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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
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Carriage House Inn
200 S Seton Ave Emmitsburg, MD 21727
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National Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton
339 S. Seton Ave. Emmitsburg, MD 21727-9297
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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
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Schifferstadt Architectural Museum
1110 Rosemont Ave. Frederick, MD 21701
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Museum of Frederick County History
24 E. Church St. Frederick, MD 21701-5402
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Candlelight Tour of Historic Houses of Worship
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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
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Mount Olivet Cemetery
515 S. Market St. Frederick, MD 21701
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Monocacy National Battlefield
Address not available Frederick, MD 21704
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Best Western Historic Frederick
420 Prospect Blvd Frederick, MD 21701
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