Frederick makes an immediate impression with its skyline, and the clustered spires of its old downtown churches. Steeped in Civil War history, this medium-small city is best known for its arts advocacy through the Frederick Arts Council.
As a result, it has a rich arts culture. In 2010, Forbes magazine named Frederick one of America’s “Greatest Neighborhoods.”
What to do here?
Frederick is a must-visit destination for history-lovers. The sites of two bloody Civil War battles are preserved at Monocacy National Park and South Mountain State Park, and the National Museum of Civil War Medicine and the house of Barbara Fritchie are based in the city. Arts enthusiasts have just as much to see, as there are more than 10 galleries downtown.
The Cultural Arts Center, Weinberg Center for the Arts and the Maryland Ensemble Theatre are all located within 50 feet of each other, and there is a variety of public art to enjoy, including the “mural bridge” painted by William Cochran. There are great dining places, including two restaurants by former “Top Chef” star Bryan Voltaggio.
