Cumberland, Maryland (June 25, 2026) – A highly anticipated boutique hotel has opened in the heart of Historic Downtown Cumberland, a city exploring the next chapter in its years-long transformational journey. Cumberland is the largest city in Allegany County, nestled in a region affectionately nicknamed the Mountain Side of Maryland, and has long demonstrated a commitment to historic preservation. Led by that mission and the goal of providing a beautiful and functional community for residents and visitors, Cumberland’s downtown has marked an exciting milestone in its continued revitalization by welcoming the region’s first and only boutique lodging option, The Wills Hotel.
A Victorian-era building in the “Queen City’s” historic downtown is now officially home to the new hotel. With a vision of creating a boutique lodging experience that celebrates Cumberland’s rich history while providing modern amenities and elevated service to meet the expectations of today’s travelers, The Wills officially opened to guests earlier this month. The 20 rooms at the three-story property can be reserved with summertime rates starting at $200 per night. The hotel offers a mix of room and suite styles, as well as a restaurant, sundry shop, and flexible meeting and event space suitable for small gatherings, business meetings and private events.
“The opening of The Wills Hotel represents another major step forward in the ongoing revitalization of downtown Cumberland,” said Ashli Workman, Director of Tourism with Allegany County Government. “This project preserves an important historic building while creating new opportunities for tourism, economic growth, and community investment.”
The on-site restaurant and bar, 1867 – A Modern Chophouse, offers an elevated dining menu that combines classic steakhouse favorites with contemporary American influences. The name 1867 is a nod to a unique discovery made during the building’s renovation, when a small area of exposed brick revealed the date “7 Avril 1867.” Though the exact reason that date was painted there remains unknown, research indicates that April 7 was the opening day of the Paris World’s Fair in 1867. The mysterious discovery and historical connection inspired the name of the restaurant, which blends history with a modern dining experience.
Since Mountain Maryland is known for its incredible outdoor experiences, including the renowned C&O Canal Towpath and Great Allegheny Passage – trailheads for each are located just steps away from the hotel – The Wills also offers secure bike storage and tools for minor repairs so guests cycling through Cumberland have exactly what they need to feel right at home.
Renovating the historic McCleave Building, a landmark property in downtown Cumberland’s Historic District, took approximately 18 months, but the seedling for the boutique property was planted after the ownership team visited Cumberland back in 2013. They recognized the city’s potential as a destination for tourism and outdoor recreation and saw that it was ripe for revitalization. The McCleave Building was selected because of its prominent location in the heart of downtown Cumberland and for its historic character. The building dates to the late 19th century and is noted for its Italianate architectural features, making it one of the most distinctive structures on Baltimore Street.
The list of reasons to visit, explore and stay in Cumberland continues to grow. The city has welcomed nearly 40 businesses to its downtown since the redevelopment project construction began in 2023. This year alone, a dozen new businesses have opened, and more are on the way. New businesses eager to welcome locals and visitors alike include:
- Arcadian Gallery
47 Baltimore Street, Cumberland, MD 21502
With a mission to “Adventure by day. Unwind by night,” the Arcadian is a place for those looking for thoughtful wine, tapas and light snacks, music, and relaxed conversation in a sophisticated atmosphere. - Lily Books & Café
127 Baltimore Street, Cumberland, MD 21502
Offering great books and cozy cups of coffee, Lily Books & Café is a gathering place for the musical and literary arts in downtown Cumberland. - Mad Hatter Boba Emporium
48 N. Centre Street, Cumberland, MD 21502
Creating a fantastical world where steampunk meets wonderland, Mad Hatter Boba Emporium is a veteran-owned, family-run restaurant offering locally inspired dishes, boba tea and spirits. - Sprinkles Candy Bar
7 N. Liberty Street, Cumberland, MD 21502
A dream brought to life, this family-owned business opened with the vision to provide shoppers with a nostalgic feeling of picking out “penny candy” items from bulk bins as they experience the happiness of sharing a treat with loved ones. The on-site Sprinkle Sips dirty soda bar offers nostalgia with a modern flair, and the gourmet popcorn station serves up such unique flavors as Chesapeake Caramel Crunch and Bay Butter Pop.
Coming Soon …
- RootSTable
9 N. Centre Street, Cumberland, MD 21502
A modern American restaurant rooted in Appalachia, RootSTable will use regional ingredients to deliver contemporary takes on traditional local flavors. Chefs will use seasonal produce, farm-raised meats and artisanal products. RootSTable will open in July on the second floor of Ferleman Gallery, which serves as an anchor for art, music, life and creativity.
Cumberland was once the launching point for westward expansion in the United States, where a canal, railroad and the country’s first federally funded highway converged. Today, Allegany County is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, and visitors to Cumberland can appreciate how the destination has breathed new life into old buildings while enjoying the historic downtown’s shops, dining and lodging. To plan a visit to Allegany County, the Mountain Side of Maryland, visit www.mdmountainside.com.
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