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Presidential Playground: Beyond Camp David - The American President in Frederick County, Maryland


Two Days and One Night

Frederick County is home to the presidential retreat of Camp David, so we've seen our share of the nation's decision makers. On this exciting tour, you'll hear stories about the first families who have enjoyed our area.

Day One

  • Step-on guide, the Old Frederick Opera House and Rose Hill Manor Park

  • Because of its proximity to Washington, DC, the presence of the presidential retreat in the Catoctin Mountains, and its association with important political figures, Frederick County, Maryland has been witness to many encounters with American presidents. Through this tour, participants will have the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the nation's chief executives. From the first president, John Hanson, "President of the United States in Congress Assembled," to the contemporary leaders of the post World War era Frederick County's historic associations with the nation's leaders will be explored.

  • Now known as Brewer's Alley Restaurant, the old Frederick Opera House was once the primary gathering place of the community. This location has hosted speeches by presidents and presidential candidates, including William H. Taft in 1911 and William Jennings Bryan in 1913 and 1921. One of the most rousing occasions was a fiery speech delivered by Teddy Roosevelt on October 25, 1900, just days before he was to be elected William McKinley's Vice President. The Opera House today is operated as Brewer's Alley Restaurant, an excellent choice for lunch, dinner or a spot of ale.

    Once the home of Maryland's first elected governor, Thomas Johnson, Rose Hill Manor was visited by Johnson's close friend George Washington. While serving in the First Continental Congress, Johnson nominated George Washington as commander of the Continental Army. Rose Hill Manor is available for guided tours and is a fantastic "touch and feel" museum.

    Follow in the footsteps of Hillary and Chelsea Clinton and visit the quaint shops in downtown Frederick.

    Frederick offers delectable culinary options in our prized “farm to table” restaurants. The historic downtown area is lined with many options for your dining pleasure.

    After dinner options include a show at the Weinberg Center for the Arts, a 1920's restored movie palace or The Maryland Ensemble Theatre.

  • Day Two

    Tour Roger Brooke Taney House and Cozy Restaurant

    As Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court from 1836-1864, Roger Brooke Taney inaugurated seven American Presidents, from Van Buren to Lincoln. Taney also served as Attorney General, Secretary of the Treasury and Secretary of War in the cabinet of Andrew Jackson. He owned this house in Frederick from 1815 to 1823, while he was establishing his reputation as one of the leading lawyers in Maryland.

    Located a few miles from Camp David, the town of Thurmont has experienced executive encounters with every president since FDR for dining, shopping, golf and Sunday worship. The Cozy's Camp David Room commemorates these encounters. Enjoy a delicious meal while at the Cozy.

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Please contact the following for tours, prices and operating hours:

For further information, please contact:

Becky Bickerton, Sales Manager, (800) 999-3613 or 301-600-4050 or e-mail at bbickerton@fredco-md.net