To state the obvious, Harpers Ferry is one of the most beautiful historic towns you’ll ever visit. While there is plenty to discover here between the history-rich buildings and the scenic access point to the Appalachian Trail, did you know there are more charming mountain towns in the Eastern Panhandle?
On your next trip to Harpers Ferry, extend your getaway and check out these five cool small towns while exploring this slice of Almost Heaven.
Charles Town & Ranson
Less than a 15-minute drive from Harpers Ferry, neighboring towns Ranson and Charles Town perfectly blend modern conveniences and old-time charm. Win big at the Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races or enjoy a live performance at The Old Opera House. You’ll also love exploring 63 stunning acres at Cool Spring Nature Preserve with its lush forests and hiking trails. Head to Alfredo’s Mediterranean Steakhouse & Grille for dinner and try authentic Mediterranean fare like gyros, falafel and couscous. The Hillbrook Inn makes a wonderful stay if you want fine dining, luxurious accommodations and historic charm.
Shepherdstown
Take a brief 20-minute drive north to Shepherdstown, just about an hour and a half from Washington, D.C. and Baltimore. West Virginia’s oldest town treats you to sophisticated restaurants, including Paris-inspired Bistro 112, the eclectic Blue Moon Cafe, the historic Mecklenburg Inn and several others. Are you into paranormal mysteries? Don’t miss out on a walking tour with Shepherdstown Mystery Walk. Take a West Virginia story from Four Seasons Books or snag some vinyl from Admiral’s Analog Audio Assortment. To take your shopping experience back in time, look at O-Hurley’s General Store for specialty glassware, cookware, crockery, furniture, tools, toys, dry goods, and hardware.
The Bavarian Inn boasts an elegant, distinctly European experience that makes you feel like royalty. With its luxuriously finished rooms, whirlpool baths and much more, the Bavarian Inn will convince you that you’ve crossed the Atlantic Ocean. For genuine hospitality in a historic federal-style building, Thomas Shepherd Inn is another option that won’t disappoint.
Martinsburg
Berkeley County is full of surprises, and the small town of Martinsburg has a big personality. You can explore Haunted History and Legends Tours to learn about Native Americans, 18th-century settlers and Civil War drama in Martinsburg. Legend has it that ghosts are still strolling down the streets, but ghosts in West Virginia are friendly!
You can explore even more history at the B&O Roundhouse, which offers tours April – October. This domed locomotive facility, now a National Historic Engineering Landmark, once accommodated 16 steam engines – or 20,000 feet of floor space. King’s New York Pizza has you covered for homemade pies, pasta, and much more for a late lunch or early dinner. For dessert, you cannot resist gourmet pastries, cheesecakes, cannolis and just about every dessert you can think of. Watching a vaudeville show at the Apollo Civic Theatre is an entertaining way to cap off your day.
Berkeley Springs
Finally, hop in the car for just a 45-minute drive from Martinsburg to the famous Berkeley Springs. A must-stop is Berkeley Springs State Park, which offers an outdoor pool, a public tap for free spring water, open spring pools for cooling off, a historic Roman Bath House and a mineral spa. George Washington regularly visited this property early in his life, so you’ll see the recreated version of George Washington’s Bathtub. Your experience here promises lasting memories as Berkeley Springs earned mentions from Southern Living and several other major travel publications. Explore nearly 80 miles of the Washington Heritage Trail National Scenic Byway, which includes Washington’s downtown lot, the spectacular Panorama Overlook and the Paw Paw Tunnel.
Take a piece of Berkeley Springs with you from the Berkeley Springs Antique Mall, where you’ll find an array of clothing, Himalayan crafts, antiques and much more. If you plan to end your trip by catching some Zs, you’ll be rested up after a night in the Country Inn of Berkeley Springs.
See What’s New for 2025!
send my FREE guide