Explore Oakland, Maryland: List of Must-See Attractions
Oakland is a small town located in the western part of Maryland, in the heart of Garrett County. The town is known for its stunning mountainous landscapes, numerous lakes, and charming small-town atmosphere. Oakland is a popular destination for those who love outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, and skiing, with its proximity to state parks and recreation areas.
One of the most popular attractions in Oakland is the B & O Railroad Museum, which tells the story of the railroad and its impact on the region. The town is also home to the Garrett County Historical Museum, where visitors can learn about the local history and culture of the area. For those interested in the region’s natural beauty, the nearby Swallow Falls State Park boasts stunning waterfalls and hiking trails.
Overall, Oakland is a peaceful and picturesque town that offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature and history. So whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors or learn more about the region’s rich history, Oakland is an excellent destination for a relaxing and educational getaway.
Oakland B & O Railroad Museum
The Oakland B&O Railroad Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the rich history of rail travel in the United States. Located in the heart of Oakland, Maryland, the museum offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past with its historic railroad artifacts and exhibits.
Visitors can explore the museum’s many interactive exhibits and displays, highlighting the history and development of the railroad industry in Maryland and surrounding areas. You can also take a guided tour of the museum, which offers a more in-depth look at the exhibits and the stories behind them.
One of the museum’s main attractions is its vintage railcar. Also, the museum has a restored 1884 B&O Railroad station that provides a fascinating look at what train travel was like during the early 20th century.
Swallow Falls State Park
Located just a few miles outside Oakland, Maryland, Swallow Falls State Park is a natural wonderland of forests, waterfalls, and rugged wilderness. The park is home to the Muddy Creek Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in Maryland, and offers miles of hiking trails, fishing spots, and campsites for visitors to explore.
The park is a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers, who experience the breathtaking beauty of the park’s natural scenery. Visitors can hike the trails, which wind through the park’s dense forests and along the Youghiogheny River, or relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
In addition to the park’s natural beauty, Swallow Falls also has a rich history. The area was once home to a thriving logging industry, and visitors can still see the remains of old logging camps and equipment scattered throughout the park. With so much to see and do, Swallow Falls State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Oakland, Maryland.
Garrett County Historical Museum
The Garrett County Historical Museum is an essential destination for history enthusiasts visiting Oakland, Maryland. The museum’s mission is to preserve and share the county’s rich cultural heritage. It achieves that goal by showcasing artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the region’s development over time. The museum’s collection features everything from Native American artifacts to items from the Victorian era, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience history firsthand.
The Garrett County Historical Museum is housed in a charming brick building and has the famous Deer Park Hotel facade reproduction. Exhibits highlight the county’s development from the early 1800s to the present. Visitors can explore exhibitions that explore different aspects of local history, such as the lumber industry, railroads, and agriculture. The museum is also home to a research library that provides access to a wealth of historical documents, photographs, and other resources.
One of the highlights of a visit to the Garrett County Historical Museum is seeing some of the oldest and most significant artifacts in the county’s history. The museum’s collection includes everything from antique farm equipment and tools to Civil War-era clothing and weapons. Visitors can also see displays of period furniture and home goods, as well as a collection of Native American artifacts that date back thousands of years. Garrett County Historical Museum is an excellent destination for anyone interested in local history and culture.
Garrett County Museum of Transportation
The Garrett County Museum of Transportation is unique in Oakland, Maryland, and is dedicated to preserving the history of transportation in the region. The museum features a variety of exhibits and artifacts, including antique cars, trucks, motorcycles, and bicycles, as well as a wide range of transportation-related memorabilia. Visitors can stroll through the museum and learn about the history of transportation in Garrett County, from the earliest days of the automobile to the present day.
One of the museum’s most popular exhibits is the collection of antique fire engines and other emergency vehicles. These vehicles are displayed in a specially-designed museum area with a recreated fire station and fireman’s pole. Visitors can learn about the history of firefighting in the region and see how technology has evolved over the years. The museum also features exhibits on aviation, railroads, and other modes of transportation that have played an essential role in Garrett County’s history.
In addition to its exhibits, the Garrett County Museum of Transportation also hosts various events and programs throughout the year, including car shows, motorcycle rallies, and antique tractor shows. The museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of transportation.
Herrington Manor State Park
Herrington Manor State Park is a state park located in Oakland, Maryland. It is situated in the Allegheny Mountains and offers visitors a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and fishing. The park is home to the 53-acre Herrington Lake, stocked with trout and bass, making it a popular spot for anglers. Visitors can rent canoes and paddleboats to explore the lake or hike the 12 miles of trails that wind through the park’s forests, streams, and wetlands.
Herrington Manor State Park is an ideal destination for families and groups looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in nature. The park features various recreational activities, including picnicking, swimming, and boating, making it a perfect spot for a day trip or weekend getaway. For those looking to stay longer, the park offers 20 cabins, 25 campsites, and a youth group camping area. The cabins are fully equipped with kitchenettes, fireplaces, and private bathrooms, while the campsites offer a range of amenities, including electrical hookups, grills, and picnic tables.
One of the unique features of Herrington Manor State Park is its proximity to other local attractions. Nearby attractions include the Deep Creek Lake area, Swallow Falls State Park, and the historic town of Oakland, Maryland. Visitors can spend the day exploring the park’s trails and then head into town for a meal at one of the many local restaurants or browse the local shops and galleries.