Allegany County, the Mountain Side of Maryland, is the perfect Christmas destination. Our small-town charm and snowy winter season make for a setting fit for the perfect Hallmark holiday movie. Stroll our twinkling downtowns, find that perfect one-of-a-kind gift for someone on your list, book tickets for the Polar Express train rides, and sip on coffee and indulge in warm donuts along our Donut and Coffee Trail. We have outlined some of the ways you can get in the holiday spirit with us in the Mountainside.
DAY ONE
Morning
The architecture alone is worth the trip to Cumberland, Maryland. To appreciate it, all you must do is look up. And what makes architecture even more beautiful? Why, when it's lit up in twinkling lights for the holiday season. Grab a breakfast at Cafe Mark along the newly redeveloped Baltimore Street in Downtown Cumberland. The cafe offers a full breakfast menu (their French toast is delightful) and they even feature weekly themed coffee flights. When your belly is full, walk off the extra (and certainly needed) calories with a historic walking tour of the Historic City Center, Canal Place grounds, and the historic Washington Street.
Afternoon
Cumberland's downtown and Main Street district has a growing list of retailers. Be sure to check out Myla & Maple boutique for specialty women's apparel, the Fort Cumberland Emporium for antiques and thrifting, Wheelzup Adventures for outdoor and cold weather gear, and Mountain Maryland Trading Post for that special logo souvenir. While downtown, dine in one of the many restaurants, and then top off lunch with a sweet treat from AJ's Cookie Jar, selling homemade macaroons and delectable cookies. Queen City Creamery is also a favorite as you can watch the frozen custard be made and can partake in one of many holiday themed desserts.
Photo credit: Walter Scriptunas II
Evening
Don your favorite Christmas pajamas and head to the Cumberland Train Station for a memorable ride and experience along Western Maryland Scenic Railroad's Polar Express train ride. This holiday favorite, inspired by the hit movie, is brought to life when you and your family take a ride. Choose your adventure style with a variety of Western Maryland train class services, including the dome car, which gives you a view of the Mountain Maryland stars. Music from the motion picture soundtrack will accompany your journey to the North Pole, while you sip on the famous hot chocolate and cookies served on board. It is the perfect way to feel festive this season.
DAY TWO
Morning
Start your morning with a visit at Clatter Cafe in Frostburg, MD. Order their seasonal favorites - a gingerbread latte or eggnog latte, and pair it with a freshly baked donut from across the street at Lorenzo's Bakery. Both stops are part of Allegany County's Donut and Coffee Trail. Both pair perfect with a brisk walk around the Mountain City checking in and out of specialty stores such as Main Street Books, Yellow K Records, Old Forty Trading Post, Ladybug Boutique, and much more.
Afternoon
Gear up for some light outdoor adventure with Tracks and Yaks Sleigh Bell Express. This one-and-a-half-hour excursion is the perfect multi-generational family fun during the holiday season. You will start your adventure at Frostburg's historic Depot Station, board the railbikes, which run along the Western Maryland Railway, and pedal (or should we say - coast) seven miles downhill. The excursion ends at the Woodcock Hollow pavilion where cookies and hot cocoa await before you are shuttled back to Frostburg.
Evening
Cap off the evening with a walking tour of Frostburg's annual 'Decorate the Meters.' Businesses, non-profits, families, and individuals sponsor nearly 100 town meters, which are each uniquely themed. What started as a tradition to get the community outdoors and feeling festive during the pandemic, has blossomed into an annual tradition for the small town. After your stroll, secure reservations at Giuseppe's Italian Restaurant, which is decorated beautifully for the holidays. The restaurant is known for its appetizers and pasta entrees, and they make the best espresso martini in town.
LOCAL TIP
Mountain Maryland has a huge lineup of special events and programming that make the holiday season extra festive. Schedule your Mountain Maryland getaway around signature holiday events or annual programming.
