27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Germantown, MD

Are you a local or tourist searching for fun activities in Germantown, Maryland? Look no further! You’re at the right place; this guide features the best and most enjoyable things to do in Germantown, MD, to make the most of your time in this picturesque city.

Nestled in Montgomery County, about 28 miles outside the U.S. capital of Washington, D.C., Germantown is an important part of the Washington metropolitan and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Germantown, MD, offers a delightful mix of activities and attractions. From parks and historic sites to entertainment venues and cultural experiences, Germantown has something for everyone to help you make the most of your time in this vibrant community.

27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Germantown, MD (2024)

1. Clearspring Local Park

Begin your Germantown expedition with a visit to the Clearspring Local Park, a large beehive suitable for a friendly or family day out, and boasts numerous fun things to do in Germantown, MD,  for families.

Spanning 29 acres, the park boasts exciting activities, including camping, hiking, biking, picnic shelter with grills for outdoor dining, playing sports, and enjoying nature.

A visit to the Clearspring Local Park allows families and individuals to explore the nature trails, let the kids have fun at the playground, and camp beneath the stars.

Address: 20101 Scenery Drive, Germantown, MD 20876, United States.

2. BlackRock Center for the Arts

Established in 2002, the BlackRock Center for the Arts, also known as the Germantown Cultural Arts Center, is a hub for visual and performing arts offering a variety of fun and educational things to do in Germantown, MD, for visitors of all ages.

This art center boasts art galleries, a 210-seat proscenium theater, a dance studio, a black box theater, music rooms, and art classrooms for educational programs.

A visit to the BlackRock Center for the Arts offers a chance to explore diverse visual art exhibits, take classes, or participate in workshop programs to develop your artistic skills and enjoy high-quality performances in theater, jazz, blues, and more.

Address: 12901 Town Commons Drive, Germantown, MD 20874, United States.

3. Lancaster County Dutch Market

One of the many fun and unique things to do in Germantown, MD, with family this weekend is exploring the Lancaster County Dutch Market, a vibrant marketplace featuring a wide variety of fresh produce, local specialties, and handcrafted goods from Pennsylvania Dutch Country.

This market offers a year-round selection of fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products sourced from regional farms, and unique and delicious Pennsylvania Dutch treats like shoofly pie, scrapple, pot pie, and other delectable local favorites.

What’s more, the market also features handcrafted goods like Amish-made furniture, quilts, clothing, decorative items, prepared food and snacks, barkey and candy stands, and pretzels, including hot and fresh pretzel logs in various flavors.

Address: 12613 Wisteria Drive, Germantown, MD 20874, United States.

4. Waters Landing Local Park

Discover family-friendly things to do in Germantown, MD, at the Waters Landing Local Park, a haven offering a variety of recreational facilities for visitors of all ages.

Established in 1993, this park spanning 11.7 acres offers facilities such as a children’s playground, multi-use fields for different kinds of sports, two tennis courts, a basketball court, and picnic shelters with grills.

Visitors to Waters Landing Local Park can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, engage in different sporting activities, let the kids loose on the playground with different equipment, or enjoy a relaxing day at the picnic shelters with grills.

Address: 13701 Waters Landing Drive, Germantown, MD 20874, United States.

5. Topgolf Germantown

One of the many fun and indoor things to do in Germantown, MD,  for families is to visit Topgolf Germantown, an exclusive entertainment destination with many indoor fun and recreational activities.

As the second of its kind in Maryland, this attraction features a creative driving range with climate-controlled hitting bays and high-tech golf games using microchipped balls that track and score shots, making it participatory and competitive.

Topgolf also provides a rooftop terrace and private event spaces, a full-service restaurant, and a bar with an extensive menu of delicious food and refreshing drinks to refuel as you await your turn to play.

Address: 20101 Century Blvd, Germantown, MD 20874, United States.

6. Germantown Indoor Swim Center

Are you looking for a water adventure or a refreshment after a hot summer day? Then Germantown Indoor Swim Center should be included in your list of fun and relaxing things to do near Germantown, MD, today.

Located about a 7-minute drive away from Germantown, this indoor swimming facility offers competition and leisure pools, lap lanes, diving boards, water slides, leisure pools, hydrotherapy pools and saunas for adult use only, and exercise rooms.

Athletes and individuals can take on exercise, enjoy recreational swimming, and water fitness classes, and families can have a fun-filled day with the water slides and leisure pool available at the venue.

Address: 18000 Central Park Cir, Boyds, MD 20841, United States.

7. Butler’s Orchard

Discover Butler’s Orchard, a family-focused farm dedicated to pick-your-own produce, a well-stocked farm market, and exciting events throughout the year among other unique things to do in Germantown, MD, for families and couples.

Spanning 300 acres, this orchard features more than 25 varieties of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and trees, a well-stocked farm market, farm Park, complete with a hayloft, giant slides, opportunities to meet farm animals, and hayrides, and year-round events.

A visit to Butler’s Orchard provides a fun and educational experience for all ages, enjoy the experience of picking their fruits and vegetables throughout the seasons, explore the farm market filled with a bounty of fresh, local produce alongside preserves, honey, gourmet, and attend educational and fun events.

Address: 22222 Davis Mill Road, Germantown, MD 20876, United States.

8. Black Hill Regional Park

Unearth a plethora of thrilling things to do near Germantown, MD, for everyone with a trip to Black Hill Regional Park, a sprawling park centered around Little Seneca Lake, the park offers a scenic escape with diverse recreational opportunities.

Spanning 2,000 acres, the park prides itself on exciting activities, including fishing, swimming, camping, hiking, biking, boating, picnicking, and a playground to keep the kids entertained.

Visiting the Black Hill Regional Park allows families and individuals to enjoy fun on the lake, explore the nature trails, and discover the park’s natural history and local ecosystems.

Address: 20930 Lake Ridge Drive, Boyds, MD 20841, United States.

9. Earthoid: Earth Globe Water Storage Tank

Touring the Earthoid: Earth Global Water Storage Tank, a unique water storage spherical structure painted to resemble Earth is one of the many unique things to do in Germantown, MD, for everyone today. 

Established in 1980, this water tank storage plunging 100-foot tall offers an eye-catching design of a striking earth-inspired mural, and holds two million gallons of water, serving the local community.

This landmark serves as a popular attraction and offers a unique photo opportunity with a giant globe as the backdrop.

Address: 20200 Observation Drive, Germantown, MD 20876, United States.

10. Maryland SoccerPlex

Exploring the Maryland SoccerPlex, a hub for soccer enthusiasts and a venue for various other sports and activities should make your bucket list of fun things to do in Germantown, MD.

Maryland Soccerplex features 5000 seating capacity, 21 natural grass fields, 3 artificial turf fields, 8 convertible basketball/volleyball courts, and other amenities like miniature golf, a splash park, and a model boat pond.

On your visit to Maryland Soccerplex, enjoy various sporting events or even participate in recreational leagues offered at the SoccerPlex.

Address: 18031 Central Park Cir, Boyds, MD 20841, United States.

11. Schaeffer Farms Trailhead

One of the best outdoor things to do in Germantown, MD, for nature lovers and bike enthusiasts is to explore the Schaeffer Farms Trailhead, a haven for hikers and bikers cutting across a network of forests, fields, and along scenic Seneca Creek.

With over 8 miles of trails, Schaeffer Farms offers options for all skill levels and opportunities for hiking, biking, horseriding, and wildlife viewing.

Enjoy stunning views of the forests, meadows, and Seneca Creek while keeping your eyes peeled for deer, foxes, and a variety of birds as you explore the trails.

Address: 14920 Schaeffer Road, Germantown, MD 20874, United States.

12. Glenstone Museum

The Glenstone Museum, a unique haven focused on post-war, modern, and contemporary art offers a variety of fun and educative things to do in Germantown, MD, for visitors of all ages.

This museum features a unique combination of indoor galleries and expansive outdoor sculptures integrated into a beautifully landscaped environment.

Also, the museum features a permanent collection of renowned post-war, modern, and contemporary artists, including works by Piet Mondrian, Jeff Koons, and Louise Bourgeois

The museum’s meticulously designed landscape complements the art and architecture, offering a serene and contemplative atmosphere.

Address: 12100 Glen Road, Potomac, MD 20854, United States.

13. We Art Fun Painting Studio

As an art enthusiast searching for activities in Germantown, exploring We Art Fun Painting Studio offers the best and most unique things to do in Germantown, MD, for art lovers.

This art gallery offers creative activities including painting ceramics and canvases, creating mosaics, and a welcoming space for individuals or groups to relax and unleash their creativity.

Visitors to this venue can unleash their artistic desires and have a chance to create a personalized piece of art, like a painted ceramic or canvas.

Address: 19847 Century Blvd g, Germantown, MD 20874, United States

Exploring other attractions near Germantown, Maryland? Why not check out some fun things to do in Bethesda, MD, and fun things to do in Rockville, MD?

14. Sky Zone Trampoline Park

Unleash your jumping desire at Sky Zone Trampoline Park, a fun hub for an assortment of jumping fun is among the fun things to do near Germantown, MD, with kids.

The trampoline park features a wall-to-wall trampoline court for freestyle bouncing and flipping, dodgeball courts, obstacle courses, slam dunk zones, and foam pits. and tutorials to cater to inexperienced skill levels.

Boasting a perfect destination for a day out with families and friends, Sky Zone Trampoline Park offers jumping and flipping fun in a safe environment, for visitors of skill level.

Address: 15813 Gaither Drive, Gaithersburg, MD 20877, United States.

15. Gunners Lake

One of the many free things to do in Germantown, MD,  today is to explore the scenic beauty of Gunners Lake which offers picturesque views of the surrounding trees and the lake itself creating a peaceful atmosphere.

Gunners Lake provides a paved trail that encircles the lake, offering a pleasant path for walking, jogging, or biking, local wildlife like turtles, geese, ducks, and fish, and fishing opportunities.

Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in a scenic environment, take a walk, jog, or bike ride along the path surrounding the lake, or relax on a bench and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere or have a picnic by the lake.

Address: Germantown, MD, United States.

16. Germantown Town Center Urban Park

Exploring the Germantown Town Center Urban Park, an 8-acre civic space designed to be a focal point for the surrounding community is among the outdoor family-friendly things to do in Germantown, MD.

This park features amenities such as open lawn areas for recreation like volleyball, frisbee, or kite flying, space for hosting events and festivals, walking trails, unique seating, picnic areas, bicycle racks, and more.

Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities with family and friends, experience a wetland habitat, and appreciate local wildlife, or attend community events and festivals.

Address: 19840 Century Blvd, Germantown, MD 20874, United States.

17. iFLY Indoor Skydiving- Montgomery

One of the unique things to do near Germantown, MD, today with family is to have a feel of adrenaline rush at iFLY Indoor Skydiving – Montgomery, a center that provides an indoor skydiving experience that’s exhilarating and safe.

Founded in 2018, this Skydiving center is a 14-foot (4.3 m) recirculating tunnel with a 48-foot (14.6 m) chamber height and a top speed of 171 mph (275 km/h). The vertical tunnel stimulated the free fall of skydiving.

With a visit to this SkyDrive center, you can elevate your flying experience with virtual reality options that transport you to real skydiving locations worldwide. Professional instructors are available, and even first-timers can safely enjoy the experience.

Also, special training for kids aged 4–16 is available to make it a favorite among young adrenaline junkies.

Address: 9400 Gaither Road, Gaithersburg, MD 20877, United States.

18. Valley Mill Kayak School

Valley Mill Kayak School is a paddlesports school offering kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding instruction for people of all experience levels, from complete beginners to seasoned paddlers looking to refine their skills.

This school offers instructions and certificates from the American Canoe Association, courses for kayaking, private lessons, group programs, semi-private lessons, and access to natural paddling areas in the Potomac region.

Gain knowledge of basic kayaking or SUP skills in a safe and controlled environment, and experience the beauty of the Potomac region from a unique perspective.

Address: 15101 Seneca Road, Germantown, MD 20874, United States.

19. Markoff’s Haunted Forest

Another adventurous thing to do near Germantown, MD, is to experience an adrenaline-pumping adventure filled with scares and spooky thrills at Markoff’s Haunted Forest.

Established in 1992, this adventure features a mile-long trail, special effects, lighting, and creepy characters designed to maximize scares, a midway area with food, drinks, and entertainment to extend the spooky experience.

As a visitor at Markoff’s Haunted Forest, test your courage in a uniquely designed haunted environment, and enjoy live entertainment with actors and special effects for a fully immersive experience.

Address: 19120 Martinsburg Road, Dickerson, MD 20842, United States

20. Ridge Road Recreational Park

Nestled in the heart of Germantown, Ridge Road Recreational Park is a community park offering a plethora of outdoor recreational things to do in Germantown, MD, for people of all ages.

Sprawling 56 acres, this park offers athletic fields, a basketball court, a tennis court, a volleyball court, a dog park, a playground, picnic shelters with tables, and a network of natural trails for hiking and biking.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities like playing sports, walking their dog, having a picnic with family and friends, going hiking or biking on the trails, or just relaxing and connecting with nature in the scenic environment.

Address: 21155 Frederick Road, Germantown, MD 20876, United States

21. Shadowland Adventures

One of the many adventurous things to do near Germantown, MD, is to make a stop at Shadowlands Adventures, a laser tag arena offering high-energy entertainment for families, individuals, and groups.

Shadowlands offers exciting game scenarios for various group sizes and preferences, a multi-level laser tag arena with state-of-the-art equipment, private rooms, and catering options for birthdays, corporate events, and team-building activities.

What’s more, the arena also offers lightweight, high-tech vests for a comfortable and immersive gaming experience

Address: 624 Quince Orchard Road, Gaithersburg, MD 20878, United States.

22. Great Seneca Stream Valley Park

Are you searching for a perfect destination for an outdoor activity with family and friends? Then the  Great Seneca Stream Valley Park,  a haven for nature lovers offering a peaceful escape from the surrounding suburbs will fit your search.

This natural preserve consisting of nine sections or units, totaling over 1,557 acres encompasses meadows, woodlands, and the scenic Seneca Creek, which winds its way through the property.

The park features a 7.8-mile trail suitable for hiking, biking, or horseriding, a rock bridge, and is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, fox, turtles, and various bird species making it a perfect destination for birdwatchers.

Visitors exploring unique and fun things to do in Germantown can explore remnants of historic mills scattered throughout the park grounds, enjoy the peacefulness of the surroundings, explore the woodlands and meadows, and observe the park’s diverse wildlife.

Address: Watkins Mill Road, Germantown, MD 20876, United States.

23. A Game of Rooms Rockville

Are you looking for fun things to do near Germantown, MD, tonight with friends and family? Then, experience themed adventures that challenge you to work together with friends or family to solve puzzles and mysteries at A Game of Rooms Rockville. 

Located just a 15-minute drive from Germantown, this escape room challenges players to search for hidden clues, solve puzzles, find secret passages, dodge the lasers, crack the safe, and work together to escape within the time limit.

The rooms are all set in different themes such as Escape Detention, Cabin Fever, and Prison Break. Engage in a fun and engaging experience that promotes an immersive, captivating, and challenging adventure at A Game of Rooms Rockville.

Address: 15742 Crabbs Branch Way, Derwood, MD 20855, United States.

24. Clear Skies Meadery

Clear Skies Meadery is a rural barroom made popular for its craft beers, relaxed environment, and a variety of special things for beer enthusiasts to do near Germantown, MD, for adults.

The pub specializes in a wide variety of handcrafted meads in various styles such as dry, semi-sweet, and sweet, honey-based fermented beverages,  and provides a cozy taproom ambiance for enjoying their meads on-site.

Visitors to The Clear Skies Meadery can expect an opportunity to savor delicious food and drinks in a comfortable setting, and an opportunity to learn about mead production and appreciation.

Address: 15201 Display Ct, Rockville, MD 20850, United States.

25. Brookside Gardens

One of the many unique things to do near Germantown, MD, for everyone is exploring the Brookside Gardens, a public garden that features several distinct garden areas showcasing a diverse variety of plants, flowers, and landscapes.

Nestled within Wheaton Regional Park, Brookside Gardens opened in 1969 and features different themed areas including the perennial gardens, aquatic garden, azalea garden, butterfly garden, children’s garden, rose garden, Japanese style garden, trial garden, rain garden, woodland walk.

What’s more, the garden also offers two conservatories that offer a year-round escape into a world of exotic plants and flowers, a perfect space for events, and educational opportunities.

Address: 1800 Glenallan Ave, Wheaton, MD 20902, United States.

26. The Music Center at Strathmore

Established in 2005, the Music Center at Strathmore is a renowned concert hall and education center offering some of the best and unique things to do near Germantown, MD, for couples and music lovers.

Located in North Bethesda, about a 25-minute drive from Germantown, the music center offers an exciting adventure for visitors of all ages and features a 1,976 seating capacity, educational programs, and community events.

Visitors get to experience world-class performances of various genres, including classical, jazz, folk, and contemporary music, and explore the stunning architectural design and exceptional acoustics of the building.

Address: 5301 Tuckerman Ln, North Bethesda, MD 20852, United States

27. Red Wiggler Community Farm

Rounding up our list of fun things to do in Germantown, MD, is a visit to the Red Wiggler Community Farm, a sustainble vegetable farm that fosters an inclusive environment where people with and without developmental disabilities work together to cultivate fresh, healthy food.

Founded in 1996, this farm features fresh foods, opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in meaningful work and social interaction, and educational workshops on sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship.

Visitors to this farm can learn about organic growing practices, enjoy fresh, locally-grown produce, and also witness firsthand a unique model of sustainable and inclusive farming.

Address: 23400 Ridge Road, Germantown, MD 20876, United States.

plan your visit to germantown, MD

Germantown, Maryland is a charming city where you can experiences, blending excitement, exploration, knowledge, and heritage whether as a resident or visitor, this town has a way of filling each moments with the desires to explore further, discovering its rich history, artistic achievements, and strong community ties.

So, pack your bags, prepare to be soaked in the cultural richness, local cuisine, historic exploration, and the charming ambiance of this Maryland city in a unique way.