11113 W. Baldwin Rd., Monrovia; (301) 865-6800; adventureparkusa.com

A small amusement park and arcade just outside of New Market complete with laser tag, mini golf, roller coasters, and refreshments. It is an excellent place to host birthday parties and other events!

4 W. Main St., New Market; (301) 865-6500; originalplayhouse.com

The Original Playhouse is a place for parents to engage with their children (ages 3-9) in an environment filled with only play-based learning tools and toys. It is available for private parties.

13019 Catoctin Furnace Rd., Thurmont; (301) 271-4922; catoctinwildlifepreserve.com

A 100-acre zoo and wildlife preserve with safari truck rides, a petting zoo, and gift shop.

15036 N. Franklinville Rd., Thurmont; (301) 271-2737; catoctinmountainorchard.com

A pick-your-own orchard in the Thurmont countryside. It’s a great place to go on a nice sunny day to pick fresh produce with your family and to pay a visit to the Catoctin Mountain Farn Market afterwards to peruse seasonal baked goods and other treats.

5501 Detrick Rd., Mt Airy; (301) 865-3515; gaverfarm.com

A historic family farm that hosts seasonal activities like hayrides, pumpkin patches, cut-your-own Christmas trees, flower picking, and more. If you pay for a day pass, the whole family can enjoy Gaver’s playgrounds, petting zoo, and duck pond. If you get hungry, they have their own food counter and farmers' market, too.

9560 Old National Pike, Frederick; (301) 888-9735; treetrekkersmd.com

Frederick’s first outdoor aerial adventure and zipline park. A great adventure for families who enjoy a good thrill!

10 N. East St., Suite #B, Frederick; (301) 624-4030; imadethispottery.com

A paint-your-own pottery studio in Downtown Frederick. They have pottery for all ages and host tons of fun special events like “Ladies Night.” Pottery painters are encouraged to bring their own food, drinks, and accompanying utensils for maximum enjoyment.

924 N. East St., Frederick; (301) 360-5971; escapethisfrederick.com

An escape room in Downtown Frederick with five different adventures to choose from. Team up as a family to solve puzzles, unlock the hidden clues, and escape your room before your timer runs out!

4725 Arcadia Dr., Frederick; (240) 651-0160; 4dfun.com

A center for all things fun, including bowling, arcade games, laser tag, and escape rooms. When you’re ready to take a play break, there is a bar and dining menu full of delicious pizzas, sandwiches, and entrées.

21 Stadium Dr., Frederick; (301) 662-0013; frederickkeys.com

Check the Frederick Keys season schedule, and take the kids out to the ball game! Enjoy the spectacle of America’s favorite pastime while enjoying classic stadium treats like hot dogs, popcorn, and ice cream. At the end of the game, watch everyone’s eyes light up when the fireworks begin!

632 Contender Way, Frederick; (240) 415-8875; sophieandmadigansplayground.com

Built as a memorial by bereaved parents after a personal tragedy in which they lost their two daughters, this playground has become a powerful symbol of healing and childhood joy. It is a colorful and whimsical fairytale-themed playground that children and parents alike will hesitate to leave.

34 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Walkersville; (301) 898-0899; wsrr.org

A volunteer-run historic railroad is still running! Embarking from Walkersville, the Walkersville Southern takes passengers on scenic train rides through the historic Monocacy Valley. They host special seasonal train rides in addition to Civil War reenactments, catered meals, and parties.

2929 Sumantown Rd., Middletown; (301) 600-2051; recreater.com/151/Catoctin-Creek-Nature-Center

Catoctin Creek Nature Center is an excellent place for children to learn about their local environment and ecosystem. There are hands-on displays, classrooms, and live animal exhibits inside the Nature Center as well as a playground, walking trails, and pavilion on the outdoor grounds of Catoctin Creek Park.