frederick md attractions - EpicBend https://epicbend.com Live Your Best Life in Bend Oregon and Frederick Maryland! Mon, 22 Jun 2026 23:52:58 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0 https://epicbend.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/241208-EpicTotal-Logo-1-150x150.png frederick md attractions - EpicBend https://epicbend.com 32 32 The Best Things to Do in Frederick MD: A Local’s Guide https://epicbend.com/things-to-do-in-frederick-md/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=things-to-do-in-frederick-md https://epicbend.com/things-to-do-in-frederick-md/#respond Mon, 12 Jan 2026 15:42:50 +0000 https://epicbend.com/?p=5835 The Best Things to do in Frederick, MD — ranked by two locals who've done it all. From Carroll Creek and historic downtown to hiking, wineries, and hidden gems.

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Top Attractions  –  Historic and Cultural  –  Outdoor  –  Food and Drink  –  Sporting

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

AttractionBest ForCostTime NeededWhy We Love It
Downtown FrederickFirst Time VisitorsFree2-4 HoursFrederick's Best Feature is its Charming Downtown
Carroll Creek ParkCouples, Families, VisitorsFree1-2 HoursHeart of Frederick, Especially at Night
Monocacy BattlefieldHistory BuffsFree2-4 HoursMost Historic Attraction in Frederick
Annapolis Rock HikeOutdoor Lovers, HikersFree3-4 HoursBest Hike Near Frederick, Amazing Views
McClintock DistilleryAdults, Wiskey LoversTasting Fee2-3 HoursA Look at Maryland's Whiskey Heritage
Black Ankle VineyardsAdults, Winery LoversTasting Fee2-3 HoursBest Winery Around Frederick
Frederick Keys BaseballSports Lovers, FamiliesTickets and Concessions3-4 HoursMinor 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

Downtown Frederick Map
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.

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 types, multiple distilleries, and lots of places to get 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

A narrow canal lined with lily pads reflects a cloudy sky in Frederick, Maryland. Brick walkways and lampposts border both sides, while autumn trees and a few people strolling create a calm, scenic urban park atmosphere.
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, can offer up a variety of things to do.

Carroll Creek is great for a leisurely stroll but is also lined with great restaurants and bars (check out The Wine Kitchen on the Creek). 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 has an event virtually every weekend, so if you are visiting, check to see 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

a Grand Theater Stage with Red Curtains and Dramatic Lighting Awaits Youone of the Top Things to Do in Frederick Md Purple Spotlights Shine As Ornate Columns and Balconies Frame Rows of Empty Seats Creating an Unforgettable Ambiance
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

a Group of People on an Open air Safari Truck Watch and Feed Deer and a Camel in Md Surrounded by Trees Rocks and Sunlight This Interactive Wildlife Encounter is One of the Top Things to Do in Frederick for Outdoor Adventure Lovers
Photo Credit: catoctinwildlifepreserve.com
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?

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Top Rated Hotels in 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

a Large Stone and Metal Sign on Grass Reads Monocacy National Battlefield a Top Highlight Among Things to Do in Frederick Md the National Park Service Emblem is Featured with Trees and a White Building with a Green Roof in the Background
Photo Credit: NPS.gov
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.

Maybe the most interesting history associated with Frederick is its Civil War legacy. The Battle of Monocacy was a pivotable turning point in that despite being the only Confederate victory on Union Soil during the war, it significantly slowed the Confederates’ march toward Washington, D.C.

For Civil War history buffs, or anyone interested in American History, 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

a Yellow Sign with a Red White and Blue Shield Reads national Museum of Civil War Medicine Hanging from a Building This Spot is One of the Top Things to Do in Frederick Md Power Lines and Bare Trees Stand out Against a Partly Cloudy Sky
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

a Large White Two story House with Black Shutters and Columns Stands Behind a Curved Brown Gravel Driveway Surrounded by Green Grass and Tall Treesa Stunning Example of Local Charm Among the Things to Do in Frederick Md
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

A person sits on the edge of a rocky cliff overlooking a vast green forest, one of the best hikes around Frederick MD. Trees cover rolling hills to the horizon, with a small distant lake nestled in the landscape under a partly cloudy sky.
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 our 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

Cunningham-Falls-St-Park-near-Frederick
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

Photo Credit: VisitFrederick.com
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.

Follow EpicFrederick for Local Info You Won't Find in Guides:

4. Sugarloaf Mountain

Rocky Outcrop on a Mountain in Md Overlooks a Vast Green Forest and Distant Farmland Under a Clear Blue Sky Some Trees Frame the Edges and Layered Rocks Dominate the Foregrounda Rugged Panoramic Viewpoint Among Things to Do in Frederick
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

Tree Trekkers Near Frederick Maryland
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.

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 easy 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

C&O Canal Bike Ride near Frederick
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

Map of Little Bennett Regional Park in Md Showing Trails Trailheads Campgrounds and Park Entrances Park Boundaries Are Outlined in Green Streams Roads and Symbols for Restrooms and Picnic Areas Highlight Things to Do in Frederick
Category:  Outdoors

Why Do It: Technically in Montgomery County, about 30 minutes south of Frederick, Little Bennett Regional Park is another great outdoor area offering many things to do.

Our favorite activity here are the Little Bennett Bike Trails.  The network of mountain bike trails are some 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

a Red Brick Building in Frederick Md with a Black and white mcclintock Distillery Sign Barred Windows a Rooftop Clock Graffiti and Autumn Leaves by a Black Metal Fence Make It One of the Unique Things to Do in Frederick the Sky is Partly Cloudy
Category:  Distillery

Why Do It:  Maryland has a surprisingly rich history in distilling spirits, and McClintock Distillery in Frederick is a great place to experience this.  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 in the McClintock Back Bar (a speakeasy-type place just behind the distillery) for a craft cocktail.

2. Black Ankle Vineyards

Black Ankle Winery Near Frederick
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.

Black Ankle has everything that makes a winery amazing. The setting is stunning, and you’ll scarcely believe you’re still in Maryland when pulling up.

Black Ankle makes some of the highest-quality wines in Maryland.  The winery itself has great places to sit and enjoy both indoors and outdoors during any season of the year.

If you are a Frederick resident, we also recommend you check out their events and consider joining their wine club.

3. Frederick Brewery Tour

Two hands toast with drinks outside under a blue MD sky—one holding a glass of red beer labeled ATTABOY BEER, the other a yellow beer. A wooden fence, green trees, and patio furniture complete this classic "things to do in Frederick" scene.
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, partially because it is also the best place to get a burger in Frederick—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

Frederick-Keys-Game-with-Monocacy-Brewing-scaled
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

Flying-Cows-Professional-Basketball-scaled
Category:  Sports

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.  The Flying Cows finished first in their league in 2025.

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

a Man Wearing Sunglasses a Red Hoodie Jeans and Sneakers Sits Cross legged on a Wooden Wagon Filled with Orange Pumpkins in a Pumpkin Patch in Frederick Mdone of the Fun Things to Do in Frederick on a Cloudy Day

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

A large stone and metal sign on grass reads Monocacy National Battlefield, a top highlight among things to do in Frederick, MD. The National Park Service emblem is featured, with trees and a white building with a green roof in the background.
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