For a city its size, Frederick has an impressive list of things to do.
There’s a walkable, historic downtown, serious hiking within twenty minutes, one of Maryland’s best wine regions, and a food scene that surprised most first-time visitors.
Nicole and I live here and have done it all. So here are what we consider the Best Things to do in Frederick, MD.
A Locals Guide to the Best Things to Do in Frederick, Maryland
In a Hurry? Top Frederick Attractions at a Glance
| Attraction | Best For | Cost | Time Needed | Why We Love It |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown Frederick | First Time Visitors | Free | 2-4 Hours | Frederick's Best Feature is its Charming Downtown |
| Carroll Creek Park | Couples, Families, Visitors | Free | 1-2 Hours | Heart of Frederick, Especially at Night |
| Monocacy Battlefield | History Buffs | Free | 2-4 Hours | Most Historic Attraction in Frederick |
| Annapolis Rock Hike | Outdoor Lovers, Hikers | Free | 3-4 Hours | Best Hike Near Frederick, Amazing Views |
| McClintock Distillery | Adults, Wiskey Lovers | Tasting Fee | 2-3 Hours | A Look at Maryland's Whiskey Heritage |
| Black Ankle Vineyards | Adults, Winery Lovers | Tasting Fee | 2-3 Hours | Best Winery Around Frederick |
| Frederick Keys Baseball | Sports Lovers, Families | Tickets and Concessions | 3-4 Hours | Minor League Baseball at its Best |
Map of Frederick MD Attractions and Things to Do
Did we miss a place? Did we rank something too high or low? Let us know in the comments.
(Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you book or purchase through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.)
I. Top Attractions in Frederick, MD
Below are our favorite general attractions in Frederick.
If you are a first-time visitor to Frederick, we highly recommend you spend time focused on the first two items on this list: 1. Downtown Frederick and 2. Carroll Creek Park.
1. Downtown Frederick
Category: Excursion
Why Do It: Of all the amazing things to do in Frederick, MD, simply enjoying Downtown Frederick itself might be the best. Downtown Frederick is historic, charming, vibrant, and fun. If you are visiting, it’s worth dedicating at least a day to exploring downtown Frederick.
The vibrant downtown Frederick was one of the main reasons I decided to move here. Nicole and I still spend at least part of many weekends in downtown Frederick.
For those who like to shop or browse, downtown has a variety of specialty shops and a vibrant art scene towards the north end of Market Street.
Downtown Frederick has an underrated bar and restaurant scene. It’s mostly devoid of the typical chains. Instead, downtown has a plethora of local restaurants of all kinds, multiple distilleries, and plenty of places to grab a drink or cocktail.
Also, if you are visiting and decide to stay in downtown Frederick, there are several great places to stay in downtown Frederick.
2. Carroll Creek Park
Category: Excursion
Why Do It: Carroll Creek can be combined into your exploration of Downtown Frederick or turned into an excursion of its own.
Carroll Creek Park is the virtual ‘hub’ of downtown Frederick, and depending on the time of year, it can offer up a variety of things to do.
Carroll Creek is great for a leisurely stroll, but is also lined with Nicole and I’s favorite restaurants and bars in town. Check out The Wine Kitchen on the Creek. Also, McClintock Distillery sits in the heart of Carroll Creek, and McClintock’s Back Bar is our favorite place in Frederick to get a craft cocktail.
Carroll Creek hosts an event virtually every weekend, so if you are visiting, check what’s scheduled.
If you are in Frederick from around November to March, then don’t miss Sailing Down the Winter Solstice, Frederick’s iconic lighted boat show on the creek.
3. Weinberg Center for the Arts
Category: Arts
Why Do It: If you like theatre, concerts, or live performances, the Weinberg Center for the Arts in Downtown Frederick is worth visiting. The theatre, which dates from 1926, is a spectacular venue.
The performance schedule stays busy with a real variety of performances. On the same weekend, you are as likely to visit the Weinberg to see a classical music symphony as you are an improv comedy group.
Check out the performance schedule. Tickets are generally very reasonable (especially compared to seeing a performance in Washington, D.C., or Baltimore). An evening at the Weinberg is also a great complement to a night at one of the downtown Frederick restaurants.
4. Catoctin Wildlife Preserve & Zoo
Category: Attraction – Family
Why Do It: If you need an outing around Frederick with kids or family, the Catoctin Wildlife Preserve is a good option.
Located just south of Thurmont and 15 minutes north of Frederick, this 50-acre wildlife park is home to wild animals and lush green spaces for them to roam.
The park is open generally from late March through end of December, and tickets are $20 to $30 each. We also recommend you take the Global Wildlife Safari Ride, which is $17.50 per person.
Planning a Trip to Frederick, Maryland?
We are locals! Let’s us guide and ensure you get the best deals.
Top Rated Hotels in Frederick
- Best Overall Hotel. The Visitation Hotel
- Best Luxury Hotel. The Visitation Hotel
- Best Budget Hotel. Econo Lodge I-70
- Best Bed and Breakfast. 10 Clarke B&B
- Best Downtown Location. The Wedgewood Inn
- Best Hotel for Families. Homewood Suites by Hilton Frederick
Looking for a rental? Check out the best Airbnb and VRBOs in Frederick.
Book Adventure Tours around Frederick
II. Historic and Cultural Sites in Frederick, MD
Frederick is quite historic for an American city, founded originally in 1745. It also has quite a bit of Civil War history, including the site of the very important Battle of Monocacy.
Below are the historic and cultural sights in Frederick we recommend.
1. Monocacy National Battlefield
Category: History
Why Do It: Frederick has an incredible history. Some interesting facts about Frederick are its origins, dating back to early European settlements on the Monocacy River until it was formally laid out by Daniel Dulaney in 1745.
Perhaps the most interesting aspect of Frederick’s history is its Civil War legacy. The Battle of Monocacy was a pivotal turning point: despite being the only Confederate victory on Union Soil during the war, it significantly slowed the Confederates’ march toward Washington, D.C.
If you are a Civil War history buff or anyone really into American History like Nicole and me, a visit to the Monocacy National Battlefield is a fascinating way to learn about this pivotal event in the war.
2. National Museum of Civil War Medicine
Category: History
Why Do It: This isn’t for everyone (I’ll admit I don’t love visiting this museum due to the subject matter).
But Civil War buffs tend to love this place. It’s a one-of-a-kind museum that chronicles how medical professionals dealt with the harsh conditions of the Civil War.
Tickets are under $10, and if you are really interested we recommend you book a group tour.
3. Rose Hill Manor
Category: History, Family
Why Do It: Another place full of history, especially interesting for kids, is Rose Hill Manor. This 18th-century manor, which once housed Maryland’s governor, has been converted into a park and museum that mostly showcases farm life from early America.
The property contains historically preserved artifacts, including a blacksmith shop, a log cabin, barns, and stagecoaches. Rose Hill is an open-air museum of 18th-century farm life.
Admission is $5 for adults and $4 for kids.
Day Trip Ideas From Frederick, MD
- Annapolis, Maryland. One of the oldest cities in the US, Annapolis is a waterfront town full of history and vibe.
- Gettysburg, PA. Site of the most significant Civil War battle, it’s a must-visit for US history buffs.
- New Market, MD. Just fifteen minutes east of Frederick, this town has a historic main street and is great for an afternoon stroll.
- Mount Airy, MD. With a historic Main Street and a central location between the best wineries in Maryland, Mt. Airy is a great day-trip or weekend stop near Frederick.
III. Outdoor and Nature Adventures Around Frederick, MD
If you are an outdoor lover, there’s plenty to do around Frederick. Frederick is close to several of Maryland’s best state parks, offers many nearby hiking trails, and even has an in-town park (Baker Park).
Below are some of our favorite outdoor activities around Frederick, MD.
1. Annapolis Rock HIke
Category: Outdoors
Why Do It: If you enjoy getting outdoors and hiking, the Annapolis Rock Hike is the best hike near Frederick. The trailhead is only about 25 minutes from downtown Frederick, right on I-70 towards Hagerstown.
The hike is along the Appalachian Trail, which runs for 41 miles in Maryland. The hike up to Annapolis Rock is one of the best and most popular stretches.
This 5.3-mile out-and-back hike takes you up to an outcropping with beautiful views of the Cumberland Valley.
While this is Nicole and Glenn’s favorite, there are several other amazing hikes around Frederick, MD, to check out if you are a resident or visitor. A 2-hour drive from Frederick to Virginia will take you to the epic Old Rag Hike.
2. Cunningham Falls State Park
Category: Outdoors
Why Do It: Heading 30 minutes north out of Frederick on Route 15 takes you into the heart of the Catoctin Mountains and Cunningham Falls State Park, the best State Park in the Frederick area.
Cunningham has lots to offer. We usually head there for hiking, and the hike to the actual falls is quite lovely. See this trail map for a variety of other hikes in the area.
The park also has a lake that is popular for fishing and canoeing. Near the lake are campsites and cabins that can be reserved.
Read our Ultimate Guide to Cunningham Falls State Park article for everything you need to know.
3. Baker Park
Category: Park
Why Do It: Baker Park is in the heart of Frederick and is a great place to see a concert, take your dog, attend the 4th of July, or enjoy some time outdoors. It’s Frederick’s version of Central Park in New York.
If you want a green space with a lake and occasional interesting sites, Baker Park is a great place for a walk. In fact, you can do an extended walk from Carroll Creek, as Baker Park is virtually an extension.
The amphitheater is super popular, especially in summer. Check the Summer Concert Series schedule for shows in June through August. If you happen to be in Frederick on the 4th of July, then this is also the place to be.
4. Sugarloaf Mountain
Category: Outdoors
Why Do It: Sugarloaf Mountain is another lovely hike in the Frederick area, about 35 minutes southeast of town. There are a series of trails around and up the mountain, and depending on your choice, this can be a short 45-minute trek to the top or a 5-6 hour loop.
Regardless, views from the summit of Sugarloaf are expansive across the Maryland countryside.
The mountain is actually on private property run by Stronghold, which also runs the Strong Mansion on the mountainside. Parking can fill up quickly, and they are strict about where you park your car.
The best way to make a day out of visiting or hiking Sugarloaf is to visit the Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard, one of the best wineries around Frederick.
5. Tree Trekkers
Category: Outdoor, Adventure
Why Do It: Serious fun! Tree Trekkers might be the most fun you can have outdoors anywhere near Frederick.
It’s a place for tackling ropes courses and ziplines, and it’s fun for both adults and kids. Nicole and Glenn regularly take out-of-town guests here.
Tree Trekkers is about 5 miles east of Frederick and is best experienced by making online reservations.
Once at the facility, you’ll be outfitted with the specialty gear that keeps you safe while you romp around the various ropes courses.
The courses are categorized by difficulty, so you can start with the easy ones and work your way up. It’s also a great place for group outings, families, parties, or anytime you want some fun outdoors.
6. Bike Riding the C&O Canal Towpath
Category: Outdoor
Why Do It: Another great place to bike near Frederick is the C&O Canal Bike Path, accessible from several spots.
We recommended heading to Nolands Ferry to start your bike ride, a short 20 minutes from downtown Frederick.
From there, you can bike in either direction for as long as you want. Again, we recommend the ride from Nolands Ferry to Marble Quarry, which is about 14.3 miles and lasts 1.5 hours. This ride will take you over the scenic Monocacy Aqueduct.
You can also launch onto the C&O Canal Towpath from Point of Rocks, about 25 minutes south of Frederick on Route 15.
7. Little Bennett Regional Park
Category: Outdoors
-
Clarksburg, MD 20871
-
Web
- Cost: Free
Why Do It: Technically, in Montgomery County, about 30 minutes south of Frederick, Little Bennett Regional Park is another great outdoor area with plenty to do.
Nicole and Glenn usually head here to take advantage of the Little Bennett Bike Trails. The network of mountain bike trails is one of the best bike trails around Frederick.
However, you can also hike, picnic, or camp at Little Bennett. There is even a decent golf course at Little Bennett.
IV. Food and Drink Experiences Around Frederick, MD
Nicole and I love visiting wineries, breweries, and distilleries, and Frederick has plenty of them to experience.
Below are favorite food and drink experiences around Frederick, MD.
1. McClintock Distillery
Category: Distillery
Why Do It:Maryland has a surprisingly rich history of distilling spirits, and McClintock Distillery in Frederick is a great place to experience it.
Right in Carroll Creek in downtown Frederick, you can visit for tours, tastings, and the best cocktail bar in Frederick.
McClintock’s was founded in 2013 and has produced rye, bourbon, and gin ever since. You can pop in whenever it’s open for a tasting, but we recommend booking in advance and including a tour.
McClintock’s spirits are high quality, and you’ll find them in bars all over Maryland.
But if you are in Frederick, we highly recommend stopping by the McClintock Back Bar (a speakeasy-style spot just behind the distillery) for a craft cocktail.
Be sure to check out the other distilleries around Frederick if you enjoy this sort of place.
2. Black Ankle Vineyards
Category: Winery
Why Do It: Maryland is hardly considered a premier wine region, but there are plenty of great wineries around Frederick, MD.
However, if you only visit one winery in the area, we recommend you make it Black Ankle Vineyards. Nicole and I are regulars here, we love this place.
Black Ankle has everything that makes a winery amazing. The setting is stunning, and you’ll scarcely believe you’re still in Maryland as you pull up.
Black Ankle makes some of the highest-quality wines in Maryland. The winery itself has great places to sit and enjoy the views, both indoors and outdoors, in any season.
If you are a Frederick resident, we also recommend checking out their events and considering joining their wine club.
3. Frederick Brewery Tour
Category: Brewery
Why Do It: The one aspect of Frederick that rivals any other city in Maryland is its brewery scene. The collection of breweries in Frederick MD is tremendous, and makes for a great outing or a day-long beer crawl.
Frederick’s highest concentration of breweries is close to downtown, right around Carroll Creek. Attaboy Beer, RAK Brewing, and Steinhart Brewing are all within walking distance. (Refer to our Breweries in Frederick Map).
Olde Mother is on the North end of downtown Frederick (a 15-minute walk) and is a great place to visit, partly because it is also the best place in Frederick to get a burger—BackSlash Burger.
V. Sporting Events Around Frederick, MD
You’ll have to travel to nearby Baltimore or Washington D.C. to see any kind of major sporting event.
However, Frederick does have some great minor league teams that are worth check out if your family likes sporting events!
1. Frederick Keys Baseball at Nymeo Field
Category: Sports
Why Do It: Minor league baseball can be loads of fun in any town, and Frederick is no different. Seeing Frederick Keys Baseball at Nymeo Field is a classic American minor-league baseball experience.
It’s also easy, affordable, and family-friendly. Nymeo Field is just outside downtown Frederick. Parking is simple, tickets are plentiful and relatively inexpensive, and there’s beer and food for everyone. There’s also not a bad seat in the house.
Check the Frederick Keys Schedule and hit up a game when in town.
2. Frederick Flying Cows Basketball
Why Do It: The Frederick Flying Cows have been playing minor league basketball in Frederick since 2024.
Games are played at The Ronald J. Volpe Athletic Center on the Hood College Campus in downtown Frederick.
Nicole and I have been several times, and the atmosphere is great. Tickets are reasonable (generally $15-$25), parking is easy, and the team is quite good.
Frederick At A Glance - Practical Info for Visitors
Location and Parking
Frederick, MD is 45 mins from Baltimore and 45 mins from Washington D.C. Parking downtown is suprisingly easy on the street, but also multiple inexpensive garages.
Accomodations
Decent list of hotels, the best being the Visitation Hotel. and outdoor activities. Also plenty of Airbnb and VRBOs to choose from..
Best Seasons
Spring for Blooms in Carroll Creek Park. Summer for hikes and outdoor activities. Fall brings colors, perfect for winery visits. In Winter, the famous Sailing Through The Winter Solstice light show.
How Long to Visit
A Day Trip from Baltimore or Washington is easy. Frederick makes for a great full weekend getaway.
The Frederick Visitors Center: A Great Place to Start
If you are visiting Frederick from out of town, or even if you are a resident looking to get oriented on all the best things to do in Frederick, we highly recommend you visit the Frederick Visitors Center.
The Frederick Visitor Center is prominently located on East St, right as you exit I-70 coming into downtown Frederick. It’s a great place to start your Frederick sightseeing journey.
Also, you can watch a tremendous introductory film that will give you a real sense of everything the Frederick area offers.
If you want to focus on specific activities, like outdoor things around Frederick, or the best family friendly things to do in Frederick, the Visitor Center can help you as well
Need Help Planning Your Frederick Trip?
Food and Drink
From the Best Downtown Restaurants to Date Night Options Along Carroll Creek
See All Restaurants ->
Where to Stay
The Best Hotels, B&Bs, VRBOs, and Airbnbs in Frederick
Find a Place to Stay ->
FAQ: Things to Do in Frederick, MD
What are the best things to do in Frederick, MD?
Our recommendations for the best things to do in Frederick include exploring historic downtown, walking Carroll Creek Park, visiting the Monocacy Battlefield, doing the Annapolis Rock Hike, and enjoying local breweries and wineries. But of course it depends on your personal preferences!
Is Frederick, MD worth visiting for a weekend
Yes. Frederick is ideal for a weekend trip thanks to its walkable downtown, nearby hiking and parks, strong restaurant scene, and year-round events. Check our Where to Stay Guide to get you started.
What are free things to do in Frederick, MD?
Most of the best activities around Frederick are free. This includes strolling Carroll Creek Park, exploring downtown Frederick, hiking in Catoctin Mountain Park, and attending seasonal festivals and community events.
Is Frederick, MD family-friendly?
Very. Families enjoy Carroll Creek, local parks, Frederick Keys Baseball, and Catoctin Wildlife Park are especially great for families and kids.
Find a Place to Stay in Frederick:
Things to Do in Frederick, MD
