Bethesda Lane
When Bethesda Lane opened in 2008, it quickly replaced the fountain in front of Barnes & Noble as the best place for people-watching in Bethesda. The pedestrian-only, cobblestone lane draws large crowds to the shops and numerous restaurants and cafés.
In warm weather, you can sit outside at Redwood, Le Pain Quotidien or Luke’s Lobster and watch the passing parade. On weekends, buskers often set up shop on the lane and (usually) add to the ambiance.