Nestled at the crossroads of Frederick, Carroll, Montgomery, and Howard counties, Mt. Airy, MD (also known as Mount Airy, Maryland) is the quintessential small town with a surprising amount of character.

Known for its historic Main Street, sweeping vineyard views, and vibrant community events, Mt. Airy is a great day-trip or weekend stop as you explore Central Maryland.

Two Pint Glasses of Beerone Dark Amber One Light Goldensit on a Round Table in a Mt Airy Md Brewery in the Background People Relax at the Bar with Stainless Steel Brewing Tanks Tv Screens and a Menu Board on a White Brick Wall

Whether you’re craving a quaint stroll, a local wine tasting, or you’re in town visiting family, this guide will help you uncover the best of Mount Airy.

The Complete Guide to Mt Airy, MD

Mt. Airy, Maryland - Orientation

Located just off I-70, Mt. Airy sits 20 minutes east of Frederick and Baltimore. This makes it an easy stop for travelers looking to explore rural charm while staying close to urban hubs. 

Despite its small size, Mount Airy spans four counties, offering a diverse mix of culture, geography, and experiences.

a Vintage Style Post Office Storefront at 10 South Main in Mt Airy Md Featuring Green Trim Glass Doors and Decorative Gold and Red Lettering Advertising Buttons Dry Goods Pocket Watches and Other Old Fashioned Items Clouds Reflect on the Glass

In this guide, you’ll find recommendations for things to do, restaurants, bars, wineries, breweries, and more in Mount Airy.  

Reference this map of the Mt Airy area for a complete view of all our recommendations. 

The History of Mt. Airy, MD

Mount Airy traces its roots back to the early 1830s, when a small group of families first settled along Parr’s Ridge.

Its growth accelerated after the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad (B&O) built a station there — and the name “Mount Airy” was reportedly coined by an Irish railroad worker who, chilled by the ridge’s cold winds, quipped that the place was “airish.”

Interpretive Sign Titled the Mount Airy Founding in Historic Downtown Mt Airy Md Features Historical Photos Handwritten Documents and Text Located Outdoors by a Sidewalk the Sign Overlooks Parked Cars and Grass in the Background

Over the decades, the town survived turmoil — including Civil War troop movement through its station and a multi‑year expansion that included building churches and a 1901 railroad tunnel to ease the ridge crossing.

an Informational Sign Titled Mount Airy History is Mounted on a Red Brick Wall Above a Black Metal Bench the Sign Features Black and White Photos and Text About Mt Airy Mds Past Including Its Old Buildings and Town Events

Today, Mount Airy’s historic downtown — anchored by the old train station and buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries — is preserved as the Mount Airy Historic District.

Where to Stay in Mt. Airy, MD

Mt. Airy has a surprisingly small number of hotels for a town its size, especially right off a major interstate.

If you are looking to stay in the area, we recommend continuing west for one exit to New Market, MD.  Or take advantage of the many places to stay in Frederick, MD, just twenty minutes west.

Mt Airy MD Hotels, VRBO, and Vacation Rentals

Charming Downtown Mt. Airy, MD

Like many small towns in Maryland, the history downtown is preserved and lively.  Main Street is the heart of Mt. Airy and offers a glimpse into the town’s railroad heritage.

a Red Caboose Train Car Labeled C 2095 Sits on Display Under a Green Metal Canopy in Mt Airy Md Decorative Garlands with Red Bows Adorn Black Railings While a Wooden Luggage Cart Rests Nearby Buildings and Benches Are Visible in the Background

Downtown Mt. Airy is excellent for a stroll, with several small shops, restaurants (see below), the Caboose Visitor Center, and a great brewery (Liquidity Ale Works).

Nicole and I frequently visit Mt. Airy to get away from Frederick and enjoy a small-town vibe.

Illustrated Map of Historic Downtown Mt Airy Md Featuring Colorful Numbered Markers for Shops and Landmarks Labeled Streets Main Hill Center Cross Park Ave Prospect Blue P Parking Areas Farmers Market and a Green Area Marked Prospect Park

Historic Downtown Mt. Airy Map

Check Out This Great Map of Historic Downtown Mt. Airy, Maryland (Source: mtairymd.gov)

Top Things to Do in and Around Mt. Airy

Depending on what you and your family like to do, there are lots of activities in Mt. Airy.  Downtown is quaint, but there are also lots of wineries and breweries in the surrounding area.

a Person with Shoulder Length Hair Wearing a Gray Top Blue Jeans and White Shoes Walks on a Sunny Sidewalk in Mt Airy Md Next to a Brick Building Red Metal Table and Chairs String Lights and Parked Cars Complete the Lively Streetscape

If you are more into the outdoors, there are also many golf courses around Mt. Airy, and several State Parks and other outdoor adventures.

Here’s our list of the best things to do around Mt. Airy:

  1. Walk Downtown Mt. Airy.  As mentioned above, Mt. Airy has a historically preserved downtown with a visitor center, shops, restaurants, and a great brewery.
  2. Mt. Airy Museum.  If history is your thing, check out this museum also downtown.
  3. Local Wineries and Breweries.  Mt. Airy sits right in the heart of Maryland wine country.  See below for wineries and breweries in the area.
  4. Tree Trekkers.  The best outdoor activity in the area is a ropes course and zipline adventure park about twenty minutes from Mt Airy.
a Red Barn Style Building with White Trim Labeled Gaver Farm Admission Barn Stands Under a Partly Cloudy Sky in Mt Airy Md Signs Above the Windows Mention Buying Tickets and Season Passes While Yellow Lines Mark Parking Spaces in the Foreground
  1. Adventure Park USA.  A mid-size, family amusement park with rides, mini-golf, go karts, and food options.
  2. Gaver Farm.  A farm-based attraction that is great for kids, including pumpkin picking and cut-your-own Chritmas Trees.
  3. Rock Hill Orchard / Brown Cow Creamery.  Another farm just south of Mt. Airy with apple, berry, and flower picking and amazing ice cream.

Book Tours or Activities Around Mt. Airy, Maryland

The Best Outdoor Adventures Around Mt. Airy

Just a short drive from Mt. Airy, you’ll find lots of outdoor activities, including state parks for hiking, biking, views, and unique fun like ropes courses.

a Man in a Helmet and Backpack Stands Beside a Trek Mountain Bike on a Dirt Trail in the Mt Airy Md Forest He Smiles at the Camera While Holding a Wooden Trail Marker As Sunlight Highlights the Green Foliage Around Him

Little Bennet Regional Park

Little Bennett Regional Park is a Montgomery County Park Area that has a little bit of everything. It's a lovely park for a secluded hike, but Nicole and I mostly take advantage of the great network of Little Bennett Bike Trails

a Person with Light Brown Hair Walks Alone on a Sunlit Dirt Trail Through a Tall Dense Mt Airy Md Forest They Wear a Black Jacket Tied Around Their Waist Sunlight Filters Through the Pine Trees and a Trail Sign Stands on the Right

Patuxent River State Park

Patuxent River State Park is a Maryland State Park south of Mt. Airy that is even more secluded and also a great place for a hike or mountain bike outing.

a Calm Lake with Pedal Boats Docked by a Wooden Pier in the Foreground Near Mt Airy Md Trees and Grassy Hills Surround the Water with Blue Skies and Clouds Reflected on Its Surface People Stroll Along the Distant Shoreline

Piney Run Park

You can travel east into Carroll County to Piney Run Park, which has a large reservoir and is great for canoeing, kayaking, and pedal boats.

a Wooden Sign for Cunningham Falls State Park Stands in a Forested Area Near Mt Airy Md the Sign Features the Maryland Park Service Logo White Oak Leaves and Text for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources William Houck Area Lush Green Trees Surround It

Cunningham Falls State Park

Cunningham Falls State Park is a bit father (45 mins from Mt. Airy), but worth it. One of the best State Parks in Maryland, it has a beautiful waterfall hike, several longer hikes, a beach area, camping, fishing, and more.

Two People Kayak Down a Calm Shallow River Near Mt Airy Md Surrounded by Lush Green Trees Under a Clear Blue Sky the Photo is Taken from One Kayak Looking Ahead at the Other with Sunlight Reflecting off the Waters Surface

Monocacy Scenic Water Trail

If you are really into kayaking, take advantage of the nearby Monocary Scenic Water Trail. The Monocacy is a scenic river perfect for kayaking during the warmer months.

Tree Trekkers Near Frederick Maryland

Tree Trekkers

For a really adventurous outing with a thrill, check out Tree Trekkers. This ropes and zip line adventure park is super fun, with courses for all levels.

The Best Restaurants in Mt. Airy, MD (and Some Bars)

I would not consider Mt. Airy a hot spot for restaurants.  But there are a few good ones downtown that Nicole and I frequent regularly.

Here are the Mt. Airy MD Restaurants that we recommend:

a Brick Italian Restaurant in Mt Airy Md with Large Arched Windows String Lights American and Italian Flags Red Umbrellas over Outdoor Tables and Chairs and a Sign Reading Pazzo Italian Ristorante Fallen Leaves Are Scattered on the Ground

Tony Pazzo

This local Italian restaurant is right in downtown Mt. Airy, and is excellent for wood-fired pizza, pasta, and Italian appetizers.

This is our favorite restaurant in Mt. Airy! 

Storefront of Olde Town Restaurant in Mt Airy Md with a Black and Red Sign Featuring a Rooster Logo Above the Entrance the Door Has a Holiday Wreath and Window Boxes with Plants Sit Beneath Large Windows Framed by Brick and Beige Siding

Olde Towne Restaurant

This local place has been around since 1975, but has been renovated with a modern look.  Locals love this place that is great for burgers and sandwiches, and it’s the best breakfast restaurant in Mt. Airy!

a Black Food Truck with Large White W Logos and Walkers on Main Text is Parked Beside a Brick Building in Mt Airy Md Two Wooden Barrels Stand in Front with a Black Railing on the Right and Trees with Bare Branches in the Background

Walker's on Main

A food truck adjacent to Liquidity Aleworks, it’s where to get a burger in Mt. Airy. 

You can order from your table inside the brewery, or if its nice you’ll find locals eating Walker’s burgers on the outdoor patio.

a Street View of Superfoods Café Market in Mt Airy Md Features a Blue Gray Exterior the Sign Advertises Smoothies Teas Salads and Superfoods an Outdoor Table Sits on the Sidewalk with Business Hours and a Wi Fi Sign in the Window

Superfoods Cafe

If you are in Mt. Airy for breakfast, lunch, or a snack, check out this excellent spot for smoothies, juices, and health food.  Glenn is a huge smoothie fan and loves this place! 

a Modern Wine Cellar in Mt Airy Md Features Bottles Stored Horizontally on Black Metal Racks Mounted to a Glass Wall Inspirational Quotes in Various Fonts Decorate the Wall While Warm Lighting Highlights the Bottles and Text

Bolder

Bolder is right outside of town, and is an upscale casual place that many consider the best restaurant in the area.  Check it out for steaks, salads, and drinks (with a great bar).

The Best Wineries Around Mt. Airy, MD

As we’ve written about extensively on this website, Maryland is an underrated winery destination, and many of our favorite wineries are in the area surrounding Mt. Airy.

Nicole and I have visited every one in the list below and can personally recommend each of them:

Black Ankle Winery Tasting Area

Black Ankle Vineyards

Black Ankle Vineyards is just north of Mt. Airy and fabulous. In fact we rank it the best winery around Frederick MD. The setting is straight out of California and the wines are high quality.

a Large Red Barn with a Wooden Deck and Outdoor Seating Stands Beside a Tall White Silo Labeled Linganore Winecellars Berrywine in New Market Md the Sunny Scene and Clear Sky Evoke a Peaceful Rural Vineyard Setting

Linganore Winecellars

Nicole and I are also members at Linganore Wincellars near Mt. Airy. Linganore is a trailblazer for Maryland wine. A fabulous place to visit, beautiful tasting room, large outdoor area, and lots of events on weekends.

a Mural on a Building in Mt Airy Md Shows Rows of Grapevines Stretching into the Distance Below a Warm Orange Sky Elk Run is Painted at the Top with an Elk Antler Motif a Red Metal Ladder Leans Against the Wall Trees and Blue Sky Behind

Elk Run Vineyards

Elk Run Vineyards is a lovely spot very near Mt. Airy. We recommend this spot especially when the weather is nice enough to sit outdoors.

a Warmly Lit Barn Style Building Stands Alone at Night Under a Partly Cloudy Sky in Mt Airy Md Soft Lights Illuminate Windows and a Covered Walkway While Tall Grass Surrounds the Structure Creating a Peaceful Rural Scene

Burnt Hill Farm

Burnt Hill Farm is a brand new venue opened in late 2025 and it is a stuning winery experience (maybe the best in Maryland). You'll have t reserve far in advance, but if you can book a tasting, you won't regret it.

Rows of Grapevines Grow in a Lush Green Vineyard Under a Bright Blue Sky with Scattered Clouds in New Market Md Sunlight Casts Long Shadows from the Vines and Wooden Posts with a Tree Covered Hill and Field in the Background

Hidden Hills Farm and Vineyard

Hidden Hills Farm and Vineyard is about 20 minutes west of Mt. Airy past New Market. This lovely horse farm doubles as a winery. Good wines, nice tasting room, and beautiful views.

a Hand Holds a Glass of White Wine with 6 Vineyard Etched on It Yellow Flowers and Green Fields in New Market Md Stretch Beyond a Patio While the Sun Sets Behind Low Hills and Scattered Clouds Creating a Warm Tranquil Atmosphere

61 Vineyards

Nicole and I are frequent visitors to 61Vineyards, an up-and-coming winery just south of Mt. Airy. The best place to watch the sunset in the area.

The Best Breweries Around Mt. Airy MD

Beer lovers will be happy to know that Mt. Airy sits in proximity to some of the best breweries in Maryland.  Nicole and I visit all of the breweries below regularly:

a Two Story Brick and Concrete Building in Mt Airy Md with Large Windows on the Left Side Displaying a Mural of a Vintage Car the Right Side Features Classical Architectural Details a Triangle Pediment a Clock and Arched Windows a Bench Sits Outside the Entrance

Liquidity Aleworks

If you are in downtown Mt. Airy and looking for a brewery, then Liquidity Aleworks is the place. Located in a old bank building, this brewery serves up great craft beer in a fun setting.

a Black and White Logo for Milkhouse Brewery at Stillpoint Farm in New Market Md Features Bold Stylized Text with an Illustration of a Barn in the Center Surrounded by Hop Cones and Leaves on Both Sides and at the Bottom

Milkhouse Brewery

One of several farm breweries in the area, Milkhouse Brewery sits on a hilltop with great views, just a few minutes north of Mt. Airy. Really delicious craft beer as well.

a Woman with Shoulder Length Hair Sits at a Wooden Picnic Table Outdoors in New Market Md Gazing Toward a Green Field Under a Cloudy Sky Two Plastic Cups of Beer Rest on the Table with Umbrellas and More Tables Visible in the Background

Frey's Brewing Company

Another farm brewery with great brews, Freys Brewing is perfect on a warm day where you can sit outside. Close to Milkhouse, so you can hit them both together.

a Rustic Wooden Sign Displays the Text Stone Silo Brewery in White with the a in Stone Styled As a Roof with a Small Chimney to Resemble a House Set Against a Weathered Rusty Orange Background and Rough Wooden Frame It Captures New Market Md Charm

Stone Silo Brewing

Stone Silo Brewery is right next to 61 Vineyards. This relatively new place has become extremely popular and for good reason. Great beer and a fabulous place to sit outside. Nicole and I are there all the time.

Two Large Snifter Glasses of Beer Sit on a Wooden Table in a Rustic Mt Airy Md Bar the Left Holds a Dark Red Beer the Right a Golden Yellow Brew Both Feature Forest Designs and Text with Wooden Walls and Artwork in the Background

Elder Pine

If you only visit one brewery while in the Mt. Airy area, make it Elder Pine. This brewery is set next to a shadowy pine forest, and brews some of the best beer in Maryland. A must visit.

Two Tall Glasses of Hazy Yellow Beer Sit on a Weathered Wooden Picnic Table Outdoors in Mt Airy Md Next to a Small Glass Jar of Water in the Background People Relax Under Red and Blue Umbrellas with Green Trees and a Partly Cloudy Sky

Waredaca

Waredaca, a brewery with a funny name that used to be a kids' summer camp. A lovely spot, a good place to visit on the way to Elder Pine.

Silly Yak Brewery Frederick Maryland Flag

Silly Yak Brewery

Silly Yak is a brewery that specializes in gluten-free beer. We've visited many times, and honestly their beers taste like normal craft beer to me. Silly Yak also serves up cider.

If you are really into breweries and don’t mind traveling slightly farther from Mt. Airy, we highly recommend you check out the breweries in downtown Frederick.

Frederick has a cluster of breweries located together along Carroll Creek Park that make for a great beer crawl.

The Best Golf Courses Around Mt. Airy, MD

If you are visiting Mt. Airy and love golf, you are in luck.  There are some fabulous golf courses around Mt. Airy.

I’m a big golfer and have played all the courses in the area.  So here are my personal recommendations (all courses below are public):

a White Sign with a Horse Logo and Text Reading the Links at Challedon Stands Among Shrubs and Tall Grass in Mt Airy Md in the Background Autumn Trees with Orange Leaves and a Small Shed Sit Under a Bright Blue Sky with Wispy Clouds

The Links at Challedon

The Links at Challedon is the virtual 'home course' for Mt. Airy, located in one of the neighborhoods right outside town. It would not be my favorite course in the area, but overall, a good and affordable venue right outside Mt. Airy.

a Golf Bag on a Push Cart Sits on Green Grass in the Foreground Two Golfers Near a Tee by a Pond Surrounded by Trees and Under a Clear Blue Sky Enjoy a Sunny Day at the Mt Airy Md Course

Rattlewood Golf Course

Rattlewood is another nearby golf course that is part of the Montgomery County network of public courses (MCG). It's a laid-back venue, affordable, and always in good condition. Glenn is a regular there.

a Large Wooden Sign Reading Whiskey Creek Golf Club in White Letters with Two Stylized Wheat Stalks Crossing Behind the Text Stands on Grass Beside a Road in New Market Md Trees a Blue Sky with Clouds and Distant Farm Buildings Are in the Background

Whiskey Creek Golf Club

Whiskey Creek Golf Club is one of the public course gems in all of Maryland. This course is around 20 minutes from Mt. Airy and should be on your Maryland bucket list.

a Stone Wall Displays a Beige Sign with a Green Abstract Golf Ball Logo Above the Words Pb Dye Golf Club in Black Script Bushes Tall Grass and Trees Surround the Sign Near New Market Md the Sky is Overcast

PB Dye Golf Club

PB Dye Golf Club is a little farther away, but it's a fascinating course. This unique course will challenge even the best golfers and is super fun.

a Golf Course Tee in Mt Airy Md Features a Sign This Hole Plays 2 Clubs Less Because of Elevationchoose Your Club Wisely to the Right a Stone Marker Notes Hole 15 Par 3 with Distances Listed Trees and Fairway Stretch into the Background

Little Bennett Golf Club

Another Montgomery County Course that is affordable, fun, and always in good condition is LIttle Bennett Golf Club. I've played it many times and have learned to enjoy it more and more.

Looking for Events in Mt. Airy?

Mt. Airy has regular events throughout the year, including a big July 4th fireworks celebration and annual Oktoberfest.

Here are some places to check for the latest events in Mt. Ary:

a Wooden Sign with a Distressed White Background and Bold Black Letters Reads Mt Airy Md the Sign Hangs on a Pegboard Wall Above Various White Cloth Items with Different Designs Price Tags Are Visible at the Top

Frequently Asked Questions: Mt. Airy, MD

Checking out Historic Downtown is one of the best things to do in Mt. Airy. 

Alternatively, you can visit Black Ankle Vineyards, one of the best wineries in Maryland, or head to Tree Trekkers, a ropes course adventure park, if you want to get outside. 

Tony Pazzo in downtown Mt. Airy is a great place for Italian.  But we also recommend Walker’s On Main for burgers, or Bolder for more upscale dining.

Yes, Liquidity Aleworks is a popular brewery right in downtown Mt. Airy.

The Links at Challedon is a great public golf course just outside Mt. Airy.

Whiskey Creek Golf Clubhttps://epicbend.com/whiskey-creek-golf-course-review/ is slightly farther away from Mt. Airy, but is an amazing course that’s worth the extra travel.

a Lively Pedestrian Only Street in Annapolis Maryland Lined with Historic Brick and Colorful Buildings Discover Shops Restaurants and Plenty of Things to Do As People Enjoy Outdoor Tables and Stroll in a Vibrant Welcoming Atmosphere

Final Thoughts

Regardless of whether you are in town visiting friends or relatives, or passing through while on a trip through Maryland, Mt. Airy is a lovely town with plenty to do.

Be sure to check out our reviews of other nearby towns:

author avatar
Glenn VanLandingham Travel Writer
Glenn is a travel enthusiast and adventure seeker who lives in Frederick, Maryland, and Bend, Oregon. He and his wife Nicole use EpicBend and EpicFrederick to chronicle their adventures in these amazing places so others can live their best lives in Frederick and Bend.
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Frederick, Maryland Bend, Oregon
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