Ride the Rails Maryland's Historic Train Adventures for a Memorable Summer

by Rebecca Kieran

Let off some steam this summer at one of your local railway attractions. Outside of the metro, Maryland offers some fun and historic train experiences that are sure to start the summer right on track.

B&O Railroad Museum is a state treasure and a must-see for local families. The Baltimore and Ohio Railroad is a nationally registered historic landmark. Home to America’s first commercial railroad, it was affectionately named “the birthplace of American Railroading.” www.borail.org

B&O Railroad Museum is located in Baltimore and offers a fun and educational experience for all ages. The museum’s expansive collection of railroad artifacts is the oldest in the world. Dedicated to education, the museum provides field trip opportunities and many youth programs for students to explore the history of railroading in an engaging way. Of course, a visit would not be complete without a train ride on America’s very first mile of commercial railroad. Guided tours are also available on a regular basis. Special events are hosted throughout the year. This summer, visitors can enjoy Christmas in July, a one-weekend-only early holiday celebration at the railroad.

Children ages 7-13 can also participate in the B&O Summer Camp series to learn about the history and science of the railroad. There are four week-long camp sessions running in June, July, and August and admission is free, but spots fill up fast. Camps will feature sensory-friendly activities for a more inclusive experience.

Bid farewell to summer during the Labor Day weekend Workin’ on the Railroad event, honoring the many railroad workers who created the B&O history through their incredible labor. Full event scheduling is yet to be released; however, the museum will host special programming throughout the weekend.

Admission is free for museum members, active-duty military, police, first responders, and Maryland teachers. Various discounts are also provided. Further southeast, you’ll find Chesapeake Beach Railway Museum. Located in Chesapeake Beach, this non-profit organization is a nationally recognized historic location that shares its railroading history with the Southern Maryland community. chesapeakebeachrailwaymuseum.com

At the turn of the 20th century, Chesapeake Beach Railway opened as a means to connect the beachside resort town to Washington D.C. The Chesapeake Beach Railway company created the resort as a leisure destination and then the railway as its connector to the city right on the heels of the Civil War.

Visitors of the museum can see various exhibits that showcase the growth of Chesapeake Beach and the story of how the railroad company shaped the town. The original railway depot was built in 1898 and is now the location of the museum.

Throughout the month of July, kids can experience the Railway Museum Children’s program. These summer programs offer fun activities for kids to learn about the museum’s history. Admission is free.

If you’re looking for a truly authentic small-town train experience, look no further than Walkersville Southern Railroad. Located just north of Frederick in a charming rural town, Walkersville Southern Railroad will take you on a scenic trip to the past. Renovation and restoration are what keep the rich history here alive. wsrr.org/ws/

The train station was built by Pennsylvania Railroad in 1827 and many of the original structures are still present. As you ride in a vintage passenger car from the 1920s or an open-air flatcar, you will pass beautiful farmland, and a restored century-old lime kiln and cross over the Monocacy River. On select weekends, a fully functioning coal-fired steam engine will power your ride, complete with the sounds and smells of a real steam train!