1. Experience Fall Foliage at Catoctin Mountain Park and Cunningham Falls State Park
There's no better way to experience fall in Frederick County than to immerse yourself in the brilliant autumn colors atop Catoctin Mountain. Take a hike along one of the scenic trails in Catoctin Mountain Park, where you’ll be surrounded by the reds, oranges, and yellows of the changing leaves. Popular trails like Chimney Rock are perfect for capturing those picture-perfect fall moments with stunning views over eastern Frederick County.
Head over to Cunningham Falls State Park and see the vibrant colors against the backdrop of water and rock at the 78’ tall Cunningham Falls - Maryland’s highest cascading waterfall.
Explore more state and national parks in their fall colors
C&O Canal National Historical Park
The C&O Canal National Historical Park is one of the most popular and beloved national parks in the United States.
Gambrill State Park
Enjoy Gambrill State Park and take in scenic views over Frederick and the Middletown Valley.
2. Celebrate at Fall Festivals
Frederick County is home to many of Maryland’s best fall festivals, where you can enjoy everything from pumpkin picking to craft vendors and delicious food. Get lost in the state’s largest corn maze at Magnolia Meadows Farm, enjoy the attractions at the Gaver Farm Fall Fun Festival or bring the whole family to the Fall Festival at Summers Farm, where hayrides, apple cider donuts, and fireworks await. And that’s just the beginning.
These festivals are a great way to soak in the season's spirit.
Celebrate the season at Catoctin Mountain Orchard
Discover more about Frederick County’s fall festivals
3. Take a Scenic Road Trip
Fall is the perfect time to slow down and take a scenic drive through Frederick County’s rolling hills and vibrant forests.
The Covered Bridges Driving Tour will take you through the county's charming landscapes, where you can admire historic structures framed by the colors of fall. Stop along the way at local farm stands to pick up seasonal produce and pumpkins for your porch.
Enjoy drives along the Historic National Road and see the small-town charms of autumn in Frederick County or enjoy the historical sites along the Journey Through Hallowed Ground Scenic Byway (US Route 15).
Main Street Middletown is located at the foot of South Mountain along the Historic National Road National Scenic Byway.
Explore Frederick County’s scenic routes and covered bridges
4. Savor Seasonal Dining and Tasting
As the temperatures drop, Frederick County’s outdoor dining scene continues to shine. Cozy up at Catoctin Breeze Vineyards with a glass of locally produced wine, or enjoy hearty comfort food at The Wine Kitchen, where seasonal ingredients are at the heart of every dish.
Several restaurants in Downtown Frederick offer outdoor seating with heaters, so you can dine al fresco while soaking in the crisp fall air.
Plan your perfect fall meal or craft beverage in Frederick County.
5. Oktoberfest Celebrations in Frederick County
For beer and bratwurst enthusiasts, Frederick County offers multiple Oktoberfest events that capture the essence of fall. The Frederick Oktoberfest at the Frederick Fairgrounds is packed with traditional German fare, local craft beer, live music, and lively dancing.
Check out Oktoberfest at Schifferstadt to experience the festivities at one of Frederick’s most historic sites with deep ties to Frederick’s German-American community dating back to the 1700s. Several local breweries host their own Oktoberfest celebrations featuring seasonal brews, games, and live entertainment. It’s the perfect way to embrace fall while sampling the best of Frederick’s craft beverage scene.
Grab your tickets and raise a stein to fall at any of Frederick County’s Oktoberfest events
6. Shop for Fall Finds in Frederick County
This region is a shopper’s paradise, especially in the fall when the historic sidewalks on our Main Streets and scenic roads are lined with festive window displays and the fall colors on full display.
From cozy sweaters at local boutiques to autumn-themed home decor, there’s something for every taste. In Downtown Frederick alone, you'll find more than 200 locally-owned businesses, perfect to Shop Local and bring home memorable gifts from your time in Frederick!
Discover Frederick’s unique shops and seasonal treasures
7. Attend Fall Events and Concerts
Frederick County’s event calendar is full of exciting fall activities. The Weinberg Center for the Arts hosts a variety of performances and events throughout the season, while Alive @ Five continues through the first week of October along Carroll Creek Park. In northern Frederick County, you'll find the ever-popular Catoctin Colorfest in October.
Events and live music are always happening on the Weinberg Center's historic stage
Halloween events can be found throughout the region as well, including Canines on the Creek, Frederick’s favorite costume contest for dogs.
Check out the best fall events in Frederick County
8. Discover Haunted History on a Ghost Tour
As Halloween approaches, embrace the spooky side of Frederick County with a ghost tour through Downtown Frederick. Walk the historic streets by lantern light as guides recount eerie tales of the county’s haunted past. These tours offer a unique way to experience Frederick’s history while getting into the Halloween spirit.
Head on over to the National Museum of Civil War Medicine for a “Haunted History” tour or to the Seton Shrine for a “Back from the Dead” cemetery walk.
Book your haunted history tour today—if you dare!
9. Take a Craft Beverage Tour
Fall is the ideal time to enjoy Frederick County’s flourishing craft beverage scene. Spend an afternoon touring local breweries like Attaboy Beer and Idiom Brewing in the Carroll Creek Brewing District, or head to Springfield Manor Winery, Distillery, and Brewery for a relaxing day of sampling with stunning views of Frederick County’s hills and farms as they change colors.
The fall season also brings special seasonal brews, ciders, and cocktails—perfect for a chilly evening.
Find your next favorite Frederick County craft beverage
10. Prepare for the Holidays with Local Shopping in Downtown Frederick
With the holiday season right around the corner, fall is the perfect time to start prepping for celebrations. Hundreds of locally-owned shops in Frederick's vibrant historic district offer everything you need to get ready, from holiday decor to one-of-a-kind gifts.
Take part in First Saturday events, where the streets come alive with special deals, live music, and an always festive atmosphere. A fall visit to Frederick County is perfect for getting your holiday shopping done early this year.
It's never too early to start your holiday shopping in Downtown Frederick!
