Shepherdstown Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Shepherdstown, a small town in Potomac Highlands, West Virginia. Explore natural attractions, historical places, local culture, and where to stay and eat.


Introduction to Shepherdstown

Nestled in the Potomac Highlands of West Virginia, Shepherdstown is a quaint town with a rich history and stunning natural beauty. Founded in 1762, it is the oldest town in the state and boasts a charming downtown area with unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. The town is also home to Shepherd University and a vibrant arts community. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Shepherdstown offers something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Shepherdstown

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Shepherdstown Museum: Explore the town’s history at this small museum, located in the historic Entler Hotel. The exhibits cover the colonial period to the present day.
  • Rumsey Monument and Museum: Learn about James Rumsey, the inventor of the steamboat, and his connection to Shepherdstown at this museum.
  • Harpers Ferry National Historical Park: Just a short drive from Shepherdstown, Harpers Ferry is a crucial site in American history, where John Brown’s raid on the armory occurred. You can tour the historic buildings and enjoy scenic views of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers.

Natural Attractions of Shepherdstown: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • C&O Canal Towpath: Walk or bike along the C&O Canal towpath, which starts in Maryland and runs through Shepherdstown. The 184-mile path offers stunning views of the Potomac River and provides access to campsites and historic structures.
  • Antietam National Battlefield: Visit this park to explore the site of the bloodiest one-day battle in American history. The battlefield has several trails where you can see the historic landmarks and beautiful views.
  • Shepherdstown Pedal & Paddle: Rent a bike or kayak and explore the scenic countryside and waterways surrounding Shepherdstown.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shepherdstown

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, there are several hiking and biking trails to enjoy in Shepherdstown and the surrounding area. Here are some of the best:

  • The Appalachian Trail: One of the most famous hiking trails in America passes through nearby Harpers Ferry.
  • Shepherdstown Battlefield: This historic site offers several hiking trails that will take you through the battlefield and surrounding woods.
  • C&O Canal Towpath: As mentioned above, the towpath is a popular destination for bikers and hikers.

Best Things to Do in Shepherdstown: Activities and Tours

  • Ghost Tours of Shepherdstown: Take a spooky tour of the town with local historians and hear about the paranormal activity that has been reported over the years.
  • Shepherdstown Farmers Market: This weekly market showcases local farmers and artisans, offering fresh produce and handmade crafts.
  • Shepherdstown Street Fest: This annual festival is held in June and features live music, local food and drink vendors, and activities for the whole family.

Week-Long Itinerary for Shepherdstown

Here is a sample itinerary for a week’s visit to Shepherdstown:

Day Activity
Monday Visit the Shepherdstown Museum and Rumsey Monument
Tuesday Bike or hike along the C&O Canal Towpath
Wednesday Take a stroll through the historic downtown area and enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants
Thursday Explore Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Friday Rent a bike or kayak from Shepherdstown Pedal & Paddle
Saturday Attend the Shepherdstown Farmers Market
Sunday Take a relaxing day and visit a nearby winery or brewery

Food and Drink Scene of Shepherdstown

Must-Try Dishes

  • Potomac River Trout: Freshly caught trout from the Potomac River is a local delicacy and can be found on many restaurant menus.
  • West Virginia Style Hot Dog: A grilled hot dog topped with chili, mustard, and coleslaw.

Local Beverages

  • Shepherdstown Sweet Tea: A blend of sweet iced tea and lemonade, perfect for a hot summer day.
  • Shepherdstown Beer: Several breweries are located in the area, including Shepherdstown Brewing Company and Abolitionist Ale Works.

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

  • The Bavarian Inn: This elegant hotel is located just outside of Shepherdstown and offers beautiful views of the Potomac River.
  • Thomas Shepherd Inn: This historic bed and breakfast offers comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast each morning.
  • Bridges Guest Quarters: Located in the heart of downtown Shepherdstown, this guesthouse offers modern amenities and easy access to local attractions.

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

  • Pottery and Ceramics: Several local artists create beautiful pottery and ceramics that make great souvenirs or gifts.
  • Homemade Jams and Jellies: Local farms produce delicious jams and jellies made from fresh fruits and vegetables.
  • Antique Maps and Prints: Several antique shops in the downtown area offer a wide selection of maps and prints of the town and surrounding area.

Local Culture and Customs of Shepherdstown

Shepherdstown is a small town with a strong sense of community. Residents take pride in their town’s history and natural beauty and are eager to share it with visitors. The town is also home to a vibrant arts community, with several galleries and theaters showcasing local artists and performers.

Best Time to Visit Shepherdstown

The best time to visit Shepherdstown is during the summer months, from June to August. The warm weather allows for outdoor activities and events, such as the Shepherdstown Street Fest. However, the fall months offer stunning views of the changing leaves and are also a great time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shepherdstown

Do:

  • Talk to locals and learn about the town’s history and culture.
  • Visit the local shops and restaurants to support the community.
  • Explore the natural beauty of the area by hiking or biking.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage any historic landmarks or natural areas.
  • Don’t ignore the town’s busy festival schedule; join in the fun and meet the locals.
  • Don’t forget to dress for the weather; it can be hot and humid in the summer, and cold and snowy in the winter.

Safety and Health

Safety in Shepherdstown

Shepherdstown is a safe town with low crime rates. However, visitors should be aware of their surroundings when walking in the downtown area at night.

Health in Shepherdstown

There are several medical facilities in the area, including War Memorial Hospital and Jefferson Medical Center.

Getting to Shepherdstown: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Shepherdstown

The closest airport to Shepherdstown is Washington Dulles International Airport, located approximately one hour and 20 minutes away by car.

Bus Stations Near Shepherdstown

Greyhound bus service is available in Martinsburg, approximately 20 minutes from Shepherdstown.

Other Options

Renting a car or taking a taxi from nearby cities is also an option for getting to Shepherdstown.

How to Get Around in Shepherdstown

The downtown area is easily walkable, but for longer distances or outdoor activities, a car or bike rental may be necessary.

Where to Go Next from Shepherdstown: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Harpers Ferry National Historical Park: Visit the nearby park to learn more about American history and enjoy the scenic views.
  • Antietam National Battlefield: Less than an hour away by car, this historic site offers more hiking trails and stunning views.
  • Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races: A casino and racetrack located just 20 minutes away from Shepherdstown.

Conclusion

Shepherdstown offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From its historic downtown area to its stunning hiking and biking trails, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Come for a week, a weekend, or just a day, and discover the charm and hospitality of this West Virginia gem.