Maryland itinerary: Allegany County

Editor’s Note: During this period of social distancing, Group Tour magazine will continue to provide group travel inspiration. Many attractions and destinations are closed at this time; please contact them directly for updated information.

Allegany County promotes itself as “The Mountain Side of Maryland.” Outdoor recreation, heritage and history, arts and entertainment, and scenic beauty are all part of the county’s appeal. Allegany County is located in western Maryland.

“Mountain Maryland is an immersive travel experience that provides components of being ‘off the grid,'” said Ashli Workman, director of tourism for Allegany County, Maryland. “But it also has exciting, diverse benefits, including restaurants, boutique shopping, historical elements, casino gaming and the arts. Visitors come for one reason and tend to fall in love with the area for another.”

Explore the county’s two Main Street and Arts and Entertainment districts — in Frostburg and Cumberland. Or go on an adventure tour by biking the Great Allegheny Passage and/or C&O Canal Towpath.

Allegany County Tourism
301-777-5132
mdmountainside.com

RIDE

Western Maryland Scenic Railroad climbs through the Allegheny Mountains from Cumberland to Frostburg. Along the way, passengers are treated to breathtaking mountain views. The train follows the Great Allegheny Passage. On the ride, view iconic points of interest, such as the brush tunnel. During the layover, visit historic Frostburg.

TOUR

Allegany Museum in Cumberland presents the area’s geographic, cultural and commercial heritage. A new “Crossroads of America” exhibit explores the National Road, the railroad and the C&O Canal. The exhibit includes interactive displays, vehicles that traveled the National Road and videos. The museum is in a restored former post office and federal courthouse.

SIP

Set up a tap and pour tour. Go to 1812 Brewery, a farm brewery in Cumberland; Dig Deep Brewing Co. in Cumberland, Charis Winery & Distillery in downtown Cumberland; Toasted Goat Winery and Route 40 Brewing & Distilling in Frostburg. Locust Post Brewery is set to open this summer in Little Orleans.

STAY

Rocky Gap Casino Resort is next to Rocky Gap State Park near Cumberland. The property features miles of hiking trails and incredible mountain views. The resort has a AAA 4-Diamond Award and TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence. The casino resort offers three restaurants and the only Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course in Maryland.