Ah, fall, the absolute best season. Filled with leaves, mild weather, and cozy clothes, fall in the perfect time to explore new places. Here are a few ideas of fun fall actives in Frederick, MD, located only 45 minutes from Loyola’s Evergreen campus!
- Spend a day wandering the streets in Downtown Frederick
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Downtown Frederick is the heart and soul of Frederick. Driving into town during fall is one of my favorite sights. The colored tree-lined streets are reminiscent of the West Village in New York, obviously smaller but still warm and homey. Right now, the Mainstreet is closed off during weekends to allow for outdoor dining so you can enjoy a meal while the colorful leaves dance around you. I recommend Pizza Pretzel Creations for some classic comfort food! While you’re at it, be sure to check out the Curious Iguana Bookstore to pick up some fall reads. Enjoy the fall weather with a walk down Carroll Creek, the waterway that runs through town. You will fall (pun fully intended) in love with Frederick!
- Go apple picking and peruse the market at Catoctin Mountain Orchard
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Fun fact: I went on a field trip here in Elementary School and learned how they make their legendary cider. Seriously though, my family has visited the orchard for over a decade, and with beautiful mountain views, a quaint market, and incredible produce, what isn’t to love! Offering apple picking every weekend in September and October, Catoctin Mountain Orchard is your one-stop-shop for all things fall! Be sure to stop in the little market after apple picking for fresh produce, baked goods, local art, and delectable apple cider. And with your fresh-picked apples, I would highly recommend making homemade apple sauce, best served hot!
- Search for Covered Bridges
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Frederick’s collection of covered bridges is one of the unique things about our town. These bridges scream old world charm and are perfect for fall photo ops. While there are several throughout Frederick, my personal favorite is a crimson red bridge in Baker Park, located near Downtown. Located in the park, the covered bridge is the most picturesque place to gaze at the falling leaves and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate or coffee. It’s also super fun to drive through town and go on a scavenger hunt for the bridges.
- Go pick pumpkins at Maynes Tree Farm
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Picking pumpkins is perhaps the most quintessential fall activity. My family and I’ve always gone to Maynes for as long as I can remember; it’s also where we get our Christmas tree. Enjoy the hayride out to the patch and find your pumpkin! I’ve always said that every pumpkin has its perfect pumpkin picker. To really get into the spirit, my family goes on Halloween night. There’s something so magical about searching for your pumpkin in a quiet, mostly abandoned field. Make sure to get a few to carve as well as a couple of minis to decorate with!
- Join in the fun at Summers Farm
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Summers Farm is a farm festival that runs throughout the fall. While it’s geared to young children, people of all ages can find something to do. Check out the petting zoo and bond with horses, goats, and even a donkey. Summers Farm is also renowned for their corn maze; a complex maze carved out in different designs can be viewed from the lookout towers. This year, the labyrinth gave a fitting tribute to health care workers. Go with friends and don’t get lost or otherwise, you’ll have to climb through the corn as I did a couple of years ago!
- Enjoy a drive-in movie at the fairgrounds
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Usually, the Great Frederick Fair would be on this list, but this year, the fair was canceled for safety reasons. Still, to act as a replacement, a makeshift drive-in has been added to the fairgrounds. Showing classic movies, the drive-in is perfect if you’re missing the traditional movie theater. Bring loads of blankets and pillows, maybe even add some twinkly lights and lanterns for a cozy touch. Food trucks and concessions are available for movie night treats.
- And Finally… Go camping at Cunningham Falls State Park
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Okay, confession time, I’ve never actually been camping, but Cunningham Falls is a stunning park with nice campgrounds. Snuggle around a fire and eat loads of s’ mores. The next day, hike through the falls and work off the s’mores feast. If the day is nice, you can even take a dip into the falls. The trees are also among the most colorful in town!
I hope this list provides some inspiration for all you Marylanders seeking some new seasonal activities. And no matter where you are, I wish all Greyhounds a safe and fun fall!