Guide

Discover Civil War History and Centuries of Architecture in Frederick, Maryland

Frederick, Maryland—just an hour from Washington, D.C. and Baltimore—is full of historic treasures, from a charming downtown to national and state parks with hiking trails, stunning views, and unparalleled fly fishing. Scenic byways lead to the quaint Main Streets communities of Frederick, Middletown, Thurmont, Brunswick, New Market and Mt. Airy. Sip and sample wine, beer and spirits at dozens of tasting rooms. Find out what the county has to offer at the sites below.

  2. Exterior of the basilica dedicated to Elizabeth Ann Seton, a large tan brick building with a rounded roof.

    Photo By: Visit Frederick

    National Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton

    Elizabeth Ann Seton became the first American-born saint in 1975. Visit the historic site and shrine, then check out the museum, her historic homes, and the basilica dedicated to her.

  3. Stone and wood Cacotin Iron Furnace historic site, surrounded by interpretive signs, grass, and trees.

    Photo By: Visit Frederick

    Catoctin Iron Furnace

    In operation from 1776 to 1903, the Catoctin Iron Furnace was a community in itself. Founders, miners, clerks, charcoal makers, storekeepers, and teamsters came together under the iron master's supervision. Explore the furnace stack, the iron master's manor house ruins, and a self-guided trail.

  4. A bright red wood covered bridge over a creek with a stone wall-lined drive leading up to it.

    Photo By: Visit Frederick

    Roddy Road Covered Bridge

    The Roddy Road covered bridge was built in 1856 and is the smallest of the county's three historic covered bridges. Roddy Road is a single-span king post bridge measuring 40 feet long. Relax with a picnic, go fishing, or enjoy nature at this park and bridge. Then, venture to all three bridges on a covered bridge driving tour.

  5. A costumed interpreter talks to visitors, who are standing in front of a display of a Union soldier caring for a wounded soldier on a cot.

    Photo By: Visit Frederick

    National Museum of Civil War Medicine

    This museum is dedicated to telling the medical story of the Civil War—a story of care and healing, courage, and devotion amid death and destruction, laying the foundation for modern medical care.

  6. Downtown Frederick with architecture and fountain.

    Photo By: Visit Frederick

    Downtown Frederick

    Downtown Frederick is a special combination of quaint historic charm from Civil War-era buildings and stunning architecture that makes it a place like no other. Browse hundreds of specialty shops, enjoy diverse cuisine made by world-class chefs, and stroll along picturesque Carroll Creek.​

  7. A statue of Francis Scott Key holds a copy of the Star Spangled Banner in the background, and Civil War interpreters stand in a line playing drums and fifes in the foreground.

    Photo By: Visit Frederick

    Mount Olivet Cemetery/Francis Scott Key Monument and Grave Site

    Downtown Frederick’s largest cemetery is home to over 40,000 gravesites and even more stories. Some of the county’s most famous residents, including Thomas Johnson (Maryland’s first governor) and Unionist folk hero Barbara Fritchie, are honored here. The cemetery is also home to the grave and monument of Francis Scott Key.

  8. A two-story white building with a red roof at the Monocacy National Battlefield.

    Photo By: Visit Frederick

    Monocacy National Battlefield

    During the summer of 1864, the Confederacy carried out a bold plan to turn the tide of the Civil War in their favor. A visitor center, self-guided auto tour, and walking trails interpret the July 9, 1864 battle.

This story was created in collaboration with Visit Frederick.

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