Frostburg

Frostburg, often referred to as Mountain City, is a charming little town tucked in Allegany County, Western Maryland. The town is home to Frostburg State University and has a lively variety of student-oriented pubs. Frostburg has a slow, but rich history. Being one of the primary coach stops along the historic National Road, the town is built centered along Route 40 and is truly a Main Street community. The town is positioned in the Appalachian mountains, and its best attraction is its natural surroundings. From the center of town, once can take in a gorgeous, panoramic view of the surroundings mountains. Because of this natural setting, a wide range of outdoor, recreational activities are easily within reach. Frostburg is one of the primary stops along the Rails to Trails cycle path which connects Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C. Garrett County is just minutes away by car and is the least-densely populated region in Maryland, offering excellent opportunities for hiking, cycling, mountain-biking, kayaking, white-water rafting, skiing, and many other outdoor pursuits.

Frostburg itself can seem a sleepy town at times, especially when the university isn't in session. Yet the newly designated "Arts and Entertainment District" has spurred local growth, and an afternoon strolling the downtown area offers its relaxing charms. From the historic diner to the indie bookstore and art collective, Frostburg is probably the finest destination in Western Maryland for those wanting a slow-paced escape in a natural setting.

Get in

 * Baltimore - Approximate travel time three hours. Interstate 70 West to Interstate 68 West, Exit 33 or Exit 34.
 * Washington, D.C. - Approximate travel time three hours. Interstate 270 North to Interstate 70 West to Interstate 68 West, Exit 33 or Exit 34.
 * Harrisburg - Approximate travel time three hours. Interstate 81 South to Interstate 70 West to Interstate 68 West, Exit 33 or Exit 34.
 * Pittsburgh - Approximate travel time two hours. Interstate 79 South to Interstate 68 East, Exit 33 or Exit 34.
 * Morgantown - Approximate travel time one hour. Interstate 68 East, Exit 33 or Exit 34.

Get around
A car is best, but the town itself is small enough to get to most places by walking, typically within 20-60 min. There is also a public shuttle running 3 times an hour around the university campus during the day, switching to once an hour connecting campus to the stores in La Vale in the afternoons & evenings.

Do

 * Annual Soapbox Derby Every year, the big attraction on July Fourth is the Soapbox Derby which is run on a steep hill right in the middle of town on Main Street. Bring blankets or chairs and stake out a good spot. You will get to see youth from the area race in the soapbox derby cars they have been working on all spring. This event has occurred every year for over thirty years and is a great chance to experience the better things about small town living.
 * Mountain City Chili Cook-Off Judged event and a local favorite, this chili cook-off offers great family entertainment featuring local music and fun kids activities. Several contests take place during the event, one of which is an eating contest open to the general public.
 * Welcome Back Frostburg State University Block Party Annual event held on Main Street to welcome back the Frostburg State University students when they return from the summer break. Some interesting things take place including live local music. But it isn't too much of an attraction for tourists. It is primarily a way for local businesses to advertise their services to local students.
 * Cruisin' Main Street Frostburg Late August Hundreds of nostalgic vehicles fill the streets for this day of 1950s nostalgia. This one's a charmer.

Buy
Frostburg Farmer's Market Enjoy fresh produce, baked goods, plants and flowers on Frostburg's Main Street as local farmers and merchants sell their wares and crops. Every Friday beginning at 9:30 from June to September.

Go next

 * La Vale is the nearest commercial area, where most of the stores & restaurants are, including the Country Club Mall. There is a public shuttle service between Frostburg and La Vale.
 * Nearest train station (AMTRAK) is in Cumberland (Maryland). There is no way to take public transportation from Frostburg for outgoing eastbound trains, due to the transfer time in La Vale.
 * Nearest major airport is Pittsburgh International in Pittsburgh, which is also the nearest major city. Dulles International in Washington, D.C. and BWI near Baltimore are not that much further in travel time though.