Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best attractions, activities, lodging, food, and more.


Introduction to Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park covers 184.5 miles along the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. to Cumberland, Maryland. It is a place of great historical and cultural significance, as it was once used as a trade route for coal, lumber, and other goods. Today, it is a popular destination for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.

List of Places to Visit in Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park Museum in Hagerstown
  • Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center in Potomac, Maryland
  • Cumberland Visitor Center in Cumberland, Maryland
  • Georgetown Visitor Center in Washington, D.C.

Natural Attractions of Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Calico Rocks and Overlook
  • Billy Goat Trail A
  • Paw Paw Tunnel
  • Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

Hiking/Biking Routes of Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

  • Great Allegheny Passage – C&O Canal Trail
  • Western Maryland Rail-Trail
  • Paw Paw Tunnel Trail

Best Things to Do in Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park: Activities and Tours

  • Take a Canal Boat Ride
  • Explore the Great Falls Tavern Museum
  • Bike the C&O Canal Towpath Trail
  • Go Fishing in the Potomac River
  • Visit the Paw Paw Tunnel

Week-Long Itinerary for Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

  • Day 1: Explore Georgetown Visitor Center
  • Day 2: Hike Billy Goat Trail A
  • Day 3: Visit Cumberland Visitor Center
  • Day 4: Bike the Western Maryland Rail-Trail
  • Day 5: Take a Canal Boat Ride
  • Day 6: Have a Picnic at Calico Rocks and Overlook
  • Day 7: Visit Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

Food and Drink Scene of Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chesapeake Bay Crab Cakes
  • Fried Chicken
  • Maryland Style Crab Soup

Local Beverages

  • Flying Dog Brewery’s Beer
  • Knob Hall Winery’s Wine
  • Distilled Spirits from A. Smith Bowman Distillery

Where to Stay in Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park’s Campgrounds
  • Canal Quarters
  • Boonsboro Inn

What to Buy in Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab
  • Whiskey from A. Smith Bowman Distillery
  • Knob Hall Wines

Local Culture and Customs of Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park is famous for its historical significance, natural beauty, and recreational activities. Visitors should respect the park’s rules and regulations, including leaving no trace, keeping dogs on leashes, and being careful when biking or hiking along the trails.

Best Time to Visit Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Spring and fall are the best times to visit the park. The weather is mild, and the colors of the changing leaves are stunning. However, summer is also a great time to visit, with plenty of outdoor activities and events.

Do’s and Don’ts of Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Do:

  • Bring plenty of water
  • Wear comfortable shoes
  • Drive slowly on narrow roads
  • Follow signs and rules

Don’t:

  • Leave trash or litter behind
  • Disturb wildlife
  • Use drones without permission
  • Walk off-trail or hike at night

Safety and Health

Safety in Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Visitors should be aware of various hazards, including ticks, poison ivy, and slippery rocks. Always carry a map and be prepared for weather changes.

Health in Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

There are no hospitals in the park, but visitors can find medical assistance in nearby towns.

Getting to Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

  • Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA)
  • Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI)

Bus Stations Near Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

  • Greyhound Bus Station in Washington D.C.
  • Hagerstown Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • Train service is available at the Harpers Ferry Train Station
  • Driving is the most convenient option

How to Get Around in Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Biking, hiking, and walking are the best ways to explore the park.

Where to Go Next from Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Washington D.C.
  • Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
  • Shenandoah National Park

Conclusion

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park is a great destination for history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and families. This travel guide should provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip and make the most of your time in the park.

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