Welcome to Carroll County

Become a part of this vibrant and picturesque county.

For those who have grown weary of the busyness of city life, moving to Carroll County might be the best option for you. The county is located in northern Maryland and has a population of nearly 173,000 residents. Carroll County is made up of eight municipalities: Hampstead, Manchester, Mount Airy, New Windsor, Sykesville, Taneytown, Union Bridge, and Westminster. The diverse mix of neighborhoods allows residents to find one that best suits them. 

The county has a history that dates back to 1836, when it was first formed. Carroll County’s well-preserved history takes the form of rural heritage museums and civil war sites. The Carroll County Farm Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the workings of a 19th-century farm and allows visitors to witness the simplicity of rural life.

What to Love 

  • Rich in history, tradition, and old architecture
  • Festivals and events, including the Maryland Wine Festival
  • Outdoor recreational activities and natural beauty
  • Historic Sykesville was named the “Coolest Small Town in America”

Local Lifestyle 

As a predominantly rural county, Carroll County is known for its country appeal, farmland, and small towns. The county has seen many people relocate here from the surrounding urban and suburban areas, drawn to the peaceful and laid-back lifestyle. Carroll County has become a particularly popular place to raise a family, in large part due to the great schools and ample open space. Yet, city life is within driving distance, enabling locals to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

Grab a bite to eat at Rocksalt Grille, located in Westminster. This casual and contemporary tavern is known for their expertly prepared steaks and seafood, including a raw bar. You could choose to celebrate “Taco Tuesday” at Del Guero Mexican Grill, which is known for their authentic Mexican dishes and attentive customer service. 

Alternatively, treat yourself with a delicious slice of pizza at 84 East Woodfire Kitchen & Bar. In addition to pizza, this restaurant serves wings, burgers, salads, and sandwiches, which can all be paired with craft beers. If you’re craving true Italian food, book a table at Liberatore’s Ristorante. This family-owned and operated outpost is known for their traditional Italian fare and extensive wine list.

The towns in Carroll County are proud to boast vibrant downtown districts, lined with restaurants, retailers, and local shops. Stroll the Main Streets in the county to find one-of-a-kind handcrafted items and exceptional customer service.

Things to Do

While Carroll County might be overshadowed by its larger-than-life neighbors, this tranquil county has plenty to see and do. Residents and locals alike can look forward to festivals, walking tours, nature parks, and driving tours. Wine enthusiasts are invited to join the Maryland Wine Festival, which is hosted by the Carroll County Farm Museum. As a celebration of Maryland wines, this outdoor festival has been around for nearly 40 years. The one-day event consists of plenty of wine, live music, and local vendors.

If nature is your passion, Carroll County has 10 loop tours spanning over 150 miles of cycling. The tours offer varying degrees of difficulty, which appeals to everyone from the rookie bicyclists to the seasoned veteran. Piney Run Park is a nature park located in Sykesville and features a 300-acre lake as its centerpiece. Visitors can look forward to a wide array of recreational activities, including boating and fishing. Carroll County also boasts a half dozen golf courses, ranging from the 9-hole course at McDaniel College to the 18 hole beauty in Challedon in Mt. Airy.

Schools

Carroll is served by the Carroll County Public Schools and is home to a number of top-notch schools, including both private and private options. Best schools include: 

  • Century High School
  • Liberty High School
  • Westminster High School
  • Gerstell Academy in Finksburg
 

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