There’s no question that Frederick is a wonderful place to live. From its convenient location to its top-notch schools to its mix of beautiful homes, this area has it all. That said, there’s more to a fantastic quality of life than the essentials. It’s also about being able to relax, blow off steam, and have some fun. Fortunately, there are plenty of places in Frederick to do to do just that!
When you’re looking for the perfect mini-adventure, here are five fun things to do in Frederick…
1) Take a stroll downtown
When you want to soak in the scenery and pack in as much enjoyment as possible, you should head downtown. To start with, you’ll fall in love with the late 19th-century architecture, public artwork, and all-around friendly vibe in the city’s core. When it comes to things to do, there’s a little of everything—from retail and dining to art and entertainment.
Locals are big fans of the quaint antique shops and clothing boutiques, along with the area’s incredible restaurants (which serve everything from Northern Italian to Spanish to sushi). Art galleries, theatres, and escape rooms round out the downtown’s offerings, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
2) Dine al fresco
There’s nothing quite like enjoying a wonderful meal in the open air. Luckily, Frederick’s restaurant patios are well worth visiting! The Wine Kitchen is a local favourite. Here you’ll find a lovely street-side patio and a decadent menu that includes everything from mac and cheese with gouda to maple-glazed pork belly. There’s also plenty of vino!
The Tasting Room also offers an incredible wine list—along with fine-dining fare to suit every occasion (think lobster fettuccini and perfectly-prepared filet mignon). The restaurant’s outdoor seating options only add to the ambiance.
3) Trek through Gambrill State Park
Frederick residents are lucky to have beautiful Catoctin Mountain (part of the Appalachian range) in their backyard. One of the best ways to enjoy this natural wonder is with a visit to Gambrill State Park, which is less than a half-hour drive from town.
There are over 16 miles of trails for hiking and mountain bikes, along with a campground, picnic area, and tea room. Of course, the park’s best feature has to be the views it offers. Visit one of the lookouts on the High Knob (which is 1600 feet high) to see how beautiful the Frederick and Middletown Valleys can be.
4) Get historical
Frederick has a rich history, which is reflected in some of the area’s top attractions. The National Museum of Civil War Medicine shines a light on medical innovations that arose during a formative moment in our history. You can learn more about the same period at the Monocacy National Battlefield, the site of “the battle that saved Washington.”
The Schifferstadt Architectural Museum is another historical gem. Known as the oldest house in Frederick, this structure is a testament to German Colonial Architecture.
5) Grab a brew
Maryland’s largest brewery is located in the heart of Frederick. This is the ideal place to sample a variety of local craft beers—including seasonal options and limited releases. Flying Dog Brewery is known for its unique flavors, the edgy artwork on its bottles, and its hospitality.
For just $5, visitors can go on a 45-minute tour. Even if you decide not to see how the good stuff is made, the taproom is worth a visit. Try a pale ale, IPA, porter…whatever you’re into!
While Washington is an incredible place to explore now and then, there’s also plenty of fun for Frederick locals to have closer to home. Are you ready to explore this Maryland gem?
Thinking of making the move to Frederick? Reach out to learn more about this beautiful community—and what’s available on the local market!
