Winter is truly enchanting in Montgomery County, Maryland, making it an ideal escape. You can enjoy outdoor ice skating, shop at premier outlets, catch a live performance, or embark on a winter hike—all just a stone’s throw from Washington, DC.
Skate in the Open Air
While ice skating is enjoyable year-round, there’s something particularly magical about gliding outdoors in a vibrant city center, especially at Rockville Town Square. This location boasts the largest outdoor rink nearby, allowing plenty of space for you to skate with your loved ones and perhaps even master a few new moves. If you’re seeking more skating venues, various indoor and outdoor rinks can be found throughout the county, making them a perfect addition to your weekend plans.
Enjoy Seasonal Brews
Montgomery County is home to a plethora of local breweries, each offering distinct flavors and experiences. Venues such as Lone Oak Farm Brewing Co., Elder Pine Brewing and Blending Company, Waredaca Brewing Company, and Stone Silo Brewery showcase both classic and seasonal brews. Craft your own self-guided tour along the Tastemakers Trail for a fun exploration.
Explore the C&O Canal
To fully embrace the winter season, getting outside is essential. The C&O Canal National Historical Park is a popular destination, providing a range of outdoor activities. Highlights include Maryland’s Great Falls Overlook along the Potomac, Great Falls Tavern Visitors Center, and the Canal Quarters. Whether you’re sledding, ice fishing, cross-country skiing, or hiking, winter is the perfect season to explore the great outdoors.
Catch a Live Show
Escape the chill by attending a music or theater performance at one of the many venues in the county. Discover award-winning artists and favorites at Strathmore, Round House Theatre, or Olney Theatre Center, which is one of Maryland’s two state theaters.
Delicious Treats at Lancaster Dutch Market
Satisfy your sweet cravings with a visit to the Lancaster Dutch Market in Germantown. This indoor market offers a variety of fresh, homemade goodies including pies, muffins, and cupcakes. Don’t miss out on their delectable donuts, featuring flavors like Glazed Apple Cider, Oreo, Powdered Cream Filled, and Red Velvet Vanilla. Plus, they have a selection of Gluten-Free treats that are just as delightful.
Find Your Perfect Outfit at Clarksburg Premium Outlets
Whether you’re looking for comfy loungewear or a chic bag for a night out, Clarksburg Premium Outlets has it all. Shop popular retail brands like Coach, Calvin Klein, Nike Factory Store, GAP Outlet, and Tory Burch, all in one convenient location, with discounts ranging from 25% to 65% off.
Stay Cozy Indoors
Snuggle up by the fire at Clyde’s Tower Oaks Lodge, an American restaurant situated next to a stunning 21-acre nature reserve. Enjoy fresh salads, savory steaks, and flavorful seafood for an unforgettable dining experience. Afterward, visit Silver Branch Brewing Company for an indoor beer tasting, where you can explore an array of exceptional brews.
Perfect Your Swing
At Topgolf, socialize while enjoying a game that combines entertainment with technology. The venue buzzes with life on any given day, featuring climate-controlled hitting bays for comfortable play throughout the year, complete with HDTVs in every bay and around the sports bar and restaurant.
Unleash Your Creativity
Tap into your artistic side by enrolling in a class at VisArts. Choose from a wide range of classes including ceramics, painting, jewelry making, and fused glass, welcoming participants of all ages and skill levels.
Explore African American Heritage & Historic Sites
February marks Black History Month, offering a chance to take an African American Heritage Road Trip. Consider visiting the Josiah Henson Museum & Park, walk along the Underground Railroad Experience Trail at Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park, or engage in hands-on activities at the Sandy Spring Slave Museum.
Don’t forget to document your winter outings with us by using #MontgomeryMoment and tagging @VisitMoCo on Instagram!
