How to Visit Cumberland MD

Cumberland is a city in western Maryland, close to the border of West Virginia. Although it is fairly small these days (around 20,000 residents) it was once Maryland's second-largest city next to Baltimore, and was an important center of mining and manufacturing. Even though Cumberland may no longer be known, as it once was, as the "Queen City," it is still a remarkably attractive and friendly mountain town and well worth a visit at any time of year.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• A car to get there
• A road map to help you find your way around

1. Take a trip on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad. This 3 1/2 hour round trip runs between Cumberland and Frostburg and encompasses some truly breathtaking mountain scenery.
2. Hike or bike along the C&O canal. The Chesapeake and Ohio National Canal Park follows the Potomac River 184.5 miles from Washington D.C. all the way to Cumberland--and at the Cumberland end there are a number of well-kept recreational trails through the surrounding area.
3. Go for a swim at the beach at Rocky Gap State Park. This park, surrounded by mountains and featuring the 243-acre Lake Habeeb, offers boating, fishing, hiking and camping as well as swimming.
4. Stop for a bite at the Crabby Pig. This restaurant, just steps away from the train station, offers an extensive menu, the highlights of which are (surprise!) its BBQ pork sandwiches, baby back ribs and tasty homemade crab cakes.
5. Spend the night at The Inn at Walnut Bottom. This historic B&B offers lodgings in either the Georgian-style 1820 Cowden House or the Queen-Anne style 1890 Dent House.

Tips & Warnings

• The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad does not run between January and April
• If you plan a winter visit, be sure to check the weather and road reports first--mountain driving can be a bit tricky in the snow