Maryland's Journey Through Hallowed Ground Historic Byway Road Trip

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57.3 miles: 1 hours, 46 minutes

Delve into American history when you drive Maryland’s Journey Through Hallowed Ground Historic Byway (US 15), a part of the 180-mile historic region that starts in Pennsylvania and ends in Virginia. During the Maryland portion, you can appreciate scenic views, museums, and historic homes and businesses. Consider visiting in late spring or early fall for the best weather.

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Pennsylvania state line to Thurmont

11.2 miles: 19 minutes

From the Pennsylvania state line to Thurmont, you can appreciate scenery and history. The National Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, who was the first American-born citizen canonized by the Roman Catholic Church, is just over the Maryland border in Emmitsburg. Then you’ll pass the National Shrine Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes on the way to Catoctin Mountain Park.

Recommended Stops

Carriage House Inn

200 S Seton Ave Emmitsburg, MD 21727

National Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton

339 S. Seton Ave. Emmitsburg, MD 21727-9297

National Shrine Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes

16330 Grotto Rd. Emmitsburg, MD 21727

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Thurmont to Lewistown

14.2 miles: 24 minutes

Driving Thurmont to Lewistown, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Catoctin Mountain Park if you haven’t already, although, unfortunately, the presidential retreat of Camp David is closed to the casual visitor. Afterward see more greenery when you take Catoctin Mountain Highway, which goes through a more rural area.

Recommended Stops

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Lewistown to Frederick

13.1 miles: 27 minutes

Enjoy your journey from Lewistown to Frederick. The Civil War affected Frederick greatly, and many places of worship served as hospitals. Take a tour or visit a museum to learn more. The Schifferstadt Architectural Museum, a National Historic Landmark, is worth a look before you leave the area.

Recommended Stops

Schifferstadt Architectural Museum

1110 Rosemont Ave. Frederick, MD 21701

Museum of Frederick County History

24 E. Church St. Frederick, MD 21701-5402

Candlelight Tour of Historic Houses of Worship

National Museum of Civil War Medicine

48 E. Patrick St. Frederick, MD 21705

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Frederick to Virginia state line

18.8 miles: 35 minutes

There are more sights to see from Frederick to the Virginia state line. Walk around Monocacy National Battlefield or Mount Olivet Cemetery, where you can take time to reflect on the journey.

Recommended Stops

Mount Olivet Cemetery

515 S. Market St. Frederick, MD 21701

Monocacy National Battlefield

Address not available Frederick, MD 21704

Best Western Historic Frederick

420 Prospect Blvd Frederick, MD 21701

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