FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Allegany County Office of Tourism
701 Kelly Road
Cumberland, MD 21502
P 301.876.9595
aworkman@alleganygov.org
www.mdmountainside.com
Historic LaVale Toll Gate House Reopens this Weekend
Guided tours available over scheduled dates, May through October
May 15, 2024 - CUMBERLAND, MD – Allegany County Tourism is excited to announce the return of guided tour dates at the LaVale Toll Gate House for the 2024 season.
America's first road trip started here in Allegany County at mile marker "0" of the Historic National Road - a road that expanded trade and commerce, fueled settlers’ westward migration, and set the foundation for modern federal highway systems across America.
The National Road began construction in 1811 as a way to connect Cumberland, MD, to the Ohio River and quickly became the main transportation route to the trans-Appalachian West. Today, you can travel this state and nationally designated Historic National Road Scenic Byway to discover pieces of America’s early transportation history, and you can also explore a piece of living history at the LaVale Toll Gate House. This seven-sided toll gate house was the first constructed toll house on the National Road after the state took ownership of the Maryland portion of the National Road in 1835. It is also the last remaining toll house in Maryland.
Visitors can learn more about this integral part of the Historic National Road story through guided tours offered from 12 pm - 4 pm, over the following dates: May 17 and 18; June 13, 14, 15, and 16; July 6 and 20; August 3 and 17; September 14 and 15; and October 5 and 19.
There is no cost to tour the Toll House. The LaVale Toll Gate House is located at 14302 National Highway SW, Cumberland, MD 21502. For more information, please visit www.mdmountainside.com.
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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 $168 million in visitor spending and $48 million in tourism tax revenues annually. Source: Tourism Economics