Riding the Rails Featuring Western Maryland

Riding the Rails Featuring Western Maryland & Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroads

Trip Duration: 4 Days

 

 

Trip Inclusions:

• Meals: 3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 2 Dinners

• Tour Director

• Overnight accommodations

• Deluxe motorcoach transportation

• Baggage handling and related gratuities

• Taxes

 

 

Trip Highlights:

 

St. Paul's Lutheran Church

Established in 1794, St. Paul's Lutheran Church has a rich history reflected in its current building, constructed in 1959—the fourth to serve this parish. Step inside to marvel at the stunning pastel stained glass windows, which beautifully blend scenes from the Old Testament and Gospel with depictions of United States and Allegany County history. It's a glorious "window" onto the story of the region and the history of the Christian faith. During your visit, your guide will enhance the experience with songs of faith.

 

Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

Climb aboard the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, where mountain vistas and transportation history come together on a scenic one-way steam train excursion. Travel through iconic landmarks like Helmstetter's Horseshoe Curve, the intriguing Bone Cave, and the 914-foot Brush Tunnel to Frostburg, where we'll 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, promising an enlightening and memorable experience for all.

 

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.

 

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!

 

Evergreen Heritage Center

Dating back to before the Revolutionary War, this historic farmhouse has been in the same family for over 250 years. Today, under the stewardship of Janice Keane, it serves as an award-winning museum, educational center, and environmental laboratory. In collaboration with organizations like the University of Maryland and the Nature Conservancy, the Evergreen Heritage Center focuses on hands-on learning, ecological preservation, and sustainable practices. During the tour, explore the farmhouse museum, 18th-century barn, and ongoing projects that showcase the rich history and environmental efforts of Western Maryland.

 

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 Day One is included at The Cumberland Country Club.

Dinner will be an Italian Buffet, menu is TBD. 

 

Lunch Day Two is included at Penn Alps Restaurant.

The full lunch buffet includes Baked Fish, Fried Cod, Fried Shrimp, Clam Strips, Streamed Mussels, Chicken, Ham, Mac & Cheese, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy, Green Beans, Corn and more. Lunch also includes the Soup, Salad, and Dessert Bars.

 

Lunch on Day Three is a boxed meal included aboard the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad.

Choices are:

• Ham Sub

• Turkey Sub

• Vegetarian Sub

All served with chips, seasonal fruit, dessert, and bottled water.

 

Dinner on Day Three is included at Puccini's Restaurant.

Dinner will feature 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 will feature Fruit Salad, Quiche, Jewish Holiday desserts, along with coffee, tea, lemonade, and water.

 

Menus subject to change.

 

 

Need to Know:

There is some walking involved in this tour.

 

 

Accessibility:

The Gilchrist and Evergreen mansions feature stairs but do not have elevators

 

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, Cumberland, MD

Hotel features indoor pool, whirlpool and fitness room. Hot Breakfast is served daily.

 

Guestrooms include coffee maker, hair dryer, iron/board, and mini-fridge.