Wondering where to get Thanksgiving dinner at Deep Creek?
If you are heading to the lake for the Thanksgiving holiday, you might want to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the area with family and friends.
Here is a list of places to get Thanksgiving dinner at Deep Creek. Continue reading “Where to Get Thanksgiving Dinner at Deep Creek”
Do some Deep Creek Lake shopping on Small Business Saturday – the day after Black Friday! It is a great opportunity to support small businesses. Deep Creek Lake shopping gives you a chance to get one-of-a-kind items from your favorite place. Pick up holiday gifts or something special for yourself!
Also, many local spots are offering great deals and giveaways this weekend through a promotion with the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce. Click here to see a list of participating businesses and their offers.
I put together a guide to shopping small when you are on a Deep Creek Lake vacation. Supporting “mom and pop” businesses doesn’t have to be limited to Small Business Saturday. These are fun places to browse and buy throughout the year!
Some locations may have changed their hours of operation so consider calling before you head out.
MCHENRY/DEEP CREEK LAKE
High Mountain Sports
21327 Garrett Highway, Oakland, MD 21550
Bear Creek Traders
24586 Garrett Hwy, McHenry, MD 21541
Schoolhouse Earth
1224 Friendsville Road, Friendsville MD 21531
The Tourist Trap
19895 Garrett Highway, Oakland, MD 21550
A Mountain Fix
1550 Deep Creek Drive, McHenry, MD 21541
Sacred Ground
20294 Garrett Hwy, Oakland, MD 21550
The Copper Kettle Popcorn Factory
20294 Garrett Hwy, Oakland, MD 21550
Outdoor Elements at Wisp Resort
296 Marsh Hill Road, McHenry, MD 21541
Continue reading “Deep Creek Lake Shopping: Tips for Small Business Saturday”
It’s a common conundrum – what’s a non-skier to do when friends and family are hitting the slopes at Wisp Resort? Deep Creek Lake winter activities offers lots of options that can keep every member of your crew entertained. It’s a great way to enjoy a weekend getaway near Pittsburgh, Baltimore, or Washington, DC.
Here are just a few of our favorite Deep Creek Lake winter activities for the non-skiers staying at a Deep Creek Lake vacation rental:
Hiking at Swallow Falls State Park
Crisp white snow makes this beautiful place even more spectacular, and it’s definitely a must see throughout all four seasons. If you’re up for some serious hiking, explore trails to all three of the waterfalls – Swallow Falls, Muddy Creek Falls, and Tolliver Falls. There is also a handicap accessible trail and view platform at Muddy Creek Falls for those that need an easier route or just want to take a short stroll. Be sure to bring your camera and wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots. Trails can be slippery during the winter months. Get more info.
Simon Pearce Tours
Watch master glassblowers at work, then shop for the beautiful items they make in the retail store. You can also choose from a wide variety of second-quality glass. Located in Mountain Lake Park, it is just a short drive from most Deep Creek Lake vacation rentals. Find out more.
Guided Snowshoe Tours
Weather permitting, All Earth Eco Tours offers another great way to experience Swallow Falls State Park. Their snowshoe tours are a “no experience required” way to cruise through the woods and take in the scenery. For those seeking high adventure, ask about their trips to Big Savage Mountain and Lost Lands.
Sleigh Rides
One of the classic Deep Creek Lake winter activities, you can take a ride back in time as you swish through open fields and over hills listening to the sound of muffled hoof beats in the snow. Sleigh rides at Pleasant Valley Dream Rides are an ideal way to enjoy the outdoors no matter what your age.
Cold Drinks By a Warm Fire
Get cozy by the fire place at local restaurants like Firewater Kitchen & Bar, Uno Chicago Grill or Dutch’s at Silver Tree, and warm-up with your favorite beverage.
Sled Riding at Blackwater Falls State Park
Within one hour of the Deep Creek Lake area, you’ll find the ultimate sledding hill! Head to Blackwater Falls State Park to ride up on a conveyor, sled to the bottom, and repeat! Bring your own sled or rent one on-site.
Sample Award Winning Cheeses
Stop by Firefly Farms in nearby Accident, to check out their award winning goat cheese and browse their selection of gourmet foods. They can even make you a personalized cheese board to go.
Cross Country Skiing
With minimal instruction, you can kick and glide on cross country ski trails at Herrington Manor State Park and New Germany State Park. Call ahead to check for availability of rental equipment.
Shops & Antiques
Avoid the cold temperatures when you visit area shops and antique stores. Schoolhouse Earth, Bear Creek Traders, A Mountain Fix, and High Mountain Sports are a few of our favorites at the lake. Take a short drive to Oakland to browse antiques at Englander’s or Cabin Fever. While you are there, hit up Flipside Sounds – a vinyl shop in downtown Oakland.
Deep Creek Axe Throwing Co.
Test your skills in the Deep Creek Lake axe throwing arena! This fun indoor activity is suitable for ages 8 and up.
Museum Tours
When visiting Oakland, history buffs should stop at the two museums operated by the Garrett County Historical Society. Return to the past as you explore area treasures, learn about early settlers, and check out Model T Fords. Call for hours of operation.
Snow Tubing & Mountain Coaster Rides
Wisp Resort is well-known for skiing, but they also offer a variety of activities that anyone can enjoy. Reserve a snow tubing session or take a ride on the mountain coaster.
Arcades
Everyone in your group will enjoy playing a wide variety arcade games and snacking on great food at Deep Creek Fun Zone.
Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center
Fun for kids of all ages, the Discovery Center is a one-of-a-kind environmental center with hands-on exhibits that showcase the natural resources of Western Maryland. Open weekends during the winter season.
Deep Creek Lake fall getaways are a favorite way to enjoy the best of this colorful season. Reserve your Deep Creek Lake vacation rental, pack your hiking boots and sweaters and get ready for an unforgettable experience.
-Take the scenic route for a fall foliage driving tour and leaf peep on scenic back roads
-Take a hike at Swallow Falls State Park (or one of the other 6 state parks in the area)
-Snack on a yummy pumpkin roll from Trader’s Coffee House
-Snuggle up by the fire with someone special at a Deep Creek cabin
-Enjoy the view from the ziplines at Monkey Business Adventure Park
-Check out foliage on the Barn Quilt Trail
–Snap photos of fall colors at scenic spots like the Cove Overlook
-Do some early holiday shopping at Schoolhouse Earth
-Mountain bike on the trails at Deep Creek Lake State Park
-Order craft brews and flat breads and watch one of the famous sunsets on patio at Mountain State Brewing Company
-Wind your way through the Cove Run Farms Corn Maze
-Stop by Klotz Corn & Pumpkins to for brightly colored mums and perfect carving pumpkins
-Warm up with s’mores on a crisp fall night at your lakeside fire pit
-Experience the Autumn Glory Festival events and pick up a traditional turkey dinner at a local restaurant
-Ride the Mountain Coaster at Wisp Resort (weekends only)
-Visit Casselman Bridge State Park and grab a bite at Cornucopia Cafe
-Visit the Mountain Fresh Farmers Market for local maple syrup and fall harvest veggies
-Make a pile of leaves for the kids to play in
-Browse the shops in historic downtown Oakland – recently named among the Top 50 Small Towns with the Best Fall Foliage
-Take some time to slow down with Deep Creek Lake fall getaways and make memories with your favorite people!
Autumn Glory 2021 will continue the tradition of celebrating the beauty of fall. In its 54th year, it is a weekend filled with fun events. It takes place October 13-17, 2021.
Autumn Glory has long been a favorite Deep Creek Lake area festival. It was named the number one fall festival in the world by MSN. Garrett County has also been listed as a top fall destination by Good Housekeeping, TripAdvisor, and U.S. News and World Reports.
The festival will be held October 13-17.
Below is a list of events and activities that are currently scheduled for Autumn Glory 2021:
– Grand Feature Parade in Downtown Oakland, Saturday, October 16 at 1PM
– Mountain Fresh Farmers Market in Downtown Oakland, Saturday, October 16 from 10AM until 1PM
– Turkey Trail celebrates the event’s roots by promoting area turkey dinners served throughout Garrett County.
– Fall Foliage Driving Tours highlight some of the area’s most scenic spots to view our stunning Autumn leaves.
Check out the Garrett County Fair schedule! Make plans to enjoy this favorite Deep Creek Lake area summer event.
Fair week is a popular time for Deep Creek Lake vacations. Our homes usually fill up early. There is something for every age and interest. From fun rides and great food to exciting events and adorable animals, families can experience the best of Garrett County. Check out our top 5 favorite things to see and do at the fair.
The Garrett County Fair also gives visitors a glimpse into Garrett County’s agricultural community. It is a key part of the area’s heritage. Many local children are involved in 4-H and enter animals that they raise. This is a family tradition that goes back decades.
Keep in mind that this schedule is tentative and is subject to change. You can check the Garrett County Agriculture Fair Facebook page to get the latest information.
Continue reading “Garrett County Fair Schedule Quick Guide for 2021”
The Victorian Chautauqua is July 10-11, 2021. It is a fun, family event that celebrates the rich history of Mountain Lake Park. The itinerary is filled with something for every age and interest.
In 1874, a Methodist resort was founded in Chautauqua, New York. That is where the term originated. The goal was to provide faith-based learning along with cultural exposure. Lectures and classes were offered to Victorian vacationers throughout the summer months. The natural setting led to the addition of outdoor recreation.
As the event grew in popularity, the second Chautauqua in the United States was founded as Mountain Lake Park in Garrett County. Its location along the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad made it ideal. A small group of ministers and businessmen started with 800 acres for the proposed resort. At its peak, it included an open-air theater, an assembly hall, clay tennis courts, and more than fifty summer cottages dating back to 1882. Vacationers flocked to the mountains to escape the summer heat. The location hosted many notable lecturers including, Mark Twain, William Jennings Bryan, and President Taft.
Taking place July 10th and 11th, the modern event will include many traditional Chautauqua events and activities. Between performances, there will be organized activities for kids. They include make ‘n’ take, face painting, and playtime with bubbles. Numerous artists will be on hand as well.
Chautauqua History, Invocation, Chautauqua Song
Martin Tent
Performed by: Rich Pawling
Martin Tent
Portrayed by Richard Hill
Burlington Tent
Lecture by Neal Brooks
Martin Tent
Portrayed by William Grant
Martin Tent
Jazz Guitarist
Burlington Tent
Portrayed by Richard Hill
Martin Tent
Led by: Sean & Debi Beachy
Burlington Tent
Lecture by: Neal Brooks
Deaconess Tent
Performed by: Rich Pawling
Martin Tent
Portrayed by JoAnn Peterson
Burlington Tent
Jazz Guitarist
Beard & Mustache Contest
Mayor, Don Sincell
Martin Tent
Lecture by Kathie Smith
Burlington Tent
Betty & Tom Mattingly
Historic Ticket Office
Recorders and Viola da Gamba
Assembly Hall Auditorium
Portrayed by Joanna Guy & Liz Cannon
Martin Tent
Led by Sean & Debi Beachy
Burlington Tent
Lecture by Steven French
Deaconess Tent
Performed by Mary Ann Jung
Martin Tent
Portrayed by JoAnn Peterson
Martin Tent
Presented by Mary Sincell McEwen
Burlington Tent
Lecture by Steven French
Burlington Tent
Martin Tent
From fireworks over the water to small town parades loaded with charm, the Deep Creek Lake area is a favorite place to celebrate Independence Day! I put together a guide to some “can’t miss” events that you have to check out if you are here for the holiday. They include some tips to finding the best spot to watch Deep Creek Lake fireworks. Continue reading “Deep Creek Lake Fireworks & More July 4th Fun”
Everyone’s favorite late summer event, the Deep Creek Lake Art & Wine Festival, is September 11, 2021! This weekend-long celebration brings hundreds of visitors to the area. Benefitting HART for Animals and the Garrett Lakes Arts Festival, it is a great time that supports great causes.
Here’s a quick guide to what you need to know to make the most of your getaway during Deep Creek Lake Art, Wine & Beer Festival weekend:
–Buy your tickets in advance, and you’ll save $5! Adult tickets are $30.50 in advance and $37 at the gate. That gets you entrance to the festival, a commemorative wine glass, and wine tastings.
Continue reading “Quick Guide: Deep Creek Lake Art & Wine Festival”
The Garrett County Celtic Festival is making a return for 2021! We are thrilled to have this longtime favorite back in action as we return to in-person events. It will be a bit different than years past but will still be a fun celebration with great Celtic music throughout the day.
The festival is Saturday, June 5th from 10:30AM until 6PM. Friendsville Community Park will once again be the venue – rain or shine! Located along the Youghiogheny River, it is just a short drive from the Deep Creek Lake area. A fishing access is located on the far side of the parking circle near the baseball diamond. The river is shallow here and it’s a great spot to cool if it is hot!
Tickets must be purchased in advance this year. No tickets will be sold at the gate. Click here to purchase your ticket. The cost is $15 for adults, $5 for ages 11-18, and free for ages 10 and under.
This will be a socially distanced event. Bring your chairs or blankets to relax and enjoy the live entertainment. Leashed dogs are welcome too. Ruth Enlow Library will provide activities for kids to do with their families, and food vendors will be on hand too.
Highland games and indoor activities will not take place this year, but there is a fantastic line-up of music.
This schedule is subject to change.
If you haven’t already, book a getaway for the festival weekend! The Garrett County Celtic Festival is a fun, affordable event for the entire family.