FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Allegany County Office of Tourism
701 Kelly Road
Cumberland, MD 21502
aworkman@alleganygov.org
www.mdmountainside.com
Allegany County Nominated Again as a USA Today 10Best “Best Place to Visit for Fall”
Third consecutive year of national recognition highlights the destination's standout fall experiences
August 11, 2025 - CUMBERLAND, MD – For the third year in a row, Allegany County, the Mountain Side of Maryland, has earned a coveted nomination in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards as one of the “Best Places to Visit for Fall.” This annual travel awards contest spotlights top U.S. destinations known for scenic beauty, crisp autumn weather, and memorable seasonal experiences.
Public voting is now open at 10Best.com and runs through Monday, September 8 at 11:59 a.m. EDT. Winners will be announced on Wednesday, September 17.
“Fall is one of our signature seasons, and this nomination reinforces what our locals and visitors already know: Allegany County is breathtaking in autumn,” said Ashli Workman, Director of Tourism. “To be recognized for the third year by a national panel of travel experts is not only an honor, but a testament to our natural beauty, trails, and the unforgettable experiences we offer.”
From vibrant foliage along the Great Allegheny Passage and C&O Canal Towpath to tree-lined scenic byways and 70,000 acres of public land, Allegany County, affectionately known as Mountain Maryland, delivers an immersive fall getaway packed with color, charm, and adventure. Add in historic downtown trail towns - Cumberland and Frostburg, an extensive list of fall festivals and events, and cozy places to stay, it’s no wonder the destination continues to stand out.
USA Today’s travel editors, along with a panel of travel experts, curated this year’s list of 20 nominees. Allegany County joins other iconic fall destinations including Asheville, NC; Bar Harbor, ME; Boston, MA; Branson, MO; Burlington, VT; Gatlinburg, TN; and Mackinac Island, MI.
This nomination adds to a growing list of recent USA Today accolades for the region:
- Best Historic Small Town – Cumberland, MD
- Best Outdoor Concert Series – Levitt AMP Cumberland Music Series
- Best Recreational Trail – Great Allegheny Passage
- Best Scenic Train Ride – Western Maryland Scenic Railroad
- Best Small College Town – Frostburg, MD
- Best Small Town Museum - Allegany Museum
The top 10 “Best Places to Visit for Fall” will be narrowed down by public voting. Vote once per day at: 10Best.com through September 8 to help Allegany County reach the top spot!
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Allegany County Tourism
Allegany County Tourism is the official tourism office for Allegany County, Maryland. Allegany County Tourism enhances the quality of life in Allegany County, Maryland, and strengthens destination awareness through promotion, development, and services that attract visitors to stay longer and spend more in our community. A comprehensive listing of area attractions, lodging options, and community events can be found at www.mdmountainside.com. Tourism supports 3,600 jobs in Allegany County, generating $202 million in visitor spending and $50 million in tourism tax revenues annually. Source: Tourism Economics