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Where is Grantsville located?
- Grantsville is situated in the northern section of Maryland, near the state’s border with Pennsylvania.
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What is the historical significance of Grantsville?
- Although somewhat small, Grantsville is packed with history. It was once an Amish settlement and later became part of the National Road, an essential route for early pioneers traveling by stagecoach.
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Why was Grantsville important in early American transportation?
- Because of its location on the National Road, many pioneers and travelers passed through the town. To accommodate the growing population, Grantsville built many inns and stores to serve those making the journey westward.
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What historic sites can visitors explore in Grantsville?
- Today, visitors can explore historic structures, many of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and experience the town’s rich Amish and Swiss-German heritage.
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1. Spruce Forest Artisan Village
Explore local crafts or watch artists work in an affordable cultural stop.
The Spruce Forest Artisan Village is located in the Allegheny region and features many buildings from the 1800s. The village once held the homes of Amish, Mennonite, Native American, and other settlers who all worked together to help develop the surrounding farmland. Today, the village now showcases local art and has six resident artists who create stained glass, paintings, pottery, and handcrafted soap. Tours are provided of this unique artisan village which will take visitors down winding dirt pathways to visit the small art studios hidden in the surrounding landscape.
177 Casselman Road, Grantsville, MD 21536, Phone: 301-895-3332
2. New Germany State Park
Hike wooded trails or enjoy lake views during a summer trip.
New Germany State Park spans over 483 acres and rests next to the Savage River State Forest. The land was originally used as a power source, thanks to its massive lake, which provided energy to local sawmills. Eventually, the Civilian Conservation Corps bought the forest and redeveloped the area in the late 1930s by planting numerous trees, building cottages, and creating a ski resort. New Germany State Park is also home to a nature center and offers views of the majestic Big Savage Mountain.
349 Headquarters Lane, Grantsville, MD 21536, Phone: 301-895-5453
3. Casselman River Bridge State Park
Walk along the historic bridge or picnic riverside on a relaxing weekend.
This four-acre state park is best known for its 80-foot bridge, called the Casselman Bridge, which was built in 1813 as part of the National Road. This stone bridge crosses the Casselman River and now serves as a pedestrian walkway. In addition to this historic structure, Casselman River Bridge State Park is a sought-after spot in the town for fly-fishing, wildlife photography, and hiking. There are a few picnicking areas available to visitors, including some that border the shoreline of the river. The state park also has an abundant population of black bears.
Casselman River Bridge State Park , 10240 National Pike, Grantsville, MD 21536, Phone: 301-895-5453
4. House of Yoder
Discover pioneer heritage or admire architecture on an educational visit.
The House of Yoder was formed in 1995 by a local family as a living history museum to help teach others about Yoder heritage. The museum features multiple exhibits that showcase more behind the migration of the Yoders from Switzerland. You’ll also find many artifacts and books to view as well. The House of Yoder has a small genealogical library which guests can use to research more about their family if applicable. This history museum is open from May to October and offers guided tours by appointment.
10411 National Pike, Grantsville, Maryland 21536, Phone: 301-895-3800
5. Music at Penn Alps
Enjoy live performances or savor classical sounds on a romantic evening.
Music at Penn Alps began in 1993 and celebrates classical music with performances on the weekends. The music shows are put on at the local Great Hall of Penn Alps which is connected to a small restaurant and craft shop. While the music focuses on classical tunes, some events also play folk music. Previous artists who have played here include the Washington Cornett and Sackbutt Ensemble and Muriel Anderson, who is known for her mastery of the classical harp guitar. Tickets to a show can be bought online or purchased at the hall.
125 Casselman Road, Grantsville, Maryland 21536, Phone: 301-895-5985
6. Ruth Enlow Library of Garrett County
Read quietly or explore kids' programs on a family outing.
The Ruth Enlow Library of Garrett County was founded in 1915 as a way to provide the surrounding rural community with a place to gather information and read books. Named after the daughter of a benefactor, the library has grown to have five branches throughout the town and gives residents access to print and electronic resources. It also holds many events during the year which range from children’s storytime to adult craft sessions. During the summer, the Ruth Enlow Library of Garrett County runs a reading program which has become a popular tradition for both children and adults.
102 Parkview Drive, Grantsville, Maryland 21536, Phone: 301-895-5298
7. Penn Alps Restaurant and Craft Shop
Savor hearty meals or browse handmade goods on a cheap stop.
The Penn Alps Restaurant and Craft Shop was created by Alta Schrock as a way to celebrate the Amish and German heritage of Grantsville. The Penn Alps Restaurant serves many classic Amish and Mennonite dishes, such as roast beef, sauerkraut, and nut brown pudding. Attached to the restaurant is a craft shop which sells items from over 2,500 artists. Guests can buy a handful of unique items from the shop, including hand-carved rocking chairs and colorful quilts. The Penn Alps Restaurant and Craft Shop also holds a Farmer’s Market every Saturday.
125 Casselman Road, Grantsville, Maryland 21536, Phone: 301-895-5985
8. The Casselman Inn and Restaurant
Relax in cozy rooms or enjoy home-style cooking during a retirement getaway.
Built in 1842, The Casselman Inn and Restaurant was meant to be a space where those traveling on the National Road could rest on their journey. Showcasing a beautiful display of Federal architecture, the inn is constructed of locally made bricks and features a fireplace in each room. There is also a small garden in the back guests can explore. The inn’s eatery, the Casselman Restaurant, serves country-style entrees and is famous for its homemade pies. For those who just want a quick bite to eat, you could stop by its bakery or cafe.
113 Main St, Grantsville, Maryland 21536, Phone: 301-895-5055
9. Grantsville Museum
Look at local artifacts or explore town history on an easy afternoon visit.
Grantsville Museum, located at the heart of Grantsville in the Ruth Enlow Library, has made it its mission to preserve the incredible legacy of photographer Leo Beach, the history of the National Road, and other key events in Grantsville’s local history between 1905 and 1927. At the museum, visitors can see nine unique exhibits such as the Industrial Room, the Victorian Room, the Military Room, as well as School Rooms. Visitors can also see galleries that capture the different eras of Garret County as well as special artifacts related to the B-52 Bomber Crash of 1964 and Braddock’s Trail. Travelers who wish to drop by the Grantsville Museum can do so on Fridays and Saturdays between May to October.
153 Main Street, Grantsville, Maryland 21536, Phone: 301-895-5454
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers.
Casselman Inn – A historic and cozy inn with a charming atmosphere.
Visit Casselman River Bridge State Park – See one of the oldest stone arch bridges in the U.S.
Summer (June-August) – Great for outdoor activities and exploring nature.
Blue Moon Rising – An eco-friendly cabin retreat near Deep Creek Lake.
Explore Savage River State Forest – Enjoy hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and stunning fall foliage.
The Lodge at Wisp – A great stay for autumn leaf-peeping and outdoor adventures.
Take a scenic drive along the National Road – Experience breathtaking mountain views in the fall.
Plan Your Trip
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