Enjoy Wide-Open Spaces On This Road Trip from Washington, D.C. to West Virginia

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life for a weekend retreat to the Mountain State. Just a short drive on our iconic country roads will lead you to unmatched natural beauty, outdoor adventure and an overall sense of solitude. Read on to discover 4 Almost Heaven destinations, all along one stunning route from D.C.!

Harpers Ferry

Depart D.C. and find yourself within the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia in a little over an hour. Explore the town of Harpers Ferry; a hidden gem that overflows with rich history and unique culture. Situated at the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers, this spot showcases some of the best views the Mountain State has to offer. A specifically jaw-dropping vista view can be seen from the steps of the historic St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church atop Harpers Ferry. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park gives access to endless adventure such as hiking, biking, rock climbing and fishing.

Get an up-close-and-personal look at countless historical spots like John Browns Fort. The Rabbit Hole, Almost Heaven Bar & Grill and Kelly Farm Kitchen are among the list of best eateries. Check out The Barn of Harpers Ferry for live music, local brews and a relaxing atmosphere. Continue on with the historic feel with a quaint stay at Light Horse Inn or Harpers Ferry Guest House.

Berkeley Springs

After some time in Harpers Ferry, we recommend making the one-hour drive to Berkeley Springs. In this historic town, take some time to stroll along the same streets that George Washington once did. A frequent visitor, he was an advocate of the healing powers of the natural spring and termed this town his favorite getaway. See for yourself the world-renowned waters that have been drawing in guests seeking relief and relaxation for centuries.  Flowing at a constant 74°F from the base of Warm Springs Ridge, the public tap is open to drinking and filling jugs. The springs discharge from five main sources and many smaller ones, all within a hundred yards of each other, producing nearly 2,000 gallons of clear, sparkling water each minute.

Treat yourself to a luxurious whirlpool, blissful Roman Bath, sauna session or therapeutic massage. Or bring along the entire family for a fun-filled day at the park, complete with a picnic lunch and swim in the outdoor pool. Catch a film at the vintage Star Movie Theater before laying your head at the Country Inn of Berkeley Springs.

Wardensville

After you’ve had your fill of the relaxing spa town of Berkley Springs, a one-hour drive awaits. A tiny mountain town overflowing with charm, Wardensville is home to beautiful farms, exceptional restaurants and enjoyable community activities. While here, don’t miss stopping by Mack’s Bingo Kitchen, a new town spot that serves up elevated dishes using seasonal ingredients from local farms. From fried green tomatoes and roasted beets to a whole grilled trout and local pork plate, you’re sure to leave with your tastebuds singing.

Find the perfect read for any age at the town’s beloved bookstore, WordPlay, a cozy nook offering games, puzzles and an atmosphere that will make you want to ‘sit and stay awhile.’ One door down lies Drifters Cafe, where you can find warm cappuccinos, perfectly blended frappes, fresh-stuffed wraps and bagels filled with homemade veggie cream cheese. Take your coffee just up the street to see the Wardensville Garden Market. Here, you will find organically grown produce, pantry items and even more tasty bakery treats.

Lost River

Just 30 minutes down the road, we recommend you enjoy a luxury stay in a tiny house rental nestled into the woods with Lost River Vacations. With a modern edge that sets them apart, Lost River Vacations offers 22 serene acres to roam freely on, a 9-hole disc golf course and a multitude of hiking trails. Take the rewarding hike up the mountain to Cranny Crow Overlook, tucked within nearby Lost River State Park. Here, the 2-mile climb pays off with spanning views nearly 3,000 feet above sea level. Look out upon three West Virginia counties and two Virginia counties below. Enjoy a snack, sit down and take a break in the stone hut or snag a photo on one of the new Almost Heaven swings.

Other park activities include swimming, horseback riding, geocaching and game courts. After your day of play, indulge in a scrumptious meal complete with salad, wings, wood-fired pizza and beer at Lost & Found Pizza & Provisions. Here, the hand-tossed pizzas come with gorgeous views from a screened-in deck.

After a few days or more in Almost Heaven, you are sure to be refreshed! Once you are ready, make your way back to Washington D.C. on an easy and scenic 2-hour drive. Start planning your next Almost Heaven road trip with the help of our new 2024 Vacation Guide!

This post was last updated on March 28, 2024