It's home to the National Institutes of Health and the Bethesda Naval Hospital. 

Bethesda is served by Metro rail so access to DC, Virginia and other parts of Maryland is convenient. It's on the Red Line, with both the Bethesda and Medical Center (at NIH) stations. The free Bethesda 8 Trolley makes 21 stops from Bethesda Avenue to Rugby Avenue and connects to the Bethesda Metro Station.

There are lots of nice restaurants of just about every nationality imaginable all in one area near Bethesda Metro. There clustered in the area of Del Ray Avenue, St. Elmo Avenue and Cordell Avenue between Wisconsin Avenue and Old Georgetown Pike.

Montgomery Mall has a great selection of stores. It's right off Route 270 at Democracy Boulevard. It's got movie theaters, Sears, Hecht's, Nordstrom, and over 200 other stores. You're also close to miles of stores in Rockville on Rockville Pike.

Bethesda hosts the Bethesda Artist Market. It features nearly 30 local and regional painters, jewelers, photographers, and more. It's held several times a year. There are about a dozen art galleries in Bethesda. The Bethesda Art Walk is held once a month. If you like plays, there's the Round House Theater on East-West Highway.

Another unique attraction is the Montgomery Farm Women's Cooperative Market. It's a little like going back in time to a simple era.. with lots of yummy stuff!

Bethesda has a unique feel; it's got a quiet appeal and a clean, upscale appearance. It's a nice place to live or visit.