Mountain Maryland has become a vibrant refuge for music lovers—and it’s no surprise why. Our region's deep musical roots are woven into the Appalachian traditions, culture, and folklife that define this area. With annual music festivals, weekly concert series, and dozens of live performances every weekend, it’s clear that in Mountain Maryland, Music Starts Here. Whether you're into soulful jazz sessions or spontaneous jam riffs, you’ll find a destination where music is at the heart of it all.
DAY ONE
MORNING
Start your morning with a stroll down historic Baltimore Street in Cumberland, MD. Enjoy breakfast at Café Mark, and don’t forget to check out their Facebook page for weekly coffee flights—many inspired by music and pop culture. If you have a guitar or instrument in need of tuning or repair, bring it along! The Western Maryland Music Center is a must-visit, full-service music shop catering to musicians of all kinds.
AFTERNOON
After lunch, treat yourself to homemade frozen custard at Queen City Creamery, then take a short stroll to the 'Joe Maphis' bench on the loading deck of the Western Maryland Train Station. Known as the “King of Strings,” Joe Maphis grew up in Cumberland, where he mastered the guitar, fiddle, and banjo. In the 1950s and ’60s, he regularly appeared on television alongside country legends like George Jones, Patsy Cline, and Johnny Cash. Fittingly, Maphis is laid to rest in the Cash family plot in Nashville.
EVENING
In the evening, enjoy a live musical production at the Cumberland Theatre —Western Maryland’s only regional theatre—or visit the Embassy Theatre, a stunning Art Deco landmark in downtown Cumberland. Both venues offer year-round opportunities to experience live performances in unforgettable settings.
DAY TWO
MORNING
Music plays a vital role in our heritage story, so it is no surprise that music and history would be a perfect combination. The Frostburg Museum located on Main Street in the Mountain City of Frostburg features exhibits that highlight the city's musical heritage. Among its diverse displays, the museum includes artifacts related to local music history, such as instruments and memorabilia from community bands like the Arion Band, which has been an integral part of Frostburg's cultural scene since 1877.
AFTERNOON
Who doesn't love vintage—or the thrill of hunting for the perfect vinyl in a record store? Get lost in the rows of album covers at Yellow K Records, a welcoming local shop specializing in new and used vinyl. Tucked into a historic former fire station on the second block of Water Street, Yellow K offers a thoughtfully curated selection of both new releases and secondhand gems.
EVENING
Mountain Maryland’s brewery scene is alive with crisp brews and music-filled evenings. Our Mountain Maryland Tap and Pour Tour highlights a full list of Made in Mountain Maryland breweries, wineries, and distilleries—each one a lively venue for great local and regional music. Be sure to check our events calendar or follow them on social media for the latest performances and happenings.
Insider tip: Make a stop at Locust Post Brewery in Little Orleans, a hidden gem for both craft beer and the arts. Owner Tony, an artist by trade, has filled the space with his one-of-a-kind creations—including a fan-favorite piece titled "Strings", a tribute to the music that echoes throughout Mountain Maryland.