Washington County Travel Guide

Explore the cultural attractions, natural wonders, adventurous activities, food and drink, shopping, and local customs of Washington County, Maryland with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Washington County

Nestled in the heart of Western Maryland, Washington County is a charming destination that boasts a delightful blend of rich history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure. This county is the perfect getaway spot for families, groups, or solo travelers who wish to unplug and unwind. The county has a population of approximately 150,000 and is home to the city of Hagerstown, the county seat. Washington County is flanked by the Appalachian Mountains to the west, the Potomac River to the south, and Pennsylvania to the north, making it an easy drive from cities like Baltimore, Washington D.C., and Philadelphia.

List of Places to Visit in Washington County

Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover or an adventure enthusiast, Washington County has something to offer for everyone. Here are some top attractions you shouldn’t miss out on:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Washington County Museum of Fine Arts

    Housed in a beautifully restored 1919 Beaux-Arts mansion, this museum has over 7,000 works of art, including American and European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. The museum also features a sculpture garden and a gift shop.

  • Hager House and Museum

    Built-in 1739, the Hager House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The museum offers guided tours of the colonial home, including a blacksmith shop and a garden.

  • Antietam National Battlefield

    This historic site commemorates the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, fought during the Civil War. The battlefield offers a self-guided tour, museum exhibits, and a bookstore.

Natural Attractions of Washington County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Appalachian Trail

    A 40-mile section of the world-famous trail runs through the western part of Washington County, offering stunning vistas and challenging hikes.

  • C&O Canal National Historical Park

    The towpath of this historic canal runs for 184.5 miles from Cumberland, MD to Washington, D.C. The park offers hiking and biking trails, camping sites, and boat rentals.

  • Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Monument

    This 20,000-acre park is a great place for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and bird-watching. The park also has several miles of hiking and biking trails, including the popular Great Falls Loop Trail.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Washington County

Hiking and biking are two of the most popular outdoor activities to do in Washington County, and for good reason. The county has numerous hiking and biking trails, ranging from easy to challenging, that offer scenic views of the Appalachian Mountains and the Potomac River. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Appalachian Trail

    The Maryland section of the trail runs for 40 miles through Washington County and is relatively easy compared to other sections of the trail.

  • C&O Canal Towpath

    This trail is a popular spot for hikers and bikers. The trail runs for 184.5 miles from Cumberland to Washington D.C.

  • Western Maryland Rail Trail

    This 26-mile paved trail runs through the scenic Maryland countryside, offering breathtaking views of the Potomac River and the Appalachian Mountains.

Best Things to Do in Washington County: Activities and Tours

Besides hiking and biking, there are many other fun activities and tours to do in Washington County. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • City Park Train Hub

    Take a ride on the City Park Train Hub, a miniature train that runs through the scenic Hagerstown City Park. The train runs on weekends from May through October and is a great activity for kids.

  • Potomac Riverboat Company

    Explore the Potomac River on a scenic boat tour. The Potomac Riverboat Company offers a variety of tours, including sunset cruises, sightseeing tours, and private charters.

  • Ghost Tours of Historic Frederick

    Take a guided evening tour of historic Frederick and learn about the city’s ghostly past.

Week-Long Itinerary for Washington County

If you’re planning a week-long vacation to Washington County, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Activities
1 Visit Antietam National Battlefield and take a hike on the Appalachian Trail
2 Take a scenic boat tour on the Potomac River and explore Hagerstown City Park and Museum
3 Tour the Hager House and Museum and enjoy a picnic lunch at Fort Frederick State Park
4 Explore the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Monument and hike the Great Falls Loop Trail
5 Visit the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts and take a ghost tour of Historic Frederick
6 Cycle the Western Maryland Rail Trail, followed by a wine tasting at Big Cork Vineyards
7 Enjoy a day of zip-lining and ropes courses at the Aerial Adventure Park at Harpers Ferry

Food and Drink Scene of Washington County

Washington County is known for its farm-to-table cuisine, local wines, and craft beers. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Maryland Fried Chicken

    A local favorite, Maryland fried chicken is made with Old Bay seasoning and is served with biscuits, gravy, and coleslaw.

  • Crab Cakes

    Maryland is known for its crab cakes made with blue crab meat.

  • Buckwheat Pancakes

    A traditional breakfast dish made with locally grown Buckwheat flour.

Local Beverages

  • Boonesborough Honey Mead

    A traditional alcohol made with a blend of honey, yeast, and water.

  • Antietam Brewery

    A local brewery that offers a variety of craft beers, including the popular Hefeweizen and Coffee Stout.

Where to Stay in Washington County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of options for lodging in Washington County, depending on your budget and preference. Here are some recommended hotels, hostels, and guesthouses:

  • Homewood Suites by Hilton, Hagerstown

    This hotel offers spacious suites with full kitchens, free breakfast, and a fitness center.

  • Pickett’s Charge, Sharpsburg

    A cozy bed and breakfast near Antietam National Battlefield. The rooms are elegantly furnished, and the breakfast is delicious.

  • White Hall Manor Bed & Breakfast, Greencastle

    A rustic guesthouse that offers comfortable rooms, serene views, and a delicious breakfast.

What to Buy in Washington County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Washington County has a rich history and culture that is reflected in its local products. Here are some unique souvenirs and local products you should bring home:

  • Hagerstown Suns Baseball Cap

    A souvenir cap from the local minor league baseball team.

  • Maryland Blue Crab Spice

    A cooking spice made with a blend of Old Bay seasoning and other herbs and spices.

  • John Brown Wax Museum Postcard

    A postcard from the world-famous John Brown Wax Museum in Harpers Ferry.

Local Culture and Customs of Washington County

Washington County has a rich cultural heritage that is deeply rooted in its history, agriculture, and natural resources. The county’s residents are warm and welcoming, and they take pride in their community. Here are some local customs you should know:

  • Honk your horn when passing other vehicles on a rural road.

  • Remove your hat and stand during the National Anthem or Pledge of Allegiance.

  • Be respectful of the local Amish community, who live a simple lifestyle and are a part of Washington County’s cultural heritage.

Best Time to Visit Washington County

The best time to visit Washington County is in the spring (April to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is cool, and the foliage is beautiful. The summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, while the winter (December to February) is cold and snowy. However, if you’re a fan of skiing or winter sports, then the winter season might be the best time for you.

Do’s and Don’ts of Washington County

Do:

  • Visit the historic sites and museums.

  • Try the local cuisine and craft beers.

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Enjoy the great outdoors.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural and historic sites.

  • Sneeze or cough without covering your mouth.

  • Be disrespectful to local residents.

Safety and Health

Washington County is a safe destination, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should take the usual precautions while traveling, such as keeping valuables safe and being aware of their surroundings. Here are some safety and health tips:

Safety in Washington County

  • Avoid walking alone or in deserted areas at night.

  • Stay in well-lit areas.

  • Keep doors and windows locked and secure

Health in Washington County

  • Wash your hands frequently, especially during flu season.

  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated during hot weather.

  • Take precautions against tick bites if hiking in wooded areas.

Getting to Washington County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Washington County is easily accessible by car, plane, or bus. The nearest airport is Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), which is approximately one hour and 15 minutes away by car. There are also several bus lines that serve the county, including Greyhound, Peter Pan, and Megabus.

Airports Near Washington County

  • Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)

  • Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)

  • Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)

Bus Stations Near Washington County

  • Hagerstown Greyhound Bus Terminal

  • Frederick Transit Center

  • Martinsburg Greyhound Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • Amtrak

  • Car rentals

  • Taxi and ridesharing services

How to Get Around in Washington County

The best way to get around Washington County is by car or bike. There are many rental car companies in the area, and the county has a network of biking and hiking trails. In addition, there are several taxi and ridesharing services available in the larger towns.

Where to Go Next from Washington County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Washington County is a great starting point for exploring other destinations in the Mid-Atlantic region. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

  • Gettysburg National Military Park

  • Shepherdstown, WV

  • National Museum of Civil War Medicine, Frederick, MD

  • Luray Caverns, Luray, Virginia

Conclusion

Washington County is a charming and diverse destination that offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and adventure. From the battlefields of Antietam to the scenic beauty of the Appalachian Trail, this county has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the best of Western Maryland with this comprehensive tour guide.



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