Shepherdstown

Shepherdstown boasts a surprising number of dining choices for every palate and budget. Bistro 112 brings a little bit of Paris to the eastern panhandle town. The Blue Moon Café is an eclectic restaurant with outdoor seating in the heart of this historic town. Before tucking in for the night in one of the many inns, grab some dinner and drinks in the historic setting of Mecklenburg Inn (known as “The Meck” to locals).

Shepherdstown enjoys the distinction of being one of the most haunted towns in America. If you’re into ghosts, don’t miss the Shepherdstown Mysteries Walk. If checking out art galleries is more your style, check out one of the many found in town. With unique pieces for sale, you’ll be able to take a bit of the town home with you. If visiting in the summer, Shepherdstown is home to the Contemporary American Theater Festival. This professional theater festival showcases six new, contemporary American plays each summer.

With a delightful array of unique and specialty stores, you’ll be amazed at what you can find lining the quaint streets. Four Seasons Books is an independent bookstore with new and classic novels. Find new and used vinyl at Admiral’s Analog Audio Assortment. Not sure what you’re looking for? Visit Dickinson & Wait Craft Gallery to shop seasonal decor, crafts, jewelry, home goods and much more.

Because of its location on the banks of the Potomac River, Shepherdstown is an excellent location for boating, tubing and fishing. The C&O Canal, which links Washington D.C., to Pittsburgh, PA is the perfect route for bikers and hikers. Perfectly placed along migratory routes, Shepherdstown is also a popular area for bird lovers. The Potomac Valley Audubon Society offers guided trips led by experts. 

Rich in Civil War and American history, Shepherdstown has museums, battle sites and re-enactments all year round. Nearly every building in the town served as a makeshift hospital for over 8,000 Confederate soldiers during the Civil War. Shepherdstown’s “Little House” was built during the summers of 1928 and 1929 when a class project at the local college evolved into the creation of a one-acre miniature farm modeled after the farms in the Shenandoah Valley. O’Hurley’s General Store on the edge of town is like going back in time. Find enamelware and cutlery, dry goods and books and just about everything in between.

Earning mentions from major travel publications like National Geographic and Washingtonian, The Bavarian Inn is an upscale hotel with extraordinary amenities. Its claim to fame: an infinity pool that seemingly melts into the Potomac River. At the Bavarian Inn, you’ll find a taste of European excellence with fine cuisine. Up for a quainter escape? Spend your nights at the Thomas Shepherd Inn, a historic Federal style building completed in 1868. One thing’s for sure, your stay in Shepherdstown will be one marked with memorable experiences and genuine hospitality.