Fredrick, MD

After our stop at Frostburg, our band of travelers decided we were hungry for more than just cheesey fries. Also, Michael remembered about a really neat area in Fredrick, MD that he had visited on tour with a music group from Messiah College (our alma mater) that he wanted to share with all of us. So we headed to Fredrick.

I have to admit I've never been to the town, though I've heard a lot about it, and I must say that I HIGHLY recommend it as a weekend excursion for families of all ages.

The historic district is gorgeous - tons of historical townhomes, unique shops, tasty restaurants, and a breathtaking promenade.

The city feels very safe - middle school kids in groups are skateboarding, biking, and walking up and down the promenade well into the late evening and the streets are just crowded enough so you know you're in a decent section of town.

Parking is cheap - $1 for an hour - which was all we needed to see what Michael had wanted us to see.

All along the river is a man-made promenade complete with stone bridges and BEAUTIFUL artwork. There are shops, restaurants, and art schools along with the public library all along the walk and the water in the evening reflects the sunset and streetlamps, giving everything a romantic glow. The kids had a great time taking in the sites, and though the restaurants were closed by 7 PM on a Sunday night in the historical district of downtown, just five minutes away we found hundreds of restaurants open late and the local mall.