Frederick County, Maryland, transforms into a vibrant summer playground each year, offering a variety of activities that cater to every interest, from outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs to foodies and families. Here's your guide to the top 10 things to do in Frederick County this summer. 

 

 

1. Carroll Creek Park 

This linear park in Downtown Frederick is perfect for a leisurely stroll to enjoy the creek's beauty, bordered by colorful public art and bustling community activities. You'll find plenty of the nation's largest free public water garden, plenty of outdoor dining, a weekly music happy hour, and a brewing district. Carroll Creek Park perfect place to start a summer adventure in Frederick County! 

 

Carroll Creek Park SceneryLearn more about Carroll Creek Park's history as a flood-control project turned community meeting place!

 

2. Hiking at National Parks 

With several national parks, including Catoctin Mountain Park, you can enjoy breathtaking hikes that offer both moderate and challenging trails. The park’s unique geologic features and historical trails provide a perfect backdrop for adventure. ​Hike through history at Monocacy National Battlefield and explore the fields and woods where a crucial Civil War battle took place in 1864. 

3. Frederick Keys Games 

Enjoy America's pastime by catching a Frederick Keys game at Nymeo Field at Harry Grove Stadium. The atmosphere at these MLB Draft League games is perfect for family outings and soaking in the warm summer evenings. It's the perfect cap to a weekend day in Downtown Frederick. 

 

Frederick Keys game at Nymeo Field at Harry Grove StadiumExperience a ballgame at Frederick's Nymeo Field at Harry Grove Stadium.

 

4. C&O Canal National Historical Park 

Experience the historical significance of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal in southern Frederick County. Enjoy a day of biking, hiking, or boating along the scenic Potomac River, which offers a glimpse into America's past and stunning natural landscapes. This 184-mile long national park connects Washington, DC with Cumberland, Maryland, with more than 15 miles of the park stretching through Frederick County. Explore Main Street Brunswick on your visit for a bite to eat and a cold beer to cap an outdoor adventure. 

 

Bike riders in front of Canal Lockhouse 28Biking at Lockhouse #28, one of the historic lockhouses on the C&O Canal towpath

 

5. Shopping in Downtown Frederick 

With more than 200 specialty shops, art galleries, and boutiques, Downtown Frederick offers a unique shopping experience where history meets modern retail​ in our 50-block historic district. Here, you'll find a wide range of stores managed by passionate local business owners who are proud to be part of this thriving community. Don't forget to enjoy a meal at one of Frederick's many restaurants and cafes. 

 

A shopping trip in Downtown Frederick

 

6. Summer Festivals 

Frederick County is home to a variety of unique festivals and events during the summer months. Celebrate Frederick's LGBTQ+ community during Frederick Pride, one of the largest Pride commemorations in Maryland. Watch as the world's best high wheel bike racers take to the streets atop antique penny-farthing bicycles during the National Clustered Spires High Wheel Bike Race. Experience the Black Frederick Festival and support Frederick County's Black community and Black-owned businesses. See for yourself how our communities come together to support each other. 

 

High Wheel Bike Race The National Clustered Spires High Wheel Bike Race is the largest penny-farthing bicycle race in the Western Hemisphere!

 

7. Summer Concerts and Alive @ Five 

The summer calendar is filled with outdoor concerts and live music that are perfect for making the most of the warm weather. Head out to Alive @ Five each Thursday during the summer for live music and a happy hour in Carroll Creek Park in Downtown Frederick. Enjoy local craft beverages and snacks from a rotating group of local food trucks. On Sunday evenings, Baker Park comes to life with a free concert series at the park's bandshell. Bring a chair, a blanket, and enjoy a picnic while listening to the tunes. 

8. Frederick County's Craft Beverage Scene 

Frederick County is home to 39 wineries, breweries, and distilleries, more than anywhere else in the State of Maryland. From farm breweries serving beers made with locally grown hops, to downtown distilleries with cocktail bars, and world-class wineries with scenic mountain and hillside views, there's something for everyone and every taste. Utilize our Wineries, Breweries, and Distilleries guide to plan your visit.

9. Historic Tours and Ghost Walks 

Dive into Frederick’s rich history with guided walking tours around the historic downtown, or thrill the family with an evening ghost tour, a different way to learn about the past.

10. Take a Scenic Road Trip 

Frederick County is known as the Crossroads of Maryland. For centuries, roads and transportation links have brought travelers from across the nation and the world to Frederick County. Today, hundreds of miles of scenic byways crisscross the region and bring you to charming Main Streets, historic sites and battlefields, and over rolling hills and mountain ridges. Slow down and take the scenic route through Frederick County this summer. 

 

Car coming from a Covered Bridge Take a scenic drive on Visit Frederick's Covered Bridges Driving Tour

 

Each of these activities showcases the diverse appeal of Frederick County, making it a premier destination for summer fun. Whether you're interested in the great outdoors, historical exploration, or just relaxing with a good meal and a drink, Frederick has something special to offer.

 

Explore More of Frederick County This Summer