Planning Your Road Trip Through Western Maryland

by The Casselman March 7, 2022

Beautiful mountain scenery, historical sites galore, numerous recreational activities, and of course, good food are just a few of the reasons why you should take a road trip through Western Maryland. Read on to learn more about some of our favorite spots to check out along the way.

HISTORIC SITES IN WESTERN MARYLAND

Grantsville is home to approximately 1,000 people. Though small, the town offers easy access to multiple state parks and I-68, making travel to cities like Pittsburgh, Baltimore, and Washington D.C. only a two to three-hour drive away.

Within Grantsville are several historical sites and attractions. Known as a travelers community in its earliest days, the sense of community created by the first settlements has carried over to today.

Below are several sites in Grantsville and around the Western Maryland region to check out:

Stanton's Mill

Built in 1797, Stanton's Mill continuously operated as a grist mill from 1824 until 1990.

Tomlinson Inn

Now a private residence, Tomlinson Inn was once a busy inn along the National Road. Its guests included Albert Gallatin and James K. Polk.

Grantsville Community Museum

Open May 18th through October, the Grantsville Community Museum holds a wealth of information on Grantsville's history and life.

The Casselman Inn

Built in 1842, The Casselman was one of the numerous inns along the National Trail to serve the stagecoaches, covered wagons, drovers, and riders, making the Old Pike the busiest thoroughfare crossing the mountains.

The Thrasher Carriage Museum

The Thrasher Carriage Museum features a variety of horse-drawn vehicles dating back between the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Antietam National Battlefield

Commemorating the Battle of Antietam during the American Civil War, Antietam National Battlefield is a protected area featuring the battlefield, an educational visitor's center, a field hospital museum, and a National Military Cemetery. Visitors can also explore Dunker Church, Bloody Lane, Burnside Bridge, National Cemetery, the Newcomer House, and the Pry House Field Hospital Museum.

RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES IN WESTERN MARYLAND

Is walking around looking at biographical descriptions and museums of antiquity not your thing? Don't worry! Western Maryland is a recreator's dream. Here are some of the best places and things to do while you're passing through:

Deep Creek

Covering nearly 65 miles of shoreline, Deep Creek Lake in Garrett County is Maryland's largest freshwater lake. Take a visit and get caught up in all the swimming, fishing, kayaking, and more that the lake has to offer. To learn about all of the fun to be had at this local state park, read our related blog, Activities to Enjoy at Deep Creek Lake.

The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Running 184.5 miles from Cumberland, Maryland to Georgetown in Washington, D.C., the canal once acted as a means of coal transportation from the Allegheny Mountains. Today it's home to some of the best biking and hiking trails in the area.

New Germany State Park

New Germany State Park is a perfect spot for cross-country skiing, fishing, swimming, hiking, geocaching, and camping.

Savage River State Forest

Savage River State Forest is Maryland's largest state forest and includes other recreation sites and hiking trails.

Western Maryland Rail Trail

The 21-mile Western Maryland Rail Trail is paved with asphalt, making it the perfect destination for hiking, biking, and roller-blading.

Rocky Gap State Park

Rocky Gap State Park is located in Western Maryland's Allegany County and features a massive lake surrounded by the illustrious Western Maryland mountain ranges.

DINING AND ENTERTAINMENT OPTIONS IN WESTERN MARYLAND

When taking a road trip, you can't forget about the food and entertainment along the way. So check out some of the best eateries, bakeries, and entertainment options in Western Maryland below:

The Casselman Inn Restaurant

The cuisine of our restaurant is simple, country food with a variety of favorite recipes reminiscent of the Pennsylvania Dutch and Amish background of the owners. Learn more about our restaurant by reading our related blog, Why You Should Dine at The Casselman Inn Restaurant in Grantsville.

The Casselman Bakery and Cafe

Stop at our bakery and cafe located in Deep Creek and enjoy its fresh-baked aromas and goodies, including bread, cookies, pepperoni rolls. Read our blog, Why You Should Visit The Casselman Bakery and Cafe in Deep Creek, to learn more about our bakery and cafe.

Firewater Kitchen

New to the Deep Creek area, Firewater Kitchen is just as it sounds. Fire. Water. Food. Located on Deep Creek Lake, Firewater is a premier destination for exceptional dining.

Maryland Symphony Orchestra

Hailing from Hagerstown, Maryland, the Maryland Symphony Orchestra is the state's premier orchestral company, performing at venues across the region throughout the year.

Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad (WMSR) is a nonprofit heritage railroad based in Cumberland, Maryland. The WMSR offers visitors scenic railroad trips aboard their first-class vintage trains powered by steam or historic diesel locomotives with excursions including the Polar Express, murder mysteries, family pizza trains, Easter trains, private charters, and more.

ADDITIONAL ATTRACTIONS TO CHECK OUT IN WESTERN MARYLAND

Here are a few more attractions that we recommend checking out while you're passing through Western Maryland.

TAKING A ROAD TRIP THROUGH WESTERN MARYLAND? VISIT THE CASSELMAN

Ready to explore, observe, and learn something new on your next road trip? Look no further than The Casselman.

Not only will you have plenty to look forward to in Western Maryland, but you will enjoy Grantsville's rich legacy firsthand from the Casselman. So book a room with us, eat a lovely dinner and breakfast at The Casselman Inn Restaurant, and walk away with the finest baked goods in all of Maryland.

Call us at 301-895-5055, or contact us online if you have any questions. We look forward to the opportunity to serve you.