Looking for a cute, historic small town with family-friendly things to do? Look no further than Frederick, Maryland!
There are plenty of things to do in Frederick and nearby. From hiking to history, you’ll find something for you and your family to enjoy.
We spent a winter weekend exploring Frederick and the surrounding area, and we still barely touched on everything the town has to offer! We can’t wait to go back to see more of this cute Maryland town.
If you’re planning a trip to Frederick and are wondering what there is to do, the guide below shares some of the best activities in town and nearby. So, let’s start planning your next trip!
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Visiting Frederick, Maryland
Frederick is a small town in Maryland that is well-known among history lovers. It’s not far from Philadelphia, Baltimore, or Washington, D.C., making it a perfect day trip or weekend getaway.
It’s also about 45 minutes from Gettysburg, making it easy to combine both towns into one fun Civil War history trip.
11 Best Things to Do in Frederick, MD
Carroll Creek Park
Carroll Creek Park is the centerpiece of downtown Frederick.
This 1.5-mile park follows Carroll Creek. It was created in part to combat flooding within the city and also to provide a beautiful space for pedestrians to enjoy some of the events offered in Frederick.
One of the best times to visit Carroll Creek Park is during Sailing Through the Winter Solstice, a beautiful display of themed boats decorated with lights from November through March.
National Museum of Civil War Medicine
Frederick has a rich Civil War history, making it the perfect location for the National Museum of Civil War Medicine.
This small museum is packed full of interesting exhibits and displays that describe and depict what it was like to practice medicine during the most turbulent time in America.
Although the museum seems a bit outdated, it’s still a must-see in Frederick, especially for history buffs.
Baker Park
Baker Park is a beautiful 58-acre public park with gorgeous paved walking trails and several unique features that are fun to add to your list of things to see in Frederick.
First, stop by the Joseph D Baker Tower and Carillon, a 70-foot tower dedicated to Frederick’s “first citizen.” You can hear a concert performed by the 49 bells every Sunday from 12:30 – 1:00 pm.
Next, walk across the “Swinging Bridge,” a cast-iron suspension bridge that crosses Carroll Creek. Originally located at Bentz Street, it was relocated to its current location in 1929. After years of weather and use, the bridge deteriorated and was rebuilt in 2012.
Another fun bridge crossing Carroll Creek in Baker Park is the Carroll Creek Bridge, a 40-foot-long covered bridge built in 1965. It’s one of the few covered bridges in Frederick County, and even though it’s not historic, it’s still fun to see.
Take a Ghost Tour
With all of the Civil War history, of course, ghost stories are plentiful in Frederick. If you love the supernatural, you’ll enjoy one of the tours offered by Maryland Ghost Tours.
Maryland Ghost Tours are typically offered from April through December. They offer a ghost tour through town and also a cemetery tour. Both last about 90 minutes and are not recommended for young children.
Weinberg Center
No matter the time of year you’re visiting Frederick, there is going to be something to see at the Weinberg Center for the Arts.
Several times throughout the month, they offer classic film viewings, including movies from the silent film era and newer classics from the 1980s and 1990s.
In addition to films, Weinberg Center also hosts musical acts and speakers, covering all types of music genres and information. Visit their website to see what’s going on during your time in Frederick.
Francis Scott Key Memorial and Grave Site
When visiting Frederick, you might want to pay your respects to Francis Scott Key, the man who wrote the poem that became our national anthem. He is buried at Mount Olivet Cemetery, within walking distance of Downtown Frederick.
Although he was initially interred in St. Paul’s Cemetery in Baltimore after his death, his remains were moved to his native home in 1866, and a monument was built in his honor.
In 1949, a resolution passed in Congress declared that the American Flag should be flown continuously over Key’s gravesite and memorial.
Schifferstadt Architectural Museum – Not open in winter
On the northern end of Baker Park, you’ll find the Schifferstadt Architectural Museum, one of Frederick County’s oldest houses.
The museum is only open during certain times of the year, so if you’re planning a trip to Frederick between April and December, you’ll want to visit Schifferstadt. In addition to touring the house, guests can also enjoy the Heritage Garden.
Schifferstadt hosts several events throughout the year, so don’t forget to visit their website to see what’s going on during your time in Frederick.
Stroll Through Downtown Frederick
Small, historic towns have their own charm, and Frederick is no exception.
Even with the many things to do in Frederick, it’s enough just to walk around town and visit the cute shops and restaurants. You also don’t want to miss the beautiful murals throughout the downtown area!
If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Frederick, consider taking a walking tour where you’ll visit up to 12 locations during your walk through town.
Monocacy National Battlefield
Many people visit Frederick to learn more about the Civil War. And another stop you can make nearby is the Monocacy National Battlefield.
Although the Battle of Monocacy Hill isn’t as famous as Gettysburg or Antietam, it still played an essential role in the war’s outcome. It’s known as the “Battle That Saved Washington” because it stalled the Confederate Army’s advance to Washington, D.C.
Stop by the Visitor Center to grab a map and learn more about the battle. Then, you can drive around the battlefield listening to the auto tour or walk along the multiple trails around the property.
Overlooks in Gambrill State Park
Grab gorgeous views overlooking Frederick and Middletown with ease inside Gambrill State Park.
There are three overlooks inside Gambrill State Park that are relatively easy to get to.
First, you can visit two of the overlooks inside the High Knob Scenic Area. The south Frederick Overlook is a short walk from the parking area, however it requires climbing up some stone steps.
The second overlook in the High Knob Scenic Area overlooks Middletown. It’s a short walk from the road, but you’ll have to descend a dozen stone steps to reach the overlook.
Lastly, follow Gambrill Park Road north about 3/10 mile to another overlook. This is the most accessible overlook of the three, requiring no stairs to enjoy!
Nearby Hiking Trails
Hiking enthusiasts will love visiting Frederick as there are several hiking trails within a short drive of downtown.
Its location just east of the Appalachian Trail offers easy access to several popular sections, including Annapolis Rock and Weverton Cliffs.
You’re also a short drive away from the beautiful trails at Sugarloaf Mountain, Catoctin Mountain Park, and Cunningham Falls State Park. And don’t forget the easy and short trail to the original Washington Monument!
Where to Eat in Frederick
There is no shortage of delicious places to eat in Downtown Frederick, but these are some of the best. It’s important to note that most places do not take reservations, so you may wait longer during busier eating times.
- Maxwell’s Burgers & Shakes – a small eatery that offers hamburgers, hotdogs, and delicious milkshakes.
- Hootch & Banter – a casual, cozy restaurant with offerings from handhelds to larger entrees like lamb or crabcakes.
- Isabella’s Tavern & Tapas Bar – enjoy Spanish-inspired cuisine in a casual atmosphere.
Where to Stay Near Frederick
There are so many fun things to do in Frederick that you’ll want to stay over a night or two!
If you want to stay in Downtown Frederick within walking distance to many of the attractions listed above, you have the option of staying at the Visitation Hotel or one of the bed & breakfasts in town.
Just outside of town, you have more options, including the Hampton Inn & Suites just north of town or the Homewood Suites (where we stayed and had a good experience), about a 10-minute drive just south of Frederick.
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