Lonaconing MarylandATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Lonaconing, Maryland.
1. Lonaconing Iron Furnace and Park
HISTORIC INDUSTRIAL LANDMARK
The Lonaconing Iron Furnace is one of the town's most iconic historical landmarks and the last surviving iron furnace in the United States. This historic site offers a glimpse into the 19th-century industrial heritage of Western Maryland and the economic foundations of the region. Visitors can explore the well-preserved furnace structure and surrounding park while learning about the early iron industry that shaped Lonaconing's development.
2. Silk Mill
PRESERVED INDUSTRIAL HISTORY
The Silk Mill in Lonaconing stands as a remarkable time capsule of America's industrial past. This historic textile mill maintains much of its original equipment and infrastructure, offering visitors an authentic look at early 20th-century manufacturing processes. History enthusiasts appreciate the mill for its well-preserved artifacts and the story it tells about the region's economic evolution from mining to manufacturing.
3. Lefty Grove Memorial Park
BASEBALL LEGEND TRIBUTE
Lefty Grove Memorial Park honors the legendary baseball Hall of Fame pitcher who was born in Lonaconing on March 6, 1900. The park commemorates the remarkable journey of Robert Moses 'Lefty' Grove, who rose from humble beginnings in this small coal-mining town to become one of baseball's greatest players. Visitors can pay tribute to this local hero while enjoying the recreational facilities that keep his legacy alive for future generations.
4. Dan's Mountain State Park
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION
Dan's Mountain State Park offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding Western Maryland landscape from its 2,898-foot elevation. The park features numerous recreational opportunities including hiking trails, picnic areas, and wildlife observation points throughout its expansive natural setting. Visitors particularly enjoy the park in autumn when the mountainside erupts in brilliant fall colors across the Appalachian terrain.
5. Allegany County Library System - George's Creek Library
KNOWLEDGE AND HERITAGE HUB
The George's Creek Library serves as both a modern information center and a guardian of local history for Lonaconing residents. This branch of the Allegany County Library System proudly displays Lefty Grove's Most Valuable Player Award, the only one not housed at the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown. Beyond its historical treasures, the library offers contemporary resources, community programming, and a quiet space for learning in this small mountain town.
6. Town Clock Church
ARCHITECTURAL RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
The Town Clock Church stands as one of Lonaconing's most distinctive architectural landmarks with its prominent clock tower visible throughout the town. This beautifully preserved historic church represents the religious heritage and community gathering spaces that were central to life in early mining communities. Visitors appreciate both the exterior craftsmanship and the church's enduring presence as a symbol of Lonaconing's cultural identity.
7. Georges Creek Railway
HISTORIC RAIL EXPERIENCE
The Georges Creek Railway offers visitors a glimpse into the transportation infrastructure that once connected this coal mining region to larger markets. This historic rail line, which continues limited operations today, played a crucial role in the economic development of Western Maryland's industrial corridor. Train enthusiasts particularly value the opportunity to see vintage rail equipment and learn about the engineering challenges of building railways through the Appalachian mountains.
8. Coney Market
LUCKY LOTTERY STOP
Coney Market gained national attention on January 20, 2021, when it sold a winning Powerball ticket worth the fourth-largest jackpot in U.S. history. This modest convenience store serves as both a practical stop for locals and a curiosity for visitors interested in the location that changed one anonymous winner's life forever. Beyond its lottery fame, the market provides essential goods and services to residents of this small mountain community.
9. Rocky Gap State Park
LAKESIDE MOUNTAIN GETAWAY
Rocky Gap State Park features a spectacular 243-acre lake nestled in the mountains of Western Maryland just a short drive from Lonaconing. The park offers extensive recreational options including swimming beaches, boat rentals, fishing spots, and miles of scenic hiking trails through mountain forests. Visitors can also enjoy the adjacent Rocky Gap Casino Resort for additional entertainment, dining, and accommodation options.
10. Western Maryland Scenic Railroad
HISTORIC MOUNTAIN RAIL JOURNEY
The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad provides passengers with a nostalgic journey through the Appalachian Mountains on vintage trains departing from nearby Cumberland. This historic railway experience includes narrated excursions highlighting the region's rich history, industrial heritage, and natural beauty. The popular attraction operates various themed rides throughout the year, including holiday specials, dinner trains, and photography excursions.
11. C&O Canal National Historical Park
HISTORIC WATERWAY TRAIL
The C&O Canal National Historical Park preserves the route of the historic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, which once connected Cumberland to Washington D.C. for trade and transportation. Visitors can explore the canal towpath by foot or bicycle while discovering well-preserved locks, aqueducts, and canal structures dating back to the 19th century. The park's Cumberland Visitor Center provides excellent historical context about this engineering marvel that helped develop Western Maryland's economy.
12. Frostburg State University Appalachian Laboratory
MOUNTAIN ECOSYSTEM RESEARCH
The Appalachian Laboratory at Frostburg State University conducts vital research on mountain ecosystems while offering educational programs for visitors interested in environmental science. This research facility focuses on understanding the unique ecological challenges facing Appalachian forests, watersheds, and wildlife populations. Periodic open houses and seminars provide opportunities for the public to learn about conservation efforts and scientific discoveries relevant to Western Maryland's natural resources.
13. Queen City Creamery
NOSTALGIC FROZEN TREATS
Queen City Creamery delights visitors with handcrafted frozen custard produced using traditional methods in a charming vintage atmosphere. This beloved Cumberland institution serves as both a dessert destination and a glimpse into the region's mid-20th century soda fountain culture. Beyond their signature frozen custard, the creamery offers a selection of classic diner fare and sweet treats that attract visitors from throughout Western Maryland.
14. Mountain Maryland Farmers Market
LOCAL AGRICULTURAL SHOWCASE
The Mountain Maryland Farmers Market connects visitors with the agricultural bounty of Western Maryland through seasonal produce, artisan foods, and handcrafted goods. This community marketplace brings together farmers, bakers, and craftspeople from Allegany County, including Lonaconing and surrounding communities. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to experience authentic local flavors while supporting the small family farms that maintain the region's agricultural traditions.
15. Cumberland Trail Connection
CYCLING ADVENTURE HUB
Cumberland Trail Connection serves as the gateway to Western Maryland's extensive network of cycling trails, including the Great Allegheny Passage connecting to Pittsburgh. This specialty outdoor retailer provides bikes, gear, shuttle services, and expert advice for exploring the region's rail-trails and mountain biking opportunities. Cyclists visiting the Lonaconing area often make this shop their first stop when planning adventures through the Appalachian highlands and historic mining regions.