You’ve packed your bags, and the car is loaded with snacks and distractions as you head to the mountains with the whole family, but have you added these family-friendly activities to the list of ‘Must-See/Must-Do’ experiences? There’s much to keep the whole family engaged in a trip to Mountain Maryland. Whether you’re an adventuring family, one with a sweet tooth, or lovers of history and the arts, you won’t be surprised when you hear an authentic chorus of, ‘Are we there yet?’
For The Outdoor Adventurer
Start your adventure at Rocky Gap State Park’s Scales and Tales Aviary to view wildlife and hear the stories of how native, non-releasable birds of prey became part of the program. Afterward, head to the park’s beach to rent a kayak or pedal boat and explore the park from the sparkling waters of Lake Habeeb! Or, pack up a picnic and rent your bikes from an outfitter to trek Allegany County’s world-class trails—the Great Allegheny Passage and C&O Canal Towpath.
For a unique experience the whole family will love, hop on a rail bike with Tracks and Yaks, Maryland’s only rail biking outfitter. Pedal custom-built, open-air bikes along the historic Western Maryland Railway line, winding through mountain landscapes, past landmarks like Helmstetter’s Curve, and into breathtaking scenery that changes with the seasons.
For the Sweet Tooth
Indulge your cravings along Allegany County’s Ice Cream Trail, featuring nine delicious stops that take you from roadside stands to historic diners—each with their own spin on creamy, dreamy treats. Expect generous portions, indulgent flavors, and a decadent journey with an ultimately sweet ending.
Or fuel up for adventure on the Donut and Coffee Trail - donuts for the kids, coffee for the parents. From pillowy, glazed yeast donuts to dense cake donuts made for dunking, you’ll find a rainbow of sprinkles, gooey jelly fillings, and chocolatey goodness around every corner. Meanwhile, parents can savor silky smooth espresso or a delightfully frothy latte. These nine stops offer the perfect morning pick-me-up: a sugar rush for the little ones and a bold buzz for the grown-ups to sustain the day’s activities.
For the Train Enthusiast
Hitch a ride on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad for a three-hour excursion from Cumberland to Frostburg and back, complete with a layover to watch the locomotive turn on the historic turntable in Frostburg. It's a rail experience that combines scenic views with a hands-on glimpse into the golden age of train travel.
While in downtown Cumberland, step inside the Allegany Museum to explore the Crossroads of America exhibit, which highlights the pivotal role the B&O Railroad and C&O Canal played in transporting coal, timber, and other regional resources. These transportation giants, which reached Cumberland in 1842 and 1850 respectively, were essential to fueling America’s rise as an industrial power.
For miniature train lovers, don’t miss the impressive HO and G scale layouts by the Maryland/West Virginia Model Railroad Association at the Allegany County Fairgrounds. The detailed setup showcases the railroads from Cumberland to Connellsville and winds through realistic mountain scenery, offering a fascinating look at our region’s historic rail lines in miniature form.
On a Rainy Day
If the weather puts a damper on your outdoor plans, gather the family and turn the day into an indoor adventure. Put your problem-solving skills to the test at Exit Strategy Escape Rooms, where you'll search for clues, open locks, decipher messages, and solve puzzles—all while racing against the clock to complete your mission. With four unique themed rooms to choose from—including a 1920s speakeasy in “The Untouchables,” a whimsical “Through the Looking Glass” wonderland, a high-seas adventure in “The Cursed Treasure,” and a chilly holiday challenge in “The Blizzard Escape”—there’s something to spark the imagination of every age group.
Prefer a little friendly competition? Head over to Fore Axes, where you can unleash your inner lumberjack with axe throwing, tee off with a golf simulator bay, or kick back with oversized board games and high-end mocktails or cocktails. You’ll also find indoor bocce ball courts and corn hole boards—making it the perfect place for families to connect, compete, and create memories, rain or shine.
For the History Buff
Visit George Washington’s Headquarters in downtown Cumberland, a preserved log cabin that once housed the future president during the French and Indian War. This stop marks part of Washington’s first diplomatic mission in 1753, which passed through Allegany County on his way to demand the French vacate British-claimed land. Follow the scenic byway signs featuring his profile to trace the path of his early military career across the region.
Then, explore the tunnels beneath Emmanuel Episcopal Church, built on the site of historic Fort Cumberland. These earthwork tunnels are believed to have been part of the Underground Railroad, where Rev. David Buel and other abolitionists aided freedom seekers traveling north. Today, visitors can tour the tunnels and explore the newly open Wills Creek Museum to learn more about Cumberland’s layered history.
For the Budding Artist
From circus performers and ballet to world music and more, the Cultural Events Series at Frostburg State University brings inspiring live shows your budding artist will love. Or, get hands-on and creative at Mr. Toad’s Pottery, where kids (and grown-ups!) can paint their own pottery, make mosaics, or try out mixed media projects in a welcoming, all-ages space.
This summer, don’t miss the Levitt AMP Cumberland Music Series at Canal Place—free outdoor concerts every Thursday evening with music ranging from jazz and folk to global sounds, all in a fun, community space. And touted as a top family-friendly festival in the country, the whole family will love DelFest, our can’t-miss, four-day bluegrass festival celebrating the rich legacy of Del McCoury.