Frederick with Kids
Family Activities Guide
Frederick is a fantastic destination for families! From waterfalls and zoos to interactive museums and kid-friendly breweries, discover the best activities for kids of all ages in Frederick County.
Find Activities by Age
Top 10 Family Activities
Cunningham Falls State Park
Maryland's largest cascading waterfall plus swimming, hiking, and nature programs. The falls are accessible via an easy 1-mile trail suitable for families.
📍 Thurmont (25 min from Frederick)
Catoctin Zoo & Wildlife Preserve
Over 300 animals from 100+ species in a natural setting. Less crowded than big city zoos with a focus on endangered species and conservation education.
📍 Thurmont (25 min)
Monocacy National Battlefield
Interactive museum and auto tour of this Civil War battlefield. Kids can earn Junior Ranger badges and learn history through engaging exhibits.
📍 Frederick (10 min)
Weinberg Center for the Arts
Historic 1926 theater offering family-friendly shows, movies, and performances throughout the year. The ornate interior is worth the visit alone.
📍 Downtown Frederick
Rose Hill Manor Park & Museum
Children's museum in a historic manor house. Kids can explore hands-on exhibits about 18th-century farm life, plus outdoor play areas.
📍 Frederick
Adventure Park USA
Family fun center with go-karts, mini golf, laser tag, roller coaster, and arcade. Great for birthday parties and rainy day activities.
📍 New Market (15 min)
Carroll Creek Park
Downtown's centerpiece features a canal walk, fountains, public art, and plenty of space to run around. Perfect for burning energy between activities.
📍 Downtown Frederick
Frederick County Public Library
Multiple branches offer children's programs, story times, maker spaces, and extensive kids' book collections. Free air conditioning in summer!
📍 Multiple locations
Downtown Playgrounds
Several parks within walking distance of downtown including Baker Park's large playground with slides, climbing structures, and open fields.
📍 Downtown Frederick
Smoketown Creekside Brewery
Family-friendly brewery with large outdoor space, creek access, sand volleyball, and lawn games. Wood-fired pizza kitchen on-site.
📍 Jefferson (20 min)
🍽️ Kid-Friendly Restaurants
Brewer's Alley
AmericanHigh chairs, kids menu, casual
Pistarro's
PizzaAuthentic pizza, casual atmosphere
Cafe Nola
CafeBrunch favorite, outdoor seating
Isabella's
TapasShareable plates, downtown location
Dutch's Daughter
AmericanFamily restaurant, varied menu
🌸 Activities by Season
Spring
- Easter egg hunts
- Farmers market visits
- Outdoor playground time
- Wildflower walks
Summer
- Swimming at Cunningham Falls
- Splash pads
- Outdoor concerts
- Ice cream downtown
Fall
- Pumpkin picking
- Apple picking
- Fall festivals
- Hiking with fall colors
Winter
- Holiday events downtown
- Indoor play places
- Library programs
- Museum visits
💡 Family Tips
🅿️ Parking with Kids
Carroll Creek Garage has elevators and is stroller-friendly. Street parking can be tight with car seats - garages are easier.
🍼 Baby Facilities
Most downtown restaurants have changing tables. The library and Wegmans are good backup spots for nursing/changing.
☔ Rainy Day Backup
Library, Adventure Park USA, and shopping downtown are great indoor options when weather doesn't cooperate.
🎒 Pack Snacks
While there are plenty of dining options, having snacks for the car and between activities keeps everyone happy.
⏰ Timing
Start early before kids get tired. Many outdoor activities are best in the morning before afternoon heat.
💰 Budget Tips
Many parks and the library are free. Pack lunches to save money - there are great picnic spots throughout downtown.
📅 Sample Family Day Itinerary
Alternative: For a full-day adventure, head to Cunningham Falls or the Zoo in the morning, then downtown for lunch and afternoon activities.
Plan Your Family Visit
Frederick welcomes families! With plenty of free activities, walkable downtown, and attractions for all ages, it's the perfect destination for a family day trip or weekend getaway.