Jefferson and Berkeley Counties boast a diverse slate of surprises
JEFFERSON COUNTY & BERKELEY COUNTY, WEST VIRGINIA–JULY 2026–Jefferson County and Berkeley County, West Virginia, offer a surprising number of ways to enjoy a getaway, just over an hour’s drive northwest of Washington, D.C. Located between Interstates 81 and 70, this eastern panhandle destination is easily accessible by car via U.S. 340 and West Virginia Route 9 or by rail from Washington or Baltimore.
For a destination filled with historic sites and preserved downtown architecture, there are an amazing number of new and unexpected ways to enjoy Berkeley and Jefferson counties. Among the area’s variety of outdoor opportunities and the shops and restaurants of historic downtowns of Shepherdstown and Martinsburg are hidden gems and pleasant surprises for visitors to enjoy. Culinary, retail, outdoor and historic surprises add to any visit.
Here are a few of the top surprises visitors are delighted to discover.
1. Is this the center of the universe? Well, yes. At least for hikers. The famed Appalachian Trail passes through Harpers Ferry at Harpers Ferry National Historic Park (171 Shoreline Drive, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia 25425; 304-535-6029). This is considered by most to be the center, the “psychological midpoint” of the trail. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy Headquarters & Visitor Center (799 Washington Street, Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia 25425; 304-535-6331) is one of the most well-known landmarks along the AT and is a popular spot for hikers and other visitors to learn more about the trail.
2. Nationally recognized chef and diverse cuisine. Shepherdstown is home to James Beard finalist for 2026 Best Chef Southeast, Chef Mary Ellen Diaz. Her restaurant, Alma Bea (202 East Washington Street, Shepherdstown, West Virginia 25443; 304-870-2153), highlights West Virginia ingredients and honors regional culinary traditions. This is only the beginning of a surprising number of culinary highlights here. From, the cosmopolitan The Young American Martini Bar (147 North Queen Street, Martinsburg, West Virginia 25404; 681-247-1018) to the contemporary and traditional favorites of the Bavarian Inn (163 Shepherd Grade Road, Shepherdstown, West Virginia 25443; 304-876-2551), there is a world of flavor to enjoy.
3. #1 in the world. Geocaching in Berkeley County is the premier global destination for creative, elaborate and interactive gadget caches. This destination offers an unforgettable adventure featuring challenging caches for all experience levels. There are more than 213 active caches that have earned over 14,000 favorite points.
4. Snow tubing in winter. This is a popular destination for river rafting; but, to add excitement to any winter visit, Snow Riders (408 Alstadts Hill Road, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia 25425; 304-535-2665) offers snow tubing on 12 lanes down the longest tubing slope on the East Coast. There are even multi-color LED disco light shows to tube by at night.
5. There’s a new plunge in town. The Great American Bungee Company (Old Standard Quarry, Peregrine Lane Entrance, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, 25425; 304-202-3159), a global leader in bungee jumping experiences, is thrilled to announce the opening of the first quarry-based bungee jumping site in the United States, located in historic Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. The highlight for thrill-seekers is an extraordinary water-dip bungee jump, a chilling leap from 150 feet above the sparkling spring-fed waters.
6. One-of-a-kind railroad history. The Martinsburg Roundhouse (100 East Liberty Street, Martinsburg, West Virginia 25404; 304-260-4141) is a National Historic Landmark and the sole surviving cast-iron framed roundhouse in the world. It has been named a Civil Engineering Landmark and is an important example of mid-19th-century industrial building design. When the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad arrived in Martinsburg in the 1840s, it not only became a hub of commerce, but the roundhouse they built also became a hub in many chapters of America’s story and Martinsburg’s prosperity grew with the railroad. It is also the site of the great railroad strike of 1877.
7. Puppeteers extraordinaire. Wonderment Puppet Theater (412 West King Street, Martinsburg, West Virginia 25401; 304-260-9382) is a full-time, year-round puppet theater offering a rare and wonderful opportunity for family entertainment on weekends. The theatre presents several original shows every year. This is a true find, as there are only 40 full-time puppet theatres in the country.
8. Historic park. Jefferson County is home to one of only two national parks in West Virginia. Harpers Ferry National Historic Park (171 Shoreline Drive, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia 25425; 304-535-6029) is at the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers. This is where John Brown altered America’s destiny when he launched his war to end slavery. Today, the park is popular both for history buffs and for hikers.
9. Old town, contemporary vibe. Shepherdstown is the oldest town in West Virginia. It is also one of its most progressive. In this charming downtown, the past is preserved in 18th- and 19th-century architecture. But history blends effortlessly here with contemporary culture through independent boutiques, bookstores and art galleries, cozy cafés and restaurants and a welcoming atmosphere.
10. Miles of adventure. Hikers and cyclists will love the surprising variety along the more than 25 trails throughout Jefferson and Berkeley Counties. The options range from the hard-packed surface of the C&O towpath that runs along the historic Chesapeake & Ohio Canal to the steep half-mile hike up to Jefferson Rock to take in spectacular views of Harpers Ferry to the extensive trail network throughout the 22,000-acre Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area (Berkeley Springs, West Virginia 25411; 304 822 3551).
Where to stay
There is a wide range of lodging options throughout Jefferson and Berkeley counties, including a full list of familiar national and regional hotel brands. There are also options for those looking for unique lodging options.
Apple B&B (129 West Burke Street, Martinsburg, West Virginia 25401; 304-901-5454) is a beautifully restored 1800s Greek Revival home and a bed and breakfast with an artistic flair. Located in the heart of downtown Martinsburg, it is close to shopping, dining and attractions.
Bavarian Inn (164 Shepherd Grade Road, Shepherdstown, West Virginia 25443; 304-876-2551) is one of the region’s best-known properties. The European-inspired resort has welcomed visitors for more than 45 years. Perched on a bluff above the Potomac River, the inn has an onsite restaurant and brew pub.