Family Fun for Young Kids

Let your inner-child come alive through creative art, play and a scoop (or two) of ice-cream to make your day!


Fish, and flowers, and water, oh my! Take a relaxing walk down this beautiful and functional creek to observe the different animals and flowers that call it home. Depending on the time of year you are exploring, you will also be able to admire incredible sculptures or illuminated boats to make this mile and a half long stretch that much more magical.

There’s no better place for pretend than Downtown Frederick! Head over to the East 3rd St Park for a few hours of fun on the playground equipment. You can even grab lunch or a snack from your favorite downtown restaurant and make a picnic out of it on one of the picnic tables offered.

The Delaplaine Arts Center has a knack for entertaining all ages! From their extensive class and camp schedule to the exciting galleries with local and regional work on display, this arts center serves as a gathering place and destination for a wonderful family day downtown.

Whether you’ve got a few minutes or a few hours to spare, Dancing Bear is a battery-free toy store is a must on your list of places to stop as you’re out and about. From events to daily activities, this hands-on toy store has something to involve everyone in the day’s play!

Who screams for ice cream? We certainly do! As you’re exploring downtown, it’s always a good idea to drop in somewhere for a frozen treat.

Frederick Fudge & Ice Cream | 253 E Church St
South Mountain Creamery | 50 Citizen’s Way, Suite 101
Pretzel & Pizza Creations | 210 N Market St
North Market Pop Shop | 241 N Market St
Hoffman Brothers | 4 N Carroll St
The Perfect Truffle | 25 N Market St

Young girl buying an ice cream cone

latte cup with teddy bear design

Let’s be clear, a day with the whole family has been fun but certainly tiring! Stop in at any of our downtown beverage shops for a quick pick-me-up to steer clear of the need for a nap.

Beans & Bagels | 49 E Patrick St
Cafe Nola | 4 E Patrick St
The Perfect Blend | 31 W Patrick St
Frederick Coffee Co | 100 N East St
Market St Boba & Beans | 35 N Market St
Starbucks | 104 N Market St
Ibiza Cafe | 8 W 4th St
Gravel & Grind | 15 E 6th St

Curious minds of all ages are welcome at Earthly Elements! Entertain the whole family for hours exploring the beautiful and unique rocks of all shapes, sizes, and colors at Downtown Frederick’s very own rock shop. From collectors to admirers, this is certainly a must-see during your day out with the family.

Curious Iguana is downtown’s very own independent bookstore and certainly has something for everyone in your crew. This shop contains an adult and kid section so you can divide and conquer. Or stop by I Made This! Pottery Studio

Check out any of our five parking garages downtown at parkfrederick.org and make plans to see this evening’s sunset from new heights. From the top of any of the five decks, you can get a front row seat to the most beautiful view in Frederick and snap a family photo!