cumberland maryland train trip

Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

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Western Maryland Scenic Railroad - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

Sun - Sat 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM
(0.38 km) Fairfield Inn & Suites Cumberland
(0.35 km) Ramada by Wyndham Cumberland Downtown
(0.51 km) Bruce House Inn
(0.45 km) Cumberland Inn and Spa
(0.63 km) The Inn on Decatur
(0.05 km) Uncle Jack's Pizzeria & Pub
(0.05 km) Niners Canal Pub
(0.07 km) Cafe Mark
(0.14 km) City Lights
(0.17 km) Baltimore Steet Grill
(0.06 km) Exit Strategy Escape Room
(0.07 km) Great Allegheny Passage
(0.10 km) C&O Canal National Historical Park and Visitors Museum
(0.08 km) Cumberland Visitor Center
(0.06 km) Allegany Museum

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Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

13 Canal St, Cumberland , Maryland 21502 USA

Independent
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Learn more about this business on Yelp .

“a mix of mountain scenery and rich transportation history”

It's the most exciting time of the year for our famous steam train. Ride through the beautiful Maryland Mountains as they explode with a vibrant mix of fall colors. The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad round trip excursion, originating from Downtown Cumberland, Maryland, is an exciting mix of mountain scenery and rich transportation history. It’s an entertaining and educational experience riders of all ages and interests with interpretive history and lively Main Street Districts at both ends of the trip!

Reviewed by Christopher C.

(Let me tangent right up front by saying that our experience overall was very unique. Why was it unique? We basically had the entire train to ourselves. Yep, only three occupied tables for the... Read more

Reviewed by Whitney L.

Recently went to visit Cumberland with my boyfriend to experience the Polar Express Train ride. It's well worth it and staff are both friendly and very accommodating. We actually came into town... Read more

Reviewed by Melissa B.

Tony and I stopped at the Western Maryland Railway Station to visit the building (historical value) talk to the agent and see the museum. We found out the train schedule and found out because it... Read more

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Sun - Sat: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm

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Cumberland › Attraction

The western maryland scenic railroad.

The 32-mile round-trip excursion between Cumberland and Frostburg -- enhanced by live commentary -- follows a mountain valley route through the Cumberland Narrows, with many panoramic vistas and a 1,300-foot elevation change between the two destinations. All trains depart from and return to Cumberland. The trip takes 3 1/2 hours, including a 1 1/2-hour layover in Frostburg, where you can visit the nearby Thrasher Carriage Museum or get a snack. The railroad also offers weekend murder-mystery dining excursions. The website lists dates and times. Diesel trains are used May through August and in October to help meet the demand for tickets. Santa Express trips, offered Thanksgiving weekend through December, are aboard the steam train.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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Centennial St Water Line Project Underway

Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad (WMSR) loop begins & ends in Cumberland at Canal Place. The line stops at the Frostburg Depot for passengers to stretch their legs and grab a bite to eat. Here, the steam engine is detached, rotated on the turntable, and reattached to the other end of the train for the scenic return trip down the mountain.

The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad round trip excursion is an exciting mix of mountain top scenery and rich transportation history. Leaving Cumberland, the route travels west through a breach in the Allegheny Mountains over an iron truss bridge, around Helmstetter’s Horseshoe Curve and through the 914 foot Brush Tunnel under Piney Mountain. Climbing grades up to 2.8% on the 16 mile trek, the route follows the former Western Maryland Railroad right-of-way, then joins the old Cumberland & Pennsylvania Railroad.

Frostburg Flyer Excursions

Travel back through time aboard our restored diesel locomotive on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad . You’ll climb through the Allegheny Mountains on the Western Maryland #501, a GP30 built in the 1960’s, easily recognizable due to its high profile and stepped cab roof, unique among American locomotives. A narrator will be on-board to provide you with interesting historical facts and significant cultural locations along the route to Frostburg.

Our Frostburg Flyer excursions depart from Cumberland to Frostburg at 11:30am on weekdays and Saturdays and at 1:00pm on Sundays. Dining Class guests enjoy a 3-course meal consisting of salad, choice of entrée, and a signature dessert of Chef’s choice while riding in our vintage dining cars. Standard Coach general seating are also available. A Snack Bar is available to all passengers. Boarding begins approximately 30 minutes before departure; each excursion is 3 hours round-trip.

Murder Mystery Train

Join us for dinner and a show! Our Murder Mystery trains depart from Cumberland to Frostburg . Step aboard for an evening of comedic improvisation and interactive murder mystery fun! Performances take place on-board while guests relax in one of two heritage dining cars.

Dining Class guests enjoy a 3-course meal consisting of salad, choice of entrée, and a signature dessert of Chef’s choice.
Guests can also enjoy a cash bar serving a selection of wine and beer as well as non-alcoholic beverages.
Boarding begins at 5:30pm; train departs at 6:00pm. This 3 hour excursion will return to Cumberland at 9:00pm.
Advance reservations are required.
NOTE: Murder Mystery shows are designed for an adult audience and may contain some mild adult humor and innuendo not suitable for children.

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City Hall 37 S Broadway Frostburg, MD 21532 301-689-6000

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Railroads & Train Rides

Railroads & train rides.

The Western Maryland Railway was a class I railroad that operated in Maryland, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania from 1852 to 1983 to haul freight, coal, and small passenger operations. Today, the line is home to the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad’s heritage train excursions, which departs from Cumberland’s grand Western Maryland Railway Station for a 3-hour round-trip excursion to the Mountain City of Frostburg, MD, and back, as well as Tracks and Yaks rail bike excursions, which begin at the Frostburg Depot for a leisurely pedal along the rail line on custom aluminum rail bikes. The Great Allegheny Passage Trail also runs parallel to the line and is one of the top rail trails in America. There are three ways to explore this rails to trail corridor and plenty of opportunity to plan so you can experience each in one trip!

Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad offers a three-hour round trip excursion from Cumberland to Frostburg on their fully-restored 1309 steam engine, the largest operating locomotive of its type in the world.

Tracks and Yaks

Tracks and Yaks is Maryland’s only rail biking excursion where guests can leisurely pedal aluminum rail bikes on the railroad tracks along the Western Maryland Railway corridor.

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Maryland Train Rides

Maryland Scenic Train Rides (2024): A Complete Guide

Last revised: December 10, 2023

By: Adam Burns

Maryland enjoys a rich railroad heritage. It is home to America's first common-carrier, the Baltimore & Ohio, and was also served by the Pennsylvania Railroad's "Northeast Corridor," Western Maryland Railway, Norfolk & Western, Reading, and perhaps the most famous of all short lines, the Maryland & Pennsylvania.

In addition, Washington, D.C. was located right next door where lines of several southern carriers met those of the Northeast/Midwest. Today, several tourist rides are available in the Old Line State, along with many museums.

These include, among others, the B&O's former Mount Clare Shops (now home to the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Museum) and the popular Western Maryland Scenic Railroad.

Please note! The guide information here pertains only to Maryland scenic train rides related to vacation and tourism destinations. If you are interested in intercity/long distance rail travel please visit Amtrak's website .

State Rail History

Many reading this are likely at least vaguely familiar with Maryland's first railroad, the fabled Baltimore & Ohio.

The B&O was created predominantly to provide Baltimore with an efficient transportation system which could compete against the mighty Erie Canal, the famous (and expensive) all-water artery linking New York City with the Port of Albany (Buffalo).

In addition, Philadelphia was planning a similar transportation system to connect with Pittsburgh. The Baltimore & Ohio Railroad was chartered on February 28, 1827 and officially incorporated and organized on April 24, 1827.

By July 4th construction began when a cornerstone was laid in the city.

According to the book, " Baltimore & Ohio Railroad ," by Kirk Reynolds and David Oroszi it was tradition to launch new canal construction on July 4th and since the B&O was a similar endeavor, Independence Day was chosen.

In January of 1830 the B&O launched service over its first 1.5 miles from a small station in Baltimore at Pratt Street. Only months later, 13 miles was opened to Ellicotts Mills (today Ellicott City).

In 1852 the company completed its charter by reaching the Ohio River at Wheeling, Virginia (West Virginia after June 20, 1863).

At its peak the B&O, consisting over 10,000 miles, and served every major city between Chicago and New York (the latter was via ferry service only).

According to John Stover's book " The Routledge Historical Atlas Of The American Railroads ," mileage in Maryland peaked at nearly 1,500 during the 1920's.

Today, the Association of American Railroads lists 937 miles in operation, served by ten different railroads. As mentioned above, if there is one tourist train you are planning to ride in the state, a visit to the Western Maryland Scenic is highly recommended.

Their 12 miles cuts through the beautiful Appalachian Mountains and passes along famed Helmstetter's Curve, across the "Bridge Through The Narrows," and through Brush Tunnel.

Aside from the WMSR there is the Walkersville Southern Railroad located in Walkersville, as well as two streetcar/trolley museums; the National Capital Museum (located in Washington, D.C.) and Baltimore Streetcar Museum.

Both the WMSR and Walkersville Southern host special events throughout the year so be on the lookout for those!

Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Museum

The Baltimore and Ohio Railroad Museum is one of the most widely recognized, respected and highly regarded such institutions throughout the world.

It was launched by the Baltimore & Ohio itself and, not surprisingly, many of the pieces are of B&O heritage.

The are numerous examples within their collection that predate the Civil War, all thanks to the railroad's efforts to recognize its history at an early date.

The museum also contains pieces from other railroads but predominantly focuses on the B&O, Western Maryland, and Chesapeake & Ohio.

Much of this equipment is housed within the B&O’s famous Mount Clare Shops (over the years this location out-shopped or overhauled thousands of steam and diesel locomotives as well as many cars, such as the famed "Wagontops").

Among their other attractions the museum features two scales of large model railroads in G and HO as well as layouts brought in annually by various modeling groups. Along with its extensive collection the organization offers short scenic train rides (about a mile or so) on its property.

Baltimore Streetcar Museum

The Baltimore Streetcar Museum's mission is to preserve the city's interurban heritage. In doing so it also offers short trolley rides aboard some of its restored equipment.

It was originally founded in 1966 by members of the Baltimore Chapter/National Railroad Historical Society and is open throughout much of the year.

The city of Baltimore was served by one notable interurban, the Washington, Baltimore & Annapolis Electric Railway. As Dr. George Hilton and John Due's authoritative piece, " The Electric Interurban Railways In America ," notes this company's heritage began in 1898 when a project was launched to link Baltimore and Washington, D.C. with an electrified railroad.

It was opened on April 3, 1908 with a branch to Annapolis. It grew over the years by adding two nearby systems; the Annapolis Short Line in 1921 (Baltimore-Annapolis) and the Annapolis, Baltimore & Washington (Annapolis Junction - Annapolis).

The WB&A was one of the more successful interurbans, typically grossing more than $2.5 million annually with excellent equipment and a superb right-of-way.

However, following losses brought about the Great Depression and other transportation modes, officials elected to shutdown the transit system unexpectedly on August 20, 1935.

Bowie Railroad Museum

This museum is housed inside the small, restored Pennsylvania Railroad depot originally built by the Baltimore & Potomac ( This PRR subsidiary was organized on December 19, 1858 and was completed between Baltimore and Washington, D.C. on July 2, 1872. ) in 1910.

The building houses a small collection of displays and is open throughout much of the year.

There is also a restored wooden interlocking tower (completed in 1913) on the grounds, home to the National Railroad Historical Society’s "Martin O’Rourke Railroad Research Library," as well as a freight depot completed in 1933.

Also be sure to visit their restored cabooses on the grounds!

All of the buildings, which for many years served as part of the PRR's vital, high-speed, and electrified Northeast Corridor (Baltimore/Washington - New York) were restored in 1992 and placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1998.

Brunswick Heritage Museum

This small museum, located in Brunswick along the Potomac River, houses historic artifacts and offers visitors a chance to view an operating model layout inside.

The three-story building primarily focuses on the history of the Baltimore & Ohio (the town was once an important point along the railroad) but generally looks to preserve the area's local history as well as that of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal.

The museum's three levels include the following; the first floor is designed for young kids where they can play and dress up, the second focuses on the general history of the region/canal, and the third houses the HO-scale model layout.

It is an impressive work of art, depicting the B&O and life in Western Maryland as it was during the 1960's.

The key features include the railroad's impressive roundhouse which once stood in Brunswick as well as the beautiful Points of Rocks depot, located right at the point where B&O's Old Main Line and newer alignment split. This building still stands today.

Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum

This museum, located inside the Chesapeake Beach Railway's beautifully restored wooden depot (opened in 1899), keeps alive the history of this interesting operation as well the local Chesapeake Beach area.

It is open throughout much of the year albeit carries different hours depending upon the season. The railroad was constructed during a time when the iron horse was the principal means of travel over distances of any length.

It was a project of Otto Mears who envisioned a railroad to connect Washington, D.C. with the resort of Chesapeake Beach after a former initiative by other investors had failed. The railroad was fully opened for service on June 9, 1900.

It remained a relatively busy operation until the early automobile and Great Depression left the enterprise with a bleak future. The final trains made their last runs on April 15, 1935.

Ellicott City Station (B&O)

This small museum, part of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Museum, is housed inside the Baltimore & Ohio's restored depot here, originally known as Ellicott Mills.

It is the oldest such structure still standing in the country built in 1830-1831. There are a few displays on-hand as well as an operating model layout.

In 1830, following the opening of its first 1.5 miles, the B&O had completed 13 miles to Ellicotts Mills (today known as Ellicott City) in May of that year.

Here, the railroad constructed a small terminus consisting of a a sturdy, two-story stone depot along with a small turntable.

The location did not offer significant passenger traffic but did serve a local granite quarry, known as Ellicott's Quarries, along with nearby agriculture and less-than-carload freight.

These early trains all operated with horses as power, trotting along with what was little more than retrofitted carriages.

Gaithersburg Community Museum

This museum is housed at the B&O's restored, 1884 freight depot (the passenger station, originally completed in 1884, later renovated in 1990, operates as MARC commuter stop).

The facility has a number of exhibits and historic displays describing railroad history as well as that of the local community.

Their mission statement is " ...to collect, research, preserve, and present the history and culture of Gaithersburg in a dynamic, participatory, accessible, and responsible manner for the education and enjoyment of present and future generations. "

While there be sure and visit a preserved steam locomotive; Buffalo Creek & Gauley 2-8-0 #14, manufactured by American Locomotive in 1918.

This Consolidation spent many years in service on this fabled short line which was situated in rural Clay County, West Virginia. To learn more about the BC&G please click here .

Hagerstown Roundhouse Museum

This museum is located in Hagerstown (along the wye of the current-CSX Transportation's yard), a city of once great importance to the Western Maryland.

The WM was a relatively small system but did play an important role in handling coal from mines in West Virginia to tidewater at Baltimore/Port Covington.

It also moved considerable merchandise and time freights through the Connellsville (Pennsylvania) Gateway as part of the so-called "Alphabet Route" (to read more about the Alphabet Route please click here ).

It was eventually acquired by rival Baltimore & Ohio in 1964. The name of the organization is interesting considering the WM's actual roundhouse here was razed long ago.

The facility is home to a large collection of displays related to the WM, a few pieces of rolling stock, and an operating model layout. T

he latter includes a replica of the railroad's original, 21-stall roundhouse. They are open year-round during the weekends.

National Capital Trolley Museum

Like the Baltimore Streetcar Museum, the National Capital Trolley Museum aims to preserve the region's history of trolleys and interurbans, particularly around the Washington, D.C. area. Based in Colesville (somewhat north of downtown Washington) the museum operates about a 1-mile stretch of track.

In addition to running standard excursions for the general public the group also hosts charters and features other special events throughout the year.

The museum is open year-round on weekends. It was formed on January 4, 1961, as the National Capital Historical Museum of Transportation, Inc. and began construction on its current museum facility a few years later in 1965.

In 1969 they operated their first streetcars and have continued to do every year since that time. In 2009 a major update to the museum was completed when a visitors' center, a display building, and a storage-and-maintenance facility were all dedicated.

Walkersville Southern Railroad

The Walkersville Southern Railroad, based in Walkersville, operates nearly 7-miles of a former Pennsyvlania Railroad branch from Woodsboro to a point near Frederick, Maryland.

Along the way the rail line travels through the state's beautiful and historic Monocacy Valley region.

Trains board from the restored Walkersville depot (completed by the York, Hanover & Frederick, a PRR subsidiary, in 1899) and the railroad is hoping to restore more miles in the future to further extend trips.

Their locomotive fleet includes numerous switchers, several of which are operational:

American Car & Foundry 18-ton switcher #1 (built by the Plymouth Locomotive Works in 1942)
A 25-ton switcher (built by the Davenport Locomotive Works) given #2
U.S. Army 45-ton switcher #45 (built by General Electric in 1943 as #7496)
U.S. Army 40-ton switcher #101 (built by Electro-Motive in 1942 as #7954)
U.S. Army 20-ton switcher #3 (built by Davenport in 1942 as #7707)
A trio of 44-ton switchers all manufactured by General Electric
Western Maryland Railway Historical Society

As its name implies this group looks to keep alive the history of the Western Maryland. They are located in Cumberland and feature many pieces of historic artifacts related to the WM. The museum is open on select days, year-round or by appointment. To visit their website please click here .

Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad is a tourist attraction based in Cumberland that operates part of the Western Maryland Railway’s former main line to Frostburg, Maryland, a distance of 15.3 miles.

The railroad has a small fleet of diesels and for many years 2-8-0 #734 handled excursion duties. However, this locomotive has been sidelined and in need of overhaul.

The star of the show is now Chesapeake & Ohio 2-6-6-2 #1309 (painted as WM #1309), the largest Mallet currently in operation in North America.

It carries passengers through some of the Western Maryland’s most famous locations like Helmstetter’s Curve and, "The Narrows."

Today, the Consolidation is out-of-service and awaiting overhaul while a GP30, adorned in WM's "Circus" livery, powers most trips.

Overall, the tourist line has become a very popular attraction in western Maryland and offers you several different trains to ride, aside from its standard excursion to Frostburg.

The WMSR will soon be featuring a new star attraction, restored Chesapeake & Ohio 2-6-6-2 #1309 to complement #734. This gigantic compound steam locomotive will be the largest operating along the East Coast.

SteamLocomotive.com

Wes Barris's SteamLocomotive.com is simply the best web resource on the study of steam locomotives.

It is difficult to truly articulate just how much material can be found at this website.

It is quite staggering and a must visit!

4 Incredible Maryland Day Trips You Can Take By Train

Jamie Alvarenga

Jamie Alvarenga is a writer and editor who loves all things Maryland.

More by this Author

Everyone loves trains. From wee tots to the older generation, these grand and historic locomotives are a unique way to get around and offer a step back in time. If you’ve been looking online for day trips near me in Maryland for a quick getaway, we got these four (plus more!) incredible day trips you can take by train. These awesome scenic train rides will blow your mind!

12 Unforgettable Maryland Day Trips, One For Each Month Of The Year

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The Most Remote Small Town In Maryland Is The Perfect Place To Get Away From It All

If you’ve been searching for train day trips near me in Maryland, why not take one of these? Have you experienced any of these day trips by train? Share below, and be sure to also check out these 15 unique day trips in Maryland that are an absolute must-do .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Scenic train rides near me.

Are there any train-themed restaurants in Maryland?

Yes, there are several train-themed restaurants around the Old Line State. You can head to Hagerstown and stop by Railroad Junction Family Restaurant for some comfort food. Sykesville Station Restaurant and Bar in Sykesville occupies the building of an old historic train station. It’s a beautiful space to enjoy a meal of southern-inspired food.

What train museums can I visit in Maryland?

Aside from the B&O Railroad Museum in Baltimore, you can visit the Bowie Railroad Museum, the Brunswick Heritage Museum, B&O Ellicott City Station Museum, and the Hagerstown Roundhouse among others around the state. Maryland is full of fascinating railroad history and we are lucky that so much of that history has been preserved around the state.

What other day trips can I take in Maryland?

Maryland is a beautiful state with so much to see and do. Day trips are usually the best option to explore the Old Line State and we have several that you may be interested in taking. Take our Wine and Waterfalls Day Trip for an adventure to some of the best wineries and scenic waterfalls around the state. If you prefer to explore the unique side of Baltimore, take this weird and wonderful day trip around Charm City. Or you can visit the National Harbor and explore the boardwalks, art installations, shops, restaurants, rides, and more.

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Nice day trip - Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

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Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

The Polar Express train was fun. There was some confusion among many passengers on the platform... read more

Some windows were clear but some were almost completely blurry. For a scenic ride, more attention... read more

Nice day trip

My husband and I and two other couples drove 2 hours to Cumberland to take the train to Frostburg. None of us are train enthusiasts but thought it would be something different to do. It was a nice time. The ride took 90 minutes to and from with 90 minutes to spend in Frostburg. We ate at The Toasted Goat. It is an uphill walk the whole way to the restaurant. Several mention it’s uphill to the town but it continues to be an uphill walk once u get in the town. Definitely doable if your in semi descent shape. If not you can take the shuttle. The food was good there. We called ahead to see if we needed a reservation, which u don’t, but they advise u let them know your on the train and they have a separate quick order menu. We used the regular menu and still had enough time to eat and walk both directions. Overall a nice day but something we personally would not feel the need to do again.

We rode the railroad on August 17 on a beautiful but hot summer afternoon. Our seats were in the Stampede Pass observation/dome car. We were told that this car was to be taken out of service and replaced with a different First-Class Dome Car shortly after our visit. All seats on the train were reserved but purchasing tickets on the website was easy. On board staff members were outstanding, friendly, and professional. We shared a table with two other gentlemen. Drinks and snacks were included in our ticket price. The ride was excellent as it ran from Cumberland’s beautiful train station to Frostburg. The journey passes through scenic vistas and tunnels on the climb to Frostburg. Our train that day was powered by a diesel engine, but the ride was leisurely. Once in Frostburg, we had time to walk around the station, climb steps and sidewalks to the main street in Frostburg proper and purchase ice cream cones. Full meal service was also available at a restaurant across the tracks. A highlight of the afternoon for train lovers was to witness the locomotive turn on the turntable. The return trip was also delightful. The entire journey took 4.5 hours.

My husband and I took the dinner train for our anniiversary. It was disappointing. It was an expensive activity and the dinner was not what you would expect for the amount of money spent. The wine they serve is Barefoot which costs about $10 for a large bottle at the store; a small glass of wine cost $9. We waited lengthy periods of time to get our drinks and every course of food. The other wait staff was zipping around the train taking care of the other side of our train car.Our waiter was chatting or just disappeared continuously. My husband waited 30 minutes for a beer. The dessert was minimal and we waited over an hour for it. the train brakes were not working properly for the return to the depot. We sat on the tracks for quite some time. We were not offered any thing to drink during this time or given any updates on the hold up. The wait staff disappeared, perhaps they were working on the train. We were supposed to return at 10 pm and we returned close to 11:30 am. I would not reccommend this dinner train to anyone. Not sure I would reccommend this train at all.

Take this train ride and experience what train travel used to be. Sure - it's much slower than flying, but you actually get to relax and see the beautiful countryside glide by. Splurge and ride in the dome car for the height of luxury.

Paid to ride the steam engine 1309. Arrived in Cumberland and no steam engine. Was told it was taken down for maintenence. Disappointed. Our trip even got worse. Slim pickings of cheese, grapes, crackers. The chicken nuggets were cold and the steak kabobs were tough. Trip not very scenic. Return trip the train lost power, sat there until they found the issue. Got kinda hot. Gift shop only had t-shirts with 1309 on them. I didn't get to ride the 1309. Big disappointment. Waste of time and money.

Seeing the engine turned on the turntable was great! And we watched them recouple it to the train. Friendly staff!

Western Maryland Scenic Railroad: Kid Friendly Guide

The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad in Allegany County, Maryland is such a fun and unique experience to do with your kids. The train is based out of Cumberland and offers scenic (and festive) trains year-round. A train ride will definitely be a fun activity for kids of all ages, parents, and grandparents. It’s one of our top picks for the best things to do in Maryland with kids !

Check out this Western Maryland Scenic Railroad Kid Friendly Guide for some of our best tips and an in-depth look at two of the seasonal train rides we love!

Western Maryland Scenic Railroad Overview

The Western Maryland Railway was originally built to haul coal from Maryland and West Virginia. It was considered one of the most important regional railroads at the time.

Currently, visitors can ride either a diesel or steam engine-powered train. Each train has various levels of cabins from open air to climate controlled passenger cabins, and even super deluxe dining and glass-domed cabins.

The type of cabin you will want to book will depend on the type of train excursion you are going on. The route is fairly similar for the trains though. You will go between Cumberland and Frostburg. The scenery along the route is breathtakingly beautiful.

Most trains stop for a 90 minute break in Frostburg. However, some of the specialty trains (like the Polar Express) are shorter and don’t travel all the way to Frostburg before turning around.

Related: Rocky Gap State Park is the Perfect Place to Go Camping in Maryland with Kids!

Frostburg Flyer- Fall Trains

The first time we visited the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad was to ride one of the fall Frostburg Flyer trains.

Open Air Car Seating is Great for Fall Foliage

We opted for the open air car, and apart from the fact that these tickets were cheaper, for this excursion I think the open air car is absolutely the way to go!

When they say open air, they mean.. open air! This means you get a fantastic view of the surrounding countryside. We went in the middle of October at the beginning of fall foliage season .

The open air cabin was brisk but not too chilly. It was quite perfect (we wore hoodies) and due to the fantastic views, many people from other enclosed cabins hung out in our car!

Related: Check out the Kid Friendly Guide to Swallow Falls State Park

Even in the open air cars, the seats are incredibly comfortable, with great leg room. All seats are assigned (even in the open air car) so you don’t have to worry about someone taking your spot.

If you have kids you can opt to sit here or in the regular coach car. At this time, you cannot purchase tickets for the glass dome or dining car on the Frostburg Flyer because alcohol is served.

Honestly, there isn’t a bad seat on the train. Because it is out and back, if you sit on the right side of the train you will get to enjoy the scenic vistas on the way out and the other side of the mountain (and also different vistas) on the way back.. or vice versa.

Spectacular Views wherever you sit

Part of the Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) Trail runs along the train tracks. You can’t bring bikes on to the train at the moment. However, if you wanted to add an adventure to your train ride, you could totally ride the rails twice– once on the train and once alongside the tracks on your bikes! Or, you could book a rail-biking excursion from Frostburg with Track and Yaks !

Here are some views of the mountain side of the track. It’s really quite gorgeous and relaxing!

At the front of the train you can get really close to the actual engine. If you have a train lover, they will absolutely want to get an up close look at the train engine!

On the way to Frostburg and the way back, the train goes through a 916-ft long tunnel. This is also just a really cool experience.

Tip: Don’t stay seated the entire trip! You can get up and move around the cabin or even go to a different cabin (just not the deluxe cabins with kids). We experimented with different views depending on where we were on the train journey.

Related: Kid Friendly Guide to the B&O Railroad Museum in Baltimore

Most Frostburg Flyer trains last about 4-5 hours. There is a 90 minute break at the halfway point in the town of Frostburg. Note: there are no restroom facilities on board the train. So, you need to make sure you go potty in Cumberland before you embark, as well as in Frostburg before you head back.

Polar Express Trains

One of the most popular train excursions offered by the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad are The Polar Express train rides. They are offered starting in late November through Christmas.

Dome Seating on The Polar Express is Totally worth it!

These train excursions are one of the few where kids can sit in the dining car or the famous glass-dome car.

If you can swing it, I would highly recommend this splurge. The glass done car is gorgeous and makes the views even more spectacular.

Also, it’s very handy to have a table for your treats and goodies!

Related: The Walkersville Southern Railroad Santa Train is an Absolute Delight!

Western Maryland Scenic Railroad Polar Express

And yes, you get treats and goodies! In addition to the golden Polar Express ticket, all passengers get fresh hot chocolate and soft cookies (we had gingerbread cookies) before boarding the train. You don’t have to have a table to eat and drink. But it does make the ride really pleasant.

If you opt for a premium ticket, your admission cost includes commemorative Polar Express mugs.

What every Polar Express ticket Experience Includes

Regardless of where you sit on your excursion, the conductor will definitely pay you a visit and punch your ticket. Don’t lose it!

And one of the train cooks will read The Polar Express story to your train car.

About 20 minutes into the ride, you will make a brief stop, and a certain jolly old elf will hop on board the train!

That’s right! Santa visits with everyone and passes out the magic reindeer bell. You can jingle it to hear if you still believe in Christmas magic or not.

The Polar Express train ride lasts about 45 minutes. However, you will want to arrive at the train station about 30-45 minutes before boarding to get your hot chocolate and cookies!

Related: The Most Magical Things To Do With Kids at Christmas in the Maryland and DC Region!

Other Seasonal Trains

We have personally experienced the fall Frostburg Flyer and The Polar Express trains. However, Western Maryland Scenic Railroad has numerous train excursions that are sure to delight kids and parents!

The offer Pumpkin Patch Trains, Alpaca Days Trains, Murder Mystery Trains, and more. In August you can hop aboard the very popular Ice Cream Train.

Alpaca Days are a new event with the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad where alpacas will actually be on board the train! At the Frostburg Depot, passengers can participate in Alpaca animal encounters courtesy of the Little Wills Creek Ranch.

In the Spring you can ride the Spring Fling Train, which includes decorating and planting flower pots. Check their website or social media pages because they are always adding new events!

Related: Great Easter Events in Maryland for Families!

Stopping in Frostburg

Many of the trains stop in Frostburg for about 90 minutes before heading back to Cumberland. So, what do you do for 90 minutes?

You can wait for a shuttle or walk the relatively short (but also relatively steep) sidewalk up to the Main Street of Frostburg. Unless you are in the first group or two.. makes more send to walk the 5-10 minutes up the hill.

There are numerous restaurants you can choose for lunch or a snack. I highly recommend lunch at the Princess Restaurant (especially if you have your kids with you).

This is a classic diner that offers comfort food favorites like grilled cheese, milkshakes, delicious soups, sandwiches (The Miner Steak Sandwich is a must!), and more. Just to be clear, the kids (and you) will LOVE the milkshakes (they are famous for them!), as well as other kid friendly options like burgers and chicken strips. Oh, and save room for their pies!

Other options that come highly recommended include The Toasted Goat, Mountain City Coffeehouse and Creamery, Fatboys Pizza Shack, and LG’s Pizzeria and Pub.

Related: Family Friendly Restaurants in Maryland with Play Areas (and more!)

If you have time, pay a visit to The Thrasher Carriage Museum. It is located next to the Frostburg Train Depot. It’s free (donations accepted) and they have some fun Americana like Teddy Roosevelt’s Inauguration Coach and sleighs owned by the Vanderbilt family.

Also, there is a public restroom at The Thrasher Carriage Museum that might have a shorter line than the one at the Frostburg Depot.

Other Things to Do at the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

Don’t let you train excursion be the only thing you do when you visit the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad! Cumberland is really such a cute town to explore with tons of public art murals and interesting shops and restaurants.

The Shops at Canal Place is right next to the train station. We ate lunch at the Crabby Pig before our Polar Express Train excursion and it was totally delicious BBQ.

The C&O Towpath literally runs right in front of the train depot. So, you can add a walk to your train ride. Or bring scooters and bikes and add to your adventure day!

And don’t forget the adorable train-themed playground that is located right in front of the train station.

Related: The 75+ Best Playgrounds in Maryland (sorted by location)

Most trains depart from The Cumberland Train Station: 13 Canal St 2nd Floor, Cumberland, MD 21502. However, a few select trains depart from the Frostburg Depot. Make sure you confirm your departure location. Here are Google Map Directions to the Cumberland Station .

Parking can be kind of tricky for the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad. There is limited parking in front of the Cumberland station. Otherwise you will need to budget plenty of time to either find street parking or a public parking garage.

Cost depends on the age, event your are purchasing tickets for, and the type of seat you opt to purchase. Prices typically range from $27 for kids in the open air cabin to $127 for the premium dome cabin (these seats tend to include snacks).

There are public restrooms in the Cumberland Station and at the Frostburg Station. There are no public restrooms on board the train itself.

Large strollers are not allowed on the train. Small, collapsible strollers are allowed as long as they can fit in the overhead area above your seats. There are ADA accessible seating in the Standard Coaches which are kept unsold up to a week prior to departure of the train. Please see the website and/or email the railroad for accommodation requests.

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