Small-Town Surprises: Unexpected Delights in Frederick thumbnail

Small-Town Surprises: Unexpected Delights in Frederick

Published Mar 07, 25
3 min read

Are you thinking about your next trip to Maryland? Look beyond the familiar and let Frederick County surprise you. The lively county offers many activities that range from festivals to stunning landscapes and delicious food. Get to know Frederick County as an insider through our comprehensive guide.

Get the most exciting events any season.

Frederick County isn't just a destination, it's an experience! The calendar of events in the county is filled with events that you shouldn't miss and live shows as well as art exhibitions and events for the community of every kind.

Spring Forward and Festivals:Celebrate warmer days at Frederick's thriving outdoor events, including street fairs featuring local artists, live music on Carroll Creek, and family-friendly markets bursting with artisan treats.

Summer Nights Sizzle
Discover the unique theatre scene that is happening in the area. Enjoy free shows or cheer on team's local teams at baseball games. Get involved in food truck rallies as well as yoga at sunset and other activities in our parks.

It's Time to Fall into Fun:
Frederick County changes as the leaves change to gold. Drink cider during harvest festivals and get scared on ghost tours along historic streets, or sample seasonal flavors at downtown eateries.

Winter Wonders:
Get your festive spirit going by dazzling parades, fairs for crafts and cozy tasting events at area wineries and breweries. There's a magic in every cold stroll through Frederick's charming downtown.

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

Savor Every Bite What to Eat and Where to Eat in Frederick County

Hungry for something new? Frederick's culinary scene has been bursting with taste. International spots and renowned chefs come together to provide a delightful range. Enjoy fresh food from the farm to table in an historic pub, sink into tasty burgers at an energetic gastropub, or share a delicious pastry with a cup of coffee in one of our cozy cafes.

Local Tips:

  • Do not miss the famous Maryland crab dip!
  • Pop into downtown Frederick for a variety of international cuisines, from Italian trattorias to authentic Thai kitchens.
  • Ready for dessert? Downtown's bakery and ice cream shops are renowned.

Plan your next food adventure - Discover Frederick's top eateries.

Rest Easy: Unique Stays for Every Traveler

Frederick County offers a wide range of accommodations, with everything from cozy breakfast and bed and breakfasts to comfortable chain hotels. You can decide to stay in downtown Frederick County, which offers convenient access to shops and other attractions. If you prefer to relax, you can stay in a charming inn that has views of the surrounding countryside.

The most popular picks are:

  • The themed boutique hotels each provide their own distinctive slice of Frederick style.
  • Restored farmhouses--perfect for romantic getaways or family vacations.
  • Pet-friendly lodging--because Fido loves road trips, too!

Find your ideal hotel room on the Frederick County hotels page.

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

Adventurers and nature-lovers rejoice--Frederick County provides a myriad of ways to go outside.

  • Explore miles of biking and hiking trails at Catoctin Mountain Park or Gambrill State Park.
  • Paddle or fish the Monocacy or Potomac rivers.
  • Relax in lush parks where you'll find play areas, picnic spots and nature centers for the entire family.

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

Find your next adventure in nature by consulting our Frederick County outdoors guide.

Get into History & Culture

You'll feel like you are in a fairytale when you travel by historic buildings that date from the 18th century. You can also visit fascinating museums and interact with the vibrant art community.

  • History enthusiasts do not pass up the National Museum of Civil War Medicine and the historical walking tours of Frederick.
  • Art aficionados Visit galleries, watch artists working or taking part in hands-on classes.
  • Family Explorers Explore imaginative playgrounds as well as fun working farms and interactive exhibits to keep children of all ages entertained.

Discover all the must-see attractions on the Frederick County page.

You can plan your trip with Ease

The central location of Frederick County allows it to be easily accessible easily from Washington D.C., Baltimore, and Gettysburg--perfect for day trips and longer escapes. There are numerous affordable parking garages located in downtown Frederick. Check out the conditions for traffic and local parking information. Stay informed with the Frederick Events newsletter for exclusive deals.

Start Your Frederick County Journey Now!

Are you ready to create your own Frederick County story? Whether you crave live music, crave-worthy eats outdoor adventures, an excursion through the past, our county is waiting to be remembered by you. Explore, delight and design the perfect trip, one Frederick experience at a time.

Visit EventsFrederick.com to plan your next trip, be inspired or simply look up the latest activities.

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