This Maryland Itinerary at a Glance
Hagerstown & Washington County is the crossroads of the Civil War and a rich blend of culture, including a well-known wine scene.
5 Unique Experiences in Maryland
- Miller House
- South Mountain Inn
- Big Cork Vineyards
- Antietam Battlefield
- Pry House Field Hospital
Duration: 3 Days
Available: Year-round
This Itinerary is Ideal For: Adults
Itinerary Details
Day 1 in Hagerstown, Maryland
Arrive in Hagerstown and check in a group-friendly hotel. There’s a wide variety to fit every budget and need. Refresh for dinner at one of more than a dozen area restaurants.
Day 2 of Things To Do in Maryland
Big Cork Vineyards
Begin your day with breakfast at your hotel before departing for a tour of the National Museum of Civil War Medicine in Frederick, MD. The museum offers specialized tours for groups focusing on the history of ballistics and medicinal use of alcohol during the Civil War.
After your tour, board your coach with a step-on guide provided by the National Museum of Civil War Medicine and make your way to Gathland State Park to explore the South Mountain Battlefield. The park features the War Correspondents Memorial Arch, Civil War Trails, and two interpreted museums focusing on the personal accounts of Civil War reporters and the history of the battlefield.
Break for a catered lunch at Gathland State Park or make group reservations at South Mountain Inn, located at the summit of Turner’s Gap near the historic Dahlgren Chapel. The South Mountain Inn is said to have been a staging area for John Brown’s men prior to their historic raid in Harpers Ferry.
Continue through the passes of Turner’s and Fox’s Gaps to Big Cork Vineyards. Sip award-winning Merlot while being surrounded with panoramic views encompassing the vantage points of the Battle of South Mountain. Your step on guide will provide insight to troop movement and strategies employed during the battle.
Spend the rest of your afternoon at Antietam National Battlefield. The National Park’s visitor center offers a 25-minute introductory film for your group. Once your group has viewed the film, embark on your journey. Your guided driving tour will highlight key points and share the stories of Antietam. Attendees will have several opportunities to stretch their legs and take photos along the route.
End your evening at the Pry House Field Hospital Museum with an after-hours tour and catered dinner. For a unique experience arrange for bluegrass or banjo entertainment for your evening at the Pry.
Day 3 in Maryland
Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel before departing for the day’s activities.
Maryland Monument
Experience the Civil War through the civilians’ perspective at the Miller House– Home of the Washington County Historical Society and Museum. The Miller House Civil War exhibits feature relics from nearby towns passed down from generation to generation.
Mobilize the troops and head west to Fort Frederick for a black powder musket demonstration. Built in 1758, Fort Frederick was constructed to protect Maryland’s frontier during the French and Indian War. The Fort was also utilized during the American Revolution as a prison for British soldiers and then again during the Civil War as an encampment for Union troops guarding a portion of the C&O Canal that borders the fort.
After a morning on the frontier, plan a visit to the region’s estate or boutique wineries: Blue Mountain Wine Crafters, Knob Hall Winery, Olney Winery at Stone House Square and Red Heifer Winery. Grab a box lunch and stock up on Merlot rations before heading home.
Maryland still has plenty more to offer travel groups, so be sure to Get More Maryland Itinerary Ideas for FREE
