Winter transforms Montgomery County, Maryland into a wonderland, making it a fantastic getaway. Whether you want to lace up your skates at an outdoor rink, browse the shops at a premier outlet, experience live performances, or embark on a winter hike, there’s an abundance of activities available just outside Washington, DC.
Ice Skate in the Great Outdoors
While ice skating is enjoyable any time of year, doing so outdoors in a vibrant city center offers an extra layer of magic—particularly at Rockville Town Square. Boasting the largest outdoor rink in the region, Rockville provides ample space for you to glide with friends and family, and perhaps even pick up a new skating trick. If you’re eager to explore more skating venues, Montgomery County features numerous indoor and outdoor rinks worth adding to your weekend plans.
Enjoy Seasonal Brews
Montgomery County is home to a variety of local breweries, each providing a distinctive atmosphere and flavorful brews. Options such as Lone Oak Farm Brewing Co., Elder Pine Brewing and Blending Company, Waredaca Brewing Company, and Stone Silo Brewery provide an array of classic and seasonal beers on tap. Consider crafting your own self-guided brewery tour along the Tastemakers Trail for a fun day out.
Explore the C&O Canal
No winter is complete without outdoor adventure. The renowned C&O Canal National Historical Park offers everything you need for a fulfilling day outside, featuring stunning views from Maryland’s Great Falls Overlook, the Great Falls Tavern Visitors Center, and the Canal Quarters. From sledding and ice fishing to cross-country skiing and hiking, winter presents endless opportunities to get outside and enjoy nature.
Experience Live Performances
When the temperatures drop, find warmth and entertainment indoors with live music or theatrical performances. Discover award-winning artists at venues such as Strathmore, Round House Theatre, or Olney Theatre Center, recognized as one of the two state theaters in Maryland.
Indulge at Lancaster Dutch Market
Satisfy your cravings for sweets at the Lancaster Dutch Market in Germantown. This indoor market is a treasure trove of fresh, homemade pies, cupcakes, muffins, and tarts. Be sure to sample their famous handmade donuts, available in delectable flavors like Glazed Apple Cider, Oreo, Powdered Cream Filled, and Red Velvet Vanilla. They also offer a special section for gluten-free goodies, featuring delicious treats crafted just for you.
Find Fashion at Clarksburg Premium Outlets
Whether you’re looking for comfy loungewear for home or a stylish handbag for evenings out, the Clarksburg Premium Outlets has everything you need. This outlet features popular retailers like Coach, Calvin Klein, Nike Factory Store, GAP Outlet, and Tory Burch, all in one convenient location, allowing you to shop effortlessly with savings of 25-65% off.
Cozy Up Indoors
Snuggle up by the fire at Clyde’s Tower Oaks Lodge, which is a log-style American eatery nestled next to a serene 21-acre nature preserve. Treat yourself to fresh salads, filling steaks, and mouthwatering seafood dishes that promise a memorable meal. Afterward, make your way to Silver Branch Brewing Company, where you can enjoy a warm beer-tasting experience, sampling some of the finest brews the world has to offer.
Take Your Best Swing
Discover the exciting world of socializing at Topgolf, where they’ve artfully combined sport with entertainment. The venue buzzes with excitement any day of the week. Experience climate-controlled hitting bays for comfort year-round, along with HDTVs available in every hitting bay as well as throughout the bar and restaurant area.
Unleash Your Creativity
Ignite your artistic spirit by enrolling in a class at VisArts. The center offers an extensive selection of classes covering everything from ceramics and painting to jewelry making and fused glass. It’s a welcoming environment for individuals of all ages and skill levels.
Explore African American Heritage Sites
February marks Black History Month and provides a wonderful opportunity to take an African American Heritage Road Trip. Visit the Josiah Henson Museum & Park, trek along the Underground Railroad Experience Trail at Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park, or delve into plantation history at the Sandy Spring Slave Museum.
Don’t forget to share your winter experiences with us by tagging @VisitMoCo and using #MontgomeryMoment on Instagram!
