Cities/Cumberland/Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

4.6(3.0K)google

3.1(99)yelp

$90 - $305 USD(Prices scale across distinct tiers like Lounge Class starting at $90, Lunch Class trains at $110, or seasonal themed events such as the Polar Express multi-passenger tables.)

Trainscenic-railwayHistoryFamilyGuided TourMust-See

Overview

The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad (reporting mark WMSR) is a heritage railroad based in Cumberland, Maryland, that operates passenger excursion trains and occasional freight trains using both steam and diesel locomotives over ex-Western Maryland Railway (WM) tracks between Cumberland and Frostburg. The railroad offers coach and first class service, murder mystery excursions, and special seasonal trips.

Practical Info

13 Canal St 2nd Floor, Cumberland, MD 21502, USA

MonClosed

TueClosed

WedClosed

Thu9:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Fri12:00 – 9:00 PM

Sat12:00 – 9:00 PM

Sun12:00 – 7:00 PM

Suggested Duration3-5 hours

Best TimeMid-October during the peak autumn foliage shifts is the undisputed crowning timeframe to book. Reserving an 11:00 AM departure from the historic Cumberland station puts you aboard vintage coaches pulled by the massive 1309 steam locomotive as it chugs through dramatic, fiery mountain gaps.

Getting ThereThe western terminus depot sits in downtown Cumberland at 13 Harrison Street. For drivers, exit I-68 W at Exit 43C (Downtown Cumberland), turn right following signs for the historic train station complex. A dedicated, paid parking lot layout directly serves the boarding platforms.

(301) 759-4400

wmsr.com/

Travel Tips

The historic railroad requires online bookings; the iconic 1309 steam locomotive only runs on specific calendar dates, alternating with diesel engines, requiring precise schedule verification.
Trains depart punctually from the Cumberland Depot where street parking is banned; passengers must arrive 45 minutes early and utilize the paid Harrison Street Parking Garage.

Photo Tips

Photo Spots

The Frostburg Station turntable spectator platform is the definitive location for train action shots; capture the massive engine as it undergoes its mechanical 180-degree rotation sequence.

Reviews

Positive

An unparalleled journey through history! Riding behind the massive historic 1309 steam locomotive through deep Appalachian mountain cuts and old tunnels is visually magnificent.
Superb vintage interior maintenance; conductors dress in authentic old-school uniforms and deliver highly entertaining commentary on mountain railroading history.
Excellent end-to-end management; the Cumberland depot houses a quality railway museum, and the Frostburg turnaround allows you to watch the giant engine rotate on a turntable.
Provides highly refined onboard dining options in first-class cars, featuring panoramic viewing windows and premium local snacks that ensure high consumer satisfaction.

Heads up

Ticket costs are heavy, particularly for the premium steam-powered first-class or open-air configurations, stretching family budgets thin for a three-hour trip.
The historic steam engine emits real coal soot and sulfur smoke; passengers in open-air sections will get tiny ash particles on their clothes and face during tunnel passes.
The entire round-trip itinerary consumes roughly 3.5 to 4 slow hours, and the steady repetitive rhythmic rocking can eventually bore young, highly energetic children.
The seasonal operating schedule is highly rigid and prone to selling out months in advance, making spontaneous ticket counter walk-ins nearly impossible.