From scenic chairlift rides up the mountain to biking down it, Wisp has recreational options suited to every member of the family. Even the littlest kids can have big adventures here.
Drive time: Just under five hours.
Rates: Rooms $89-$94 weekdays, $119-$124 weekends (double occupancy); suites $99-$104 weekdays, $129-$134 weekends.
Where to eat: Start with the Painted Desert Soup at Santa Fe Grille. Then move on to the wings, crab enchiladas, slow-roasted St. Louis ribs, or mesquite-grilled meats (most sandwiches are under $10, dinner entrées $13.95-$26.95). 75 Visitors Center Drive, McHenry, (301) 387-2182, santafedcl.com.
What to do: Kids as young as 4 can take on the resort’s Chipmunk Challenge Course, a canopy tour that includes two zip lines, walking on a net and hanging vine, and swinging platforms ($12). There’s a Flying Squirrel canopy course for teens and adults ($45). Wisp also has a great mountain coaster ($10).
Rainy-day fun: Take a narrated tour of the Allegheny Mountains aboard one of the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad’s restored steam or diesel engine trains. ($35, kids $18). 13 Canal St., Cumberland, (800) 872-4650, wmsr.com.
Wisp Resort 296 Marsh Hill Road, McHenry, (301) 387-4000, wispresort.com
» Return to Maryland Fall 2013 Travel