Summer weekends call for something cold in hand, and along Montgomery County’s Tastemakers Trail, frozen drinks are well worth the stop. From breweries experimenting with seasonal flavors to cideries putting a creative spin on local apples, these aren’t the fluorescent convenience store slushies you grew up with. They’re innovative, handcrafted, locally inspired, and worth planning a weekend around. Whether you’re planning an afternoon outing or a full-day getaway, these frozen creations are the perfect addition to your summer itinerary.
At Stone Silo Brewery, the frozen menu changes throughout the season, giving visitors a reason to discover something new with each visit. The frozen drink menu’s rotating slushie flavors add a playful twist to every visit, with offerings that might include Orange Cream Piña Colada, Peach, Red Sangria hard seltzer slushies, plus a non-alcoholic lemonade version for designated drivers and younger visitors. Grab a frozen drink, settle into the countryside setting, and enjoy a refreshing sip while spending a peaceful summer afternoon soaking in the scenic views.
At The Urban Winery in Silver Spring, the frozen drink lineup brings a little summer mischief to every visit. Their slushie menu features creative blends like the Ginger Peach, Wild Berry Syrah, including their newest blend, the Espresso Martini, each crafted to be
both refreshing and indulgent. For those looking to stay cool without the alcohol, the juicy non-alcoholic Ginger Peach delivers the same refreshing escape with every sip. Grab a frozen treat between tastings, relax on the patio, and settle in for a slow afternoon where every slushie adds a playful twist to your winery experience.
Just down the trail, Doc Waters Cidery puts an orchard-inspired twist on frozen summer sipping with hard cider slushie flights. Rather than choosing just one flavor, sample a variety of frozen ciders side by side, discovering how different apples and seasonal ingredients create a refreshing experience unlike any other. More than just a drink, it’s a playful tasting experience that feels distinctly Maryland and perfectly suited for a warm summer day. Pair your flight with live music, good company, and a laid-back afternoon surrounded by orchard charm.
A little farther down the trail, The Crossvines invites you to unwind with scenic views and a signature Frosé experience. Made with their Fairway Rosé, this smooth, frozen sip is a refreshing way to enjoy a warm summer afternoon that pairs perfectly with vineyard views. A weekend favorite throughout the season, the Frosé joins rotating frozen drink specials that change each week, giving every visit something new to discover. Relax on the patio with a frozen sip in hand while soaking in panoramic countryside views.
Nothing says summer on a working horse farm is quite like a handcrafted frozen slush. At Waredaca Brewing Company, enjoy a laid-back farm setting paired with a signature Frosé, a light, crisp, all-natural seltzer-based hard slush made for sunny afternoons. Prefer a non-alcoholic option? The all-natural lemonade slush delivers bright citrus flavor and a refreshing way to cool off. Relax on the patio, watch horses graze in the distance, and savor the peaceful charm of a summer day on the farm.
Another must-visit stop along the Tastemakers Trail is Clear Skies Meadery, where frozen drinks get a bold twist margarita style twist that balances citrus flavors with a hint of spice. Choose from Strawberry Lemon and Spicy Mango Margarita slushies, blending sweet, tangy, and subtly fiery flavors for a unique summer sip. Settle into the cozy taproom, catch up with friends, and enjoy a laid-back afternoon discovering new flavors in a space made for lingering.
If slushies aren’t your thing, there’s still plenty to discover along the Tastemakers Trail. Explore locally crafted beer, cider, wine, spirits, and non-alcoholic cocktails, with each stop offering its own unique atmosphere. Sip a brew at a brewery on a working horse farm, enjoy rosé with unparalleled views of Sugarloaf Mountain, or unwind with live music beneath towering elder pines.
Whether you’re searching for a new favorite drink, a scenic escape, or a memorable day trip, the Tastemakers Trail invites you to sip, savor, and explore.
