Mountains and Museums, 2025
The scenic beauty of our mountains and valleys provides the backdrop for the world of discovery in the Garrett County towns and their museums. Enjoy the natural wonders of the mountains as you drive through the county and experience the culture, history, and stories of scenic Mountain Maryland and West Virginia.
Eight community museums will be open during Memorial Day weekend for the Mountains and Museums event from Friday, May 23, 2025 to Sunday, May 25, 2025.
Grantsville: Located 20 miles from the DCL Visitors Ctr.(Route 219 north to Alternate Route 40 east). The Grantsville Community Museum will be open on Saturday, May 24, from 10-3 pm. The exhibits include a Leo Beachy gallery of early 20th-century photography, a B-52 bomber crash exhibit, a military exhibit, an old tool exhibit, school memorabilia in the former First State Bank vault, and other historical memorabilia from Northern Garrett County. Stroll down Main St.(old Route 40) and enjoy a meal at the historic Casselman Inn and Restaurant (est.1842). A short drive east will bring you to the Casselman Bridge State Park, Spruce Forest Artisan Village, Stanton’s Mill, and Penn Alps Restaurant and Gift Shop, where you can explore, discover, shop, and dine.
Oakland-Historic Town Center: Located 11 miles from the DCL Visitors Ctr.(Route 219 south, at the 2nd light, take a right onto Center Street, with a left onto 2nd Street.) Parking is available in the Town parking area at 2nd Street and the RR tracks. The Town of Oakland boasts three museums and a historic walking tour through the downtown area. Step back in time as you travel from the Oakland B&O Railroad Station, the Garrett County Historical Society Museum of History and Transportation. Each museum displays the unique culture and defined history of the area. As you travel through the Oakland Heritage area, enjoy the many retail shops and eateries. Explore, discover, shop, dine, and relax. GCHS hours are 10-3 pm Tuesday-Saturday. The B&O RR Station hours are 10-3 pm Monday-Sunday. Additional information can be found at: www.garrettcountymuseums.com
Mtn. Lake Park: Located 15 miles from the DCL Visitors Ctr. follow Route 219 south to Route 135 east). The Mountain Lake Park Ticket Office Museum and the Bethel Center are located on G St. The Ticket Office tells the story of Mtn. Lake Park with photos, souvenirs, and artifacts. The Bethel Ctr., formerly the Bethel AME Church, was relocated and restored in 2024. The center represents the African American community in lower Garrett County. Both buildings will be open 12-3 pm on Saturday, May 24 and 12-3 on Sunday, May 25. Additional information can be found at: www.mlpha.org
Kitzmiller: Located 18 miles from the DCL Visitors Ctr. ( Route 219 south to Route 135 east, to Route 38 south, a right onto Main St., with a left onto 4th St.). The Kitzmiller Coal Heritage Museum is located in a former church. Situated on the banks of the North Branch of the Potomac River, Kitzmiller was once a thriving coal town. The Museum provides a glimpse into the life of a coal miner, raising a family, and the coal mining community of Kiztmiller, as well as Vindex, Shaw, Chaffee, and other coal mining towns that are now long gone. Take a walk along the Kitzmiller River Walk, enjoy the Town Park, Botanical Garden, and Fitness Trail. Nestled between the mountains, river, and railroads, Kitzmiller offers a unique peace. The Museum will be open Friday, May 23 and Saturday 24, from 10-3 pm and Sunday, May 25 from 1-4 pm.
Aurora, WV: located 27 miles from the Deep Creek Lake Visitors Ctr.(take Route 219 south to Route 50 west). The Aurora Historical Society Museum is divided into specific spaces reflecting the rich history and culture of Aurora, WV and the Union District. From a candy counter to a 1940s kitchen, farming displays, school life, and art, this museum is a delight. Stop at Cathedral State Park and experience the state’s largest old-growth forest and a National Natural Landmark. This 133-acre park boasts 170 species of trees, ferns, and wildflowers. And don’t forget to stop at Melanie’s Restaurant directly across from the park( cash only).
Terra Alta, WV: Preston County Historical Society is located 24 miles from the DCL Visitors Ctr.( Route 219 south to Route 39, which becomes Route 7 WV). Take a left to 109 E. Washington St. The Society is housed in the former Terra Alta Bank building. This three-story brick structure is home to 13 exhibit rooms with each one telling the history of Preston County through the exhibits and artifacts. Multiple dining options are available for the perfect afternoon snack or dinner in Terra Alta.
For additional information, please contact GCHS at 301-334-3226.