27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Frederick, MD
Are you a local or tourist searching for fun activities in Frederick, Maryland? Look no further! You’re at the right place, this guide features the best and most enjoyable things to do in Frederick, MD, to make the most of your time in this picturesque town.
Frederick, Maryland, is a charming city in the western part of the state. As the county seat of Frederick County, it is known for its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and beautiful landscapes. The city’s downtown area boasts well-preserved 19th-century architecture, reflecting its historical roots.
Surrounded by scenic landscapes, Frederick offers a plethora of outdoor activities. Residents and visitors can explore the nearby Catoctin Mountains Park and Cunningham Falls State Park, Weinberg Center for the Arts, and the Monocacy National Battlefield is another notable site, offering historical trails and educational programs.
27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Frederick, MD (2024)
1. National Museum of Civil War Medicine
Begin your Frederick adventure with a visit to the National Museum of Civil War Medicine, a historic educational institution offering fun and educational things to do in Frederick, MD, for people of all ages.
Established in 1990, the museum focuses on medical practices, surgeries, and nursing during the American Civil War and offers artifacts such as tools for the evacuation of wounded soldiers from the battlefield, a field dressing station, and more.
The museum features 7,000-square-foot housing exhibits showcasing real tools and equipment used during the Civil War, including the only known surviving Civil War surgeon’s tent, surgical kits, and even items used for veterinary medicine.
Visitors to the National Museum of Civil War Medicine gain a deeper understanding of the difficult conditions faced by both soldiers and medical personnel during the Civil War.
Address: 48 E Patrick Street, Frederick, MD 21701, United States.
2. Weinberg Center for the Arts
One of the many fun things to do in Frederick, MD, is make a stop at the Weinberg Center for the Arts, a historic theater located in downtown Frederick that offers a variety of performing arts experiences for everyone.
Established in 1926, the art center hosts a year-round program of professional music, dance, theater productions, classic films, and family-friendly entertainment and boasts stunning Art Deco architecture.
Additionally, they offer free backstage tours where visitors can learn about the venue’s history and get a glimpse of hidden areas. Attending a performance at the Weinberg Center provides an opportunity to enjoy live music, theater, dance, or film in a beautiful historic setting.
Address: 20 W Patrick Street, Frederick, MD 21701, United States.
3. Baker Park
Established in 1934, Baker Park nestled in the heart of Frederick offers a plethora of outdoor recreational and fun things to do in Frederick for everyone.
Spanning 58 acres, this linear park offers a variety of amenities including jogging and biking paths, multiple playgrounds, a picturesque lake, tennis courts, a public swimming pool, a concert pavilion, and ball diamonds, and is also pet-friendly.
As you visit, engage in activities like biking, jogging, playing sports, relaxing by the lake, or let your kids loose at the playground packed with amenities to keep them busy and burn off energy.
What’s more, the park frequently hosts events like concerts, festivals, and even the annual Frederick’s Fourth celebration on Independence Day.
Address: 121 N Bentz Street, Frederick, MD 21701, United States.
4. Monocacy National Battlefield
Stepping back in time at the Monocacy National Battlefield is one of the most fun and educational things to do in Frederick, MD. Known as the Battle That Saved Washington, this park served as one of the last major Confederate offensives in Union territory in 1864.
The Monocacy National Battlefield now serves as a tourist attraction featuring exhibits and historic structures like the Worthington House, a civilian home caught in the crossfire, hiking trails, and programs offered by the Monocacy National Battlefield Foundation.
The park offers a chance to explore a well-preserved battlefield and learn about the strategies and sacrifices made by soldiers on both sides.
Address: 5201 Urbana Pike, Frederick, MD 21704, United States.
5. Rose Hill Manor Park & Museums
Exploring Rose Hill Manor Park & Museum, a historic site featuring a manor house, gardens, and outbuildings that offer a glimpse into 18th and 19th-century American life is one of the many unique family-friendly things to do in Frederick, MD.
Established in 1792, this museum features a manor house with period furnishings and exhibits, a children’s museum with hands-on activities related to early American life, agriculture, and transportation, an icehouse, a log cabin, a blacksmith shop, a carriage collection, and gardens.
As a visitor at Rose Hill Manor Park & Museum, learn about early American life, explore a historic home, see demonstrations of old-time skills like blacksmithing, and participate in interactive exhibits that bring history to life, particularly for children.
Address: 1611 N Market Street, Frederick, MD 21701, United States.
6. Frederick Visitor Center
Located at the edge of downtown Frederick, MD, the Frederick Visitors Center is one of the must-visit attractions for anyone seeking information and things to do in Frederick, MD. The center offers a mix of historical exhibits, a short introductory film, and friendly staff.
At the visitor center, you’ll find details about nearby dining, shopping, accommodations, places to go, trips, events, and other fun and recreational activities in Frederick, MD, for all ages.
Explore the informative exhibits and learn about Frederick’s history and culture, plan your itinerary with personalized recommendations from staff, and pick up maps, brochures, and guides to help you navigate the city.
Address: 151 East Street, Frederick, MD 21701, United States.
7. Nymeo Field At Harry Grove Stadium
Nymeo Field at Harry Grove Stadium is a baseball stadium offering unique and fun things to do in Frederick, MD, for sports lovers.
Established in 1990, the stadium features a 5400 seating capacity, play areas for children, and family-friendly sections to ensure a fun experience for fans of all ages, a friendly atmosphere, a concession stand, and great sight from all seating areas.
Experience the thrill of a minor-league baseball game, relax in a comfortable setting, and savor delicious food and drinks from various concession stands.
The stadium is also a community hub that hosts a variety of events throughout the year like the popular fireworks displays, especially around holidays like the Fourth of July.
Address: 21 Stadium Drive, Frederick, MD 21703, United States.
8. Gambrill State Park
Located on the Catoctin Mountain ridge, the Gambrill State Park is a scenic mountain park offering an array of fun things to do in Frederick, MD, for people of all ages.
Founded in 1934, the park features 16 miles of trails, breathtaking views of the Frederick and Middletown Valleys from three stone overlooks built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, a high knob area with a nature center, a historic CCC memorial, and a large stone lodge.
This park also offered a wooded picnic area with reservable shelters, 34 campsites, and 4 camper cabins available seasonally.
Explore outdoor recreations like hiking, biking, and horseback riding on scenic trails, soak in the panoramic views from the overlooks, go camping, or enjoy a picnic with family and friends.
Address: 8602 Gambrill Park Road, Frederick, MD 21702, United States.
9. Downtown Frederick
Are you craving a blend of history and culture with unique gifts and dining options while exploring fun and memorable things to do in Frederick, MD, then Downtown Fredrick should not miss your bucket list.
This vibrant and historic district boasts a unique blend of 18th-century architecture and a modern, thriving arts and entertainment scene, more than 200 specialty shops, art galleries, restaurants, and breweries can be found lining the tree-lined streets.
Enjoy shopping, dining, and live entertainment, taste the well-crafted beers at the local brewery, gain knowledge on Civil War history, and immerse yourself in the art and culture of this charming town.
Address: 19 E Church Street, Frederick, MD 21701, United States.
10. Clue IQ
Unearth the most fun and thrilling things to do in Frederick, MD, for everyone with a trip to Clue IQ, an escape room attraction with unique storylines that transport visitors to different times, places, or events.
The escape room offers themes including Christmas, military, paranormal, and medieval/mythical, puzzles, riddles, and challenges to be cracked and solved within a short period.
A visit to Clue IQ offers an exhilarating and challenging experience that puts your problem-solving skills, critical thinking abilities, and teamwork to the test in a fun atmosphere.
Address: 103 S Carroll Street, Frederick, MD 21701, United States.
11. Schifferstadt Architectural Museum
One of the many fun and educational things to do in Frederick, MD, is a visit to the Schifferstadt Architectural Museum, a unique opportunity to understand the contributions of German immigrants to the early colonial period.
The museum features exhibits on German colonial life, the history of Frederick, and the Brunner family, displays of period artifacts, tools, and furnishings, and hosts various events, educational programs, and reenactments that highlight the cultural heritage and historical significance of the site.
Visitors to this museum can see original 18th-century elements such as the wood paneling, beams, and hardware
Address: 1110 Rosemont Avenue, Frederick, MD 21701, United States.
Exploring other attractions near Frederick, Maryland? Why not check out some fun things to do in Hunt Valley, MD, and fun things to do in Gaithersburg, MD?
12. McClintock Distilling
One of the unique and most fun things to do in Frederick, MD, for adults is spending time at McClintock Distilling, a craft distillery specializing in organic grain spirits.
This attraction offers 100% organic grains for their spirits, tasting room tours, tasting, bottle sales, a black bar serving cocktails, and games.
The distillery offers tours and tastings for visitors, providing an opportunity to see the production process firsthand and sample their products. They also educate guests about the art of distillation and the unique qualities of McClintock’s spirits.
Address: 35 S Carroll Street, Frederick, MD 21701, United States.
13. @VR
One of the most fun indoor things to do in Frederick, MD, is enjoying an immersive virtual reality experience at @VR, a virtual reality arcade located in the heart of Frederick.
This center features 9 VR stations with a library of over 40 VR games including sports, action, adventure, sightseeing, and a lot more, multiple-player games, three PC gaming stations for traditional PC gaming, and large screens for spectators to view the VR gameplay.
Experience VR technology in a fun and social setting and engage in a gaming challenge with your family and friends.
Address: 5 Willowdale Drive Unit B13, Frederick, MD 21701, United States.
14. The Boulder Yard
Established in 2018, the Boulder Yard, an indoor rock-climbing structure offers a fun and challenging workout experience among a plethora of fun and thrilling things to do in Frederick, MD, for all skill levels and ages.
The Boulder Yard is an 8,000-square-foot facility offering 3,500 square feet of bouldering surface with routes ranging in difficulty from beginner to advanced, full weight room for additional training, fitness classes, private classes, and climbing walls that feature various inclines.
At the Boulder Yard, you can explore the opportunity to develop climbing skills and improve fitness, join a fitness class, or attend parties and events at the venue.
Address: 5714 Industry Ln F, Frederick, MD 21704, United States.
15. Clustered Spires Golf Club
Booking a tee time at Clustered Spires Golf Club is one of the best things to do in Frederick, MD, this weekend.
Located near downtown Frederick, this 18-hole course offers multiple tees, accommodating various skill levels on a par 72, and is enjoyable for both seasoned and novice players.
Known for its scenic beauty, with well-maintained fairways and greens, it features a mix of challenging holes, water hazards, bunkers, and a full-service Pro Shop with exclusive golf merchandise, apparel, and equipment.
Address: 8415 Gas House Pike, Frederick, MD 21701, United States.
16. Delaplaine Arts Center
Located in downtown Frederick, the Delaplaine Arts Center is a vibrant hub offering artistic expression and education among other unique things to do in Frederick, MD, for art enthusiasts.
This art center features five main on-site galleries in more than 50 exhibitions showcasing works by regional and national artists, a studio housing more than 250 classes and workshops for all ages year-round, and the Etchison Davis free art library among other sights to explore in the center.
Explore a wide variety of art forms through the frequently changing exhibitions, enroll in art classes and workshops, and explore the historic mill building offering an aesthetically pleasing environment.
Address: 40 S Carroll Street, Frederick, MD 21701, United States.
17. Adventure Park USA
One of the most fun and unique things to do near Frederick, MD, with kids today is exploring the Adventure Park USA located just a 10-minute drive from Frederick.
Established in 2005, this park features outdoor adventures such as a sky coaster, go-karts, miniature golf, gemstone mining, a carousel, zip lines, and more. It also offers indoor activities like duckpin bowling, laser tag, a rock climbing wall, an arcade, a playground, and bumper cars.
Enjoy a day of excitement and fun for all ages and experience heart-pounding rides, challenging games, and create lasting memories with family and friends.
Address: 11113 W Baldwin, Monrovia, MD 21770, United States.
18. Fourth Dimension Fun Center
One of the family-friendly things to do in Frederick, MD, is to make a stop at Fourth Dimension Fun Center, a family entertainment center featuring over 35,000 square feet of fun activities.
This family entertainment center features a 16-lane bowling alley, multi-level laser tag arena, customizable escape rooms, full arcade space, XD dark ride, laser maze, restaurant and bar, party and meeting rooms, billiard tables, and shuffleboards.
Enjoy a fun-filled day with family exploring a variety of activities suitable for all ages, test your teamwork skills in the escape rooms, grab a meal and enjoy with family and friends, or organize a birthday party or group outing with friends.
Address: 4725 Arcadia Drive, Frederick, MD 21703, United States.
19. Tenth Ward Distilling Company
Founded in 2016, Tenth Ward Distilling Company offers a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy craft spirits for visitors and locals exploring fun things to do in Frederick, MD, for adults.
This distilling company specializes in unique and non-traditional spirits such as whiskey, gin, seasonal liqueurs, canned cocktails, absinthe, and a spacious venue available for rent, perfect for weddings or other gatherings.
Visitors can sample unique and handcrafted spirits in a welcoming atmosphere, learn about the distilling process, and enjoy delicious cocktails made with their spirits at the on-site Cocktail Lab.
Address: 55 E Patrick Street, Frederick, MD 21701, United States.
20. Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park
Looking for a where to have a fun-filled day with family and friends? Then head to Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park, an indoor amusement park offering an array of unique and fun things to do in Frederick, MD, with kids.
This amusement center offers open jump courts, dodgeball courts, trampoline obstacle courses, ropes courses, climbing walls, Warrior Battle Beam, arcade games, a café, and party rooms.
An adventure to Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park allows you to enjoy a fun experience with friends, plan and attend a party, get a chance to exercise improve coordination, and relieve stress.
Address: 5830 Ballenger Creek Pike, Frederick, MD 21703, United States.
21. Frederick Arts Council
Another fun thing to do in Frederick for art enthusiasts is exploring the Frederick Arts Council, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and promoting the arts.
This center offers grants and scholarships to artists and arts organizations, supports public art projects, organizes and supports various arts events, exhibitions, and performances throughout the year, and offers educational programs and workshops to foster artistic development.
Visitors to the Federick Art Center can view public art exhibits and explore the work of resident artist studios, explore and purchase art from local creatives at the studio and gallery, or attend educational programs.
Address: 5 E 2nd St, Frederick, MD 21701, United States.
22. Attaboy Beer
Are you a beer enthusiast looking for where to unwind and relax with a well-crafted beer? Then Attaboy Beer should make your bucket list of fun and unique things to do in Frederick, MD, for adults.
Situated in the heart of Frederick, this brewery and taproom features freshly brewed beers with a focus on IPAs, pale ales, and sour, rotating food trucks serving lunch and dinner, a large dog-friendly beer garden, and indoor seating with board games and TVs.
Get the chance to sample a variety of fresh, local craft beers, enjoy delicious food, relax in a spacious and welcoming atmosphere, play board games, or have a playtime with your pets at the designated area.
Address: 400 Sagner Ave # 400, Frederick, MD 21701, United States.
23. Carroll Creek Park
Established in 2016, the Carroll Creek Park nestled in the heart of Downtown Frederick offers a variety of outdoor fun things to do in Frederick, MD, for everyone.
Spanning 1.5 miles long, the park features brick pathways, restaurants and outdoor seatings, lighted sailboats on the creek, public art display, water features, pedestrian bridges, and a 350-seat outdoor amphitheater.
Visiting Carroll Creek Park allows visitors to enjoy a scenic walk through a historic district, experience live music or a community event, and enjoy a relaxing escape in the center of the city.
Address: Carroll Creek Linear Park, Frederick, MD 21701, United States.
24. Cafe 611 Restaurant
Cafe 611 is a family-owned restaurant specializing in American Southern cuisine offering one of the best places to visit for a delicious meal on your quest to explore the best things to do in Frederick, MD.
Established in 2007, the food hub offers American Southern cuisine, and live entertainment, including local bands, DJs, and New Orleans-style comedy.
A visit to Cafe 611 Restaurant allows visitors to savor tasty food, experience the local Frederick music and culture scene, and relax in a warm and welcoming atmosphere in a historic district.
Address: 611 N Market Street, Frederick, MD 21701, United States.
25. Roads and Rails Museum
Known for its expansive miniature train displays, the Roads And Rails Museum offers one of the best things to do in Frederick with kids.
This museum features a detailed miniature world with working trains, trolleys, cars, and trucks navigating towns, a zoo, a circus, a volcano, and even a walk-through mountain range.
Visitors can experience a fun and interactive display of miniature transportation systems, enjoy a whimsical escape, and have a chance to see the craftsmanship in action.
Address: 200 N East Street, Frederick, MD 21701, United States.
26. Catoctin Wildlife Preserve
Catoctin Wildlife Preserve is a zoo and wildlife preserve boasting natural ponds, lush landscaping, and a variety of exotic animals perfect for a fun day trip with family while exploring unique things to do near Frederick, MD.
Spanning 100 acres, this preserve features an interactive experience, up close feeding opportunities, guided tours on a safari truck ride, and over 450 exotic animals representing a wide range of species.
Gain educational experience through learning about different animal species and their habitats, get close encounters and interact with some animals, and enjoy a fun-filled day exploring the park and observing the animals.
Address: 13019 Catoctin Furnace Road, Thurmont, MD 21788, United States.
27. Pinecliff Park
Rounding off our list of fun and unique things to do in Frederick, MD, is taking a stop at Pinecliff Park, a scenic park nestled along Monocacy River offering a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages.
This park features four softball fields, a boat ramp, a barrier-free playground, horseshoe pits, picnic areas, a fire ring, grills, volleyball nets, play equipment, an ice skating pond, and a lot more.
Enjoy outdoor activities like picnicking with family and friends, participating in various sports, going fishing, boating, walking, hiking on natural trails, and letting your kids burn out energy on the children’s playground.
Address: 8350 Pinecliff Park Road, Frederick, MD, 21704, United States.
plan your trip to Frederick, MD
Frederick, Maryland offers an array of adventures for visitors and locals of all ages. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this picturesque town offers something that suits everyone’s preferences.
Plan your trip to Frederick, MD, today, and let the beauty and serenity of this historic town enchant you with beautiful things and memories.
