Did you actually go to DC if you didn't visit the Nation's capital itself? While it is not near the venue, if you have never been to DC you absolutely need to take time to go explore. Walk the National Mall and see some of the museums and monuments such as the Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, Vietnam Veterans, Korean War, the Air and Space Museum. Visit Pennsylvania Avenue where you can see the White House and the Capitol. Get lost at Arlington National Cemetery and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. If they are open, go in and explore!
If you are up for a ~30 mile drive, Gettysburg National Military Park is not far from the hotels in Frederick. We have been to Gettysburg a few times together and it's always stunning. The Battle of Gettysburg was a turning point in the Civil War. The bloodiest battle occurred in this little area over the course of 3 days in 1863, with over 50 thousand estimated casualties. It also eventually became the site of President Lincoln's famous Gettysburg Address. Since you are so close to the site, certainly consider visiting the battlefield if you have never been.
Highly recommend you check this restaurant out! While we got lost on our way to this amazing little restaurant on our first date, we have been back to enjoy it's food several times since. You have more casual dining downstairs in Dutch's Dungeon with patio dining, a full bar, medieval decor inside, and flat-screen TV's for watching the game. The main floor and upstairs hold several dining rooms for more formal dining.
About 20 miles south of Frederick is Black Hill Regional Park. This has been a favorite location of ours for many dates. So much so that Brett knew it would be the perfect location to get down on one knee and ask Meghan to spend the rest of their lives together. It offers great views of Little Seneca Creek with a couple walking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a dog run. All free of charge!
Hard to find any bad food at this little bistro. We first went here for dinner on our 3rd date but have mostly gone back a few times now to enjoy their Sunday brunch! Fair warning, the brunch is very popular there so you have to either reserve a table online or arrive before they open at 11 on Sunday to make sure you can get a table. Try the maple-glazed bacon, sticky buns, and/or the quiche!
With over 60 different popcorn flavors, there is bound to be something good for anybody that walks in these doors! Nearly every time we have had a date in Frederick we find ourselves getting a couple free samples of new flavors and walking out with a bag or two.
See where it all began! We had our first date here, great place for both indoor and outdoor games / rides for kids of all ages. Offer Mini Bowling, Laser Tag, an Arcade, a Rockwall, Bumper Cars, Go-Karts, 3 roller coasters, two different 18 hole Mini Golf courses, Bumper Boats, and a Skycoaster.