This Enchanting And Historic Town In West Virginia Is The Perfect Day Trip Destination
By Jasmine Vieau|Published February 13, 2023
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Jasmine Vieau
Author
Hello! I was born and raised in Toronto, lived in Miami for a decade, attended the Miami International University of Art & Design, and have resided in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Asheville, North Carolina, for the past 15+ years. I enjoy traveling all over the United States, Canada, and Europe - though I have a great appreciation and love for the southeastern parts of the US in particular. My past expertise lay in hospitality in the restaurant and retail world. Aside from writing, I now run an Airbnb in my home and sling vintage, so I'd like to think this all helps me with what it takes to find the best restaurants, lodging, and fun things to do and see in your state. I am an avid reader, love exploring the arts, and discovering the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants. Nice to meet you!
Shepherdstown is the oldest town in West Virginia, dating back to 1730. It is a charming small town located in the lower Shenandoah Valley and 90 minutes from the Washington and Baltimore metropolitan areas. Shepherdstown is known for its downtown, home to the historic district, and many shops and restaurants lined along German Street. So, follow along and find out why we think historic Shepherdstown is the best destination in West Virginia for a day trip.
Take a stroll downtown
along German Street and check out all the local shops and restaurants. Though Shepherdstown is steeped in history, it also has a student population and a thriving art community apparent in all the funky and eclectic shops.
Grab a bite to eat nearby at Press Room. A classy and cozy restaurant serving contemporary American fare in a brick-walled space in an old newspaper building. They also have a full bar if you're in the mood for a tasty cocktail.
Next up, check out the historic district. Shepherdstown Historic District is at the core of Shepherdstown. Most structures date between 1790 and 1920 and are on the National Register of Historic Places. A notable building to visit is the Historic Shepherdstown Museum. Peruse preserved artifacts and historical documents from the town's first three centuries.
Another building in the Historic District is Shepherdstown Public Library. The library was established in 1922, making it West Virginia’s longest-occupied library building. The library is still operating, so make sure to stop in and look at some books.
Lastly, head to Shepherdstown University, a liberal arts college located on N King Street. The university dates back to 1871 when the town decided to use the vacated courthouse for educational purposes. Now the university is a 323-acre campus offering a multitude of academic programs and home to the Marinoff Theater. The Marinoff Theater hosts the annual Contemporary American Theater Festival in the summer, so check their events calendar if you're in town during that time.
Also on the campus property sits the Little House, a small, Dutch Colonial-style house. It was built between 1928 and 1930 by Florence Shaw, an educator at Shepherd University.
End your night at the Bavarian Inn, a resort and brewing company. You do not have to stay at the resort to enjoy their restaurant, but we advise making a reservation. The property sits perched on a bluff overlooking the Potomac River, giving you a spectacular view.
