RIDE THROUGH HISTORY
Mountain Maryland offers the perfect blend of history, culture, scenic beauty, and authentic experiences for group travelers. From the birthplace of America’s first federally funded highway and historic rail journeys to charming downtowns, museums, heritage attractions, and stunning mountain vistas, the destination provides memorable experiences that are easy to access, affordable, and ideal for multiday itineraries.
One of Mountain Maryland’s greatest strengths is that it delivers a wide variety of experiences within a compact, motorcoach-friendly destination. Groups can enjoy heritage attractions, museums, charming downtowns, outdoor recreation, and unique dining experiences without spending hours traveling between attractions.
Start your journey with one of the region’s most iconic attractions: The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad offers a nostalgic rail journey through the mountains of Western Maryland aboard historic diesel and steam-powered trains. Group-friendly excursions include scenic rides, themed events, holiday trains, and dining experiences. Motorcoach groups appreciate the easy boarding, reserved seating options, and the ability to experience the region’s mountain scenery without extensive walking.
STEP BACK IN TIME
Cumberland’s walkable historic downtown features beautifully preserved architecture, boutique shopping, public art, galleries, museums, and locally owned restaurants. Guided heritage tours allow groups to explore the city’s role in transportation history, including the National Road, railroads, and canal systems that connected the young nation.
At the western terminus of the historic C&O Canal, C&O Canal National Historical Park offers groups the opportunity to explore one of America’s most important transportation corridors. Visitors can experience the Canal Place Heritage Area, view the famous terminus marker, tour George Washington’s cabin, and learn how the canal helped shape the nation’s westward expansion.
Located on a historic 18th-century farmstead, Evergreen Heritage Center brings history to life through hands-on demonstrations focused on agriculture, daily life, craftsmanship, and environmental stewardship. Group programs can be customized and often include guided tours, heritage demonstrations, and educational experiences.
EXPLORE WIDER
Nestled among more than 3,000 acres of public land, Rocky Gap State Park features stunning mountain vistas, a 243-acre lake, wildlife viewing opportunities, and scenic overlooks. Groups can enjoy guided nature programs, accessible sightseeing, and seasonal recreational activities while experiencing the natural beauty that defines Mountain Maryland.
Additionally, Mountain Maryland is located within a day’s drive of nearly one-third of the U.S. population, making it an ideal stopover or multiday destination for groups traveling throughout the mid-Atlantic region. The destination offers affordable accommodations, including new boutique lodging options, customizable itineraries, step-on guides, and tourism staff who work directly with tour operators to help coordinate memorable experiences.
Allegany County Tourism
tourism@alleganygov.org
mdmountainside.com/startshere
Lead Photo:
National Road Monument at Riverside Park
Photo courtesy of Allegany County Tourism
