Looking for a refreshing weekend getaway in an interesting city? Look no further than Silver Spring, Maryland. Fun fact: According to Britannica, the name Silver Spring derived from a local spring where the bottom sparkles with flakes of mica.
Although the city was never incorporated, Silver Spring in Montgomery County, Maryland stands today as one of the most important business and residential centers in the D.C. Metropolitan area.
Silver Spring isn’t too far from Washington, D.C. along the Red Line Metro. This vibrant city offers a perfect blend of relaxation, entertainment, delectable cuisine, and unique local experiences. Explore the different sights, smells, and sounds happening all around Downtown Silver Spring or connect with nature at nearby Wheaton Regional Park or Brookside Gardens.
Embark on a memorable three-day weekend getaway in Silver Spring, and discover a treasure trove of things to do, see, eat, and explore.
Day 1: Discover the Charms of Downtown Silver Spring
Start your weekend getaway by immersing yourself in the energy of downtown Silver Spring. Stroll along Ellsworth Drive, where a variety of local shops and boutiques await.
Browse through unique clothing stores like Euro Style which features upscale European clothing and women’s boutique Rostas Collections. There are also additional clothing stores from popular brands including H&M, Loft, and Nike. Discover a one-of-a-kind jewelry restoration at Moren Inc. or Kripps Customized Jewelry and explore the shelves of independent bookstores like Loyalty Bookstores or Alliance Comics.
Don’t forget to stop by the Silver Spring Farmer’s Market happening every Saturday morning in downtown Silver Spring for a taste of local produce, freshly baked goods, and artisanal products. This bustling, family-friendly market operates and boasts over 45 farmers and producers from DC, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Whether you’re looking for a bottle of wine for a dinner party (or a cozy night in), fresh meat and produce for a scrumptious dinner, or flowers to brighten your home, Silver Spring Market has it all, and it’s all local!
For a cultural experience, visit the AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center, a historic movie theater showcasing a curated selection of independent, classic, and international films. The AFI Silver presents the richness of American and world cinema, exploring all forms of the moving image in the digital era and seeing the screen itself as a source of literacy, learning, and vision for the future.
This year, AFI Silver is hosting the AFI Latin American Film Festival. Now in its 34th year, the AFI Latin American Film Festival is one of North America’s largest and long-running showcases of Latin American cinema. With the inclusion of films from Spain and Portugal, the festival celebrates Ibero-American cultural connections during National Hispanic Heritage Month.
Or catch a live performance at The Fillmore, a renowned music venue known for its diverse lineup of artists and bands. Future artists performing at The Fillmore are K Camp, and Ty Dollar $ign, and are inclusive of many genres of music including Rock, Alternative, Metal, Jazz, Hip Hop & R&B.
Day 2: Explore Natural Beauty and Local Eateries
Spend your second day embracing the natural beauty and culinary delights of Silver Spring. Start with a morning visit to Wheaton Regional Park which boasts over 530 acres of greenery and scenery. Venture out to award-winning Brookside Gardens, within Wheaton Regional Park, a stunning 50-acre oasis featuring vibrant flower displays, serene walking trails, and breathtaking landscapes.
Take a leisurely walk through the tranquil gardens, unwind by the koi pond, and soak in the beauty of nature. Family and children can also take a ride on the 1915 musical carousel as well as play with your pets at the fenced-in dog park. If you’re a tennis lover, get a racket and head to the indoor tennis facility at the park.
Afterward, treat yourself to a delightful culinary journey through Silver Spring’s diverse food scene. From mouthwatering international cuisine to local favorites, the city offers a range of flavors.
Ethiopian cuisine is flourishing throughout Silver Spring, Maryland. Places like Lucy Ethiopian Restaurant Bete Ethiopian Cuisine & Café offer traditional dishes from morning until night.
Visit Zinnia for a taste of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, combining fresh ingredients with bold flavors. Indulge in their delectable menu, featuring dishes like shawarma, falafel, and flavorful mezze options.
Or taste mouthwatering Mexican delights at Mi Rancho, you can never go wrong with a margarita and authentic tacos. Don’t forget to visit the charming cafes for a cup of locally roasted coffee or enjoy a sweet treat from a local dessert shop like Sweeteria, which serves Thailand-inspired desserts and drinks.
Day 3: Cultural Immersion and Artistic Experiences
On your final day, dive into the cultural and artistic side of Silver Spring. Explore galleries, participate in workshops, or shop for unique handmade artistic creations.
Silver Spring, Maryland is one of three designated Arts and Entertainment Districts in Montgomery County, Maryland. These districts were set up to help develop and promote community involvement, tourism, and business revitalization through incentives that attract artists, art organizations, and other creative enterprises.
A self-guided art walk awaits you in Downtown Silver Spring. Start at the glass wall art piece by Heidi Lipmann’s Transorma/Transforma on 8045 Newell Street. Then walk to Acorn Park (where Silver Spring got its name) to see a five-panel mural by artist Mame Cohalon. The Lotus Columns by Mary Ann Mear is next at 1200 Blair Mill Road. This sculpture piece is a series of vertical elements along a curved path.
Next, go to 35’ illuminated East/West Beacon on 1200 East-West Hwy. The artist explains this piece is a beacon to salute visitors, commuters, and residents. Lastly, head to the Coastline art piece located on the East-West Highway. The Coastline, made by Jim Sanborn, is a granite piece with a wave pool water feature. Locals in the area call the piece “the wave pool” and has another meaning. This piece is used as an educational tool that shows the mission of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Sanborn aimed to replicate the 65-foot section of coastline with waves.
As the day winds down, venture to the Silver Spring Civic Building at Veterans Plaza, where you can catch live performances, art displays, and community events. Engage with local artists, listen to live music, and experience the vibrant community spirit that defines Silver Spring.
Silver Spring, Maryland, proves that the perfect weekend getaway destination can be found just around the corner. With its lively downtown, beautiful gardens, diverse culinary scene, and rich cultural experiences, Silver Spring offers a delightful three-day getaway.
Immerse yourself in the local shops, indulge in delicious meals, explore art and history, and relish the vibrant atmosphere.
Your weekend getaway in Silver Spring is sure to leave you with cherished memories and a renewed appreciation for the hidden gems within your own backyard.
Montgomery County has more to explore! Take a trip to more cities including Gaithersburg, Bethesda, & UpCounty.
