Martinsburg Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, stay, eat, and explore in Martinsburg, West Virginia with our complete travel guide.


Introduction to Martinsburg

Martinsburg, located in the Potomac Highlands of West Virginia, is a charming town with a rich history that dates back to the American Civil War. Today, it’s a popular travel destination for visitors seeking a blend of culture, outdoor adventure and scenic beauty. Martinsburg has a lot to offer, from its museums and historic sites, to its outdoor recreational opportunities and local food and drink scene. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Martinsburg is a great place to visit.

List of Places to Visit in Martinsburg

Martinsburg offers an array of attractions that appeal to a variety of interests. Here is a list of must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Belle Boyd House and Museum: This 19th-century home-turned-museum belonged to Confederate spy Belle Boyd. Visitors can take a guided tour and learn about her life, as well as the history of the home and Civil War-era Martinsburg.

  • The Apollo Civic Theatre: Originally built in 1913, the Apollo Civic Theatre is a beautifully restored historic theater that hosts live performances throughout the year.

  • Martinsburg Roundhouse Center: Once a hub of steam locomotive activity, the Roundhouse Center now houses a museum with exhibits related to railroad history.

Natural Attractions of Martinsburg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cacapon Resort State Park: This state park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, swimming, golfing, and horseback riding. Visitors can also enjoy scenic views of the surrounding mountain ranges.

  • Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area: Situated in the eastern panhandle of West Virginia, this state-run area offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty of the West Virginia countryside while hiking, fishing, and hunting.

  • Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park: This 184.5-mile park along the Potomac River is a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Visitors can hike, bike, fish, or take a boat ride on the canal.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Martinsburg

With its tranquil natural landscapes, Martinsburg offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore on foot or on two wheels. There are numerous trails to choose from, including:

  • Tuscarora Trail: This 252-mile trail traverses the ridge of the Appalachian Mountains and runs through Martinsburg. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

  • C&O Canal Towpath: This 184.5-mile trail is mostly flat and runs along the Potomac River. It’s a popular spot for biking, hiking, and fishing.

  • Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area: The area offers several hiking trails of varying difficulty levels, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes.

Best Things to Do in Martinsburg: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to see and do in Martinsburg. Here are some suggestions:

  • Ghost Tours: Martinsburg is home to several tours that offer visitors a chance to explore the town’s haunted history, including the Haunted History and Legends Tour and the Ghosts of Martinsburg Tour.

  • Apple Picking: Apple orchards near Martinsburg offer visitors a chance to pick their own apples, and enjoy apple flavored treats.

  • Local Craft Beer: Martinsburg has its own craft beer scene. Visitors can go on a brewery crawl and sample some of the region’s best brews.

Week-Long Itinerary for Martinsburg

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Martinsburg:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Belle Boyd House and Museum
2 Explore the C&O Canal Towpath
3 Hike in the Cacapon State Park
4 Go apple picking in a nearby orchard
5 Take a Ghost Tour
6 Sample local craft beer at a brewery
7 Visit the Martinsburg Roundhouse Center

Food and Drink Scene of Martinsburg

Martinsburg’s local food and drink scene is something that must not be missed.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pepperoni Rolls: These are similar to a calzone or a stromboli, they consist of a soft bread roll with pepperoni baked inside. They are a West Virginia classic that you can’t find outside the state.

  • Fried Chicken: Martinsburg has several spots where you can find the best-fried chicken, including a local favorite, King’s New York Style Pizza.

  • Apple Butter: This is a sweet spread made from apples and spices. It’s a perfect souvenir to bring home from Martinsburg.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: Martinsburg has its own craft beer scene and visitors can sample locally brewed beer at different breweries throughout the town.

  • Apple Cider: The orchards surrounding Martinsburg produce some of the best apple cider in the country.

Where to Stay in Martinsburg: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Martinsburg offers a variety of accommodations to suit all budgets and travel styles.

  • The Country Inn and Suites: A comfortable hotel suitable for families and couples.

  • Hillbrook Inn and Spa: A historic bed and breakfast with a spa, perfect for a romantic getaway.

  • Hampton Inn: Offers affordable accommodation with comfortable rooms and on-site amenities.

What to Buy in Martinsburg: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Apple Butter: This sweet spread is a great souvenir to take home and is available in different varieties from various shops all around Martinsburg.

  • Pottery: Visitors can find unique and handcrafted pottery from local artists at different shops in Martinsburg.

  • Apple Cider: A worthy souvenir to carry back home, the orchards in Martinsburg produce some of the best apple cider in the country

Local Culture and Customs of Martinsburg

West Virginia, including Martinsburg is known for its strong sense of hospitality and friendly locals who welcome visitors.

Best Time to Visit Martinsburg

The best times to visit Martinsburg to explore its outdoor attractions are during the spring and fall months. Fall is a particularly beautiful time to visit, with the autumn leaves turning the surrounding mountains into a riot of colors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Martinsburg

Do:

  • Do be respectful of local customs and culture.
  • Do visit the Belle Boyd House and Museum, one of the town’s most significant historical landmarks.
  • Do bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring the hiking trails and attractions.
  • Do try local apple cider and pepperoni rolls.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter, Martinsburg takes cleanliness seriously.
  • Don’t overpack, leave some space for the unique souvenirs you will find while exploring the city.

Safety and Health

Safety in Martinsburg

Martinsburg is generally a safe place to visit, but visitors should take sensible precautions, like securing valuables in a hotel safe or carrying them in a bag that is less likely to be snatched.

Health in Martinsburg

Visitors should always carry necessary medications, licenses, and insurance papers with them. In case of emergencies, always remember to call 911.

Getting to Martinsburg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Martinsburg

The closest airport to Martinsburg is Eastern WV Regional Airport, which is 6 miles from the city center.

Bus Stations Near Martinsburg

Greyhound offers bus services connecting Martinsburg to cities all around the United states with a centrally located station downtown

Other Options

For those self-driving, they can follow I-70 and I-81 to reach Martinsburg.

How to Get Around in Martinsburg

The most convenient way to get around Martinsburg is by car. Tourists can either rent a car or drive their own.

Where to Go Next from Martinsburg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several other interesting destinations that visitors can explore from Martinsburg, including:

  • Antietam National Battlefield
  • Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
  • Great Falls Park

Conclusion

Martinsburg is a vibrant, lively town with something to see and do for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor activities or just want to enjoy local food and drink, Martinsburg has it all. With a strong sense of community and friendly locals, Martinsburg is a great destination for a relaxing getaway.