A Change of Scenery

by Jeff Yocum
“A Change of Scenery” focuses on day trips from Thurmont that are within 150 miles (give or take). These trips will not include “Disney-level” destinations, but rather, lesser-known points of interest. The purpose of the article is to suggest venues for folks seeking a short, easily accessible change of scenery. In the process, hopefully something will be learned. Some will be historic, some cultural, and others just plain quirky. I confess an ulterior motive for writing this article: I have a wanderlust addiction.

The Totem Pole Playhouse

Looking for something special to celebrate an anniversary or birthday? Let me suggest taking in a show and dinner. But does the mere thought of taking planes, trains, or automobiles to New York City or even Washington fill you with dread?

Well, dread no more. A scenic forty-five-minute drive from Thurmont will deliver you to the doorstep of a world-class theater: the Totem Pole Playhouse.

Located just across the street from the entrance of the Caledonia State Park, the Totem Pole offers a full slate of summertime plays and musicals, as well as Christmas holiday shows. Additionally, the Playhouse has springtime classes and summer camps for teens and pre-teens seeking experience in acting, singing, dancing, and stagecraft.

My wife and I recently caught a matinee performance of Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5. It was a real hoot—a great way to spend a warm summer afternoon! The performances were flawless. The music numbers were perfect and the staging crisp. Afterwards, we had an early dinner with friends at the Carriage House in Emmitsburg. All the way around, it made for a pleasant, relaxing summer afternoon.

If you’re into camping, think about combining a camping trip to Caledonia State Park (which offers many activities of its own) with catching a performance at the Totem Pole Playhouse. The campsites are within walking distance. If you are a camper and have a youngster interested in attending the three-week summer camp, there couldn’t be a better way to maximize a vacation.

For more information, visit Totem Pole Playhouse at totempoleplayhouse.org and Caledonia State Park at pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/where-to-go/state-parks/find-a-park/caledonia-state-park.