fully equipped kitchen, sofa beds, and high-speed internet. Begin each morning with a complimentary hot breakfast. For added convenience, valet dry cleaning, on-site laundry, grocery shopping service, and daily housekeeping are at your service. Socialize with your “extended neighbors" at gatherings hosted Monday through Wednesday. Residence Inn Bethesda Downtown is a pet-friendly hotel.
At Bethesda North Marriott Hotel and Conference Center, everything you need for an outstanding stay is under one roof. Elegantly appointed rooms and plush bedding ensure your comfort and the indoor heated pool and fitness center ensure your relaxation. For your dining pleasure, Meritage serves American cuisine in a casual, yet sophisticated, atmosphere. The hotel stands out as a premier destination for events with its expansive conference center, which features settings for business or social events. The center includes a ballroom, amphitheater, 20 meeting rooms, full-service business center, event planners, and catering services. The hotel is less than five minutes from White Flint metro stop.
Affordable Hotels in Bethesda, MD
3 Star Average Prices: $139.15
Hilton Garden Inn Washington DC/Bethesda is across from the Air Rights Center where guests have easy access to retail shopping and assorted businesses. Every stay is designed for the comfort and convenience for both business and leisure travelers. Rooms are fitted with comfortable Serta Perfect Sleeper beds and the convenience of a microwave, work desk, high-speed internet, cable programming, HDTV, and room service. The Great American Grill keeps taste buds tantalized and when you want a snack or a ready-meal for the microwave, stop by the fully stocked Pavilion Pantry. The hotel provides a secure parking garage within the Air Rights Center, coin laundry, beauty salon, ATM, fitness center, business center, and pool.
Expect cozy comfort whether you're planning an overnight or extended stay at DoubleTree Bethesda. Rooms and suites are cheery with modern furnishings and city views. Amenities include Sweet Dreams bedding, in-room safe, coffee maker, MP3 player, work space and ergonomic chair, 42-inch flat screen TV, and complimentary wired or wireless internet. Junior suites feature a parlor and the one-bedroom suite features a living and dining area, and fully equipped kitchen. Relax at the pool or unwind at the fitness center before heading to Share Wine Lounge and Small Plate Bistro. For a quick snack, The Cup offers assorted food items throughout the day and evening. DoubleTree also provides complimentary shuttle service to specific locations around town.
2 Star Average Prices: $114.94
Best Discounts in Bethesda, MD
Located just 4 miles from downtown D.C., America Inn of Bethesda is the perfect location for group events. With a group rating of 10.0/10 and an average group discount savings of 18.1 percent, the hotel is a good choice for your next planned event. Select spacious meeting rooms, conference rooms, audio-visual equipment, and event catering. For guests staying over, choose single and double rooms featuring premium toiletries, blackout drapes, free high-speed internet, work desk, cable TV, and continental breakfast. If you're planning to stay longer, extended stay accommodations feature a microwave, refrigerator, sink, utensils, and dishwasher. Guapo's Restaurant takes care of your dining needs and the fitness center handles relaxation. A complimentary shuttle provides service within a mile.
Step into a relaxing atmosphere at Bethesda Court Hotel where each Egyptian-style guest room whisks you away to a pleasure-pleasing oasis. Soft sand tones, gentle lighting, crisp Anichini linens, goose-down comforters, and luxurious bath amenities ensure a peaceful rest. Dark wood furniture highlighted by silk drapes and golden-framed artwork add to the richness. For your convenience, rooms are fitted with a coffee maker, extra-large refrigerator, cable TV, free Wi-Fi, and an in-room safe. An excellent choice for group travel, guests can expect superior European-style hospitality. Bethesda Court Hotel rates 7.5/10 for group travel and has an average group discount of 22.5 percent. Complimentary limousine service is available within a three-mile radius of the hotel.
Best Value Options in Bethesda, MD
Just 30 minutes from D.C., near three airports, and a short distance from the D.C. Metro, Bethesda Marriott Suites offers an abundance of convenience for business and leisure travelers. When it comes to comfort, the hotel offers some of the largest guest rooms available. Pleasing color tones, modern furnishings, plush bedding, flat-screen TV, plug-in technology for easy access, and a separate bedroom and living room provide all the comforts of home. Enjoy a meal at the Democracy Grille and take advantage of hotel amenities for a relaxing respite that include an outdoor pool, jogging trail, and fitness center.
Easy access to the Metro located directly beneath the hotel and the welcome mat for four-legged friends are just two of the things that make Hyatt Regency a prime destination. For business travelers, the Hyatt provides the latest technology for conferences and meetings. Leisure travelers will savor tranquility and well-appointed guest rooms featuring flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, refrigerator, and complimentary breakfast. The Daily Grill, Morton's, The Steakhouse, and the Concourse Lounge Bar will keep your taste buds satisfied.
Things to Do in Bethesda, MD
When staying in Bethesda, you have the luxury of enjoying all the attractions in the city, or hopping aboard the D.C. Metro rail and heading to Washington for more entertainment.
For performances, there's the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the Bethesda Theatre, and The Music Center at Strathmore.
The Corcoran Gallery of Art is a visual delight as is the National Gallery of Art. Museums are abundant and each one offers an interesting look at history. Make a plan to see the Navy Museum, Newseum, and be intrigued at the International Spy Museum.
For a walk through time, plan a day trip to Washington to visit the world-famous Smithsonian Institute, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Memorial, National World War II Memorial, Library of Congress, and the White House. Take a tour of The Pentagon, visit The National Mall, then spend time walking among the heroes at Arlington National Cemetery.
For sports and events, check the calendar to see what's on the agenda at FedEx Field, Verizon Center, and the Washington D.C. Convention Center.
A visit to Bethesda is rich in history, culture, and attractions within its borders, as well as nearby Washington. With a long list of things to experience and adventures to take, Bethesda's convenient location puts visitors at the heart and hub of our country's pulse.
Pick your season, then choose your reason for a business or leisure trip and soak up the ambiance of the city and the history of the region each day of your stay. With a variety of quality accommodations to choose from to suit particular needs and budgets, Bethesda is an investment as an exceptional get-away destination.
FAQs about hotels in Bethesda
How much does a cheap hotel in Bethesda cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Bethesda can be as cheap as $114.94 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Bethesda cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Bethesda has been $139.15 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 4-5 star hotel in Bethesda cost?
In the last year, the average 4 star hotel in Bethesda has been $158.94 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
What did travelers think of the city of Bethesda?
Below are reviews of the city of Bethesda, MD from an actual visitor's perspective.
"Near Marjorie Post's Mansion...Hillwood."
Score
4.0 / 5
Seeing my friend who lives in Bethesda, and going to Marjorie Post mansion, Hillwood.
Joan V., from 12-Nov-2024
"Wonderful restaurants and shops."
Score
5.0 / 5
The restaurants and shops were also wonderful!!
Venera C., from 08-Aug-2024
"Georgetown Prep"
Score
4.0 / 5
Georgetown Prep
Hector C., from 28-Jul-2024
"Bethesda is great!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Bethesda is great!
Mary D., from 14-Jul-2024
"FUN!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Kind of a faux town experience, but fun!
Christina B., from 16-Jun-2024
"The room was clean, and the staff was friendly. "
Score
4.0 / 5
The room was clean, and the staff was friendly. Restaurant variety and quality
Very clean
Nancy M., from 15-May-2024
"Many Restaurants"
Score
5.0 / 5
Bethesda has many easily accessible restaurants and lots of new buildings.
Roberta A., from 28-Apr-2024
"The Hotel was well kept both inside and outside."
Score
4.0 / 5
The Hotel was well kept both inside and outside. The employees were always ready to help and had a smile on their faces.
Bethesda is charming. The areas we were in were wonderful kept, had excellent help and were glad to help you.
Sunnee W., from 08-Apr-2024
"Easy Traveling!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Easy traveling!
Michael F., from 01-Apr-2024
"Great Central Location"
Score
4.0 / 5
Lots to do, central location.
Jean M., from 04-Mar-2024
"Very Safe Area"
Score
5.0 / 5
The area appears to be very safe.
Andrea B., from 17-Feb-2024
"Everything is in one place!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Everything is in one place!
Tenneh R., from 23-Jan-2024
"Conveniently Located"
Score
4.0 / 5
Restaurants within walking distance.
Larry A., from 24-Sep-2023
"Potomac Bolger Center"
Score
4.0 / 5
Potomac Bolger Center
Kailash P., from 17-Jul-2023
"Room was very clean and comfortable. Staff was friendly and helpful. "
Score
4.0 / 5
Room was very clean and comfortable. Staff was friendly and helpful.
Mary D., from 11-Jul-2023
"Lovely trees and convenient shopping."
Score
5.0 / 5
Just nice people. Lovely trees and convenient shopping.
Lynda H., from 28-May-2023
"Great Location!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Close to all the restaurants and venues!
Laura K., from 23-May-2023
"Love It!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Love it!
Juanita T., from 29-Apr-2023
"Close to Reagan International Airport"
Score
5.0 / 5
Close to Reagan International Airport; a quick Uber ride away.
Tammy L., from 09-Apr-2023
"the beds were comfortable, the room was clean. "
Score
5.0 / 5
the beds were comfortable, the room was clean City was great.
Richard S., from 27-Mar-2023
"Good Customer Service"
Score
5.0 / 5
Kia at the front desk was nice!
Nicole S., from 10-Feb-2023
"Excellent restaurants & shopping!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Great city with excellent restaurants and shopping!
John C., from 31-Jan-2023
"Proximity to Roundhouse Theater"
Score
5.0 / 5
I went to the Roundhouse Theater.
Robert W., from 27-Jan-2023
"Convenient Location"
Score
5.0 / 5
Location was convenient.
Andrea T., from 17-Jan-2023
"Quiet & Close to Everything"
Score
4.0 / 5
Quiet and close to everything.
Melinda H., from 30-Dec-2022
"Food Options & Shopping!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Food options, shopping, ease of getting from point A to point B.
Michael M., from 30-Dec-2022
"Landon School"
Score
4.0 / 5
Landon School
Edward D., from 18-Oct-2022
"Love this city ??"
Score
5.0 / 5
Love this city 💓
Yue W., from 09-Oct-2022
"Upscale Area"
Score
4.0 / 5
Upscale area.
Joseph G., from 23-Jul-2022
"Very contemporary, clean and refreshing."
Score
4.0 / 5
Very contemporary, clean and refreshing.
Diana C., from 26-Nov-2021
"Nice city."
Score
5.0 / 5
Lots of history and nice places to visit
Carolina M., from 06-Oct-2019
"Nice, Quiet City"
Score
5.0 / 5
We stayed in a central location in the city close to so many restaurants. We felt safe to walk in the community.
Peggy B., from 29-Jun-2015
The average traveler rating of the city of Bethesda, MD shown above is
4.5 out of 5 based on 32 reviews