Berkeley Springs
Berkeley Springs is a beautiful and historic town set in the mountains of West Virginia. Known for its healing thermal waters and one-of-a-kind spas, it’s the perfect place to getaway and relax. In addition to its renowned leisure activities, Berkeley Springs has a vibrant nationally recognized art scene, a variety of dining options, two local craft breweries, and distinctive shops that offer something for everyone. Just a 90-minute drive from the Washington D.C./Baltimore metro area it’s the perfect place to escape the city and experience small-town charm.Dining
Berkeley Springs has a restaurant to please even the pickiest of eaters. Angus and Ale features ginormous burgers, fall-off the bone ribs and an array of fresh seafood. Lot 12 Public House, named after the original lot #12 when Berkeley Springs was the Town of Bath, offers everything from crisp roasted duck to Tuscan grilled swordfish. They pride themselves on being a dining destination, with not only great food, but great service and experience as well.
Entertainment
Sit back, relax and watch a movie at the vintage Star Movie Theatre on the weekends. The Star Theatre is even a stop on the Historic Theatres of West Virginia Trail. The Ice House Art Center is home to the Morgan Arts Council and is the site of concerts, gallery exhibits, lectures, community theater and art and movement classes for adults and youth. The Ice House Co-Op gallery offers the work of more than 30 local and regional artisans. There is live music at several locations every weekend. It’s no question why Berkeley Springs is nationally recognized as one of many ideal destinations for a 3-day weekend in West Virginia.
Shopping
Have a shopping excursion on several blocks of historic downtown where you can find everything from antiques, cheese, gourmet oils, Himalayan crafts, jewelry, clothes and gifts galore. Stop by the Berkeley Springs Antiques Mall, where you’ll find collectibles from 30 dealers. The Fleur de Lis Cheese Shop specializes in fine meats and cheeses. And the Rag Shop is a thrift store boasting furniture, music, toys, games, kitchen supplies, sewing, electronics, books and plenty more.
Recreation
Located in the heart of town, Berkeley Springs State Park has a little bit of everything. The park offers an outdoor pool, public tap for free spring water, open spring pools for cooling off, a historic Roman Bath House and a mineral spa. In fact, Berkeley Springs has been recognized by Southern Living for being one of the best natural hot springs in the south for a good soak. Spanning 6,000 acres Cacapon Resort State Park offers lake activities, hiking and mountain biking opportunities, horseback riding, vacation cabins, golfing and dining. It’s the perfect place to relax and have fun with your friends and family.
History
Widely regarded as the country’s first spa and praised by Thrillist for its rich history, Berkeley Springs has a unique history. George Washington was a regular visitor to the area and an advocate of the curative powers of the spring. Today, you can visit the recreated version of George Washington’s bathtub, so famous that it has its own celebration! You can also visit nearly 80 miles of the Washington Heritage Trail National Scenic Byway which includes George Washington’s downtown lot, the spectacular Panorama Overlook and the Paw Paw Tunnel, as well as more than a dozen other historical sites.
Stay
Extend your trip with a stay at the Country Inn of Berkeley Springs. With 70 unique guest rooms, this historic inn brings rich history that’s paired with elegance. The nearby Coolfont Resort is a wooded retreat offering tranquil lodging, banquet and conference rooms, a brewing company and a 12-acre lake. Sitting on 6,000 acres of exciting outdoor getaways lies Cacapon Resort State Park. This newly renovated resort features a lodge retreat with onsite spa, numerous vacation cabins, an esteemed golf course, guided horseback riding tours and a restaurant. friends and family.
Trip Inspiration
You, too, can soak in George Washington’s old tub!
George Washington was a regular visitor to Berkeley Springs from the age of 16, where he first visited as a land surveyor, and returned many…
Read More1 trail that charts 5 charming small towns
The 136-mile Washington Heritage Trail traces the footsteps of George Washington through picturesque 18th century towns in the Eastern Panha…
Read More4 luxurious all-natural spa treatments in the mountains
Are you in need of a little rest and relaxation? West Virginia’s warm, natural mineral springs are said to have restorative properties. …
Read MoreThe ultimate romantic retreat, hiding just outside DC
Only about 1 hour from Washington D.C. is the perfect, but little-known romantic getaway: West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle. Take a B&…
Read More