By Maya Barnes
The Commuter
Despite the recent bouts of rain and cold weather, summer is on its way. It’s almost time to soak up the sun and have a good time
So, here is a list of 10 fun things to do in Frederick.
1. Visit Gambrill State Park
If you like beautiful views, this one is for you. Gambrill State Park, 8602 Gambrill Park Road, Frederick, is home to a nice recreation area with picnic tables, multiple overlook points that face both Middletown and Frederick, and well-maintained hiking trails. https://www.visitfrederick.org/listing/gambrill-state-park-campsites/2111/
2. Eat/Shop on Market Street
Frederick is home to a lively downtown area. Market Street boasts delicious local restaurants and small businesses. You can get anything from Italian food to Indian food, boba, a delicious breakfast, or fresh pastries. After eating, you can walk around and purchase clothes and other trinkets from the many shops located downtown. https://www.visitfrederick.org/downtown-frederick/
3. Walk Around Baker Park
If leisure is your go-to, walking around Baker Park, 12 N. Bentz St., Frederick, is a great option. There’s a path for walkers, joggers, and bicyclists as well as grassy areas for you to lay down a blanket and relax. Baker Park is also dog friendly so bring your furry friends along with you. https://www.visitfrederick.org/things-to-do/parks-and-outdoor-recreation/local-parks/baker-park/
4. Visit Catoctin Mountain Orchard
Opening back up in May, this orchard is vast but still has that close-knit feel. There are many things to purchase in the shop such as freshly baked apple pies, jams, and honey.
Catoctin Mountain Orchard, 15036 N Franklinville Road, Thurmont. http://www.catoctinmountainorchard.com/
5. Stroll along Carroll Creek Linear Park
As the days get longer, many amateur musicians flock to Carroll Creek in downtown Frederick to play some tunes for passersby. While you listen to some great music, you can take a look at the geese and ducks that also call Carroll Creek their home.
6. Watch A Frederick Keys Baseball Game
Frederick is also home to a minor league baseball team. The Frederick Keys have a busy schedule this year starting in June. They play at Nymeo Field at Harry Grove Stadium, 21 Stadium Drive, Frederick. https://www.milb.com/frederick
7. Visit Monocacy National Battlefield
If you like history, Monocacy National Battlefield, 5201 Urbana Pike, Frederick, is a must. This expansive battlefield has monuments spread out all over. Visit the free Visitor’s Center for more information, but don’t forget to bring your water as there is a lot of walking. https://www.nps.gov/mono/planyourvisit/index.htm
8. Catch a Performance At The Weinberg Center For The Arts
This is the only indoor location on this list and for a good reason: the Weinberg Center is an iconic attraction in downtown Frederick. The upcoming schedule is jam-packed with plays, live musical and acrobatic performances, silent movies, classic movies, and a live speaker series. The Weinberg is at 20 W. Patrick St. Frederick. https://weinbergcenter.org/
9. Visit a winery or brewery
For the 21 and older crowd, definitely visit one of the many wineries or breweries in Frederick. Experience local craft beers over a game of cornhole or sample various wines overlooking rolling hills. Here is a list of county breweries: https://www.visitfrederick.org/eat-and-drink/breweries/ For wineries and vineyards visit here: https://www.visitfrederick.org/eat-and-drink/breweries/
10. Visit Cunningham Falls State Park
Cunningham Falls State Park is home to the largest cascading waterfall in Maryland. Bring some towels and snacks and enjoy a nice “beach day” at the lake. The state park is at 14039 Catoctin Hollow Road, Thurmont. https://www.visitfrederick.org/things-to-do/parks-and-outdoor-recreation/national-and-state-parks/cunningham-falls-state-park/
