Canal Place facts for kids

For the building in New Orleans often called "Canal Place", see One Canal Place

The historic Western Maryland Railway station, built in 1913, is now part of Canal Place.

This is the Cumberland basin, looking at Guard Lock #8. It marks the end of the C&O Canal.

Canal Place is a large state park. It covers about 58 acres (23.5 hectares). You can find it in Cumberland, Maryland. This park is at the very end of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal.

Exploring Canal Place

Canal Place is a fun spot with lots to see and do. It has a main plaza and a nice picnic area. You can also see a special canal boat replica. A pedestrian bridge connects to George Washington’s Headquarters. This area was once part of Fort Cumberland. You will also find shops and a festival area here. The historic Western Maryland Railway Station is also part of the park. This station is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

C&O Canal Visitor Center

The Cumberland Visitor Center is located at Canal Place. It is part of the C&O Canal National Historical Park. Inside, you will find interactive displays. These displays teach you about the canal's history. You can learn how the canal was built. You will also discover what kind of cargo was carried. The exhibits show how mules helped pull the boats. You can also learn about the special locks and the canal crew. The National Park Service runs this exhibit. It is on the first floor of the old railway station.

Western Maryland Scenic Railroad

The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad starts here. It offers exciting rides on historic trains. These trains depart right from the railway station. It is a great way to experience train travel from the past.

The Cumberland Canal Boat

"The Cumberland" is a full-size replica of a canal boat. It is located on the Trestle Walk at Canal Place. During special events, guides dress in old-fashioned clothes. They tell stories about the canal's history. They also explain what daily life was like on a canal boat. Visitors can explore the mule shed and the hay house. You can also tour the Captain's cabin, which is furnished just like it would have been.

Who Manages Canal Place?

The Canal Place Preservation and Development Authority manages Canal Place. This group was created by the State of Maryland in 1993. They own and take care of all the facilities at the park.

This is the Cumberland basin at Canal Place. It looks towards Georgetown, which is 184.5 miles down the canal.

Images for kids

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  This large field at Canal Place is used for gatherings.

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  This picture shows the Western Maryland Railway Station museum.

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  Here is a row of shops at Canal Place.

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  This is "The Cumberland," a replica of a canal boat at Canal Place.

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  This is the entrance to the shops at Canal Place.