Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Cumberland, Maryland, often called the “Queen City,” is a destination rich in history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re visiting for its historic downtown, to cycle the Great Allegheny Passage, explore the C&O Canal Towpath, or simply soak in the mountain charm, knowing how to get there and get around is key.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through arriving by Amtrak train, understanding the local airport operations, and navigating transportation once you’ve arrived in this charming Western Maryland gem.
The City of Cumberland (Cumberland, MD)
While the prompt referenced “CUM,” it’s important to clarify that the city’s common abbreviation is simply Cumberland, MD, and its airport code is CBE. Let’s dive into how to access it!
Arriving by Rail: The Amtrak Experience
Train travel to Cumberland offers a uniquely scenic and relaxed journey, dropping you right into the heart of the historic downtown. The city is served by Amtrak’s renowned Capitol Limited route.
Why Choose Amtrak to Cumberland?
- Scenic Route: Traverse through the stunning landscapes of the Appalachian Mountains.
- Convenience: The Cumberland Amtrak Station is centrally located, just a short walk from hotels, restaurants, and major attractions.
- Comfort: Enjoy spacious seating, dining options, and the ability to move around during your journey.
- Historical Charm: Arrive at a beautifully preserved historic station.
Amtrak Capitol Limited: Key Information for Cumberland
The Capitol Limited operates daily between Washington D.C. and Chicago, with a crucial stop in Cumberland.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Train Name | Capitol Limited (Trains 29 & 30) |
| Route | Washington D.C. ↔ Chicago |
| Cumberland Stop | Served daily in both directions |
| Major Stops | Washington D.C., Rockville, Harpers Ferry, Martinsburg, Cumberland, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Toledo, Chicago |
| Frequency | Daily |
| Amenities | Coach seats, Roomette/Bedroom accommodations, Sightseer Lounge, Dining Car |
Please note: Exact arrival and departure times for Cumberland can vary based on the specific train schedule and potential delays. Always check Amtrak.com for the most current information and to book your tickets.
Cumberland Amtrak Station (CUM)
- Location: 115 I-C Way, Cumberland, MD 21502
- Facilities: Waiting area, restrooms, ticketing services (limited hours), short-term parking.
- Accessibility: The station is generally accessible, but it’s advisable to inform Amtrak of any special assistance needs when booking.
- Getting Around: Taxis and rideshares can be arranged, but many downtown attractions are within walking distance or a short bus ride.
Flying In: Cumberland Regional Airport (CBE) Operational Overview
Cumberland Regional Airport (CBE) primarily serves general aviation, private aircraft, and charter flights. It does not have scheduled commercial airline service with major carriers. If you’re looking to fly to Cumberland, you’ll likely be arriving via a private plane, charter, or flying into a larger regional airport and driving.
Cumberland Regional Airport (CBE): Operational Details
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| IATA Code | CBE |
| Location | Approximately 10 miles southeast of downtown Cumberland (in Wiley Ford, WV) |
| Primary Function | General Aviation, Private Aircraft, Charter Flights, Flight Training |
| Runways | One primary asphalt runway (approx. 5,000 feet) |
| FBO Services | YES (Fixed Base Operator provides fuel, maintenance, hangar space, pilot services) |
| Commercial Airlines | NONE (No scheduled commercial passenger service) |
| Control Tower | No (Uncontrolled airport, pilots use common radio frequencies) |
| Terminal | Small terminal building for general aviation passengers |
Services at CBE
- FBOs (Fixed Base Operators): Provide essential services for general aviation, including aircraft fueling, maintenance, hangar storage, and passenger amenities.
- Flight Training: Local flight schools operate out of CBE.
- Aircraft Charters: Private charter services can be arranged to and from CBE.
Getting from Cumberland Regional Airport (CBE) to Downtown
Since there’s no commercial service, public transportation directly from CBE to downtown Cumberland is not available.
- Rental Cars: This is the most recommended option for flexibility. It’s often best to arrange a rental car in advance from a major rental agency (e.g., Enterprise, Avis) that can either deliver a car to the airport or pick you up.
- Taxis/Rideshares: Taxis might require pre-booking, as they don’t typically wait at CBE. Rideshare availability (Uber/Lyft) can be limited in the Cumberland area, especially outside peak hours.
- Private Arrangements: If you’re flying in on a private charter, your service provider may be able to arrange ground transportation.
Getting Around Cumberland
Once you’ve arrived, navigating Cumberland and the surrounding Allegany County is generally straightforward.
- Rental Cars: For maximum flexibility, especially if you plan to explore the scenic drives, state parks, or nearby towns, a rental car is highly recommended.
- Allegany Transit: Cumberland has a local bus service that operates several routes throughout the city and surrounding areas. This is a cost-effective option for getting around downtown and local neighborhoods. Check their official website for routes and schedules.
- Taxis & Rideshares: Available but can be less frequent than in larger cities. Pre-booking a taxi is often advisable. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft may have limited drivers, particularly at off-peak times.
- Walking & Biking: Downtown Cumberland is very walkable, with many attractions, shops, and restaurants concentrated in a compact area. The Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) and C&O Canal Towpath also offer fantastic biking opportunities directly from the city center.
Conclusion
Cumberland, MD, offers a charming and memorable experience for visitors. While its airport primarily serves general aviation, Amtrak provides a convenient and scenic connection directly to the heart of the city. With a little planning for your ground transportation, you’ll find Cumberland easily accessible and a joy to explore.
Happy travels to the Queen City of Maryland!
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