Eat, Play, Explore: Frederick’s Non-Tourist Hotspots thumbnail

Eat, Play, Explore: Frederick’s Non-Tourist Hotspots

Published Mar 14, 25
3 min read

Are you thinking about your next excursion to Maryland? Look beyond the familiar and let Frederick County surprise you. The vibrant county has an array of events including festivals, stunning landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine. Find out more about Frederick County as an insider through our comprehensive guide.

You can enjoy the best events of the year every Season

Frederick County isn't just a place, it's an entire experience! There are festivals, art exhibits as well as performances for all ages on the county calendar.

Celebrate the spring season with festivals : Enjoy warmer days in Frederick with street fairs and music along Carroll Creek and family-friendly markets.

Summer Nights:
Explore the unique theater scene that is happening in the area. Attend free concerts or cheer on your local team at baseball games. Take part in lively food truck rallies Yoga sessions at sunset, and more in our parks.

Have Fun with
As the leaves change to gold, Frederick County transforms. Take a sip of cider during harvest festivals and get scared on ghost tours through historic streets, or taste delicious seasonal dishes at the downtown restaurants.

Winter Wonders:
Take in sparkling parades, craft shows and wine tastings at local breweries and wineries. There's a magic in every cold walk through the charming town of Frederick.

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

Enjoy Every Bite of It: Foods in Frederick County

Are you looking for something different? Frederick's food scene is bubbling with flavor. Celebrity chefs make use of local ingredients while international restaurants add a delicious variety. You can enjoy farm-to-table food in an old-fashioned hotel, or burgers and pastries at a lively gastropub.

Local tips:

  • Do not miss out on the famous Maryland crab dip.
  • Go to downtown Frederick for international food, from Italian trattorias to authentic Thai kitchens.
  • Ready for dessert? Downtown's bakeries and ice cream stores are legendary.

Plan your next food adventure - See Frederick's top restaurants.

Rest Easy: Unique Stays for Every Traveler

Frederick County offers a wide selection of accommodation options, from charming bed and breakfasts to practical chain hotels. You can decide to reside in the downtown area of Frederick County, which offers easy access to the shops and other attractions. Relax in a cozy inn with a view of the countryside.

The most popular picks are:

  • Boutique hotels themed--each offers a unique piece of Frederick style.
  • Farmhouses that have been restored--perfect for romantic getaways or family trips.
  • Pet-friendly lodging--because Fido loves road trips, too!

Find your ideal home away from home on the Frederick County hotels page.

Explore the outdoors in parks as well as trails and natural beauty await

Adventurers and nature-lovers rejoice--Frederick County offers endless ways to get outside.

  • Explore miles of hiking and cycling trails at Catoctin Mountain Park or Gambrill State Park.
  • Paddle or fish the Monocacy or Potomac rivers.
  • Take a stroll through lush parks where you'll find play areas, picnic spots and nature centers for all ages.

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

Utilize our Frederick County outdoor guide to organize your next adventure in nature.

Take a dive into History & Culture

You'll feel as if you're in a fairytale as you stroll past structures that date back to the 18th century, visit fascinating museums and interact with the vibrant arts community.

  • History buffs: Don't skip the National Museum of Civil War Medicine or the walks of Frederick's famous streets.
  • Art aficionados: Pop into galleries, watch artists at work, or participate in hands-on classes.
  • Family-friendly Explorers: Explore creative playgrounds, fun working farms, and interactive exhibits to keep everyone entertained.

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

Make Your Trip Plan with Ease

The central location of Frederick County makes it easy to get there easily from Washington D.C., Baltimore, and Gettysburg--perfect for day trips and longer getaways. Examine traffic conditions, learn local parking advice (there's lots of affordable garages downtown! Keep up-to-date with the Frederick News newsletter to be the first to know about special offers.

Begin Your Frederick County Journey Today!

Are you ready to make your own Frederick County tale? Our county is ready to create an unforgettable experience for you, regardless of whether you want live music tasty meals, outdoor adventures or a trip through history. Explore, enjoy and plan your ideal vacation, one Frederick experience at the same time.

Go to EventsFrederick.com to plan your trip, get inspired or simply browse the most popular happenings.

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