Whether you’re on the lookout for a quick overnight couples’ getaway or an extended trip with friends or family, Frederick, Maryland, is a town that will have attractions for everyone in the travel group. Just a relatively quick drive up Route 15, this city isn’t far from the Virginia border but offers a plethora of entertainment from downtown historical and dining destinations to rural treasures.
STAY
From Airbnbs to hotels in town, Frederick has plenty to offer in terms of cozy spots to rest your head. The city leans into Marriott properties, and if you’re willing to be just a short drive away from the center of Frederick, Courtyard by Marriott Frederick at 5225 Westview Drive is the way to go. Family-friendly and boasting top-notch service, this unfussy spot is well-appointed, affordable, and offers plenty of peaceful serenity, while also being close enough to all you want to see.
For an entirely different type of stay, try a rustic trip to The Forgeman’s House in Thurmont. Built in 1920 for the purpose of housing workers at the Catoctin Furnace, the rustic space has been restored by the Catoctin Furnace Historical Society. It features modern amenities, but still maintains the original feel of the space and is the perfect place to unwind and unplug. While it’s about 20 minutes outside of town, it’s a central way to explore trails, quaint stops, and the history that the area has to offer.
DINING
For food enthusiasts, there’s no shortage of stops in Maryland’s second-largest city for food of any type. But if you’re looking for an upscale meal, you’ll want to plan to visit two of the top spots: The Wine Kitchen on the Creek and Wye Oak Tavern.
The former of these is a warm and comfortable -- yet stylish -- spot overlooking Carroll Creek (making it perfect for before- or after-dinner strolling along the water). With spunky and attentive staff, this upscale restaurant serves impeccable meals that range from a gorgeously prepared duck breast over peach mustard and king trumpet mushrooms to a beautifully seared ahi tuna garnished with coconut hibiscus furikake alongside lemon butter asparagus and Port marinated Satsuma oranges. Fans of trying various dishes will enjoy the opportunity to try three different appetizers in one starter, mac and cheese enthusiasts will love the cavatappi delicately smothered in creamy smoked gouda sauce, and couples who like shared dishes will want to indulge in the salmon en croute that also features crab and spinach in puff pastry, all with a mustard cream sauce.
For another next-level dining experience, Wye Oak Tavern is a must. Celebrity chefs Bryan and Michael Voltaggio have transformed a former chapel into a restaurant worthy of praise. The space pays homage to its former heritage by retaining the altar and showing keepsakes like an organ, while offering up elevated dishes that the brothers are known for. While entrees featuring proteins shine, the restaurant’s smaller plates and sides are also apt to steal the show. A non-traditional, yet incredible, rendition of coddies is a show-stopper, their version of steak tartare is not only delicious but also Instagram-worthy, and the cold fried chicken liver pate is a dish that turns waffles into savory deliciousness while also playfully transforming the pate into drumstick shapes for the ultimate presentation.
For visitors looking for more casual meals or drinks, there are a number of places in the area to stop into. Gravel & Grind is a bike shop and cafe that also has a cozy vibe that offers the opportunity to settle in with a companion, or work if you’re on the road.
Fifty Fifty Burger, known for its smashburgers made of 50% beef and 50% bacon (with a variety of toppings), is a solid option for stopping for a quick bite close to downtown. Find it by stepping into Olde Mother’s Brewing and heading toward the back, but feel free to stop at the counter at Olde Mother’s for brews or solid mocktails, too. Twin Bears Bakery is also another top spot, with plenty of bagels (including Cheddar Old Bay, which is definitely a Maryland-favorite), friendly faces, and cozy seating (including bar seats that overlook the glass-enclosed cook-space with bakers at work). Plus, for drinks, don’t miss out on Tenth Ward Distillery, which crafts incredible local beverages, including the state’s only absinthe.
MORE
Just strolling Frederick’s streets to enjoy its shops, architecture, and views makes for an ideal day or two in the city. But for history-lovers, a trip to the National Museum of Civil War Medicine is a must. Guided tours from knowledgeable tour guides take visitors through a historical advent of specific medicine and treatments in the United States. Nearby, for art enthusiasts, is the Delaplaine Arts Center, a gallery focusing on both national and regional artists. Plus, there are a multitude of historical and arts-centered spaces throughout the community.
To do on a Trip to Thurmont (Just Outside of Frederick)
- Guided Tour at Catoctin Furnace
- Lunch at Thurmont Country Kitchen
- Visit Catoctin Mountain Orchard for locally made goods
- Covered Bridge Tour
- Roddy Road Covered Bridge – 14760 Roddy Rd, Thurmont, MD
- Loy’s Station Covered Bridge – 13506 Old Frederick Rd. Rocky Ridge, MD
- Utica Mills Covered Bridge – 7720 Utica Rd, Thurmont, MD
Just strolling Frederick’s streets to enjoy its shops, architecture, and views makes for an ideal day or two in the city.