Pokémon Go takes over downtown Bethesda (Photos)

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.

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.

The "graffiti mural"
on the side of Nando's
is a gym in the game

"Full Twist," the sculpture
on the plaza at Gallery Bethesda
at 4800 Auburn Avenue
is a gym in the game

The giant skateboard
at Bethesda Scooters
and Boards is a gym

Even Pokémon have
to cool off during
Metro Safe Track
at the Metro Center
fountain