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Baltimore may get lots of love when it comes to kid-friendly cities and activities in Maryland, but we urge families not to overlook Frederick for your next getaway.
With activities suiting those in diapers to specialty kids stores, and things like ice skating that people of all ages can enjoy, there are so many fun kids’ activities in Fredrick, MD.
So, let’s look at some of the best things to do during your family trip to Frederick.
Family Fun with Young Kids
If your recent searches look something like, “Fun activities for family and kids,” or “Places to take your kids in Maryland,” don’t worry! There are plenty of family activities waiting for you here, and we are sharing our favorites.
Little ones may be harder to plan for, but here are a few activities that are sure to be a hit even among pickier kids.
ClueIQ - An Escape Room Experience
ClueIQ offers an exhilarating escape room adventure in Frederick, MD. Ideal for families, friends, and team-building events, ClueIQ challenges participants with puzzles and clues to solve within a set time limit. With themes ranging from mystery and adventure to thrillers, every experience is unique and engaging. Whether you’re a first-timer or an escape room enthusiast, ClueIQ guarantees a memorable and fun-filled experience.
For Animal Lovers: Green Meadows Petting Farm
With nearly 300 farm animals to interact with, wagon rides, cow milking, (yes, a real cow!) and pig races, there is plenty to do here at any time of year. Seasonally, though, there’s also activities like the Trail of Jack-O-Lanterns, and Easter Egg Hunt, and Santa’s Farm Fest. Green Meadows Petting Farm is a perfect place for some seasonal fun.
10102 Fingerboard Rd. Ijamsville, MD 21754
For Thrill Seekers: Adventure Park USA
Attractions include go-kart races, a Wild West-themed park, a lazy river, gold panning, a train ride, roller coasters, laser tag, and tall rock climbing walls. Anything your family wants out of this day can be arranged. It’s safe to say that anyone, from the relaxation seekers to the adrenaline junkies will find something to keep them captivated and happy at Adventure Park USA.
11113 W. Baldwin Rd. Monrovia, MD 21770
“Children are not things to be molded, but are people to be unfolded.”
For Train Fans: Walkersville Southern Railroad
Originally built in 1872, the Pennsylvania Railroad’s train track is still offering riders a smooth experience through Maryland farmlands even today. Ride in an open flatcar or in vintage 1920s passenger cars during your ride, which averages just over an hour on Walkersville Southern Railroad. This is also a fun way to spend an adventurous day sightseeing without having to do as much running around on your feet.
34 W. Pennsylvania Ave. Walkersville, MD 21793
Family Activities for Older Kids
Families with older kids know that even if plans are more easily made on the go, impressing older kids is hard. To keep teenagers off their phones, we have some fun, interactive ideas for you.
For Adventurous Groups: Tree Trekkers
This aerial adventure and zipline park area takes a family outdoors to a whole new level, literally! Get up as high as 65 feet above the forest floor as you navigate your way through the trees on 15 trails weaving through 30 acres of forest. Courses are recommended for ages 7 and up, but there are 8 difficulty levels so that the whole family can participate in Tree Trekkers, regardless of age.
9560 Old National Pike Frederick, MD 21701
For High Tech Families: @VR
An activity that all ages will find themselves invested in, this location has 9 virtual reality stations with over 40 games each to choose from. Immersed yourselves in a world of sightseeing, action, adventure, and even sports! Groups can book together to watch each other’s separate virtual adventures at @VR– so cool!
5 Willowdale Dr., Unit B13 Frederick, MD 21701
For Nature Lovers: Cunningham Falls State Park
Located in the Catoctin Mountains, it’s clear that this is a big hit just outside of the city. The park’s namesake is a waterfall spilling 78 feet down to a gorgeous lake. 13 camper cabins and 180 campsites make this the perfect place for an overnight trip to follow up a hike, some fishing, or a day of swimming. Otherwise have a boat day or enjoy a picnic in Cunningham Falls State Park before heading back into Frederick.
14039 Catoctin Hollow Rd. Thurmont, MD 21788
Enjoy Your Visit
Of course, there are more than a few activities to do with kids of varying ages. Some special mentions include:
- South Mountain Creamery
- Warehouse Cinemas
- Catoctin Wildlife Preserve
- Catoctin Mountain Orchard
- Pedego Frederick
- Spinners Pinball Arcade
Now that you have a better idea of just how much Frederick has to offer for families, you can also check out things like the top brunch places in Frederick, MD along with plenty of other recommendations we’ve put together for you.
Are you from Frederick, or were a recent visitor and notice that we missed your favorite family activity? Let us know! @marylandrecommendations on socials.
Before your family visit
Official sources and verification
Visit Maryland family attractions
Maryland Office of Tourism
