Situated near the northwest corner of the state is Frederick Maryland. Colorful, intriguing, charming and friendly describe the city quite well. It's one of the most interesting cities to visit and being neither too small or too large, Frederick vacations are just right for most visitors. Frederick Maryland is one of the first of all the initial towns that settled in the region circa 1745. With only an hour separating the city from Baltimore, it can be a really nice day trip or overnight stay. On the contrary, if you're less fond of the big city, Staying at one of the excellent Frederick hotels and making a trip or two into Baltimore is another terrific option. While in Baltimore be sure to visit top attractions like the National Aquarium, the Babe Ruth Museum and Fort McHenry.

First settled by German farmers and later a popular route to the Ohio Valley, Frederick vacations often include walking tours of the area. These Maryland tours illustrate how the land was used in the city's history and include many Frederick attractions and sights. In Frederick travel to the 18th century farmhouse, called Schifferstadt House, is common. Visitors can see a nearly original farm as it was first built. Frederick attractions also include Rose Hill Manor, a historic home that also houses an interesting children's museum.

Tourists enjoying Frederick vacations normally manage a visit to the Monocacy National Battlefield. A visit to this historic area is generally high on the list of things to do for those interested in learning more about the background of Frederick. In Frederick travel to the battlefield exemplifies a direct link to the Civil War. Monocacy is the area where the last strong push toward the north was made in 1864 by the Confederates. This one of many major events in the Civil War was arranged to advance toward Washington D.C. Historic Barbara Fritchie House is ideal for visiting after exploring the battlefield. Fritchie is said to have daringly waved the United States flag while Confederates promenaded past her house, which is now an active museum. The poem written about the incident was read by Sir Winston Churchill when he visited the city. Camp David, a presidential mountain retreat, is also tucked into the mountains of Frederick Maryland.

Maryland Map

Two other excellent Frederick attractions include Catoctin Mountain Park and Cunningham Falls State Park. Both are brimming with beautiful hardwood forests that are especially beautiful when Fall comes around and the colors are most vibrant. There are many preserved ruins of early settlers to explore throughout each park. Both camping and hiking are possible at the parks and there are Maryland cabins in the area perfect for exploring further.

For those who intend to get in some shopping in Frederick travel to the downtown area of the city where you'll find a number of quaint antique shops and specialty stores for gifts and souvenirs. There are a number of lovely historic bridges to see in the area including steel and iron and covered bridges as well as gateway crossings. Also of particular interest during Frederick vacations are the old main streets, the Historic National Road, the C & O Canal Route and the Maryland Civil War Trails. Aside from being a wonderful little detour, Frederick Maryland is a perfect for visiting other points of interest like historic Harpers Ferry and Antietam in West Virginia.