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| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Cumberland |
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| Hagerstown Regional Airport |
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| Greater Cumberland Regional Airport |
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Additional Notes:
On average, car rentals in Cumberland cost around $79 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $36 per day.
Compare pickup spots before you click. Downtown Cumberland usually dodges airport surcharges, but check Hagerstown or even Baltimore prices if you're already driving that way—sometimes a bigger fleet beats the local markup.
Aim for mid-week pickups/returns. Weekend demand from city escapees drives rates up; shifting your dates by a day or two can chop a chunk off the total.
Stretch to the weekly rate. In Maryland a 4–7-day booking often costs the same (or less) than three separate daily rates, so price out the "extra" days and keep the cheaper bundle.
Skip the SUV outside winter months. From April to October most mountain roads are clear, and a compact is cheaper at the counter and the pump.
| Parking Option | Rates | Hours | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown Cumberland Street Parking | Free | 2-hour limit in many areas | Check signs for restrictions |
| Downtown Parking Garage (Centre Street) | Paid | 24/7 access | Convenient for downtown visits |
| Canal Place | Free | During business hours | Good for C&O Canal visits |
| Rocky Gap State Park | Entrance fee | Park hours (sunrise to sunset) | Required for park access |
Local Driving Rules:
Seasonal Considerations:
Book a rental so you can easily:
Deep Creek Lake – boating, ski slopes
Rocky Gap State Park – trails, beaches
Fallingwater (PA) – architecture
Historic National Road (US-40) – heritage sites, towns

Do I need a special vehicle for driving in the Cumberland area? When the weather is good (from spring to fall), you can drive any type of vehicle on the main roads. In the winter (from November to March), we recommend you drive an AWD/4D vehicle, especially if you plan to visit ski areas or drive on mountain roads after it snows.
Are there any difficult mountain passes or roads to be aware of? I-68 takes you over several mountain passes, and Big Savage Mountain is the most challenging. The old National Road, US-40 Alternate, has steeper hills and sharper turns. When winter storms hit, officials may put restrictions on these roads or close them completely.
Where is the best place to refuel in the Cumberland area? You can find several gas stations along US-40 in the LaVale area, just west of Cumberland. If you are traveling to more remote places, we suggest you get gas in Cumberland before you leave. Gas stations in the countryside often have shorter hours and can be far apart.
Can I drive to neighboring states with my rental car? Yes, you can drive a rental car from Maryland to Pennsylvania and West Virginia without any issues. Both states are close enough for a day trip from Cumberland. You'll find more attractions and scenic areas to explore there.
What scenic drives are recommended around Cumberland? We recommend the Mountain Maryland Scenic Byway for its beautiful views, especially along MD-135 and MD-36. The Historic National Road (US-40) gives you a drive through history, where you'll see historic sites. The drive to Deep Creek Lake on MD-135 is also very scenic.
Is winter driving difficult in the Cumberland area? Western Maryland gets more snow than other parts of the state. Crews plow the main highways regularly, but it may take them longer to clear smaller roads. If you visit in the winter, you should check the weather forecast, carry emergency supplies and think about using an AWD vehicle.
What should I know about parking in downtown Cumberland? In downtown Cumberland, you can find free two-hour parking on some streets and paid metered parking in busier spots. The Centre Street Parking Garage has covered parking for a reasonable price. Most attractions have their own parking lots, but during festivals and events you should arrive early to get a good spot.