activities Archives

Top 10 Places to Visit Near Green Valley MD in 2022

by ClueIQ Team | Jan 20, 2022 | Green Valley MD

Ready to explore Maryland’s hidden gems?

Green Valley, MD, is one of the prettiest towns in Frederick County and a must-visit if you enjoy exploring the countryside.

With just over 12,000 people, this quaint town is surrounded by major cities.

While Frederick is a stone’s throw to the west, Washington DC and Baltimore are a few hours to the south and east, respectively.

The town is close to several fascinating tourist attractions.

And these are our top recommendations if you’re ever looking for things to do near Green Valley.

The 10 Best Places to Visit Near Green Valley, MD

How many of these are on your 2022 travel bucket list?

Catoctin Mountains
Cunningham Falls State Park
Schifferstadt Architectural Museum
Clue IQ Escape Room
Crystal Grottoes Caverns
Monocacy National Battlefield
Weinberg Center for the Arts
Barbara Fritchie House
Hootch & Banter
Hessian Barracks

Catoctin Mountains

An integral part of the Appalachian Mountain range, the Catoctin Mountains form the easternmost section of the Blue Ridge Mountain.

The area offers excellent views of the surrounding landscape and boasts a massive flora and fauna population.

Owens Green Campground is a cozy nook perfect for camping with a close group of friends, family, or a date.

You could also organize a picnic on a sunny spring day, go hiking, or explore the scenic trails on a bike.

There’s a lot to explore out here. So, drop by the Visitor Center and research the facilities for the best experience.

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Cunningham Falls State Park

Famous for outdoor activities like swimming, fishing, hiking, and canoeing, Cunningham Falls State Park is a nature lover’s delight!

The best time to visit the park is between April and October, when the water level is higher.

Cunningham Falls State Park is split into two distinct regions, the William Houck Area and the Manor Area.

While the falls, lake, and camping spots fall in the William Houck Area, the Scales and Tales Aviary and the historic Catoctin Iron Furnace are part of the Manor Area.

The hiking trails range from short steep climbs to long, winding paths.

Swimming is permitted on a few stretches of Huntington Creek Lake, while hunting is allowed throughout the land.

Schifferstadt Architectural Museum

Perhaps the best remaining example of German colonial architecture in the USA, Schifferstadt Architectural Museum, is a stone house constructed in 1758.

The building features several fascinating and distinctive architectural elements from the era and is one of the first houses in Frederick.

You can learn more about the history and whereabouts of Frederick’s early settlers here.

Don’t forget to take a stroll around the Heritage Garden, a square kitchen garden adjacent to the house, which a dedicated Master Gardner maintains along with a group of enthusiastic volunteers.

Clue IQ Escape Room

Escape rooms are an excellent source of pure adrenaline rush.

If you’ve never played an escape game before, let’s change that on your next visit to Green Valley.

Clue IQ, the best escape room in Frederick, is located a stone’s throw from Green Valley. So, gather your squad and drop in for some heart-racing adventure.

Pick your favorite escape room game from our vast list of challenges and test your limits in a controlled environment before time runs out.

Escape IQ has plenty of novel puzzles to keep you busy.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your slots now!

Crystal Grottoes Caverns

This exotic cave network has the most rock formations per square foot. It’s also the only cave in Maryland open to the public.

Crystal Grottoes Caverns abound in vast columns of drape-like stalactites, and the guides explain each exhibit in great detail.

Each tour is approximately 30-minutes long. And certain sections of the cave can take a bit longer to explore as they get relatively narrow in parts.

Certain areas are barely 4 feet tall. So, you might have to crouch to avoid hitting your head on the cave walls.

Monocacy National Battlefield

The site of the legendary Battle of Monocacy, this place prevented the siege on Washington during the Civil War.

The museum is spread over 1500 acres of land and exhibits several memorabilia and buildings reminiscent of the era.

Monocacy National Battlefield sits on the banks of River Monocacy and is right on the borders of Frederick.

The staff here are accommodating and will help you plan an educational and inspiring trip upon your visit.

Weinberg Center for the Arts

The hub of performing arts in Frederick, Weinberg Center for the Arts is a historic movie palace from the early 90s.

The venue hosts several professional musicals, dances, theatre performances, and family entertainment throughout the year.

The season typically starts from September and continues till May of the following year.

Apart from enjoying a live show, visitors can also join a free tour of the property to get a feel for the backstage.

Free tours are hosted weekly and last between 45 minutes to an hour.

A professional guide leads the group and occasionally spills exciting secrets about the iconic venue.

Barbara Fritchie House

The iconic house of Barbara Fritchie, the heroine of John Greenleaf Whittier’s poem, is a must-visit.

While this used to be a museum between 1927 and 2018, the place is currently an Airbnb, meaning you can stay here for the night.

The owners did a great job of offering patrons the latest amenities while preserving the authentic charm of the place.

The highlights of your stay include authentic Barbara Fritchie memorabilia, heirlooms, and antiques.

The house is a must-visit when in Green Valley.

Hootch & Banter

Despite opening its doors to the public only in 2015, Hootch & Banter has attained cult status in Frederick County.

Located in the historic South Market Street building known locally as The Canal Bar & Grille or Kidd’s Café, this magnificent restaurant breathes life into the area.

Guests will love the casual atmosphere combined with upscale food.

An enlarged photo of the Kidd family hangs on the restaurant’s central wall celebrating the venue’s history.

The menu includes a fine selection of wine, liquor, and cocktails, while the food emphasizes fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

Hessian Barracks

A historic barracks and school building built during the French and Indian war, the Hessian Barracks and School was occupied by British General Edward Braddock.

There is further proof that the area was later used as a prison.

The history is long and exciting. From a state armory to a hospital and later as a silkworm farm, the barracks served several purposes over the years.

The Hessian Barracks was used as the Agricultural Fairgrounds and the Maryland Institute for the Deaf.

However, it has been officially listed as a historic place since 1971.

Are You Ready for an Epic Vacation?

If you’ve never been to Green Valley, MD, there are several fascinating places to explore nearby.

Here’s an interesting blog on the top twelve things to do in Damascus. We have plenty more on our blogs page.

If you like this blog and find it informative, let us know in the comments section below.

If you have suggestions for us, contact us. We’d love to hear your feedback!

10 Amazing Things to do in Mount Airy MD in 2022

by ClueIQ Team | Jan 15, 2022 | Mount Airy MD

Here’s everything you need to live the country life and explore some of Maryland’s prettiest counties like a local.

Sandwiched between Frederick and Carroll counties is picturesque Mount Airy, a small Maryland town surrounded by majestic countryside.

The region is famous for its wineries and craft breweries, most of which locally produce hops and grapes.

The locals perfectly juggle urban and rural lifestyles.

For instance, you can pick up farm-fresh milk, ice cream, and other dairy products, grow your vegetables, and still order a hearty dinner at a posh restaurant, attend pottery classes at Firehouse Pottery & Arts, or play an escape room game.

The 10 Best Things to do in Mount Airy Maryland in 2022

These are the top 10 local attractions in Mount Airy, MD:

Black Ankle Vineyards
Gaver Farm
Linganore Winecellars
Elk Run Vineyards
MISCellaneous Distillery
Clue IQ Escape Rooms
Milkhouse Brewery
Audrey Carroll Audubon Sanctuary
The Links at Challedon
Firehouse Pottery & Arts

Black Ankle Vineyards

Located at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Black Ankle Vineyards is renowned for having one of the best tasting rooms in the region.

Participate in the elaborate wine tasting sessions on the fly or order your favorite beverage at the table.

Complimentary tours are organized every weekend. You can also buy wine by the glass or bottle and enjoy it on the property.

Visitors are encouraged to bring home-cooked food and enjoy a picnic on the grounds.

You can order finger foods like bread, cheese, or meat in the tasting room.

Gaver Farm

An established family farm that has been around since 1978, Gaver Farm is the best place to visit for a cozy day-long excursion.

Schedule your visit between September and December to participate in the elaborate Fall Fun Festival, featuring a corn maze, plenty of kids’ games, and a petting zoo.

Gaver Farm offers some fantastic entertainment for the entire family.

Take the kids to pick apples and pumpkins as soon as they’re in season, and enjoy the free hayrides on the weekends.

Celebrate the holiday season at Gaver Farm between November 29 and December 23 every year.

You can pick and harvest Christmas trees right from the fields, pay, and take them home.

Linganore Winecellars

Nestled in a majestic estate right outside Mount Airy, Linganore Winecellars is a family-owned business sitting across 230-acres of prime country land.

The winery has been producing some of the region’s finest wines since 1976. It produces over thirty wines, including red, white, sweet, and dry varieties.

Visitors can also buy honey and fruit wines for an additional kick.

The winery operates seven days a week except for public holidays.

You can join one of the several complimentary guided tours hosted every day.

Hang around till lunch for an elaborate wine tasting session.

Elk Run Vineyards

Perhaps the best-known winery on the East Coast, Elk Run Vineyards, is famous for producing high-quality wine using a combination of traditional and modern techniques.

The tasting room is open throughout the week, and the staff will gladly suggest a beverage based on a quick read of your taste.

Visit during the weekends for a complimentary tour of the property.

If you have a group of over ten people, the staff at Elk Run will organize a special tour with a wine and cheese tasting session during the afternoon.

Designated picnic areas are open to the public all year long, while you can enjoy live music between May and October.

MISCellaneous Distillery

Known for its range of award-winning spirits, MISCellaneous Distillery is owned and operated by a husband-wife duo.

You must take a tour of the 2000-square-foot facility where the distillation occurs and drop by the tasting room for a complimentary sample.

Visitors can also get behind the bar and try their hands at whipping up a novel concoction. While the visiting hours vary upon the season, you can request a private tour outside operating hours.

MISCellaneous Distillery sources most of the grains locally from nearby counties.

Clue IQ Escape Rooms

Located in nearby Frederick, Clue IQ is the best escape room in Maryland.

Drop in with friends or family and enjoy 60-minutes of pure adrenaline rush.

Pick your favorite escape room game from a long list of exciting puzzles and test your limits in an immersive and safe environment.

Clue IQ also hosts a range of events like corporate team-building sessions, college reunions, and more.

You can also celebrate a birthday, date night, or a private event at escape room IQ.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your slots today!

Milkhouse Brewery

Built on a 47-acre plot, Milkhouse Brewery is one of the most famous breweries in Mount Airy.

Visitors can choose from a rotation of six different beers in the tasting room, and most of the ingredients are locally sourced.

You can bring your food or buy from an assortment of cheeses, bread, and meat from the store.

Sparkling wine is also available on tap as outside alcohol isn’t permitted.

The brewery is open to the public between Thursday and Sunday and often hosts special events like live performances and special appearances from celebrated food trucks.

Audrey Carroll Audubon Sanctuary

Spread across 129-acres of prime land, Audrey Carroll Audubon Sanctuary was formerly a private farm donated to a local conservation society during the late 90s.

The resulting nature reserve is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.

You can often spot spotted turtles in the marshes and butterflies throughout the fields.

The conservatory is home to over 155 bird species, so don’t forget to carry a pair of binoculars.

Long winding, well-maintained trails meander through the property. And guided tours are organized every month.

While the sanctuary is open to the public throughout the year, its highlights include the annual spring and fall bird migrations, the native plant sale in April, and the monarch butterfly tagging in September.

The Links at Challedon

The Links of Challedon is a par-72 public golf course featuring eighteen beautiful water holes and large green open spaces suitable for brushing up on your golfing skills.

Beginners can sign up for personal lessons while the course has a magnificent practice area for putting green.

Other attractions include a practice sand trap and a driving range.

Golfers can take a welcome break near the 18th hole at the restaurant and bar that serves some of the best cuisines in the region.

You can also book the clubhouse for a private event, which can accommodate up to 50 people at a time.

Firehouse Pottery & Arts

Firehouse Pottery & Arts is an ideal place for letting your creative instincts flow.

Located a few miles from Mount Airy, the studio offers many creative art & craft classes like paint your pottery, paintings on canvas, glass fusion workshops, and more, depending on the time of year.

You can even participate in an exclusive painting party or a seasonal-themed art-making night.

Regular events include sip and paint classes in the evenings, while you can book the venue for special occasions like bridal showers, kids’ birthday parties, and more.

Are You Ready for an Awesome Vacation?

Mount Airy is home to some excellent rural adventures.

From the abundant countryside to excellent wine tasting opportunities, and mesmerizing sanctuaries to a blood-pumping escape room, there is no shortage of adventure here.

If you’re visiting Mount Airy MD for the first time, you should definitely check out some of the local attractions.

These are the top seven getaways in Maryland.

If you enjoyed this blog and would love to read more, follow our blogs page for more such awesome content.

For queries, get in touch now!

15 Fantastic Family-Friendly Weekend Activities Near Frederick

by ClueIQ Team | Jan 10, 2022 | Frederick MD

Frederick doesn’t disappoint if you’re looking for adventure!

Frederick, MD, is packed with countless fascinating family-friendly activities.

As the gateway to western Maryland, the area offers excellent mountainous views and is home to several parks and nature reserves.

Other touristy attractions include recreational facilities, wineries, restaurants, and antique shops.

If you’re looking for fun things to do with the family on weekends, here are our top fifteen recommendations.

Top 15 Family-Friendly Things to do Near Frederick this Weekend

Best known for its Civil War history, there’s much more to discover in Frederick than what meets the eye.

These are our top contenders:

Visit the National Museum of Civil War Medicine
Pay Your Respects at the Monocacy National Battlefield
Pick up Antiques and Civil War Artifacts
Attend a Frederick Keys Game
Stroll Around Baker Park
Visit an Escape Room Frederick MD
Ride a Bike Through Historic Frederick
Explore the Schifferstadt Architectural Museum
Hop Aboard a Vintage Train on the Walkersville Southern Railroad
Drop by the Flying Dog Brewery
Go on a Wine Tour
Spend a Day at the Rose Hill Manor Park & Museums
Visit Cunningham Falls State Park
Enjoy Fine Dining in Downtown Frederick
Watch a Live Performance at the Weinberg Center for the Arts

Visit the National Museum of Civil War Medicine

Located in the heart of Frederick, the National Museum of Civil War Medicine has five galleries filled with 1,200+ exhibits illustrating the medical story during the American Civil War.

You’ll learn everything there is to know about medical technology and practices adopted by the military at the time.

Drop by the research facility and gift shop within the premises and pick up a souvenir.

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Pay Your Respects at the Monocacy National Battlefield

Monocacy National Battlefield is a historic Civil War site where the legendary Battle of Monocacy Junction was fought on June 9, 1864.

The battle was among the last to be fought on Union territory and saved Washington D.C. from the impending assault.

Stop by the Visitor Centre and view digital maps of the area before strolling around the historic grounds.

You can also participate in a ranger-guided event or attend historical programs.

Pick up Antiques and Civil War Artifacts

Downtown Frederick is home to over 200+ antique shops, many of which are within walking distance of one another.

From retail shops specializing in antique furniture to boutiques selling modern home furnishings, fashion, outdoor gear, books, art, toys, specialty foods, and more, get ready to shop till you drop!

Attend a Frederick Keys Game

A picture of Frederick keys mascot smiling with a child

The Frederick Keys are a minor league baseball team affiliated with the Baltimore Orioles.

Catch them live during weekends at the Harry Grove Stadium.

With a seating capacity of 5,500, it’s a popular haunt for the locals who hang around with their families during the season.

Don’t miss the postgame fireworks if you’re visiting with children.

Stroll Around Baker Park

Located in downtown Frederick, this 44-acre park features a lake, a carillon, a public swimming pool, athletic fields, tennis courts, and several playgrounds.

Baker Park is an ideal venue for outdoor events throughout the year. And the children’s theatre is a popular venue for summertime concerts.

Visit an Escape Room Frederick MD

Escape rooms are an excellent way to spend quality time with friends and family fighting crime and escaping psychopaths within a controlled environment.

Get your squad together and visit Clue IQ, Frederick’s #1 escape room!

Pick your favorite challenge from a long list of exciting games and enjoy 60-minutes of pure adrenaline rush.

What are you waiting for?

Book your slots now!

Ride a Bike Through Historic Frederick

Rent a bike and explore the 10-mile Frederick History Bicycle Loop. The course meanders through the city, stopping at 22 historic places.

The top attractions in the route are the Hessian Barracks, Francis Scott Key Memorial, Schifferstadt Architectural Museum, and several Civil War sites.

Explore the Schifferstadt Architectural Museum

photo ofSchifferstadt Architectural Museum

The Schifferstadt Architectural Museum is an iconic 18th Century Museum and Garden in Maryland.

It’s one of Frederick’s oldest buildings and perhaps the best remaining example of German Colonial architecture in the USA.

Even if you aren’t an avid biker, the Schifferstadt Architectural Museum must be on your travel bucket list when visiting Frederick.

If you’re lucky, you might catch one of the special events scheduled throughout the year.

Hop Aboard a Vintage Train on the Walkersville Southern Railroad

Walkersville, MD, is a historic railroad network located just northwest of Frederick.

The railroad company offers several exciting excursions, including Jesse James Day, mystery dinner trains, other special events, and private charters.

If you’re visiting during the Holiday Season, inquire about the Santa Train before visiting.

Drop by the Flying Dog Brewery

If you’re in Frederick, don’t forget to drop by the Flying Dog Brewery.

The largest beer producer in the state is famous for selling beer brands like Deadrise, an award-wining, globally-recognized, Old Bay-infused light brew that perfectly complements seafood.

If you’re visiting during the weekend, join the special tour that’s only hosted between Thursday and Sunday.

Go on a Wine Tour

The Frederick Wine Trail is one of many popular tourist attractions in town. The tour spans six wineries and over 120 acres of vineyards.

Enjoy the ride and soak in the ambiance of Frederick’s agricultural side.

Spend a cozy winter afternoon basking in the sun and looking over the horizons, sipping on a glass of fine wine.

Spend a Day at the Rose Hill Manor Park & Museums

A trip to Rose Hill Manor Park & Museums must be on your bucket list if you have kids.

The place introduces children to early American life and Fredericks’ agricultural and transportation history.

The property includes a manor, two barns, a log cabin, a blacksmith shop, an icehouse, and a carriage collection.

Tours of the property are hosted daily.

Special programs can be arranged for kids and groups.

Visit Cunningham Falls State Park

Cunningham Falls State Park is located just north of Frederick.

This beautiful 44-acre lake is close to a 78-foot cascading waterfall and has over 140 campsites, several hiking trails, a couple of playgrounds, and picnic areas nearby.

It’s a popular destination among the locals with several activities for the entire family.

Enjoy Fine Dining in Downtown Frederick

Downtown Frederick is home to several award-winning fine dining restaurants like Thacher & Rye, Firestone, and Dutch’s Daughter.

Pick from a wide range of cuisines, including Italian, Spanish, and Japanese, among others.

If you’re visiting during Frederick’s Restaurant Week, get ready for some fantastic deals at some of the poshest places in town.

Watch a Live Performance at the Weinberg Center for the Arts

Looking for an offbeat activity in Frederick? We’ve got just the thing!

This wonderfully-restored art theatre from 1926 popularly hosts several concerts and theatrical performances throughout the year.

Located in downtown Frederick, Weinberg Center for the Arts hosts over 1,500 guests.

The venue is rented for film premiers, private screenings, corporate events, weddings, conventions, and meetings.

What Are Your Plans for This Weekend?

Frederick is home to several fascinating family-friendly activities.

If you’re new in town or visiting for a week, we recommend picking your favorites from the options above.

If you’re looking for recommendations, check out the Civil War sites, explore the countryside, and visit Clue IQ for an immersive gaming experience!

If you like this blog and would love to read more, read our blogs here.

For queries, get in touch now!

15 Amazing Wintertime Activities in Maryland

by ClueIQ Team | Dec 20, 2021 | Maryland

How many are on your bucket list?

Maryland’s diverse range of activities makes it an ideal place to visit during the winter.

On the one hand, you can ski down the quaint slopes of Western Maryland, while on the other, you can still enjoy the beaches.

This unique combination makes it possible to try your favorite wintertime activities like ice fishing and snowmobiling simultaneously with summertime favorites like afternoon walks and shopping.

On that note, here are the fifteen most excitable wintertime activities in Maryland.

15 Exciting Wintertime Activities in Maryland

We’ve got everything from outdoor adventure to treats for your sweet cravings on our list.

Try Your Hands at Sledding at Patterson Park, Baltimore

Patterson Park in Baltimore lies under a white blanket during the winter.

This is the perfect time to reach the top and make your way down on a sled.

Perched atop the hill is a beautiful pagoda, which offers the most stunning landscape view.

Don’t forget to start a snowball fight with friends while you’re up there!

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Go Ice Fishing at Deep Creek Lake

While most people head to Deep Creek Lake for a swim during summer, this 3,900-acre lake changes color as winter approaches.

The frigid lake is the perfect destination for ice fishing in winter.

So, put on your gloves, coat, and hat, grab your pole, bait, and hot chocolate, and spend a day ice fishing.

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Ride a Snowmobile at Garrett County

If you’d like to ride a snowmobile, head to Garrett County.

The Snowdrifters are an ace snowmobiling club that you can join for a whole lot of fun and frolic.

Since the locals are acquainted with most hidden trails, you’ll get the best experience riding with the club.

The Garrett County Snowdrifters offer one-day memberships. Although, you can stick around for longer.

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Try Ice Skating in Quiet Waters Park

Quiet Waters Park in Annapolis has an incredible ice-skating rink that opens to the public every winter.

You should avoid the holiday week since the venue is always overcrowded.

Grab yourself a season pass and wait for a bright day to practice your ice-skating skills.

You won’t be disappointed.

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Spend a Day at Wisp Resort

While Wisp Resort is a snowboarder and skier’s paradise, it packs several entertainment options for the laid-back traveler.

If you’re not in the mood to don a pair of skis and hit the slopes, hang out by the fire and sip on a cup of hot cocoa.

The bottom line is Wisp Resort has a long list of activities to keep everyone entertained.

If you haven’t found your favorite activity yet, you haven’t looked hard enough.

Solve an Escape Game at Clue IQ

Escape rooms are fun, especially when you’re playing with friends or family.

So, if you’re near Frederick, head out to Clue IQ, the #1 escape room in Maryland.

Escape room IQ offers a vast collection of exciting room escape games that offers 60-minutes of unadulterated fun.

So, pick your favorite puzzle and book your slot now!

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Take a Train Ride Through Picturesque Western Maryland

The snow-covered mountains of Western Maryland are the perfect setting for a romantic weekend getaway.

The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad cuts right through the heart of the Allegheny Mountains and makes for the perfect escapade for two.

Don’t Miss the Six Flags Great Adventure

A kid’s favorite haunt! The epic rides, bright lights, and holiday treat highlight this family excursion.

So, grab the kids and head over to Six Flags in Prince George’s County on the weekend.

Don’t forget to click a picture with Santa once you’re done with the exciting rides.

Visit the Baltimore & Ohio Ellicott City Station Museum

If you love trains, you can’t afford to miss this one. The Festival of Trains is held annually at the B&O Ellicott City Station Museum from November through January.

You’ll find model railroads and toy trains with exceptional details.

There is also a Lego train if you’re interested in building a model from the ground up.

Watch the Lights Parade at the Eastport Yacht Club

Have you ever watched sailboats decked up to match the holiday spirit?

The Lights Parade at Eastport Yacht Club is where it happens.

The club hosts the event annually, and participants can grab their favorite latte or wait for dinner after the show ends.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CIQoF-xgkOn/

Catch the Mesmerizing Lights Display at Sandy Point State Park

This fun beach destination turns into a holiday wonderland with crazy lights displays during winters every year.

Decked up for the holidays, Sandy Point State Park hosts over 70 static and animated light shows that you can watch from the comfort of your vehicle.

The event is a must-visit if you’re in Annapolis.

Our #Sky9 chopper flying over the drive-thru holiday lights at Sandy Point State Park this evening. Happy Holidays!! @wusa9 pic.twitter.com/mdF6hWlt5h
— Will Smink (@ThatDMVGinger) December 21, 2021

Enjoy Baltimore Restaurant Week

Held in January every year, the Baltimore Restaurant Week is the best time of the year to address your hunger pangs.

All eateries, from street stalls to fine-dining restaurants, offer significant discounts on the menu.

Some even go as far as serving three-course meals for as little as $20.

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Check out the Winter Wonderland at Gaylord National Harbor

Every winter, National Harbor turns into a winter wonderland, complete with intricately carved ice sculptures.

The details will blow your mind, and needless to say, the event is viral among the residents.

While the theme changes every year, you will always find Father Christmas looking over the event.

You can also turn the one-day affair into a weekend excursion.

This is the LAST WEEK! Listen for the Time Travel Trivia, all week for your chance to win a 4-Pack of tickets to “I Love Christmas Movies” at the Gaylord National Harbor.https://t.co/2DMOTDUXFe
— 94.7 the Drive (@947theDrive) December 17, 2021

Don’t Miss the Festival of Trees

The Kennedy Krieger Institute’s Festival of Trees is a mind-boggling event where 600+ spectacularly-decorated Christmas trees are lined up for public display.

The event is held at the Maryland State Fairgrounds in Timonium and lasts for three days.

Popular activities include games, crafts, carousel and pony rides, and Santa Land.

Take a Stroll Through Downtown Annapolis

While there is something magical about the city in the summer, the charm of historic Annapolis amplifies during winter.

The cobblestones open as the tourists disperse, and wreaths and garlands are hung on the classic light poles.

Take a walk through downtown Annapolis for a holistic history lesson.

And grab some hot cocoa from a streetside café if you’re in the mood for a sweet treat.

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We’re Thrilled About Winter. Are You?

All these crazy activities have us pumped for winter, and we can’t wait to try them out this year. Which of the above experiences are your favorites?

We’re incredibly thrilled about the escape room experience.

Do you know any escape room enthusiasts? Clue IQ gift cards would make their day!

If you like this blog and would love to read more, follow this link to our blog section. Get in touch with our team for reservations or other queries.

10 Fun Winter Birthday Party Ideas for Kids in Maryland

by ClueIQ Team | Dec 17, 2021 | Maryland

Don’t let planning a winter birthday party for kids give you the chills!

Just because it’s freezing outside doesn’t mean you can’t have fun indoors. From throwing a slumber party to planning an elaborate scavenger hunt, here are our top ten picks on how to plan a winter birthday party for your kids.

The 10 Most Intriguing Winter Birthday Ideas for Kids

Are you ready to chase the winter blues away?

Swim and Slumber Party

While house parties are fun, hosting a slumber party at a hotel is even better as you don’t have to clean up the mess after. Book a suite overnight, preferably one with a jacuzzi, and turn it into a swimming party.

Maryland has several properties with all the amenities that you need. Find a hotel with indoor pools and meeting facilities, and you’re all set for a pool party bash. Have a theme in mind? Inform the hotel staff, and they’ll make all the necessary arrangements.

Lego Party

While several craft stores host Lego parties for kids, you can arrange the same at home at a fraction of the cost. If you’re expecting a bigger group, buy small Lego kits that the kids can build or arrange for plastic buckets with various Legos. You’ll find large assortments on eBay.

Accentuate the theme by creating Lego cardboard cutouts, a Lego-shaped birthday cake, and arrange scavenger hunts with Legos. You can also prepare Lego-filled goodie bags for the young guests.

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Ice Skating Party

Winter birthday parties are unlike any other. Take the younglings to an indoor ice-skating rink for a lesson that they’ll love. Arrange for a beginner lesson in ice-skating for the first-timers and teach the pros some new tricks.

Most ice-skating rinks have trainers and beginner courses for kids. You can purchase tickets on your own instead of opting for group packages if that’s cheaper. Bring the celebrations home in the evening with a winter-themed cake and decorations.

Escape Room Party

Continuing with adventure-themed birthday parties, escape rooms are the ideal venue for celebrating your kid’s birthday in the winter. Kids escape room offers immersive, family-friendly, wholesome entertainment that will keep the little ones occupied for hours. So, if you’re near Frederick this year, visit the #1 escape room in Maryland.

Clue IQ hosts a long list of engaging room escape games suitable for children of all ages. And if you’re searching for kids’ birthday party places, we have all the necessary resources you need to throw a grand party. So, what are you waiting for? Book your slots today.

Wonderland Party

Winter wonderland-themed parties never cease to amaze kids. Decorate the venue with cotton-lined floors, hanging snowflakes, white mini-lights, white balloons, and bowls of sugar plum candies.

You can also make gingerbread houses by gluing graham crackers together and decorating them with candies and icings in different colors and flavors. While the glue dries, arrange a cookie bar where the kids can decorate their favorite cookies using their wildest imagination.

Chef Party

If you’re hosting a birthday party for kids aged 14 and above, a party where the kids can prepare their meal can be a fun experience, provided you follow specific protocols. For instance, kids love pizza parties! Start with the dough divided into small balls, provide bowls of shredded cheese, tomato sauce, and assorted toppings and let the young ones get creative.

Make the invitation in the form of menus and prepare mini chef hats, aprons, and wooden spatulas for the young guests. Once the pizza is ready to bake, the adults can take over the baking. You can use the leftover dough for baking dessert pizzas with ice cream and Nutella toppings.

Mall Hunt and Movie Party

Shopping malls are a great place to celebrate your kid’s birthday during the winter. Not only do they have sufficient space to host several fun games for the little ones, but the food court offers a wide variety of treats that the kids will simply love.

You could plan your kid’s birthday party at a shopping mall in Maryland. Ask the staff to organize a scavenger hunt, followed by a movie that the kids will love, and include a meal plan to end the day on a positive note.

Hockey Game Party

If your child loves outdoor sports, it makes sense to throw an action-packed hockey game birthday party. Look for a birthday party package on your local team’s website or buy group tickets to a pro-game. If you’re on a budget, purchase tickets to high-school, college, or junior high games and check the local rink for league matches scheduled at the time.

League matches are generally free, and some are even played in fun centers where you’ll find other activities like mini rides, laser tags, and arcade games that the kids will love. You could also organize an ice-hockey match at the local rink for the kids or pick up goody bags packed with hockey merchandise and water bottles.

Puppet or Theater Party

Most puppet shows and theater performances are lined up in the winter season. Take the kids to a local event and end the day with a hearty meal at your kid’s favorite restaurant.

You could bring the party home by serving dessert. Plan the goodie bags accordingly by including playbill-styled autograph books with pens, which will come in handy later.

Rock-Climbing Party

Give your kids the best experience of their lives so far by introducing them to a rock-climbing gym. You’ll find plenty of exciting places in Maryland. The best venues offer the perfect challenges for energetic kids. Start from beginner-friendly levels and scale your way up.

If it’s the kids’ first visit, book a party package. This will typically include a trainer, a set of instructions, and the gear that you need to stay atop the rocks for hours. When the kids are tired from all the action, drive them to a local restaurant and let the feast begin!

What Are Your Plans for this Winter?

Planning your kid’s birthday party this winter doesn’t seem challenging, does it? Embrace the coldest months of the year with a cozy indoor celebration by taking advantage of all the amenities that Maryland has to offer.

And if you’re looking for quirky birthday venues in Maryland, Clue IQ escape room is the perfect place for the job! From escape rooms for couples to group sessions, we offer a wide range of puzzles for your entertainment. For queries, get in touch today.