Welcome to Germantown
Endless recreation, entertainment, shopping, and culture
On the northwestern edge of the greater Washington, DC region, Germantown is an upbeat, lively hotspot for entertainment, the arts, and ample time spent in the great outdoors. Locally owned restaurants, bakeries, and wineries are plentiful. Most homes are built in a classic fashion, giving quiet, tree-lined, white picket fenced streets a more traditional feel of the simpler times of yesteryear. Germantown is located on the edge of many large parks and preserves, and also alongside Interstate 270, leading directly into the city, making commutes to the office simple.
What to Love
- Charming, tight-knit community
- An upbeat tempo and lively atmosphere
- Unbeatable array of eclectic and inviting eateries
Local Lifestyle
Life in Germantown is bustling and varied, containing everything from luxurious shops and unique restaurants to large parks and endless outdoor activities. Several residents commute into DC for work, made easy by the town’s adjacent access to Interstate 270. Recent growth has led to many new offices opening up in town, making those commutes even shorter. Days off are spent hiking, playing sports with family and friends, playing golf, or trying new cuisine. Many options are available from seafood to barbecue and warm pastries to fresh-pressed apple cider. One thing is certain: life in Germantown is as simple or fast-paced as you want it to be.
Dining, Entertainment, & Shopping
Germantown’s location just north of DC has afforded residents a great variety of high-end cuisine. Barbecue, farm-picked apples, fresh-baked pastries, and country markets are abundant and provide locals with great places to gather and make memories to last a lifetime.
Mission BBQ has perfected meat with flawless brisket, pork, chicken, and ribs. These small business owners are proud patriots who believe strongly in giving back to the community and their brave first responders. Since their opening, over $10 million has been donated for both local and national charities.
Another well-loved local favorite can be found at Royal Bagel Bakery & Deli. Since 1992, authentic New York-style bagels have been served as parts of breakfast sandwiches, paired with a variety of schmears. Other treats include donuts, turnovers, cookies, and cakes.
Healthier options can be hand-picked and brought back home from Butler’s Orchard. A variety of crops ready for picking include pumpkins, Christmas trees, apples, peppers, tomatoes, and more. Aside from fruit and vegetable picking, the farm features a market and a restaurant on site. Their market offers homemade pies, decor, and flowers, all perfect gifts for loved ones (or yourself).
One other preferred shopping spot would be Lancaster County Dutch Market. Part market, restaurant, and shop, Lancaster County Dutch market is well-known for its fresh, high-quality take-home goods. A plentiful variety includes doughnuts, soft pretzels, fudge, cheese, and a well-stocked meat counter. The market also features food available to take out, with their fried chicken being a staple for Germantown locals.
Things To Do
Regional proximity to a number of large preserves and parks has provided several outdoor activities for both visitors and locals alike. One local favorite would be Black Hill Regional Park. Spanning more than 2,000 acres, the many trails, playgrounds, sports courts, and picnic sites overlook the beautiful Little Seneca Lake. Canoes, kayaks, and rowboats are also available for rent to make the most out of your day. For relaxing days spent indoors, the BlackRock Center for the Arts is a cultural, visual, and performing arts center with regular shows, exhibits, and camps for the people of Germantown.
Schools
- Northwest High School, grades 9-12; a high number of advanced placement courses are offered, with the school’s average SAT scores standing well above the national average
- Seneca Valley High School, grades 9-12; this brand-new campus recently opened in 2021
Search All Homes
