10 Fun Things To Do Near Silver Spring, Maryland (That Locals Actually Love)
Planning a trip to
Silver Spring, Maryland in
Montgomery County? Or maybe you live nearby and want some fresh ideas for a weekend?
You’re in luck. Silver Spring is one of those places that quietly packs in a ton of fun—good food, live music, nature, and easy access to Washington, D.C.
Below are
10 things to do in and around Silver Spring, MD that are perfect for couples, families, solo travelers, and anyone just looking to get out of the house.
1. Stroll, Shop, and Snack in Downtown Silver Spring
Downtown Silver Spring is the heart of the area and a perfect place to start. It’s walkable, lively, and packed with options.
You’ll find:
- Ellsworth Place – an indoor mall with stores, a movie theater, and casual eats.
- Outdoor plazas with street performers, seasonal events, and pop-up markets.
- Plenty of spots for coffee, ice cream, and international food.
On a warm evening, grab a bubble tea or ice cream, sit by one of the plazas, and people-watch. Downtown often hosts festivals, concerts, and outdoor movie nights, especially in spring and summer.
Local tip: Parking is usually easier in the public garages along Wayne Ave and Cameron St, and many are free on weekends or after certain hours.
2. Catch a Show at The Fillmore Silver Spring
If you love live music,
The Fillmore Silver Spring is a must. It’s one of the best-known music venues in the region, and it’s right in downtown.
You’ll see everything from:
- Big-name rock, pop, and hip-hop acts
- Indie and alternative bands
- Comedy shows and special events
The space feels intimate enough that you’re close to the stage, but big enough to have that electric concert buzz.
I once saw a band here on a random Tuesday night, and the energy felt like a Friday. If you’re building a Silver Spring weekend, checking the Fillmore’s calendar can help you plan your trip around a show.
Pro tip: Eat beforehand at one of the many restaurants nearby. After the show, some places stay open late for a quick bite.
3. Explore Sligo Creek Trail on Foot or Bike
Need some fresh air?
Sligo Creek Trail is one of Montgomery County’s hidden gems, and it runs right through the Silver Spring area.
This paved trail stretches for about
10+ miles and is great for:
- Walking or jogging
- Biking
- Family strolls with strollers
- Picnics by the creek
The path winds along Sligo Creek with lots of trees, little bridges, and grassy areas. It’s peaceful enough that you almost forget how close you are to the city.
If you like starting your day with a walk, this is a perfect way to balance out all the restaurant hopping in downtown Silver Spring.
4. Step Back in Time at the National Capital Trolley Museum
Just a short drive from Silver Spring, in nearby Colesville, you’ll find the
National Capital Trolley Museum. It’s small, but surprisingly fun—especially for kids and anyone who loves history or trains.
What you can do:
- Learn about the history of streetcars in the Washington, D.C. region.
- See vintage streetcars from the early 1900s.
- Ride an actual historic trolley along a wooded track.
For families, this is an easy half-day trip. The ride through the trees feels like a step into the past and is especially pretty in the fall when the leaves change color.
5. Enjoy Nature and Trails at Rock Creek Park (Maryland Side)
You’ve probably heard of
Rock Creek Park in Washington, D.C., but did you know it also reaches up into
Montgomery County near Silver Spring?
On the Maryland side, you’ll find:
- Peaceful hiking trails
- Wooded paths along Rock Creek
- Picnic areas and open green spaces
Whether you’re a casual walker or a more serious hiker, you can find a route that fits your pace. Trails range from quick 20-minute loops to longer hikes that can take a couple of hours.
It’s a great break if you’ve been exploring busy city areas and just want to be under the trees for a while.
6. Visit Brookside Gardens in Wheaton
Only a short drive from Silver Spring,
Brookside Gardens in Wheaton is one of those places that feels almost magical.
This 50-acre public garden features:
- Beautiful flower beds and fountains
- A peaceful Japanese-style garden
- Seasonal displays like tulips in spring and chrysanthemums in fall
- A stunning winter light display (Garden of Lights)
If you enjoy photography, this place is a dream. If you just want a calm walk in a beautiful setting, it’s perfect for that too.
In the summer, the butterfly exhibit (when open) is a favorite with kids and adults.
Travel tip: Pair Brookside Gardens with the nearby Wheaton Regional Park for a full day of outdoor fun.
7. Play, Hike, and Ride the Train at Wheaton Regional Park
Just north of Silver Spring,
Wheaton Regional Park is one of Montgomery County’s best parks, especially for families.
Here you’ll find:
- Playgrounds for younger and older kids
- A small miniature train that runs seasonally
- Walking and hiking trails
- A lake with scenic views
It’s the kind of place where you can spend a couple of hours or the whole day. Pack a picnic, let the kids burn off energy, then take a relaxing walk around the park.
In the fall, the changing leaves around the lake make for a great photo backdrop.
8. Dive Into Local History at the Silver Spring B&O Railroad Station
History fans will enjoy a quick stop at the
Silver Spring B&O Railroad Station, a historic train station that dates back to the early 20th century.
While it’s no longer a busy travel hub, it has been lovingly preserved and sometimes hosts:
- Community events
- History talks
- Art and cultural programs
It’s a small and easy visit, but if you like old buildings, trains, or local history, it’s worth checking the schedule to see what’s happening while you’re in town.
You can pair this stop with a meal or coffee in nearby downtown Silver Spring.
9. Experience Global Flavors in Silver Spring’s Food Scene
One of the best things to do in Silver Spring isn’t a single place—it’s
eating your way around town.
Silver Spring is known for its mix of international cuisines. Within just a few blocks, you can find:
- Ethiopian restaurants with rich stews and injera
- Latin American spots with pupusas, tacos, and more
- Asian restaurants offering ramen, sushi, and pho
- Classic American diners and burger joints
If you’re the kind of traveler who plans trips around food, Silver Spring is a great base. You can easily walk from place to place, trying something new at every meal.
Idea: Turn it into your own “food crawl”:
- Start with coffee or tea.
- Share appetizers at one spot.
- Grab a main dish somewhere else.
- Finish with dessert or a drink at a final stop.
10. Take a Quick Trip into Washington, D.C. (Right Down the Metro Line)
One of the biggest advantages of staying in Silver Spring is how close you are to
Washington, D.C.
The
Silver Spring Metro station (on the Red Line) can have you in the nation’s capital in about 15–20 minutes, depending on where you go.
From Silver Spring, it’s easy to reach:
- The National Mall and its famous monuments
- Free Smithsonian museums like Air and Space, Natural History, and American History
- Dupont Circle, Chinatown, and other lively neighborhoods
This makes Silver Spring a smart choice if you want to explore D.C. but prefer a slightly quieter base with a more local feel and a strong community vibe.
Planning Your Trip to Silver Spring, Maryland
Here are a few quick tips to make the most of your visit:
- Getting around: Silver Spring is walkable in its downtown core. For places like Brookside Gardens or the National Capital Trolley Museum, a car or rideshare is helpful.
- When to visit: Spring and fall are especially nice, with comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer brings lots of outdoor events, but it can be hot and humid.
- Where to stay: Look for hotels near downtown Silver Spring or close to the Metro if you plan to head into D.C.
If you’re searching for ideas like
“things to do near Silver Spring MD” or
“fun activities in Montgomery County Maryland”, this area really does offer the best of both worlds—urban energy and easy access to nature.
What Would You Add to the Silver Spring Bucket List?
Have you been to
Silver Spring, Maryland or nearby areas in
Montgomery County?
- Do you have a favorite hiking trail?
- Is there a local restaurant you always recommend?
- Any hidden gems most visitors miss?
Share your tips in the comments so other travelers can discover them too.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend or on social media—it might inspire someone else’s next weekend getaway to Silver Spring!
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