Guide to living in Potomac, MD: Shopping, dining and recreation
Dining | Recreation | Shopping | Fitness | New Townhomes | D.C. Area | potomac, md | elevator townhomes | northside
By: EYA Homes on July 2nd, 2024
Situated just outside Washington, D.C., Potomac, Maryland offers ample opportunities to enjoy the area's beautiful parks and trails, dine at favorite local restaurants, easily access retail centers and conveniences and take part in cultural experiences and events. And with its proximity to D.C. and Montgomery County employment hubs, Potomac can provide an ideal location to live and explore all the region has to offer. Here’s a guide to some of the best things to do in Potomac.
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Dining in Potomac
Potomac boasts a diverse culinary scene that caters to all tastes. Here are some staple restaurants in the area:
Old Angler's Inn
A Potomac landmark since 1860, Old Angler's Inn offers a charming dining experience with its historic setting and beautiful outdoor garden. The menu features classic American cuisine with a contemporary twist, making it perfect for a romantic dinner celebration or weekend brunch.
Renato Restaurant
Renato Restaurant in Potomac is a beloved spot for authentic Italian cuisine. Known for its homemade pastas and fresh seafood dishes, it offers a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for any occasion. Enjoy a taste of Italy right in the heart of Potomac.
Located right around the corner from EYA's Northside community are numerous places to grab a quick bite or enjoy a delicious meal close to home. Here are some of our favorites:
Glenwood's- previously known as Stanford Grill
Shopping and More
Potomac offers a variety of shopping options, from upscale boutiques to convenient shopping centers.
Park Potomac
Adjacent to EYA's Northside community, Park Potomac is a lively hub for dining, shopping, and leisure. This center features a variety of restaurants offering diverse cuisines, perfect for a casual meal or a special night out. Boutique shops and specialty stores provide a unique shopping experience, catering to a range of tastes and needs. The center's beautifully landscaped areas and outdoor seating create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
Cabin John Village
Recently revitalized, Cabin John Village is a vibrant shopping center with a mix of local and national retailers. Here, you can find everything from groceries at Giant Food to unique finds at the boutique shops. It’s also a great place to grab a bite to eat, with numerous dining options available.
Potomac Village
The heart of shopping in Potomac is Potomac Village. This charming area is home to a mix of boutiques, specialty stores, and essential services. Whether you're looking for the perfect gift, a stylish outfit, or everyday necessities, Potomac Village has it all.
Potomac Woods Plaza
Potomac Woods Plaza is a convenient shopping destination for locals and visitors. The plaza features a variety of retail stores ensuring you can find everything you need. Restaurants and cafes offer diverse dining options. With ample parking, it provides a pleasant shopping experience and welcoming atmosphere.
Pike & Rose
Nearby Pike & Rose in North Bethesda, Maryland, offers a dynamic mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment. This urban center features a variety of boutiques and major retailers, perfect for any shopper. Food enthusiasts can enjoy a diverse selection of restaurants, from casual spots to fine dining. The area also includes a state-of-the-art cinema and a trendy rooftop bar for evening entertainment.
Outdoor Recreation
Potomac is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, and the C&O Canal National Historical Park is a prime example of why. This park offers over 184 miles of scenic trails that run alongside the historic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. One of the most popular trails in the C&O Canal National Historical Park, the Billy Goat Trail is a challenging hike that rewards visitors with spectacular views of the Potomac River and the surrounding landscape. Whether you're an avid hiker, cyclist, or just looking for a peaceful place to walk, the park provides a picturesque setting.
Also in the park, you can access some of the best views of the Potomac River Great Falls, a natural wonder that showcases the natural environment with its stunning waterfalls and rushing rapids. Hikers can explore numerous trails that range from easy walks to more challenging routes that offer panoramic views of the falls and surrounding cliffs. For those seeking adventure, the park is also a popular spot for rock climbing and whitewater kayaking.
With no admission fee and easy access from Washington, D.C., Cabin John Regional Park is a delightful destination for outdoor fun. This 500-acre park offers lush forests, well-maintained hiking trails, and diverse wildlife, making it perfect for nature lovers. Families will enjoy the Adventure Playground, miniature train rides, and numerous picnic areas. Sports enthusiasts can take advantage of athletic fields, tennis courts, and an ice-skating rink. The dog park provides a safe space for pets to play off-leash. The park also offers an impressive system of hiking and mountain biking trails that wind throughout Potomac's extensive dedicated greenspace and parklands.
Cultural Experiences
One of the region's cultural crown jewels is the Glenstone Museum, an oasis where art, modern design, and nature are seamlessly integrated. This private contemporary art museum is renowned for its minimalist architecture, serene landscape, and an impressive collection of modern and contemporary artworks. Visitors to Glenstone can explore indoor galleries and outdoor sculptures that span across 230 acres of rolling meadows, woodlands, and streams. With timed tickets to ensure a peaceful and uncrowded experience, Glenstone offers a unique cultural escape just minutes from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
For residents of Potomac, the Potomac Community Center serves as a hub for recreational activities. It’s a great place for residents to engage in cultural enrichment and participate in community-building activities. The center also offers classes and workshops for all ages, ranging from painting and pottery to yoga and dance, providing opportunities for everyone to explore their creative side and stay active.
Community Activities
Potomac hosts numerous community events throughout the year. The Potomac Day Parade is a local favorite, featuring a parade, live music, and activities for kids. This festive celebration brings the entire community together for a day of fun and entertainment. The parade features colorful floats, marching bands, classic cars, and local organizations showcasing their spirit.
Exploring the local flavors and community spirit of Potomac is best experienced through its vibrant farmers' markets. Two of the most popular in the area are Potomac Farm market and Potomac Village Farmers' Market. Both markets offer a diverse array of fresh, locally grown produce, baked goods, and artisanal products. Shoppers can find everything from organic fruits and vegetables to homemade jams, cheeses, and handcrafted items. The Potomac Farm market is open year-round from 9:00AM to 6:00PM while the Potomac Village farmers' market is open from May to October, 2:00-6:00PM.
Check regional publications for information about seasonal events such as fall and holiday festivals as well as Potomac house and garden tours that often support local organizations.
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Whether you're exploring the great outdoors, savoring a delicious meal, or enjoying a day of shopping, Potomac has something to offer everyone. This close-in location offers the perfect blend of suburban conveniences and a modern urban lifestyle just moments to all your favorite D.C. area destinations.
Click here to learn more about EYA's new elevator brownstones at Northside, a walkable new neighborhood just steps to all the shopping and dining at Park Potomac and Potomac Woods Plaza.