48 Hours in Romney: A Guide to One of West Virginia’s Oldest Towns

Nestled within the Potomac Highlands and surrounded by the Allegheny Mountains, the hidden gem of Romney can be found. Being situated on a river terrace overlooking the South Branch of the Potomac River makes this spot ideal for bald eagles and tourists alike. This small town is rich in history with its first establishments dating back to the 1730s. Still today, the streets of Romney are lined with local shops, restaurants and historic sites, as well as countless residents who claim their home to be Almost Heaven, for sure.

So don’t pass up an opportunity to visit, even if you don’t have much time. Just 48 hours spent here can give you an unforgettable tour of some of the best that the Mountain State has to offer.

Eat

Begin your morning with a stop by the Romney Diner. This small shop has been serving up big, made-from-scratch breakfast meals for over 20 years. With exceptional service and the friendliest customers, you’re likely to stay all the way until lunch. Choose from pancakes, waffles, biscuits and gravy or salads, soups, sandwiches and desserts. Another great place to grab lunch or dinner is none other than the Main Street Grill. There are choices for everyone here with a menu featuring burgers, wraps, pizzas, pastas, steaks and a whole lot more.

Or if BBQ is your thing, we have just the place for you. Lost Mountain BBQ is guaranteed to be a BBQ lover’s dream with options like sandwiches, nachos, mac & cheese, ribs, whole chickens, baked potatoes and other combos full of perfected BBQ flavor. Gretta’s Food Truck‘s ever-changing menu keeps customers coming back to see what spectacular thing she will have next. Shrimp tacos, grilled PB&J, toppling high hot dogs and deep-fried Oreos are among the favorites, so far.

End your day on a sweet note with a treat from Hanging Rocks Ice Cream. Whether you prefer hand-dipped, soft-served, milkshakes, sundaes or even an ice cream pie, there’s plenty to satisfy each and every sweet tooth.

Shop

Main Street in Romney is home to many dated buildings that played an important role in the town’s history. Along with these preserved pieces of the past, there are also shops that pop up all along. Anderson’s Corner is a beloved staple of this town and has been a family-owned business for over 40 years that specializes in custom-designed fine jewelry along with a fair share of live music and wine tastings.

The White House on Main Boutique features designer clothing, jewelry, handbags and accessories from brands such as Vera Bradley, Kendra Scott, Simply Southern, Pura Vida and more. Just up the road you can find its sister shop, The Country Store on Main. Here folks will find a vast selection of country home decor and primitive gifts. Transform your home from the inside out with a new flag, candle, sign or a personalized item perfect for any event or holiday.

Beyond unique products, Romney thrives in its offerings of farm-fresh produce. Located less than one mile apart sits two shining stars: The Barefoot Farmer and Spring Valley Farm & Orchard. From delicious peaches and juicy tomatoes to canned preserves and fresh-cut flowers, these two roadside markets have it all.

Activities & Adventure

A trip to Romney is not complete without a train ride on the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad. Experience Romney’s multitude of jaw-dropping vista views as you journey along the South Branch of the Potomac River. Sit back, relax and enjoy time with family or friends – the sounds of vintage diesels are an excitement to adventurers of any age. Make sure to watch for American bald eagles when passing through the Trough, one of the train’s most iconic and scenic spots. Have your pick of a full or half-day trip or even being served a premium homemade meal.

Romney’s access to the Potomac River provides an array of activities for the entire family. Glide down the river in a raft, tube or kayak. Spend the day soaking up the sun with a river swim, skipping rocks or fishing from the shore. Stay overnight at one of the river’s many campsites.

Stay

Continue on with the history feel and stay at the Koolwink Motel, which first opened its doors to the traveling public as a tourist home in 1936. The South Branch Inn is another hotel option with amenities including a continental breakfast, high-speed internet, exercise facility and suite options. Or have a more personalized stay with the town’s newest Airbnb – Southern Charm Getaway.

Have more time to spare? Hop on over to the neighboring town of Capon Bridge, home to Farmer’s Daughter Market & Butcher, The River House and much, much more.

Visit Capon Bridge

This post was last updated on May 17, 2023