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A Pidgey is smarter than some jaywalkers in Bethesda; I hope he likes bacon-wrapped dates at Jaleo |
Pokémon Go fever has become an epidemic in downtown Bethesda. When I'm not witnessing someone attempting to catch Pokémon at downtown's most iconic landmarks, someone is asking me if I'm playing the game - even if I'm just checking my Twitter feed. Of course, Pokémon Go has just passed the land of $13,000 "verified" accounts known as Twitter in mobile user numbers.
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Downtown Bethesda in the world of Pokémon Go |
Not surprisingly, Bethesda has not been immune.
Fountains at Bethesda Row and at the Bethesda Metro Center aren't just relaxing stops for residents and visitors anymore. Now they are officially Pokestops in the augmented-reality game.
There's a Pokémon on Bethesda Lane! And the mural alongside Nando's? That is a gym, as are several other artworks downtown, including the plaza sculptures at the Gallery Bethesda apartments. Pikachu, Bethesda is choosing you.
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The "graffiti mural" on the side of Nando's is a gym in the game |
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"Full Twist," the sculpture on the plaza at Gallery Bethesda at 4800 Auburn Avenue is a gym in the game |
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The giant skateboard at Bethesda Scooters and Boards is a gym |
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Even Pokémon have to cool off during Metro Safe Track at the Metro Center fountain |