FREDERICK’S MARKET STREET Founded in the mid-1700s, Frederick has always punched above its weight, which is probably why it’s consistently named one of the “Top 10 Most Liveable Downtowns in America.” And here’s a fun fact—all of those incredible qualities that make Frederick such a great place to live also make it an amazing place to visit. Sure, it’s got history, having played a pivotal role in both the Civil War and America’s story of immigration, but it’s also got beautiful, classic American architecture, welcoming walkable streets, great wineries, awesome music and theater communities, top-notch foodie restaurants, and a truly world-class and world-recognized brewing scene. Frederick’s iconic Market Street features 50 blocks of pristine 18th-and 19th-century architecture, with more than 200 specialty shops, restaurants, art galleries, and museums. Market Street is home to many a local favorite—from mouth-watering barbecue joints to antique stores with vintage clothing and irresistible retro pieces. Frederick is also home to a Public Art Trail reminiscent of childhood treasure hunts: Discover whimsical sculptures like the cast-iron Newfoundland dog guarding the portico of an 1820s building or murals like the “Earthbound,” “The Edge of Gravity,” the “Egress,” or the “Dinosaur” mural, a children’s favorite. Just off the main drag you’ll be enthralled by findings such as the Delaplaine Arts Center, a hand-forged fairy tale Art Nouveau-style steel bridge, and the “Community Bridge” mural, a trompe l’oeil work that took more than five years to complete. Speaking of history, Frederick’s location along the B&O Railroad ensured the city would be at the heart of the Civil War. Union and Confederate armies passed back and forth through the city and fought the famous Battle of Monocacy just outside of town. During the war, Union troops recovered in Frederick, and the town is now home to the National Museum of Civil War Medicine. Those same unique geographic qualities that made Frederick integral to history today make it a paradise for urban adventurers. With its welcoming, walkable, waterfront downtown, Frederick’s got everything you could want in a city getaway. And Market Street is just minutes from beautiful vineyards, flatwater and white-water kayaking, epic cycling, great hiking, and the perfect countryside for a leisurely Sunday drive. Frederick really does have it all. DESTINATION MARYLAND / 57
Maryland Official Visitors Guide 2021 Maryland Official Visitors Guide: Page 57
