Scenic Railroads in Maryland

Maryland has 6 operating scenic and heritage railroads, spread across some of the state's most photogenic terrain. Ride types include diesel & steam, heritage trolley/streetcar, and static museum (no rides), so you can tailor the experience to your interests whether you prefer a genteel parlor-car excursion, an open-air mountain climb, or an afternoon of pure steam nostalgia. Ride lengths run from 20 min to 3.5 hrs.

The standout ride in Maryland is the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, based in Cumberland. A steam & diesel excursion, it takes passengers a mountain excursion climbs from Cumberland to Frostburg through the Allegheny highlands, often pulled by a large restored steam locomotive. The journey lasts approximately 3.5 hours. It operates May through November (limited 1309 steam days). Tickets are $30 adult standard (first class ~$55).

Operating seasons vary considerably across Maryland's excursion lines, so it pays to check each railroad's current schedule before finalising plans. 2 lines operate year-round. Some lines run only on summer weekends, others only during specific holiday periods, and a handful operate only by charter or special event. The comparison table below flags reservation requirements for every line.