The Bethesda Theater is a 1938 Art Deco movie palace on Wisconsin Avenue in downtown Bethesda, Maryland, that now hosts concerts and comedy as a supper club, also known as Bethesda Blues & Jazz. Its lineup leans toward R&B, soul, smooth jazz, and classic artists in an intimate, dinner-and-a-show setting.
It’s one of the closest concert venues to a Metro station in the suburbs. Here’s what to know.
Bethesda Theater Venue Information
- Address: 7719 Wisconsin Ave, Bethesda, MD 20814
- Location: Downtown Bethesda, about a block and a half from the Bethesda Metro station
- Capacity: About 500
- Format: Supper club seating with food and drink service; some shows open space to dance near the stage
- Landmark status: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places
Upcoming Concerts and Tickets at Bethesda Theater
See upcoming shows on our Bethesda Theater event listings or browse the full DC Social Guide concert calendar. Tickets for many shows are sold through Ticketmaster.
Who Books Shows at Bethesda Theater?
The venue’s supper club operation books national R&B, soul, jazz, and comedy acts. Check each event listing for the presenter and dining details.
Parking at Bethesda Theater
A public parking garage behind the theater, off Cheltenham Drive, was built for the theater’s patrons. Several other Montgomery County garages are within a few blocks. County garages are free on Sundays and holidays.
Metro and Rideshare
The Bethesda station on the Red Line is about a block and a half away. Rideshare drop-off is easiest on Wisconsin Avenue in front of the marquee.
What to Expect at Bethesda Theater
Guests sit at tables and can order dinner or drinks during the show. The marquee and Streamline Moderne exterior are worth a look before you head inside. Dress tends to be casual to dressy casual.
Bethesda Theater History
The theater opened in 1938 as the Boro Theatre, designed by famed theater architect John Eberson, and helped anchor the growth of downtown Bethesda. It later became the Bethesda Cinema ‘n Drafthouse in 1983 and the Bethesda Theatre Cafe in 1990, then underwent a major renovation in 2007 for live productions. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1999.
Bethesda Theater FAQ
Where is the Bethesda Theater?
At 7719 Wisconsin Ave in downtown Bethesda, Maryland.
What Metro station is closest?
Bethesda on the Red Line, about a block and a half away.
Where can I park?
The public garage behind the theater off Cheltenham Drive, or other nearby county garages.
Can I eat during the show?
Yes. The venue offers food and drink service at the tables.
Also nearby: Music Center at Strathmore.
Hours, policies, and parking details can change. Check the official venue website before you go.
Map and Directions
Bethesda Theater
7719 Wisconsin Ave
Bethesda, MD 20814