The Great Falls Tavern (also historically known as the Crommelin House) originally functioned as one of the many lockhouses along the canal and serviced thousands of cargo and excursion
boats that passed through Lock 20 on their way to and from Cumberland, MD and Georgetown in Washington, D.C. The tavern was a hotel for travelers along the canal beginning in 1831 and also a popular meeting place for community gatherings during the late 19th-century. Today the Great Falls Tavern remains a hub of activity as it acts as one of C&O Canal NHP's visitor centers. Here, visitors can get information about park programs, hiking trails, and the history of the canal.