This Maryland Scenic Byway Is The Road Trip Of A Lifetime
Being one of the original 13 colonies, Maryland is full of history waiting to be discovered in even the smallest of towns. So, travel back in time on this scenic byway in Maryland. The Historic National Road, also known as Cumberland Road, is a historic national scenic byway covering multiple states, including Maryland. It was the first majorly federally funded road in the United States, earning it the name of the National Road and America's First Highway. Explore the many small towns in Maryland by travelling on this historic route and enjoy the road trip of a lifetime.
Tips For Driving America’s First Highway
This scenic byway section in Maryland, covering a stretch of 170 miles, can be completed in 4-6 hours, but it’s recommended that road trippers make the most of their experience by taking 3-5 days. This allows for time to visit Maryland’s small towns, many historic attractions, and outdoor sights and activities on the way. Historic National Road signs are posted along the route to keep visitors on track. Driving from the West or East, road trippers can expect to see the forested areas of West Maryland, historic small towns in the middle, all the way to the harbours of Baltimore. Follow this simple itinerary to truly experience a road trip of a lifetime.
Day 1: Baltimore To Frederick
The first portion of this byway begins in Baltimore. Start the day by soaking in all that Baltimore has to offer. As one of Maryland’s major cities, take advantage of the shops and restaurants available. Walk along Baltimore’s inner harbour and stop in at one of the many seafood restaurants, like the Crafty Crab, to feast on the fresh seafood that Maryland is known for. After eating to your heart’s content, it’s time to hit the road. The first leg of the trip, to Frederick, is only an hour, but stopping at interesting small towns along the way is a must to get the most out of this trip. One of these towns is New Market.
Founded almost 200 years ago, New Market has options for adventure junkies or visitors with a more sophisticated taste. To learn about the history of vineyards in the region and maybe even invest in a bottle or two, the New Market Plains Vineyard is a perfect place to unwind after a day on the road. If you’re looking for something a little crazier, New Market is home to Adventure Park USA, full of indoor and outdoor activities like an arcade and skycoaster.
After a day full of a mix of big city and small town fun, finish off the drive and spend the night in Frederick at one of the many hotels, like the Hampton Inn and Suites.
Day 2: Frederick To Cumberland
Wake up to the beautiful mountain views of Frederick. Stroll Main Street for a bite at a local cafe like Cafe Nola, or enjoy an afternoon drink at one of the many breweries in the city center, like Idiom Brewing. For anyone interested in history, Frederick is home to the National Museum of Civil War Medicine, open seven days a week, which showcases the contributions the Civil War made to modern medicine.
When it’s time to hit the road, continue along the historic byway towards Cumberland. This 1.5-hour drive can easily be extended by stopping in towns like Hagerstown, where you can learn about the history of the town on the waterfront Hagerstown Cultural Trail. Another option to stop along the way is Fort Frederick State Park, which is home to the only stone fort built by a British Colony.
Once in Cumberland, there are a choice of places to stay, including the local Cumberland Inn and Spa, a perfect place to relax after a day on the road.
Day 3: Cumberland to State Line
On the last day of this Maryland road trip adventure of a lifetime, take time first to explore the history of Cumberland at the Allegany Museum. Afterward, walk along the North Branch Potomac River to see the historic log cabin that was occupied by George Washington on two occasions in the past. The cabins are part of George Washington's Headquarters at Greene Street.
When it’s time to hit the road again, continue onward to the town of Freindsville, Maryland’s “outdoor adventure capital”. The town park offers direct access to the river for swimming, fishing, boating, or just relaxing. Soak up the last of your time in Maryland, as here marks the end of the historic scenic byway in Maryland. The highway, however, continues through other states. As one of the most eastern of the 13 colonies, Maryland played a key role in American western expansion, and this scenic byway is one of the main factors that facilitated this growth.
Ready, set, and enjoy your road trip through history on Maryland's scenic byway. Venture along America’s First Highway, stopping at historic sites, taking in stunning scenery, and exploring exciting cities and eccentric small towns. This road trip has it all, whether you’re looking for adventure, history, or some classic New England food. This road trip through Maryland is one you won’t forget.
