Traveling The Scenic Historic National Road From Baltimore To Western Maryland
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Travel Leisure -> subcategory Vacations.
Exploring the Scenic Historic National Road: Baltimore to Western Maryland
Summary
Embarking on a scenic drive from Baltimore through Maryland’s historic byways offers a captivating journey filled with antique shops, farmers markets, wineries, charming blacksmith stores, wagon yards, and an array of historical landmarks and attractions.
The Historic National Road
Centuries ago, the dirt and cobblestone-covered National Road provided the most accessible route for settlers crossing the Appalachian Mountains. These pioneers, journeying westward in horse-drawn Conestoga wagons, carried essential supplies and building materials. Families traveled in stagecoaches and carriages, frequently stopping to enjoy the welcoming towns along their path.
As America's first federally funded highway, the National Road was a monumental project, taking four decades to complete. Starting in Baltimore and extending to Vandalia, Illinois, its construction began in 1806 to enhance trade and communication with the expanding Ohio River Valley frontier.
Journey Through Maryland's Portion
Traveling from Baltimore to Western Maryland, you can enjoy the timeless inns, taverns, and shops along the Historic National Road, which passes through three Maryland Heritage Areas:
- Baltimore City
- Heart of the Civil War (Frederick)
- Canal Place (Cumberland)
Baltimore to Cumberland: The Baltimore National Pike
Beginning at the waterside in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, you're near both the Charles Street and National Historic Seaport byways. Following Lombard Street westward, visitors can explore the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Museum, located at the country’s oldest railroad station.
Historic Towns and Attractions
Just west of Baltimore on MD 144 (Frederick Road), Catonsville awaits. Developed in 1810, it later became a favored summer getaway linked to downtown Baltimore by trolley lines.
Crossing the Patapsco River, you'll arrive in the charming town of Oella, with its historic stone and brick buildings. Once home to African-American mathematician Benjamin Banneker, Oella features a park and museum in his honor. Nearby is the extensive Patapsco Valley State Park, a vast recreational area.
Beyond the river lies Ellicott City, a former flour milling town now brimming with antique shops, unique restaurants, and history. It boasts the nation’s first railroad station and Thomas Isaac’s Log Cabin, a National Road way station.
Vineyards and Boutiques
In Mount Airy, you'll discover vineyards perfect for tours and picnics, alongside boutiques and antique shops. As you approach Frederick, historic hotels, restaurants, and taverns that once served National Road travelers are aplenty.
Connected to Baltimore via the National Pike, Frederick thrived as a hub for transporting agricultural goods to Baltimore’s port. Explore countless architectural treasures spanning two centuries, including Francis Scott Key’s law office and the National Museum of Civil War Medicine. Don’t miss the Children's Museum of Rose Hill.
A Scenic Drive to Remember
Traveling from Baltimore to Western Maryland via these scenic routes offers a refreshing alternative to the monotony of interstate highways.
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© 2007 Connie Limon. All rights reserved.
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