What’s New Around Town
Unlock Hidden Gems of Deep Creek Lake & Garrett County: Win Prizes with the Experience Pass!
Do you want to learn about Deep Creek Lake and Garrett County while winning cool prizes? You’re in luck because 6 Experience Passes are available right now to help you do just that!
These passes will guide you to a variety of spots in the county where you can check in and earn points that you can use for great Deep Creek Lake gear! The passes are completely free, and there’s no new app to download. All you need to do is sign up on your mobile device, and you’re ready to explore and win!
The prizes include Deep Creek Lake Centennial swag (coins, pins, patches, stickers, keychains, wallets, and magnets), maple syrup, hats, and more!
Tour the county. Experience its heritage. Win prizes!
Deep Creek Fitness Opening Day!
Deep Creek Fitness is moving back to the Shop ‘n Save plaza, and our Grand Opening is happening on May 3rd from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM! They’re located between Bear Creek Coffee and Deep Creek Salon. Stop by for a $5 day pass and take advantage of our discounted membership sale!
A New Pierogi Food Cart Coming to Deep Creek Lake in May!
Get ready for a tasty treat this May! Polska’s Pierogi N’at, a new pierogi food cart, will be serving up delicious Polish dumplings every Saturday in the parking lot of Polska Polish Pottery of Deep Creek Lake.
Polska’s Pierogi N’at plans to offer catering and attend events in both Garrett and Allegany Counties.
For more details, give them a call at 240-442-5086. Don’t miss out on this exciting new food stop this May!
McHenry Heights: A New Standard in Luxury Living and Lifestyle
Located in the heart of McHenry with stunning views of Deep Creek Lake and Wisp Resort, McHenry Heights is a high-end mixed-use development blending modern elegance with natural beauty. Four thoughtfully designed buildings feature premium commercial spaces on the lower levels—ideal for boutique shops, upscale dining, and wellness services—with leases starting at $25/sq ft.
Above, luxury condominiums offer elevator access, open layouts, gourmet kitchens, spa-style bathrooms, and private balconies, priced from the high $800s to $1.25M. Whether as a weekend escape or year-round home, McHenry Heights offers a refined lifestyle where mountain charm meets sophisticated living.
Garrett Christian Academy Begins New Chapter as Independent School
Garrett Christian Academy, now home to over 140 students from more than 60 families and representing 34 area churches, has officially become an independent school. Formerly operating as a satellite campus of Calvary Christian Academy, the school’s Board of Directors made the prayerful decision to establish Garrett Christian Academy as a standalone institution. As of April 22, 2025, the school is officially recognized by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE).
The Board expressed deep gratitude to the Calvary Christian Academy team for their support during the school’s formative years, as well as to the dedicated staff, generous donors, and faithful supporting churches. They remain committed to the school’s mission and look forward to continued support from the community in this new chapter.
Safe and Quick Tree Removal by 3G Tree
Request a free estimate to remove that tree hanging dangerously over your home or garage. With years of experience, 3G Tree is licensed and insured, ensuring quick and safe removal of any tree hazard to protect your property.
Free Crab Dip with Online Orders!
Now through 10 AM today, get two FREE Trout’s Signature Crab Dips 🦀 (8 oz.) with any online order! Place your order soon and enjoy a taste of Maryland this Easter Sunday!
Herbal Earth Apothecary Opens New Storefront in Friendsville, MD!
Herbal Earth Apothecary & Gardens at Yorkie Acres Farm has exciting news—they’re opening a storefront in Friendsville, Maryland! 🌿 This new space will offer herbal products, body care, wellness items, a botanical beverage bar, farm-to-table soups, and more! They’re also partnering with Holistic Rhythms Wellness & Sleep Center for wellness services like herbal consultations and sleep testing.
The farm store will remain open by appointment, and Yorkie Acres will continue offering events and farm stays.
Stay tuned for more updates and the official opening date! ✨
Harvest House Launches this Summer
The cat’s out of the bag, and we couldn’t be more excited to finally share this with you… 
Coming EARLY THIS SUMMER, we’re launching our brand-new venture- HARVEST HOUSE! 
What started as Meadow Mountain Microgreens has grown into something bigger, bolder, and more delicious 
Harvest House will be a one-of-a-kind hybrid hub bistro located at Market On 42 in Friendsville- a gathering place for locals and visitors to enjoy incredible food, craft libations, and a direct connection to local agriculture
On-site microgreens grow operation Farm-to-table fresh eats Agro-tourism experiences 
Meadow Mountain Hemp influence and products
This has been three years in the making, and we’re beyond thrilled to bring our vision to life and share it with YOU! 
To keep up with all the updates, behind-the-scenes peeks, and our grand opening date – we’re transitioning our Meadow Mountain Microgreens pages to Harvest House DCL! 
Be sure to LIKE, FOLLOW & SHARE to stay in the loop! 
Tag a foodie, a friend, or anyone who loves fresh eats & good vibes! 
Cheers to New Beginnings,
Haeli & Darryl
Caddyshack Bar & Grill Reopens for the 2025 Season!
Caddyshack Bar & Grill is open for the 2025 season! With a great menu, refreshing drinks, and a lineup of events, it’s a spot to gather, relax, and enjoy good company.
The Rowdy Rooster Bar and Grille – Coming Soon!
The Rowdy Rooster Bar and Grille is coming soon under new local ownership!
The Vagabond Taproom Bids Farewell
The Vagabond Taproom will close at the end of March, a difficult decision for owners Pat and Michelle. They deeply appreciate the friendships and community built over the years. Shoofly Java will remain open under new ownership, with Tati continuing to serve beloved treats and coffee. While this marks the end of their time at Vagabond, they hope the space’s next chapter is embraced with the same warmth. Throughout March, Chef Steph and the team will bring back fan-favorite dishes and special events, inviting everyone to share a farewell pint and celebrate the memories made over the past five years.
Grantsville Ice Skating Open
The JTF Ice Rink opened on November 29 at Grantsville Town Park, 85 Hershberger Lane. Sessions had limited capacity, with advance purchases recommended but drop-ins are welcome. Admission was $6, skate rentals $3, and only skaters paid admission. Public skates followed a set schedule, and weather conditions could affect ice quality and cause cancellations. The rink accepted cash, credit cards, Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and CashApp.
Lighting Ceremony of Garrett County Forestry Board’s Tree at Kitzmiller Botanical Garden
Garrett County Forestry Board’s tree is decorated in the Kitzmiller Botanical Garden! The lighting ceremony will be on December 1st at the park at 7:00 PM. The display will be lighted and available daily from December 1 through Christmas!
Tiny Home Relief Project
The Tiny Home Relief Project, led by Geoff Tressler, is building tiny homes in Garrett County, MD, to support families affected by Hurricane Helene. With winter approaching, they’re working hard to finish and deliver homes to North Carolina and Tennessee. Community support has been strong, and donations are essential to continue this effort.
FaeriesaFlutter Md
FaeriesaFlutter Md is a Maryland cosmetologist specializing in custom eyelash extensions tailored just for you! With over 4 years of experience, you can visit them at 24586 Garrett Hwy, Suite 102, McHenry, MD.
Ella Body and Wellness
Ella Body & Wellness is now open at 426 Weber Road, Oakland, MD! They offer targeted cryotherapy for fat loss, skin tightening, and pain relief, as well as cryo facials and LED light therapy. Book now!
Labcorp Grand Opening in Oakland
Labcorp is excited to open its new Oakland Patient Service Center (PSC) on Thursday, September 19, 2024. The center will provide comprehensive lab testing services, improving access to healthcare for local residents. This is Labcorp’s first PSC in Oakland, joining 108 others in Maryland, and aims to address gaps in care for underserved areas like Garrett County. The PSC offers convenient services like blood work and specimen collection, and accepts Maryland Physician Care, CareFirst MD BlueChoice, and other insurances.
Oakland Farmers Market/Candyland Sale and Closure Plans
The McFarland Family is officially announcing the sale of the Oakland Farmers Market/Candyland. They will continue operating and stocking al products, including fall apples and pumpkins. Farmers Market’s planned last day of business will be October 27, 2024. Hill Top Fruit Market, in Grantsville, will remain open with no date set for closure at this time. The family gratefully appreciates the continued support from their many customers and dedicated employees.
Go Go Gelato’s New Location
Check out Go Go Gelato’s new location at 7843 Garrett Highway behind Slopeside Market!!
Splash Pad Closed for Resurfacing June 24-27
The Splash Pad will be closed the week of June 24-27, 2024 for resurfacing.
Winner’s Circle Convenience Store is Reopening!
Winners Circle Convenience Center is having a SOFT OPENING! Come by to try their food and explore the store. Please be patient as they are still testing products and refining their process to ensure a great experience for everyone. Regular business hours are Monday – Saturday, 5:30 AM – 10:00 PM, and Sunday, 5:30 AM – 8:00 PM. Everyone is encouraged to spread the word and watch for the grand opening announcement!
Garrett County Pride Festival
Garrett County Pride, Inc. is thrilled to announce its first-ever Pride Festival on June 15, 2024, at Leo Martin Memorial Park in Mountain Lake Park, Garrett County, Maryland. This event signifies a major step forward in promoting LGBTQIA+ visibility in Western Maryland.
Dans Mountain Pool Opens on May 25
The cost to enter the pool area is $4 per person. Admission is free for children 5 and under, veterans, and active-duty military with ID, Golden Age Pass holders, and Maryland Park Service Passport holders.
Evening parties are also available by reservation.
The pool will be closed May 28 through May 30, due to our lifeguards’ school schedules.
Hours are subject to change based on staffing, weather, and other factors, so visitors are encouraged to call ahead at 301-895-5453.
Grand Opening of Brewery and the Beast
Get ready, food and beer fans! Craig Frazee and Brandy Wilt are opening Brewery and the Beast in May 2024. This brewpub, near Rolling Pin Bakery, will offer craft beers, cocktails, and amazing food. Don’t miss Sunday brunch, live music, and outdoor dining every week!
Trout’s House Seafood has reopened for the 2021 summer season. Tell ’em Deep Creek Times sent ya!
State Farm Agent Andy Nelson has opened an office right beside Shentel opposite of the Walmart intersection in Dr. Wolfes old office. Andy is taking over a part of Rob Michael’s previous book of business since Rob has recently retired. Andy plans to work hard to fill the shoes of Rob and continue his legacy of providing excellent customer support and integrity to the community. State Farm offers a variety of policies based on customer’s needs, and Andy and his team would love to help. Feel free to call them today at 301-859-4040
The Leigh Friend Solar Project is a new 3.2 megawatt DC (MWdc) community solar project located in Friendsville. With 9,300 ground-mounted solar modules, the project generates enough clean, renewable solar energy to power the equivalent of 405 homes per year.
State Farm Agent David Jochynek has opened an office in the Genus Center in Oakland, MD. He is taking over the book of business from the recently retired Rob Michael and plans to continue the legacy of community-oriented insurance services. State Farm offers a variety of policies based on customer needs, including financial services through partners at US Bank and Rocket Mortgage.
Elite Appalachian Development is a training service focused on improving the overall performance and athleticism of Youth Athletes. Now offering group sessions for middle and high school students at central gym location.
Ledo’s Pizza at Deep Creek Lake is opening a second location in LaVale at the former site of Pizza Hut along National Highway. Owner Mike Amezcua says they will be closing on the property around December 1st, and will rebuild on that site, beginning in April. The original Ledo’s Pizza at McHenry will remain open.
“The only thing good about 2020” .. a new restaurant accessible by boat opening mid-November. Located beside Ace’s Run Restaurant and Bar. “With limitless views of the lake our outdoor space has a sprawling 1700 sq. ft. deck featuring a 32 ft. linear, gas fire pit. It’s all built around the original inspiration… a delicious & diverse menu, craft beers & fresh-made craft cocktails.”
D’s Eats is owned and operated by Dalton Smith offering house-made seasonings and low-n-slow cooking techniques. D’s Eats offers pulled pork sandwiches, Italian sausage subs, and hotdogs at 314 S. 1st St., Oakland MD 21550, right next to the town parking lot. Check their Facebook page for their schedule.
The Maryland Department of Transportation’s State Highway Administration (SHA) has initiated the MD 39 (Hutton Road) bridge replacement project at the crossing of the Youghiogheny River (GA1975180). The purpose of the project is to address the deteriorated condition of the existing bridge in accordance with the goal of keeping Maryland’s Transportation System in a state of good repair.
www.thetinycornerbikeshop.com opened the weekend of Autumn Glory on October 8! Located in Oakland, the shop will offer repairs, apparel, parts, and tools, as well as new and used bikes. Also, there will be rentals starting in April 2021.
The Buther Block is under new ownership! Now known as Farm 2 Table Direct, selling free range, grass-fed animals that are raised traditionally. Learn more by calling 301-334-4140 or visiting http://www.madhunterfarms.com/.
Ari’s Pizza is under new ownership! “Come for the homemade hand-tossed dough and special sauce…and stay for the amazing food & friendly service!” Monday – Thursday 11am – 8pm; Friday – Saturday 11am – 9pm; Sunday 12pm-6pm. Stop in or order online at https://arispizzaandwings.com/
The newest title company at Deep Creek serves all of your real estate needs. Using the latest technology in title work; they will keep you up to date. Competitive rates for a variety of services. Call 301-687-2198 or visit http://laketitleco.com/
Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) has opened a new primary care facility on Wolf Acres Drive in Oakland. Garrett Family Medicine will provide comprehensive primary care services for people of all ages, from infants and children through those in need of geriatric care. The new practice is located in the same building that previously housed the primary care practice of Dr. Daniel Miller, who recently retired
Located at the Oakland Golf Course, Shrimp on the Barbie is a steak, seafood, & BBQ Restaurant open to the public. They currently have 50% indoor air-conditioned seating and patio seating around the building… Come and experience some Aussie Hospitality…
The new Vanity Station Salon is now open in Oakland! Stephanie Cornish and Jennifer Paugh have started the full-service salon to take care of all of your needs.
In efforts to keep members and the public safer, you may notice a couple of new street signs on Third Street in Oakland. These warning signs will help the Oakland Volunteer Fire Department when leaving or returning to their station.
Rolling Racks BBQ is a concession trailer in the process of becoming a fast casual restaurant specializing in grilled chicken, barbecued ribs, various sides served with homemade breads and desserts. A sample menu is pulled pork sandwich, brisket sandwich, BBQ Ribs, and 1/2 Chicken. They will also be doing meat ball subs, Italian Sausage sandwiches, smoky bacon cheese burgers, and prime rib sandwiches. Check their Facebook page for open hours.
A grant was awarded to Mountain Lake Park for a new park that will memorialize former Mayor, Leo Martin. Plans have been drawn up for the site on the southern intersection of Maryland Highway (Rt. 135) and G Street. There will be an elevated stage, outdoor classroom with terraced seating, a castle spire with slides and a water jetted splash pad.
The Vagabond Taproom is located on Alder Street in Downtown Oakland and will a unique menu of light refreshments and, of course, local beverages on tap. Look for pint glass drop-off locations, leave a destination themed pint glass, and get a token towards your first pint with Vagabond’s pint-for-a-pint program.
WIC (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children) is a federally funded program which provides nutritious foods, health screening, nutrition counseling and referrals to eligible pregnant women, postpartum women, breastfeeding women, infants, and children up to age five.
Starting August 2, 2019 pick-up at Oakland Walmart is open!
The Deep Creek Lake Lion’s Club has just installed a sign at their park on Bumble Bee Road recognizing the contributions made by individuals and groups to improve the amenities. You’ll notice that there are a lot of extra spaces new projects – perfect for Scout projects, church groups, business outreach and more!
Downtown Oakland has a new mural thanks to local Girl Scout Troop 55004 and the GOBA Green Team. Each letter-square is made with a combination of bottle caps!
The Dove Center’s heated Pet Pod is officially open! The Dove Center bases its pet housing program on the Sheltering Animals & Families Together – SAF-T model, and to date, they are the only SAF-T program in Maryland. Did you know that up to 65% of those experiencing domestic violence do not leave out of fear of leaving their pet behind?
The “old” Smiley’s is now Deep Creek Fun Zone! Featuring go-carts, bumper boats, an arcade, restaurant and bar, and more. Also, the The Deep Creek Ninja Factory is coming soon!
Slopeside Market (a gas station located along Route 219 in McHenry) now has a new Lottery machine. You can purchase any game from this machine, including Mega and Powerball.
The Rooster’s Nest is now open at 12336 National Pike in Grantsville, Maryland 21536. Offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner with daily specials. There is a bar and lounge area and food is also available to-go!
The new watering stations are in at the Oakland Dog Park. Your dog can use the lower fountain or bring your own bowl and fill it up.
Subway at the Lake (Trader’s Landing) has gotten a facelift and is under new management.
Cashmere Clothing Co is a new designer fashion boutique in the heart of Deep Creek Lake, MD. Located in The Fort in McHenry, Cashmere has blouses, pants, accessories and even vegan leather jackets! Open daily starting May 11 from 10am-6pm.
Lovelight Pediatrics is now open! Dr. Stephanie Sisler started Lovelight as a pediatric office located in Oakland, MD at the previous location of Dr. Williams’ Chiropractic office. Call 301-533-7060 to schedule an appointment for your child.
Sipside Lounge is a relaxed venue to enjoy wine, liquor, and craft beer right in the heart of historic Oakland.
GRAND OPENING: 3:30 p.m. Friday, February 15th.
We just heard from Jamie and Rayetta of Deep Creek Catering; they have recently purchased the Jubilee restaurant in Friendsville. With their planned opening towards the end of this month, they will continue to offer offsite catering for weddings, and large corporate events and will also be reopening the Jubilee restaurant.
Oakland Oil and Propane now has a new McHenry location offering propane fireplaces and accessories.
Funded through Community Legacy, Friendsville, MD has several new blue way-finding signs. Look for them the next time you go through town! Photo from the Town of Friendsville.
A new salon, RejuvenEyes by Janice, at the DryDock Plaza offers custom eyelash extensions, microblading, permanent makeup, ombre lips, lash lifts and more. Call 724-880-4664 for more information.
A railroad coal car has been delivered to the Oakland B&O Train Station. A new steam engine will be part of the display soon.
Plan to have lunch at the Mountain Fresh Farmer’s Market in Oakland when you shop for local produce. This new building is open as the 4-H snack stand with hot dogs, sodas, chips and coffee all available to benefit a local 4-H club.
