Riding the Rails Western Maryland

Riding the Rails Western Maryland

Trip Duration: 4 Days

 

 

Trip Inclusions:

• Meals: 3 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 3 Dinners

• Tour Director

• Overnight accommodations

• Deluxe motorcoach transportation

• Baggage handling and related gratuities

• Taxes

 

 

Trip Highlights:

 

B'er Chayim Synagogue

B'er Chayim Congregation stands as a testament to Maryland's rich history, boasting the title of one of the oldest Congregations in the state. Step back in time with a fascinating tour of this iconic building, which has stood for over 165 years and holds the honor of being the oldest continuously operating Temple in Maryland. During your visit, indulge in a delightful culinary journey with authentic Jewish holiday desserts. Savor the flavors of traditional treats like kugel (pronounced k-OO-g-uh-l, a delectable noodle casserole), rugelach (pronounced rug-a-lah, a delightful filled pastry), and sufganiyot (pronounced Soof-GAH-NEE-yote, irresistible jelly donuts). It's a taste of history and culture you won't want to miss!

 

St. Paul's Lutheran Church

This congregation, established in 1794, erected this building in 1959 – but it is only the latest of 4 church buildings to have housed this parish. Tour the astonishing and unique pastel stained glass windows which depict not only Old Testament and Gospel stories, but also the history of the United States and Allegany County in their lovely panels. It's a glorious "window" onto the story of the region and the history of the Christian faith. Your guide will also sing you some songs of faith in the sanctuary.

 

Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad one way train excursion is an exciting mix of mountain scenery and rich transportation history aboard a Steam Train. We'll wind up the mountains to Frostburg, past Helmstetter's Horseshoe Curve and Bone Cave, and through 914-foot Brush Tunnel. In Frostburg you'll see the locomotive spin on the turntable.

 

Thrasher Carriage Museum

Visit the Thrasher Carriage Museum, which houses part of the third largest horse-drawn vehicle collection in the nation.

 

Spruce Forest Artisan Village

Visit the Spruce Forest Artisan Village. Here you'll find 12 historic cabins which house wood carvers, weavers, potters, blacksmiths, bird carvers, jewelers, and other artisans. Watch them ply their craft, and purchase their wares at the Gift Shop.

 

Toll Gate House

Built in 1836 on the National Road, this Toll Gate House is the only one of its kind left in the state of Maryland. See how the gatekeeper and his family lived, worked and studied as the westward expansion drove past their front door! Learn about cobbler's last and boot jacks, butter molds and ruffle irons - the things that were "high tech" back in the days when the horse and wagon were the fastest mode of transportation.

 

Gordon-Roberts House with Eleanor Roosevelt

This lovely Second Empire mansion on Washington Street is the perfect venue to meet with this fascinating historical figure. Eleanor Roosevelt, wife and niece of presidents, led an historic life of influence and good works, starting from a very painful childhood.

 

Ridge Dale Farm

This elegant brick mansion was built in 1835 by George William Washington, a cousin of the president. It's a private residence now, but every so often Carol and Mike Shaw will open it up for guests. This 4 story brick residence was used as a hospital during the Civil War Battle of Kellye's Island, and has a fascinating history, which the Shaw's love to share. We guarantee you won't get to see this glorious building on any other tour!

 

Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad

On our 3-hour round trip you'll rumble through countryside rich with Civil War history while munching on your lunch in a dining car. When we enter "The Trough" it's your chance to see the Bald Eagles which live in this protected habitat. It's exciting to be the first to spot one of these majestic birds from the open gondola car!

 

Musical Show "Trivial Broadway"

Enjoy a fun and challenging musical show called "Trivial Broadway." You'll hear songs from your favorite Broadway shows, ("Oklahoma", "West Side Story", "My Fair Lady", "Les Miserables," and others) and have a chance to answer Broadway trivia questions. Try to stump the performer on a song she doesn't know!

 

Evergreen Heritage Center

Predating the Revolutionary War, this rambling farmhouse has belonged to the same family for over 250 years! The latest descendant, Janice Keane, has created on its grounds an award-winning museum, educational facility, habitat sanctuary and environmental laboratory. In partnership with such organizations as the University of Maryland, the Nature Conservancy, the Appalachian Regional Commission and the MD State Department of Education, the EHC's mission is to provide hands-on learning at all levels, to preserve the history and ecology of the region, to study such issues as solar energy, chestnut blight and water conservation, and to highlight farm life in Western Maryland for the past 200 years. We'll tour the farmhouse museum, the 18th century barn, and the various projects that Janice and the staff have going here. You couldn't find a better representation of Western Maryland in microcosm than the EHC!

 

 

Meal Information:

 

Day 3: Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad box lunch choices include:

• Turkey sandwich

• Ham Sandwich

• Vegetarian

 

 

Need to Know:

There is some walking involved in this tour.

 

In the Gilchrist and Evergreen there are stairs in the mansions, no elevators.

 

 

Accessibility:

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 by Marriott, Cumberland

Hotel features indoor pool, whirlpool and fitness Center.

 

Hot Breakfast is served daily

 

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