Walk in the footsteps of Frederick’s past residents and discover their story
Heritage Frederick offers walking tours with expert guides to lead visitors on their exploration of downtown Frederick.
Walking Tours can accommodate up to 12 people at one time. (Please note that large groups will be split into two groups for a better listening experience.)
We encourage you to reserve a space at least 2 weeks in advance.
Saturdays are pre-scheduled between April and November, and if we have the capacity to accommodate special requests we will. The museum and garden open at 10:00 AM for walk-up ticket sales and appreciation; tours start promptly at 10:30.
Weather Policy
- Walking tours will run rain or shine.
- Please come prepared with a jacket for each participant on cooler days and water bottles for each participant on warmer days.
*Tours will only be cancelled during extreme weather conditions such as excessive heat warnings or severe thunderstorms.
Step-On Tour
Length: 90 minutes
Our trained, experienced tour guides will board your bus and guide your group back in time through 275 years of Frederick history. The tour guides will lead your group through Frederick’s historic district and past some of its most notable landmarks, such as Francis Scott Key’s memorial, the National Road, Hood College, and the Hessian Barracks. This tour is the perfect opportunity to learn and view Frederick’s past from the comfort of your motor-coach. *Tour starts at the Museum of Frederick County History, 24 East Church Street, Frederick, MD 21701
Foundations of Frederick Walking Tour
Length: 90 minutes
Experience the history and beauty of downtown as knowledgeable guides share the fascinating stories that make up historic Frederick, Maryland. *Tour starts at the Museum of Frederick County History, 24 East Church Street, Frederick, MD 21701
- June 3
- June 10
- June 24 – regular 10:30 tour
- June 24 – special 10:00 AM tour, translated in Spanish
- July 1
- July 15
- July 29
- August 5
- August 26
African American History Walking Tour
Length: 90 minutes
Learn about some of the county’s outstanding sites, people, and events through a tour of the local African American community’s historical cultural and civic center. *Tours start at Burr Arts Library front steps
We’re updating this script in 2023 and hope to have it available this summer.
Art & Architecture Walking Tour
Length: 90 minutes
Look at Frederick with new eyes. Experience the history and beauty of downtown as we explore some of the popular architectural styles, local art, and history. *Tour starts at the Museum of Frederick County History, 24 East Church Street, Frederick, MD 21701
- July 8
- August 12
Frederick During the Civil War Walking Tour
Length: 90 minutes
Explore what it was like to live in Frederick during the Civil War. Stories include the last Confederate invasion of the North, the ransom of Frederick, and the Battle of Monocacy. *Tour starts at the Museum of Frederick County History, 24 East Church Street, Frederick, MD 21701
- June 17
- July 22
- August 19
Reserve Your Walking Tour Today!
We encourage pre-registration and pre-pay but walk-up is available. Upon notification of your purchase, we will contact you regarding the availability of your preferred dates and time.
Please note that your program is not scheduled until after we have confirmed your date and time. Any questions or comments regarding your program, call us at (301) 663-1188.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations should be made in at least 72 hours before the tour. We will make every attempt to reschedule the tour. Deposits are not refundable if the tour is canceled within less than 72 hours. If we must cancel a program due to extreme circumstances such as weather, we will contact you as soon as possible. Although rescheduling is not always possible, we will make every effort to do so. In the event that Heritage Frederick cancels a tour, you will receive a full refund.