Historic 1872 Track: Walkersville Southern Opening Day Excursions

Ride a slice of 19th-century Americana aboard the Walkersville Southern, a volunteer-run heritage railroad operating out of Walkersville, Maryland. The Opening Day Excursions depart from Walkersville Southern Railway - 34 West Pennsylvania Ave., Walkersville, MD 21793 for a 1 hour and 10 minute trip over track the Pennsylvania Railroad originally built in 1872. Guests choose vintage 1920s passenger cars, an open flatcar for wind-in-your-face views, or the first-class Southampton parlor car with limited air conditioning and a small onboard restroom. The route slips past a 100-year-old lime kiln, passes a turn-of-the-century railroad station and tool house, and then opens into gentle Maryland farm country. Fields and fence lines give way to low stone walls and weathered barns; the landscape is agricultural and uncomplicated, the kind of scenery that reads well in wide-angle photos. On Opening Day the station hosts Pop-up on Penn, an outdoor market of local vendors, handmade goods, and seasonal treats—an easy way to extend the outing with coffee and pastries before or after the ride. Walkersville Southern stands out because it preserves working rolling stock and the feel of a small-town rail line rather than a theme-park ride. Volunteer crews maintain equipment and share stories at the station, which creates an authentic connection between passengers and the railway’s history. The route’s industrial relics—especially the lime kiln—offer a tangible link to Frederick County’s 19th- and early 20th-century industries and supply a rugged contrast to pastoral stretches. Practical notes: children under two ride free on a lap but otherwise need a ticket; smoking is prohibited aboard trains and in buildings; public restrooms are not available onboard except the Southampton parlor car, and portajohns are located near the museum across the street. Enclosed passenger and caboose cars provide heat in colder weather via diesel or propane heaters. This is an accessible, low-effort outing suited to history lovers, families, photographers, and anyone curious about how railways shaped regional life. Bring layered clothing for changing temperatures on open cars, a small folding chair if you want to sit on the flatcar deck during loading, and cash or card for market vendors. The short timetable makes the excursion a tidy half-day activity with room to explore downtown Walkersville afterward. Booking through Walkersville Southern is straightforward via the FareHarbor link, and Opening Day’s festive market atmosphere makes it an especially welcoming way to experience Maryland rail history without a long drive. Arrive early to browse vendor stalls, talk with volunteers at the tool house, and watch staff prepare the vintage cars; parking is on nearby streets and at small lots around the station, so allow extra time on busy days and bring comfortable shoes for uneven rail yard surfaces and short walks between exhibits.