Friendsville MarylandATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Friendsville, Maryland.
1. Kendall Trail
SCENIC HISTORIC HIKING PATH
Kendall Trail is one of the most scenic hikes in Garrett County, running along the Youghiogheny River for a 3-mile out-and-back journey. The trail follows an 1890s era railbed to the old logging community called Kendall, which was once a busy mining and lumber town. Visitors should wear appropriate footwear as the trail can be muddy at times while enjoying the natural beauty and historical remnants of the area.
2. Youghiogheny River
WORLD-CLASS WHITEWATER ADVENTURES
The Youghiogheny River offers world-class whitewater rafting and kayaking that attracts enthusiasts from around the globe. The river features challenging class IV/V rapids that must be treated with respect due to their difficulty and potential danger. Visitors can book with several outfitters who run professional rafting and kayaking trips on this renowned waterway.
3. Deep Creek Cellars
LOCAL ARTISANAL WINERY
Deep Creek Cellars is the only winery in Garrett County, offering visitors a unique vineyard experience in the Friendsville area. The winery specializes in drier wine varieties rather than sweet wines, making it particularly appealing to wine enthusiasts with sophisticated palates. Visitors can enjoy not only wine tasting but also the beautiful scenery and opportunity to meet the passionate owners.
4. Youghiogheny Overlook Welcome Center
VISITOR INFORMATION HUB
The Youghiogheny Overlook Welcome Center serves as an essential information hub for visitors to Friendsville and the surrounding Garrett County area. The center provides panoramic views of the Youghiogheny River valley, offering a perfect introduction to the region's natural beauty. Travelers can gather maps, brochures, and local recommendations to enhance their exploration of the area.
5. Schoolhouse Earth
UNIQUE GIFT SHOPPING
Schoolhouse Earth is a highly-rated specialty and gift shop in Friendsville, earning a 4.8/5 rating from visitors. The shop offers a curated selection of unique items, local crafts, and memorable souvenirs that showcase the region's character and craftsmanship. Visitors appreciate the distinctive shopping experience that stands out from typical tourist shops.
6. The Fox Hardware Store
HISTORIC RETAIL LANDMARK
The Fox Hardware Store represents a piece of Friendsville's commercial history and continues to serve the community today. This traditional hardware store maintains the charm and personal service of a bygone era while offering practical supplies for locals and visitors alike. The store stands as a testament to Friendsville's enduring small-town character and entrepreneurial spirit.
7. Precision Rafting Expeditions
EXPERT RIVER ADVENTURES
Precision Rafting Expeditions is a highly-rated outfitter offering kayaking, canoeing, and river rafting experiences with an impressive 4.9/5 customer rating. The company provides expert guidance for navigating the challenging Youghiogheny River rapids with safety and excitement. Their experienced guides ensure memorable adventures for both beginners and experienced whitewater enthusiasts.
8. Friend Family Association Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Friend Family Association Museum showcases historic artifacts and records from Friendsville, named after founder John Friend. The museum offers insights into the town's 250+ year history, from its Native American origins through its development as a logging, mining, and eventually tourism destination. Visitors can explore exhibits including large historic building photos and experience virtual tours of oral histories and marked historical sites.
9. Friendsville Community Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION AREA
Friendsville Community Park provides residents and visitors with a peaceful outdoor recreation area along the water. The park offers green spaces for relaxation, picnicking, and community gatherings in the heart of Maryland's oldest settlement. Visitors can enjoy river views while appreciating the natural beauty that has drawn people to the area since 1765.
10. Bear Creek
NATURAL WATERWAY HIGHLIGHT
Bear Creek is a notable natural feature that contributes to Friendsville's picturesque landscape and outdoor recreation opportunities. The creek provides additional fishing spots and scenic views for nature enthusiasts visiting the area. Its waters eventually join the Youghiogheny River, forming part of the region's important watershed system.
11. Historic Grist Mill
INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE SITE
The old grist mill in Friendsville stands as a reminder of the town's industrial heritage and agricultural history. This historic structure once played a vital role in processing grain for the local community during Friendsville's development as an economic center. Today, the mill serves as a tangible connection to the town's past when water-powered industries were essential to rural communities.
12. Deep Creek Lake
PREMIER REGIONAL DESTINATION
Deep Creek Lake is Maryland's largest freshwater lake and a premier destination located near Friendsville in Garrett County. The lake offers year-round recreation including boating, fishing, swimming in summer, and ice fishing and skiing in winter. Visitors can enjoy 69 miles of shoreline surrounded by mountain scenery that makes it a perfect complement to Friendsville's river activities.
13. Swallow Falls State Park
MAJESTIC WATERFALL DESTINATION
Swallow Falls State Park, located near Friendsville, features Maryland's highest free-falling waterfall, the 53-foot Muddy Creek Falls. The park encompasses ancient hemlock groves and rocky gorges carved by the Youghiogheny River and Muddy Creek. Visitors can explore well-maintained hiking trails that provide access to multiple scenic waterfalls including Swallow Falls, Muddy Creek Falls, and Tolliver Falls.
14. Mill Run Camping
RIVERSIDE OUTDOOR GETAWAY
Mill Run Camping offers a natural retreat for outdoor enthusiasts with camping facilities along Yough Lake near Friendsville. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the lake, fishing, and easy access to the region's abundant outdoor recreation options. The campground provides a convenient base for exploring Friendsville's attractions while enjoying the simplicity of riverside camping.
15. Friendsville Town Hall
HISTORIC CIVIC CENTER
Friendsville Town Hall serves as both the administrative center and a repository of local history for Maryland's oldest settlement. The building features large photographic displays highlighting historic buildings from the town's 250th anniversary celebration in 2015. Visitors can learn about the town's rich heritage dating back to 1765 when John Friend first settled the area originally known as Friend's Fortune.