Things To Do
in Frederick

Frederick, Maryland, is a charming city located in the heart of Maryland, known for its rich history and vibrant arts scene. It offers a blend of small-town charm and urban amenities, making it an ideal destination for visitors. The historic downtown area features beautifully preserved architecture, boutique shops, and a variety of dining options.

Surrounded by scenic landscapes and Civil War heritage sites, Frederick is a perfect base for exploring the region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historic Downtown
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, followed by a walking tour of the Historic District to admire the architecture and visit the National Museum of Civil War Medicine.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant and then head to the Frederick Visitor Center to learn more about the city's history. Spend the afternoon at the nearby Baker Park for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

evening
:

Dine at a renowned local eatery, then enjoy a performance at the Weinberg Center for the Arts.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with breakfast at a coffee shop, then visit the Frederick County Historical Society to delve deeper into the region's past.

afternoon
:

After lunch, spend the afternoon at the Catoctin Mountain Park for hiking and scenic views. Explore the trails and enjoy the natural beauty.

evening
:

Head back to the city for dinner at a local brewpub, and finish your evening exploring the nightlife in Market Street.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Dinner at a restaurant$20-35
Coffee at a café$3-5
🚌Public transportation fare$1.50
🏨Hotel room (per night)$100-200
🍺Craft beer$5-7

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities
  • Vibrant food and arts scene
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours
  • Limited public transportation options
  • Higher accommodation costs during peak tourist seasons

Places to Visit in Frederick

Visit one of these nice places.

Catoctin Mountain Park

Stunning views of the mountains and valleys make this park a perfect location for landscape photography.

Historic District

The quaint streets and historic buildings provide ample opportunities for capturing the charm of Frederick.

Baker Park

This picturesque park features scenic walkways, a lake, and beautiful gardens, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Frederick

Frederick boasts a vibrant culinary scene that showcases both traditional Maryland flavors and innovative cuisine. Visitors should not miss the opportunity to experience the local food culture, which features farm-to-table dining and artisanal products.

Frederick Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Crab Cakes

Maryland is famous for its crab cakes, made with fresh blue crab meat, seasoned, and fried to perfection.

Must-Try!

Smith Island Cake

A layered cake with rich buttercream frosting, originating from Smith Island, is a must-try dessert.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Frederick Farmers Market

Open weekly, this market offers fresh produce, local meats, cheeses, and baked goods from regional vendors.

Food Trucks at the Park

Various food trucks can be found in local parks on weekends, offering everything from tacos to gourmet sandwiches.

Climate Guide

Weather

Frederick experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers are warm and humid. Spring and fall are generally mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Friendly Greetings

Locals appreciate a friendly hello or nod when passing by; it's a sign of respect and warmth.

Respect for Nature

When hiking or visiting parks, follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty.

Punctuality

Being on time for appointments and events is valued in the local culture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Frederick is considered a safe city for visitors, with low crime rates. However, as in any city, it is advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid poorly lit areas at night. Emergency services are responsive, and hospitals are accessible.

Tipping in Frederick

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip service workers 15-20% in restaurants and bars.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit/debit cards, and mobile payment methods are also commonly used.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm and humid, summer is perfect for enjoying outdoor concerts and events, but be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.

Fall

Autumn brings stunning foliage and cooler weather, ideal for hiking and enjoying local harvest festivals.

Winter

Cold temperatures may occur, with occasional snow. The holiday season features festive decorations and local events.

Nightlife Guide

Frederick at Night

Frederick's nightlife scene is vibrant, featuring an array of bars, live music venues, and restaurants. Popular spots include breweries like Flying Dog and local taverns offering live music. The downtown area comes alive on weekends, with many venues hosting events, trivia nights, and dance parties.

Hiking in Frederick

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Catoctin National Park Trails

Offers various trails ranging from easy to challenging, with stunning views and diverse wildlife.

Gambrill State Park

Features several miles of hiking trails with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and opportunities for picnicking.

Airports

How to reach Frederick by plane.

Frederick Municipal Airport

Located just a few miles from downtown, this airport primarily serves general aviation and is a convenient option for private pilots.

Getting Around

Walkability

Frederick is highly walkable, especially in the downtown area where shops, restaurants, and attractions are within walking distance. The city's layout encourages pedestrian activity, with well-maintained sidewalks and parks.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic, young professionals are attracted to Frederick for its job opportunities and vibrant lifestyle.

Families

Frederick is popular among families due to its excellent schools, parks, and community events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Frederick is home to the Frederick Keys, a Minor League Baseball team, providing exciting games during the summer months.

Soccer

Soccer is growing in popularity, with local leagues and youth programs fostering a strong community interest.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Frederick can be moderate to heavy during rush hours, particularly on major routes like US-15 and I-70. Public transportation options are limited, but the city offers a local bus service that connects key areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Frederick.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Frederick offer a variety of vegetarian dishes, ensuring options for non-meat eaters.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several establishments provide gluten-free options, including pizzas and desserts.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Frederick offers access to quality healthcare services, with several hospitals, clinics, and emergency care facilities available. Notable institutions include Frederick Health Hospital, which provides comprehensive medical services.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide