Gaithersburg

Gaithersburg is a city in Montgomery County, Maryland, located between Washington D.C. and Frederick. The cityscape combines single-family homes with large lawns, shopping centers along wide roads, and several office parks for technology and biotechnology companies.

In the early 19th century, Benjamin Gaither purchased land in the area, and the small settlement grew around his farm. The railroad reached the town in the 1870s, which accelerated commerce and population growth into the 20th century.

Local parks host community gardens where residents grow vegetables together and share harvests. Downtown displays sculptures and murals created by local artists that reflect the multicultural identity of residents.

Access is via main highways and commuter trains connecting to Washington and Baltimore. Several public libraries and recreation areas are available at no charge, offering spaces for reading and outdoor activities.

A historic observatory stood here for nearly a century, tracking tiny variations in Earth's axis. Today, a small memorial stone marks the site of this scientific outpost in an otherwise ordinary residential neighborhood.

Location: Montgomery County

Inception: 1802

Elevation above the sea: 153 m

Shares border with: Montgomery Village, Rockville, Washington Grove

Website: https://gaithersburgmd.gov

GPS coordinates: 39.13992,-77.19292

Latest update: December 15, 2025 09:47