A Curious Explorer’s Guide to Frederick County thumbnail

A Curious Explorer’s Guide to Frederick County

Published Feb 23, 25
3 min read

Planning your next adventure in Maryland? Frederick County will surprise you. From delicious meals and comfortable accommodations to vibrant festival and picturesque landscapes, this vibrant county blends historic charm with modern day fun. Take a look at our guide for locals and prepare to explore Frederick County like a true insider!

Enjoy the best events in any season.

Frederick County is more than an area. It's a lifestyle! There are art exhibits, festivals, performances and other events for all ages on the county calendar.

Spring Forward with Festivals:Celebrate warmer days at Frederick's thriving outdoor events, including street fairs that feature local musicians, live performances along Carroll Creek, and family-friendly markets that are brimming with delicious artisanal treats.

Summer Nights Sizzle
Explore the unique theater scene that is happening in the area. Enjoy free shows or support local teams at baseball games. Don't forget to attend food truck rallies and sunset yoga sessions in our beautiful parks.

Have Fun with
Frederick County changes as the leaves change to gold. Celebrate the harvest with cider at festivals and ghost tours of old streets. Or, sample delicious seasonal dishes in the downtown restaurants.

Winter Wonders:
Take in glittering parades, crafts shows, and winery tastings in local wineries and breweries. Every walk in Frederick's charming downtown business district is brimming with awe.

Find out what events are going on in Frederick County, Maryland on the Frederick County event calendar.

Take Every Bite: Food in Frederick County

Do you want to try something different? Frederick's food scene is bubbling with flavor. Famous chefs and international restaurants combine to create a delicious range. You can enjoy farm-to-table food at an historic inn or burgers, pastries and other eats at a vibrant gastropub.

Local Tips:

  • Don't miss the famed Maryland crab dip.
  • Stop by downtown Frederick for international food, from Italian trattorias, to authentic Thai kitchens.
  • Ready for dessert? Ice cream parlors as well as bakeries that line the streets are legendary.

Begin planning your food tour-and explore Frederick's top dining establishments.

Rest Easy: Unique Stays for Every Traveler

Boutique hotels, beautiful bed and breakfasts, and convenient chain hotels--whatever your travel style, Frederick County has you covered. Stay in the center of downtown with easy access to shops and sights, or unwind by taking in the country views at an inn with a picturesque view.

Top Picks:

  • Boutique hotels themed--each offers its own slice of Frederick style.
  • Restored farmhouses--perfect for romantic getaways, or for family trips.
  • Pet-friendly lodging--because Fido loves road trips, too!

Find your ideal accommodation on the Frederick County hotels page.

Explore the outdoors in parks trail, trails, as well as nature's splendor are waiting for you.

Frederick County is a paradise for nature-lovers and adventurers.

  • Discover miles of cycling and hiking trails at Catoctin Mountain Park or Gambrill State Park.
  • Fish or paddle in the Monocacy River or the Potomac river
  • Relax in lush parks in which you can find playgrounds, picnic spots and nature parks that are suitable for the entire family.

The seasons' activities, from wildflower walks to guided birdwatching tours, ensure there's always something new to learn about.

Use our Frederick County outdoor guide to make your next trip to the outdoors a success.

Dive into History & Culture

Take a trip into the world of a book while you walk through the 18th century's buildings, visit fascinating museums, and engage with the area's dynamic artistic community.

  • History buffs Do not pass up the National Museum of Civil War Medicine and walking tours through the history of Frederick.
  • Art aficionados Go to galleries, watch artists at work, or participate in interactive workshops.
  • Family Explorers Find fun playgrounds and fun working farms. Interactive exhibits will keep everyone entertained.

Explore all the can't-miss sights on the Frederick County attractions page.

Make your plans with Ease

Frederick County is centrally located, making it an easy day excursion or weekend getaway from Washington D.C. and Baltimore. Be sure to check the traffic conditions, look up local parking advice (there's plenty of garages that are affordable downtown! Stay informed with Frederick Events' newsletter. Frederick Events newsletter to receive exclusive offers.

Begin Your Frederick County Journey Now!

Are you ready to create your own Frederick County story? Do you want live music, crave-worthy eats outdoor adventures, walking through the history of the area The county of Frederick has something to offer you. Explore, delight and design the ultimate trip, one Frederick experience at a time.

Check out the latest events, plan your visit or get inspired, visit EventsFrederick.com now and let your adventure begin!

Events Frederick: The trusted source for what’s happening, what’s tasty, and what’s new in Frederick County, Maryland.