Riding the Rails Featuring Western Maryland

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

 

Trip Highlights:

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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 Greek Revival 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!

 

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 on day one is included at The Cumberland Country Club

Dinner will be served buffet-style and features Italian fare. Menu is TBA

 

Lunch on day two is included at Penn Alps Restaurant

Lunch is 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, soup, salad, dessert, soft drinks, water, coffee, and tea.

 

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 will feature fruit salad, quiche, Jewish holiday desserts, coffee, tea, lemonade, and water.

 

Menus are subject to change.

 

Need to Know:

• There is some 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.

• 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 & Suites Cumberland (Cumberland, MD)

 

Hotel has an indoor pool, whirlpool and fitness room. Guest rooms include coffee maker, mini-fridge, hair dryer, and iron/board.