Explore healing waters, towering beauty, and echoes of the Civil War.

WRITTEN BY Nikki Bowman Mills, Pam Kasey & Devin Lacy
PHOTOGRAPHED BY Nikki Bowman Mills & Carla Witt Ford

Enjoy the colonial and Civil War vibe of the Eastern Panhandle towns, then drift westward into a more rural rhythm. Wide valleys are dotted with small communities and, along the way, Wardensville pulses with new energy. Then, suddenly, Seneca Rocks rises, wild and breathtaking. So much of the variety of West Virginia is revealed, one unexpected joy at a time.

HARPERS FERRY & CHARLES TOWN

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The Civil War is living history in Harpers Ferry—wander Harpers Ferry National Historical Park to discover this railroad and armory town’s role in the conflict, and book the oldest ghost tour in America for another perspective. Harpers Ferry General Store carries hiking and biking supplies and more, and The Vintage Lady around the corner offers local and handmade artisan products. Outside town, visit River Riders for tubing, rafting, ziplines, and more. In Charles Town, drive by Happy Retreat, home to George Washington’s brother and town founder Charles, and visit the Jefferson County Courthouse where John Brown was tried for treason. Try your luck with the games or the thoroughbreds at Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. You’ll find lots to browse on Charles Town’s Washington Street—and off the main drag, look for Art Deco Dekor for quality vintage items and Candlelight Soap Co. for handcrafted bath and body products.

DINE & DRINK

In Bolivar, grab a loaf at Bolivar Bread Co. and be wowed by vegan vittles that even carnivores like at Kelley Farm Kitchen. In Charles Town, find award-winning craft beer at Abolitionist Ale Works or an elegant meal at Bistro 112.

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MARTINSBURG

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Explore the historic Martinsburg Roundhouse and learn about an infamous Confederate spy at Belle Boyd House, or catch a live performance at the Apollo Civic Theatre. For family fun, visit Wonderment Puppet Theater. On North Queen Street, visit Westwood Charm Boutique for women’s clothing and accessories, and don’t miss the meticulously curated boutique department store Jordan & Hess Co. Outside town, Orr’s Farm Market offers the full farm market experience of this historically lush orchard region.

DINE

Sample four eclectic restaurants at The Garage on King food hall. Find craft sandwiches at Firebox55, or stop at Stoney’s Whiskey Wine & Raw Bar for great drinks and fresh seafood. For fine dining with an extensive wine list, visit Brix 27.

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BERKELEY SPRINGS

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Visit George Washington’s bathtub and the Roman bathhouse, and book a spa day in America’s first spa town. You’ll find a cluster of charming boutiques on Fairfax Street, across from the Berkeley Springs State Park. Not far from there, browse Appalachian art and handmade crafts at Ice House Co-Op Gallery and other downtown galleries, and shop the extensive collection of herbs, teas, body care, and more at Sage Moon Herb Shop. Outside town at Cacapon Resort State Park, you can fish, swim, shoot clays, go horseback riding, and climb to Cacapon Mountain Overlook for stunning panoramic views of the Potomac River Valley.

DINE & DRINK

Canary Grill offers sandwiches, burgers, and more in a fun atmosphere. Linger over farm-to-table flavors at Lot 12 Public House, Italian cuisine on the rooftop at The Vine Trattoria, or the big view at Panorama Public House. Then, stop by Berkeley Springs Brewing Co. to sample the craft beverage scene.

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WARDENSVILLE

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Shop artisan-made glass and see glassblowers in action at Dakota Glass Works. Find your next great read at WordPlay bookstore and a West Virginia–made gift or memento of your trip at Lost River Trading Post.

DINE

Stop at Wardensville Garden Market for fresh produce, prepared foods, and baked goods or treat yourself to Appalachia-inspired plates and warm hospitality at Mack’s Bingo Kitchen.

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SENECA ROCKS

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Hike the trail to the top of Seneca Rocks for an iconic West Virginia experience—and do yourself the favor of stopping in at the Seneca Rocks Discovery Center. Across the street, Yokum’s Store has essentials and souvenirs, and Harper’s Old Country Store, in business since 1902, is your spot for West Virginia–made items and the authentic general store experience.

DINE

Grab a bite to fuel your hike at the Front Porch Restaurant at Harper’s Old Country Store.

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READ MORE ARTICLES FROM WV LIVING’S SUMMER 2025 ISSUE
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