Allegany County, Maryland, has been named the No. 2 Best Place to Visit for Fall in USA Today’s 2026 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, placing the Western Maryland destination behind only Mackinac Island, Michigan.The No. 2 placement reflects the results of USA Today’s reader voting among expert-selected nominees.
The results, announced September 16, recognize destinations selected by an expert panel and voted on by readers for their scenery, weather, and seasonal activities. Allegany County includes Cumberland and Frostburg, offering Montgomery County residents a fall getaway with mountain views, historic downtowns, and outdoor recreation.
“Whether guests are peeping leaves from the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad or pedaling along the C&O Canal National Historical Park and Towpath, fall really comes alive in this region of the Appalachian Mountains,” USA Today wrote.
The publication also highlighted the county’s seasonal events, including the Heritage Days Festival and George Washington’s Whiskey Rebellion, for their music, food, and entertainment.
For those planning a Beyond MoCo outing this fall, the ranking offers a starting point for exploring Western Maryland. A visit could center on a scenic railroad ride, a bike ride along the canal towpath, or time spent exploring Cumberland and Frostburg.
