A Region Rich in Stories and Scenery

Just about an hour from Washington, D.C., Berkeley and Jefferson counties in West Virginia offer the perfect escape for travelers hoping to combine history with outdoor adventure. In the Eastern Panhandle, historic railroad sites and Civil War landmarks tell stories of the past, while mountain trails, scenic rivers, and beautiful countryside invite visitors to get outside and explore. Here, the landscape has always played a starring role, shaping the region’s history, connecting communities, and providing the setting for unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of history or following a trail into the great outdoors, you’ll find plenty of reasons to linger a little longer in this captivating corner of West Virginia.

Discover the Region’s Fascinating Past

Martinsburg History

Start your journey at the General Adam Stephen House, home of Martinsburg’s founder. Stephen was Washington’s second-in-command during the French and Indian War and a participant in the Revolutionary War. The house is made from locally quarried limestone. While many of its furnishings aren’t original to the house, they date to the same time period. Rumor has it that the basement leads to an underground cave and tunnel system that extends beneath the town!

Martinsburg’s commerce took off when the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad arrived in 1841. A strategic location for both sides, the town changed hands roughly 50 times during the Civil War. After the conflict, the B&O rebuilt the Martinsburg Roundhouse, which, as any parent of a Thomas the Tank Engine fan knows, housed a turntable for locomotives. It’s the last remaining roundhouse in the world with a cast-iron frame. The site was also the scene of America’s first major railroad strike in 1877.

After the roundhouse, head across the tracks to the For The Kids, By George Children’s Museum. This hands-on space gives kids a chance to learn about a younger George Washington as well as the long history of railroads in West Virginia.

If you like your Civil War history with a little sass, stop by the Belle Boyd House, which houses the Official Visitors Center. Boyd was a spunky, spirited woman (much to her parents’ dismay) who sent reports to General Stonewall Jackson about Union activity in the area. This landed her in jail, but after her release, she turned to writing and acting, finding success in Europe. 

Shepherdstown and Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

Established in 1762 as Mecklenburg, Shepherdstown is the oldest town in the state. A hometown hero you may not know about (but should) is James Rumsey, a pioneer in the design of steam-powered boats. Rumsey successfully demonstrated his boat on the Potomac River in 1787. Visit the James Rumsey Monument, tucked away in sweet little Rumsey Park, just steps from the C&O Canal Path. The view of the Potomac River from the top of the monument’s pedestal is gorgeous!

Stop at the Historic Shepherdstown Museum, housed in a structure built in 1786 that began as a private home and was later incorporated into the Entler Hotel in 1815. The first thing you’ll see is a rare 35-star flag commemorating West Virginia’s admission to the Union in 1863. It flew for less than two years before Nevada was admitted, prompting the addition of another star to the flag. Other exhibits feature items created by local craftspeople, artifacts highlighting Shepherdstown’s African American community, historical objects, and more. If it’s available, ask to see the replica of Rumsey’s 1787 steamboat!

Transportation and industry were already mainstays in Harpers Ferry, located at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers. Robert Harper established his ferry across the Potomac in 1747, and in 1794, newly inaugurated President George Washington deemed the location ideal for a federal armory. By the early 19th century, commercial mills had joined the armory, along with other businesses powered by the rivers. Abolitionist John Brown carried out his famous raid here in 1859. Although the raid failed in its immediate objective, it’s often cited as a catalyst for the Civil War. A visit to Harpers Ferry National Historical Park was a highlight for me! Kids will love walking through the historic town, with many buildings just as they were as John Brown saw them.

Hit the West Virginia Trails and Take to the Water

The same rugged beauty and powerful rivers that shaped the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia still offer plenty of opportunities for today’s visitors. Whether you’re a casual stroller who just wants some fresh air or part of a family looking for an all-day activity, you’ll find plenty of options. For me, an ideal day combines a morning exploring historical sites with an afternoon of activity, working both brain and body.

Although West Virginia has the shortest stretch of the Appalachian Trail of any state, Harpers Ferry is considered the trail’s “psychological halfway point.” The Appalachian Trail Conservancy visitor center is staffed by experienced hikers who are ready with advice. For those hiking the trail, there’s a lounge area where they can pick up packages, use the Wi-Fi, and leave their packs while they explore the town. Pique your family’s interest in hiking by completing the West Virginia portion of the trail, which is only 2.4 miles.

A fun option for families is River Riders Adventure Resort. Choose from rafting, kayaking, or river tubing. There’s also an amazing inflatable water park in a private quarry that kids will lose their minds over! If you get tired of the water, there’s an aerial adventure park and a zip line adventure for kids ages 4 and up. The Canopy Tour and River Zip will satisfy those who want to soar like a bird while safely harnessed in. Think River Riders shuts down in the winter? Not a chance. Its snow tubing hill is almost three football fields long! If that’s too tame for you, visit after dark for a light show and fun music!

For a more laid-back outdoor experience, head to Poor House Farm Park. Yes, there was a “poor house” here, and the historic structure still stands. But what may once have been a bleak place is now a haven for families and nature lovers. With a playground, catch-and-release fishing, sand volleyball courts, walking trails, and disc golf, this park is perfect for getting some exercise or simply taking it easy with friends and family.

Explore the Historic Towns at a Slower Pace

One of my favorite things about small towns is exploring their unique shopping experiences. Wandering up and down local streets really gives you a feel for a town. As a book lover, I found a couple of treasures. Four Seasons Books in Shepherdstown is a great place to check out works by local authors! Bank Books in Martinsburg is perfect for treasure hunters. Meander through the packed rooms and aisles to discover the vault tucked away in the back! For a souvenir that will wow, stop by West Virginia Glass in Martinsburg. The shop features gorgeous pieces, large and small, from local artists, along with vintage collectibles.

Refuel With Local Food and Drink

Even if you’re not a committed foodie, a destination with plenty of independent eateries is the perfect reason to spend more time exploring. Start your day in Harpers Ferry with Bolivar Bread Bakery. Its signature sourdough loaves are delicious, but multiple people told me that the pretzarolli is a must! Pepperoni and mozzarella wrapped in pretzel bread (get it while it’s hot!) make this treat absolutely worth the visit. If you’re just looking for a little something, go for the brown butter chocolate chip cookies.

Wash it all down with creative coffee and tea combinations from Epigram Coffee, just down the road! Epigram offers unique seasonal drinks made with local ingredients. And the house-made pastries! I tried the canelé de Bordeaux, and it was love at first bite. In Martinsburg, Cast Brew Coffee offers fun seasonal flavors and a vibe that’s fresh, open, and airy.

When it comes to serious refueling, you can’t go wrong with the Bavarian Inn in Shepherdstown. The Asam family has spent more than 40 years building a business centered on authentic German cuisine and has expanded it into a popular resort with all kinds of perks. The menu is well-rounded, but I knew I had to go for the German food! I tried the Drunken Spaetzle, and it was delicious. A pretzel stuffed with crab and cheese was also a hit as an appetizer.

Plan a Weekend, Not Just a Day Trip

The Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia rewards those who take the time to explore beyond the first stop. Spend the morning discovering historic landmarks, the afternoon navigating a rushing river or hiking a scenic stretch of trail, and the evening savoring a delicious meal in a charming historic town. With nationally significant stories around every corner, beautiful landscapes to explore, and welcoming small-town experiences that invite you to slow down, Berkeley and Jefferson counties offer a getaway that’s as enriching as it is refreshing. Come for the history and outdoor adventures, but leave with a deeper appreciation for the many sides of this memorable corner of West Virginia.