Charles Town Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Charles Town with our comprehensive travel guide. From cultural and natural attractions to hiking and biking routes, we've got you covered. Discover the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more. Start planning your adventure now!


Comprehensive Travel Guide to Charles Town, West Virginia

Located in the Potomac Highlands of West Virginia, Charles Town boasts a rich history and stunning natural beauty. From cultural and natural attractions to hiking and biking routes, this charming town has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best that Charles Town has to offer. Plan your adventure now!

List of Places to Visit in Charles Town

Here’s a list of the top places to visit in Charles Town:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Jefferson County Museum
  • John Brown Wax Museum
  • Zion Episcopal Church
  • Charles Washington Hall
  • The Old Opera House

Natural Attractions of Charles Town: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Harpers Ferry National Park
  • Shenandoah National Park
  • C&O Canal National Historical Park
  • Appalachian Trail
  • Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area

Hiking/Biking Routes of Charles Town

Charles Town is surrounded by scenic trails for hiking and biking. Here is a list of some of the top routes:

  • Maryland Heights Trail
  • Loudoun Heights Trail
  • C&O Canal Towpath
  • Appalachian Trail
  • Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area

Best Things to Do in Charles Town: Activities and Tours

From historic tours to outdoor adventures, Charles Town has it all. Here are some of the best things to do in Charles Town:

  • Take a walking tour of Charles Town’s historic district
  • Go whitewater rafting on the Shenandoah River
  • Attend a horse race at Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races
  • Explore the Harpers Ferry National Park
  • Visit the historic Antietam National Battlefield

Week-Long Itinerary for Charles Town

Here’s a weekly itinerary to help you plan your trip to Charles Town:

Day Activity
1 Explore the Victorian homes and shops in the historic district
2 Visit the Jefferson County Museum and Charles Washington Hall
3 Take a hiking tour of Harpers Ferry National Park
4 Go whitewater rafting on the Shenandoah River
5 Attend a horse race at Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races
6 Visit Antietam National Battlefield
7 Relax and enjoy the town’s scenic views and local food and drink scene

Food and Drink Scene of Charles Town

No trip to Charles Town is complete without trying some of the local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried chicken and waffles
  • Crab cakes
  • Fried green tomatoes
  • Country ham biscuits
  • Chocolate-covered cherries

Local Beverages

  • Virginia and West Virginia wines
  • Craft beers from local breweries
  • Apple cider from local orchards

Where to Stay in Charles Town: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Charles Town offers a range of accommodation options from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some top picks:

  • The Inn at Charles Town
  • The Hillbrook Inn and Spa
  • Clarion Hotel Shepherdstown
  • Cantuta Inn

What to Buy in Charles Town: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for the perfect souvenir to take home? Here are some ideas:

  • Handmade pottery
  • Local wine or beer
  • Apple butter or preserves
  • Artwork from local galleries

Local Culture and Customs of Charles Town

Charles Town has a rich culture and history. Be sure to respect local customs and traditions while visiting.

Best Time to Visit Charles Town

The best time to visit Charles Town is during the spring when the weather is mild and the flowers are in bloom. Fall is another great time to visit, as the leaves change color and the weather is cool.

Do’s and Don’ts of Charles Town

Do:

  • Explore the town’s historic district
  • Try the local cuisine
  • Take a hike or bike ride through the scenic trails

Don’t:

  • Litter in public areas
  • Ignore local customs and traditions
  • Be disrespectful to locals or their property

Safety and Health

Safety in Charles Town

Charles Town is a relatively safe town, but it’s important to take precautions when traveling. Keep your belongings close and be aware of your surroundings.

Health in Charles Town

The town has several medical facilities, including Urgent Care at Jefferson Memorial Hospital and Shenandoah Community Health Center.

Getting to Charles Town: Transportation Options and Logistics

Charles Town is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane. Here’s a list of the top transportation options:

Airports Near Charles Town

  • Washington Dulles International Airport
  • Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport
  • Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport

Bus Stations Near Charles Town

  • Greyhound Bus Station in Martinsburg, WV
  • Frederick County Transit

Other Options

  • Amtrak Train Station in Harpers Ferry, WV

How to Get Around in Charles Town

In Charles Town, the best way to get around is by car or bike. There are also several taxi and ride-sharing services available.

Where to Go Next from Charles Town: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to add to your itinerary:

  • Shepherdstown, WV
  • Berkeley Springs, WV
  • Leesburg, VA
  • Charlottesville, VA

Conclusion

With its rich history and stunning natural beauty, Charles Town is a must-visit destination for any traveler. From hiking and biking to cultural attractions and local cuisine, there’s something for everyone here. Start planning your adventure today!

Virginia State Route 9 Virginia State Route 9