CAPITAL IDEA FOR A GETAWAY The Gaylord National is a luxe retreat with fabulous in-house spa amenities as well as fine dining. You can also explore all that National Harbor has to offer including the iconic trail, restaurants and shops, the towering Capital Wheel, and resplendent blossoms. It’s a safe bet you’ll find a way to stay busy. Speaking of bets, MGM National Harbor, on the banks of the Potomac River, is another sure win. Try your hand at table games and slots. And, to top it off, the 3,000-seat theater features popular acts such as the incomparable Cher, comedy legends like Bill Burr, and more. You may never want to call it a night, but your gorgeous suite awaits—so sleep tight. Tomorrow is another day full of adventure. Catocin Breeze Vineyard @iamthelita ENCHANTING LUXURY In the Capital Region, there’s something delectably edible for everyone, no matter how picky the patron—the only trick might be agreeing on one restaurant. In downtown Bethesda’s food scene—which The New York Times has called a “Destination in and of itself”—Japanese, Ethiopian, Greek, seafood, and Mexican may all call your name. Entertain yourself in between meals by shopping at Bethesda Row, which offers an array of upscale stores including Lululemon Athletica, Williams-Sonoma, and Amazon Books. Don’t overlook locally owned retail gems within downtown’s several vibrant blocks. RIO in Gaithersburg—a lakefront, outdoor shopping paradise—serves up comfy Chinese noodles, spicy Tex-Mex, and everything in between along with plenty of first-rate retail. Paddleboats, a carousel, fish feeding, and a sweet lake view keep the kids coming back. About an hour’s drive outside the city, sample some of the state’s best vintages via the self-guided Frederick Wine Trail. Barbera and Albariño embody the rich land Marylanders call home. Take in the lush scenery—as well as the luscious wine—at award-winning Black Ankle Vineyards, Catoctin Breeze Vineyard, Elk Run, Hidden Hills Farm, and others. Cheers to a day well spent. Find more things to do in the Capital Region online at: visitmaryland.org/regions-cities/capital-region Bethesda Row Photo: The Capital Wheel at National Harbor (Dereje Belachew), Bethesda Row (Victoria Pickering) CAPITAL REGION / 71
Maryland Official Visitors Guide 2022 Maryland Maryland Official Visitors Guide: Page 71
