Rails & Reenactments of Maryland & West Virginia

Duration: 4 Days | Meals Included: 3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 2 Dinners

 

Trip Highlights:

 

Gordon-Roberts House with Eleanor Roosevelt

Tour this beautifully preserved 1867 Second Empire mansion on Washington Street, complete with its signature mansard roof, step-out windows, original dumbwaiter, and an impressive collection of period antiques. It’s the perfect setting to meet Eleanor Roosevelt, First Lady, humanitarian, and one of the most influential women of the 20th century. During this living-history experience, you’ll hear Eleanor share her remarkable life story, from a difficult childhood to her years in the White House, marked by both extraordinary impact and deeply personal challenges. Engage in conversation, ask the questions you’ve always wondered about, and gain new insight into the woman who reshaped the role of First Lady.

 

Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

Climb aboard the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, where we'll travel on a steam train while enjoying breathtaking mountain views and rich transportation history. As we wind up the mountains to Frostburg, we’ll pass iconic landmarks such as Helmstetter's Horseshoe Curve, Bone Cave, and the 914-foot Brush Tunnel. Once in Frostburg, witness the impressive locomotive spinning on the turntable.

 

Thrasher Carriage Museum

Step back in time at the Thrasher Carriage Museum, home to part of the nation's third-largest collection of horse-drawn vehicles. From elegant carriages to functional wagons, this meticulously preserved collection showcases the artistry and craftsmanship of a bygone era. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply curious about the evolution of travel, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich heritage of transportation.

 

Spruce Forest Artisan Village

Explore the charm of Spruce Forest Artisan Village, where 12 historic cabins come alive with the talents of skilled artisans. Watch wood carvers, weavers, potters, blacksmiths, bird carvers, jewelers, and more as they masterfully craft their creations. Don't forget to browse the unique handcrafted items available for purchase at the Gift Shop located in the Penn Alps Restaurant.

 

LaVale Toll Gate House

Built in 1836 along the historic National Road, the Toll Gate House stands as Maryland's last remaining structure of its kind. Step into the life of the gatekeeper and his family, who lived and worked here as the nation's westward expansion passed right outside their door. Discover fascinating artifacts like cobbler's lasts, boot jacks, butter molds, and ruffle irons—once considered cutting-edge tools during the era when horse-drawn wagons ruled the roads.

 

Ridgedale Farm

This elegant brick mansion was built in 1835 by George William Washington—a cousin of President George Washington. Now a private residence, owners Carol and Mike Shaw occasionally open their home to share its captivating stories. This four-story residence served as a hospital during the Civil War Battle of Kelleys Island and boasts a fascinating history the Shaw's love to share. It’s a truly unique experience you won’t find on any other tour!

 

Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad

Embark on a 3-hour round-trip journey aboard the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad, where history and nature come alive. As you enjoy lunch in the dining car, traverse picturesque countryside steeped in Civil War history. The adventure reaches new heights in The Trough, a breathtaking protected habitat home to majestic bald eagles. Step into the open gondola car for an unforgettable opportunity to spot these incredible birds in their natural environment.

 

Musical Show "Trivial Broadway"

Enjoy the entertaining and interactive musical show, Trivial Broadway! Hear beloved songs from iconic Broadway hits like "Oklahoma", "West Side Story", "My Fair Lady", "Les Misérables", and more, while testing your knowledge with Broadway trivia questions. See if you can stump the performer with a tune they don’t know!

 

Embassy Theatre with Judy Garland

This 1931 Art Deco–style movie theatre is the last of its kind in Western Maryland and is now a home for live performances in Cumberland. Here, you’ll be transported back in time as you meet the legendary Judy Garland. She’ll take a break from filming her 1954 classic “A Star Is Born” to share the story of her life, her loves, and her movies. She’ll also sing some of her iconic songs, including “Zing! Went the Strings of My Heart,” “Over the Rainbow,” “The Man That Got Away,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” and more.

 

B'er Chayim Synagogue

B'er Chayim Congregation is a remarkable piece of Maryland's history, recognized as one of the oldest congregations in the state. Take a step back in time with a captivating tour of this iconic building, which has stood for over 165 years and holds the distinction of being Maryland’s oldest continuously operating temple.

 

Meal Information:

 

Dinner on day one is included at The Town Hill Bed and Breakfast

Dinner will be served buffet-style. Menu TBA

 

Lunch on day two is included at Penn Alps Restaurant

Lunch will be served buffet-style and features baked fish, fried cod, fried shrimp & clam strips, steamed mussels, chicken, ham, mac & cheese, mashed potatoes & gravy, green beans, corn and more. Soup, salad, and dessert bars are also included.

 

Lunch on day three is included aboard the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad. Boxed lunch choices are:

• Ham Sub

• Turkey Sub

• Vegetarian Sub

Lunch is served with chips, seasonal fruit, dessert, and bottled water.

 

Dinner on day three is included at Puccini's Restaurant

Dinner is a plated meal featuring a garden salad, wood fired pizza (9" individual), dessert, and non-alcoholic beverages.

 

Lunch on day four is included at B'er Chayim Synagogue

Lunch includes fruit salad, kugel, Jewish holiday desserts, and coffee, tea, lemonade, and water

 

Menus are subject to change.

 

Need to Know:

• There is moderate walking involved in this tour.

• For the train rides, wear secure shoes as you will be stepping up onto the train. The trains can also vary in tempertaure, so it is best to wear layers that could easily be removed or added.

• Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad: there are restrooms at the Romney station and located throughout the train during your excursion.

• Every Starr trip includes deluxe round-trip motorcoach transportation from one or more of our departure locations.

• A Starr Tour Director will accompany you on this trip.

• Baggage handling at hotels is included.

 

Accessibility:

• Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad: due to the historic nature of the train, it is not ADA compliant, however they will try their best to accommodate everyone. Please let us know at the time of reservation if you have any boarding concerns (walker, cane, wheelchair, need extra time boarding, etc) The station does have a wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, and restrooms.

• Starr has a select quantity of wheelchair accessible motorcoaches available; therefore, we suggest you contact a Travel Advisor to discuss any needs you may have before reserving your trip.

Fairfield Inn & Suites Cumberland (Cumberland, MD)

The hotel features an indoor pool, whirlpool, and a fitness room. Guest rooms include a coffee maker, mini-fridge, hair dryer, and iron/board.