If you are planning a trip to Western Maryland, Garrett County, to be precise, you need to know about all of the things to do in Deep Creek Lake. This area cannot be missed!
Deep Creek Lake is a year-round destination packed with adventure, relaxation, and fantastic food.
Whether you’re hitting the slopes, indulging in a wine and cheese tasting, or browsing unique local shops, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Our Top Recommended Things to Do in Deep Creek Lake
Here’s our list of the top things to do in Deep Creek Lake, including the best activities, must-visit restaurants, and where to stay (BTW: we’ve got an entire blog on Deep Creek Lake Vacation Rentals you’ll want to check out!).
Outdoor Adventures at Deep Creek Lake
Like us, if you are an adventurer, you will love this area of Maryland. Deep Creek Lake is the perfect landing spot for anyone seeking outdoor adventures!
Hit the Slopes at Wisp Resort
Wisp Resort is the go-to winter destination for thrill-seekers and families alike.
Whether you’re an expert skier or a first-time snowboarder, Wisp has slopes for every skill level. If skiing and snowboarding aren’t your thing, you can still join in on the fun with snow tubing—an absolute blast for all ages!
Snowshoe Across Deep Creek Lake
When Deep Creek Lake freezes over in cold winters, you can strap on snowshoes and trek across the ice for a truly unique winter experience.
Not gonna lie; this was a little nerve-racking at first. It’s not like we get our share of frozen lakes in North Carolina, so walking across it was scary but totally worth the adventure.
It’s peaceful, breathtaking, and a must-try if you visit during the colder months.
Hike at Swallow Falls State Park
No trip to Deep Creek Lake is complete without a visit to Swallow Falls State Park. This scenic spot features stunning waterfalls and some of the best hiking trails in the region.
Whether you visit in summer or winter, it’s a gorgeous place to explore the waterfalls along the trails.
Sip + Savor: Best Food + Drink in Deep Creek Lake
Deep Creek Lake isn’t just an excellent place for adventure. It is steeped in yumminess for your taste buds and appetites, big and small.
Wine + Cheese Tasting at Firefly Farms
Indulge in an incredible wine and cheese pairing at Firefly Farms, where you can sample handcrafted cheeses and expertly selected wines.
This is a must-visit for foodies! Just be sure to check their schedule to see when they offer these sessions or how to schedule your own.
Dine in an Igloo at Mountain State Brewing Company
Visiting in the cold season? Book a private igloo at Mountain State Brewing Company and enjoy their famous wood-fired pizza while staying cozy in a winter wonderland setting.
It’s one of the most unique dining experiences in Deep Creek Lake!
If you are visiting in the warm climate, you can still enjoy dining outside and taking in the view of the surrounding landscape.
Craft Cocktails + Small Plates at Firewater Kitchen & Bar
If you’re looking for incredible lake views while sipping crafted cocktails, Firewater Kitchen + Bar is the place to be.
Their 50-seat bar offers the perfect backdrop for enjoying small plates with a breathtaking waterfront view. If you choose to dine outside, be sure to check out the fire feature on the deck.
Dutch’s at Silver Tree: A Must-Try for Lunch or Dinner
A favorite among locals and visitors, Dutch’s at Silver Tree serves up fresh seafood, steaks, and classic American fare. It’s an excellent choice for both casual lunches and upscale dinners.
We had both lunch and dinner, and we loved the vibe and the food!
Brenda’s Pizzeria: Lake Views + Italian Comfort Food
If you love Italian food, Brenda’s Pizzeria is a must. Not only do they serve up authentic New York-style pizza, but Monday is Half-Priced Pizza Night—a great excuse to load up on cheesy goodness with an unbeatable view of the lake.
Brenda, the owner, is originally from New York, so she knows what she is doing!
Trader’s Coffee House: The Best Cinnamon Rolls You’ll Ever Have
Need a morning pick-me-up? Head to Trader’s Coffee House for freshly brewed coffee and the most amazing cinnamon rolls you’ll ever taste.
We dare you to try to eat one on your own. It’s so delicious, but these rolls are shareable… or not.
Shopping + Unique Finds in Deep Creek Lake
If shopping is your thing, you will enjoy these unique experiences in the Deep Creek Lake area.
Bear Creek Traders
Looking for souvenirs, lake-themed gifts, or outdoor gear? Bear Creek Traders has finds you won’t see anywhere else. It’s a great place to grab a memento from your trip to this area of Western Maryland.
Schoolhouse Earth
If you love one-of-a-kind finds, Schoolhouse Earth is a must-visit. This shop is full of handmade crafts, gourmet foods, and home decor—and there’s even a petting zoo outside for the kids (or for us adults who just love a good goat snuggle).
Simon Pearce Glass-Blowing Factory
Watch artisan glass-blowing in action at Simon Pearce, famous for their handcrafted glass Christmas trees and elegant home decor.
It’s mesmerizing to see these masterpieces take shape! From this point on, you will undoubtedly appreciate the intricate work behind making a glass piece.
Where to Stay in Deep Creek Lake
For the best accommodations, check out our complete guide to Deep Creek Lake Vacation Rentals, featuring everything from cozy cabins to luxury waterfront homes.
We highly recommend Cove Creek Lodge for the coziest experience!
Plan Your Deep Creek Lake Getaway
Deep Creek Lake is the perfect getaway for just about everyone! Whether you’re an adventure junkie, foodie, or just looking for a relaxing retreat, we know you will love all that this area has to offer!
From hitting the slopes to indulging in wine and cheese, these activities will make your trip unforgettable.
Ready to plan your visit? Book your stay, make your dining reservations, and get ready to explore everything Deep Creek Lake has to offer!
Cove Creek Lodge has generously offered our community a discount on your stay. Use code: ARNER10 to receive 10% off any stays from 2/1/25 – 12/23/25 at Cove Creek Lodge. Booking must be made within 90 days, 2/1/25 – 5/4/25, excluding 5 holidays: President’s Day, Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, and Thanksgiving.
This code is valid for Cove Creek Lodge and Railey Vacation Homes.
For Railey Vacation Homes, the code is available for off-season stays 4/1/25 – 5/15/25 and 10/15/25 – 12/15/25 with a blackout date of Thanksgiving day.
FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions
Deep Creek Lake is a year-round destination! Summer is great for boating, hiking, and outdoor dining, while winter offers skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing at Wisp Resort. Fall brings beautiful foliage, and spring is perfect for quieter getaways with mild temperatures.
For a cozy and romantic trip, consider a wine and cheese tasting at Firefly Farms, a fancy dinner at Dutch’s at Silver Tree, or a relaxing lakeside retreat at one of the top vacation rentals.
Absolutely! Deep Creek Lake is a popular weekend getaway destination. A 3-day itinerary could include a mix of outdoor adventures (hiking, skiing, or boating), delicious meals, and shopping at unique local stores. We think you will want to plan a return trip, or extend your stay!
