Where to Eat, Stay, Play, and Explore in this Mountain State Town
If you’ve heard of Berkeley Springs, West Virginia, you may know that it’s home to America’s First Spa. People have visited for centuries to “take the waters” and reap the healing benefits of the area’s mineral springs. But beyond the springs, there is so much more here to explore. So if a weekend of hiking, mountain biking, stargazing, and warm springs soaking is your kind of getaway, an escape to Berkeley Springs is calling you.
The region has called us back again and again, and this time around, we visited in partnership with Travel Berkeley Springs. We revisited some of our favorite haunts and explored some new-to-us spots that made us fall in love all over again. Here we’re sharing our top recommendations for planning your next visit, as well as a PTO-friendly (no-time-off-required) weekend itinerary.
As always, we only share products and experiences that we genuinely love and recommend. Thank you for supporting our work & happy exploring!
Getting To & Around Berkeley Springs
Fun Fact: Berkeley Springs was George Washington’s favorite getaway which tracks because it’s less than two hours from Washington, DC (and Baltimore, Maryland). Located in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle, it’s also just a few hours away from many other mid-Atlantic cities including Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (2.5 hours) and Richmond, Virginia (3ish hours). This historic town sits in Morgan County and is bordered by the Cacapon and Potomac Rivers. On a clear day, you can see four states from some of its overlooks: Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and of course, West Virginia.
It’s downtown area, formally named Bath, is super walkable. However, public transportation is limited in the area, so you’ll need a car to get to and around many of the destinations we’re highlighting below. So, without further ado…
10 Must-Have Experiences in Berkeley Springs, WV
Take the Waters at Berkeley Springs State Park
“Taking the waters” is an age-old practice meaning to drink or soak in mineral springs in order to reap their healing properties. Berkeley Springs State Park, which is actually the West Virginia’s smallest state park, is the perfect place to do just that. This park is home to some of the most iconic and historic mineral springs in the country—bubbling up at a consistent 74.3ºF and flowing at an impressive 2,000 gallons per minute. Known for their unusually high mineral content, the springs have attracted visitors for centuries and were cherished by Native Americans long before George Washington famously visited in 1748.
Today, the tradition continues with more than 55 different spa treatments available in town. We filled our water bottles, dipped our toes in the outdoor pools filled with runoff from the springs & soaked in all the healing minerals with a whirlpool bath followed by a couple’s massage at the Renaissance Spa at The Country Inn.
For a truly unique experience, head to the Historic Roman Bath House in Berkeley Springs State Park, where you can reserve one of nine private, 750-gallon walk-in tubs for a 30 or 60-minute soak. The spring water is heated to 102°F (with the option to cool it down), and the tubs offer ample room to stretch out, float, etc. The baths do book up though, so advance reservations are recommended to secure your spot. They can be made by calling 304-258-3976 or 304-258-2711. Check out our Roman Bath House soak experience here.
Biking the Paw Paw Tunnel and C&O Canal
Stretching over 3,100 feet through a mountain, the Paw Paw Tunnel is frankly one of the coolest spots along the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal. It was built over the course of 10 years in the mid-1800s to bypass a difficult section of the Potomac River. Now, hikers and bikers come from all over to traverse the tunnel and enjoy the scenic towpath that winds along the river. When you go, just remember to pack a flashlight or headlamp because the tunnel gets DARK!
Exploring Cacapon Resort State Park
Another standout location for biking is Cacapon Resort State Park, whose name was derived from the Shawnee word meaning “medicine waters.” Today, the park boasts 6,000 acres of forested land with 20 miles of hiking trails, an 18-hole golf course, a lake with a sandy beach for swimming and fishing, clay shooting, and some of the best mountain biking trails in the East.
There’s also an Almost Heaven Swing perched atop one of the highest points in the park. These swings are located in beautiful places all over the state, and on a clear day, you can take in views of WV, PA, MD, and VA from this one.
Take in the Views from the Panorama Overlook
Another gorgeous spot to take in the Mountain State views is from Panorama Overlook. Standing at 2,320 feet above sea level, it is the highest point in Morgan County and overlooks the confluence of the Cacapon and Potomac Rivers as well as three states. It’s a great place to watch the sunset, and National Geographic has ranked it as one of the top five scenic vistas in the Eastern United States. Need we say more?!
Explore Berkeley Springs’ Foodie Scene
Berkeley Springs’ food scene never ceases to impress us, and we’re not alone in that feeling. The area is home to two James Beard-nominated chefs, and countless restaurants that serve up unique dishes. Some of our favorite meals include Lot 12 Public House‘s Seafood Cioppino & Five Spice Duck Leg Confit, The Country Inn’s French Toast, Berkeley Springs Brewing Co.‘s brisket nachos and mac-n-cheese, and Panorama Public House’s Romanoff Burger (with caviar) and Rumpledethumps (which is a Scottish cabbage and potato dish). Check out our experience at Panorama Public House here.
Bop Around the Town of Bath
Bopping around the charming town of Bath (aka Berkeley Springs) is truly like strolling through a storybook… and is certainly a must while you’re in town. Its streets surround the state park, are adorned with murals, and lined with unique local shops, galleries, and cozy cafés. If you have a sweet tooth, we recommend checking out Mischief: Sweets and Shenanigans. Their candy buffet had Seth acting like…well, a kid in a candy store.
Head to the Trail Depot for all of your outdoor needs and Fairfax Coffee House for your caffeine fix. Mountain Laurel Artisans offers unique Appalachian art from jewelry to pottery to woodworks, and Berkeley Springs Antique Mall boasts antiques and collectibles from 30 dealers. If you’re in town on a Sunday, don’t miss the Berkeley Springs Farmers Market, and if you’re into local craft beers, you have to stop by Cacapon Mountain Brewing Co.
Sample Local Craft Beer & Spirits
Speaking of local craft beverages, Berkeley Springs Brewing Co. is another must-visit spot! Both Cacapon Mountain and Berkeley Springs Brewing Companies use Berkeley Springs mineral water to brew their beers… so sampling them is technically another way to “take the waters” and reap their healing properties…right?
Beyond the breweries, Capstone Spirits Distillery is also well worth a visit! This family-owned micro-distillery uses their self-designed fractionating still to whip up small batch gins and vodkas from rice (making their process even more unique as most American spirits have a corn base). They offer free tours and tastings Friday-Sunday from 1PM – 4PM and by appointment. You can get in touch by calling 240-343-0347. We left with a bottle of their Queen’s Choice honey-flavored vodka, made with wildflower honey from their on-site apiary, and a bottle of their Sleepy Creek Gin, named after (you guessed it), Sleepy Creek.
Stopping by the Farnham Colossi
Tucked away in the rural town of Unger, West Virginia, the Farnham Colossi is a delightfully quirky, and completely free, roadside stop that is absolutely worth the 25 minute drive from Berkeley Springs. Billed as the state’s only museum/amusement park/fantasy farm, this offbeat attraction features a collection of towering fiberglass statues scattered across the Farnham family’s property. These vintage giants provide a photo-worthy detour that is weird, wild, and wonderful. Just be sure to visit respectfully, as it’s on private land.
Where to Stay in/near Berkeley Springs, WV
There are a variety of short-term rental options available in the Berkeley Springs Area, all with different price points. We’ve stayed at several throughout our visits, and we’re sharing all of our recommendations here.
Affordable Accommodations: Camping in Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area
If you’re looking to fall asleep to the sound of bullfrogs and spring peepers, look no further than Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area (WMA). This 23,000-acre WMA is 15 miles from Berkeley Springs and is known for being one of the most popular hunting and fishing spots in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle. If you’re not a hunter or angler, there are also opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and birdwatching. It’s an outdoor-lover’s paradise all around!
As for accommodations, Sleepy Creek is home to three campgrounds, 75 primitive campsites with fire rings and lantern hangers. Well water is available from a hand pump, and trash cans and pit toilets are located in each campground. Trailer sites are also available. Camping requires a donation of $10/night, and sites are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. We spent a spring night here a few years back and snagged a spot right on the water; it was so peaceful.
Mid-Range Accommodations: Cacapon Lodge
Located in Cacapon Resort State Park, this luxury lodge has just undergone a multimillion-dollar renovation and expansion, boasting Appalachian-inspired architecture and upscale amenities without a lofty price tag. Reservations start at $145/night and provide access to a fitness center, indoor heated pool and whirlpool, business center, on-site spa and golf course, shooting range, disc golf, and all of the outdoor adventure opportunities the state park.
A variety of cabins are also available within the state park, ranging from an average of $119-$206 per night. All cabins are equipped with water, electric, heat, air conditioning, a bathroom with a shower, and an outdoor fire ring. Some cabins also boast fully equipped kitchens, fireplaces, and cable TV. To view all of the cabin types/availability and to book the one that’s right for you, head to the WV State Parks’ website.
Luxury Glamping: Firefly Ridge Retreat
Perched atop 17 forested acres, Firefly Ridge Luxury Retreat is an elevated glamping resort designed with couples in mind; so if you love nature, but don’t want to sacrifice modern amenities, this is your place! Named the best place to “camp with creature comforts in West Virginia” by National Geographic, Firefly Ridge is pet-friendly and WiFi-equipped.
Each site features a Blackstone grill/griddle combo, a king-sized bed with 1000 thread count sheets, a power station for charging your devices/powering the cooling station, fire pits with firewood and starters, and cooking and coffee-making supplies. On-site amenities include a spotless bathhouse stocked with toiletries, towels, and hair dryers, and an outdoor common area with additional grills and cornhole boards.
The Ultimate Bikepacking Stay: Mountain Life Inn
Whether you’re bikepacking the C&O Canal or just looking to stay off the beaten path and experience the charming town of Paw Paw, we couldn’t recommend the newly renovated Mountain Life Inn more. This home offers three suites with private bathrooms, a shared, fully-equipped kitchen with a coffee station, dining room, and cozy living room. Amenities also include toiletries, WiFi, a washer/dryer with laundry detergent, and a secure, indoor bike locker where you can store your bike. It’s also walking/biking distance from our favorite spot in Paw Paw: Big & Tiny’s Tavern. Their wings are out of this world.
We stayed in the Sugar Maple Sweet after spending the day biking the C&O Canal and exploring the Paw Paw Tunnel. It was so nice to come back to the Inn to relax, take a hot shower, do a load of laundry, and cuddle up on the couch to watch a movie after a day out and about. Biking the entire canal is on our bucket list, and we’ll definitely be booking another night here when we make it happen!
Luxury Getaway House: Monte Vista Luxury Mountain Escape
This elevated Airbnb is situated on 33 private acres and boasts three beautifully designed bedrooms, 2.5 baths, a fully furnished kitchen, and a living room with a unique glass garage door that opens up to panoramic mountain views. There’s also a grill, outdoor seating area, hiking trail, pickleball/basketball/volleyball/tennis court, hot tub, fire pit, and an eco-friendly driving tee right on-site. If you’re looking for a secluded, upscale experience, this stay is for you! Take a mini-tour featuring our experience at the property here.
How to Spend an Elevated and Adventurous Weekend Exploring Berkeley Springs, WV
If you’re short on time or just looking to explore Berkeley Springs in a weekend, we have the perfect itinerary for you. Read on for our no-time-off-required guide to experiencing this charming town.
Day 1: An Elevated Evening in the Eastern Panhandle
Explore Bath, WV: Bop around town, pop into the local shops, and then grab a pre-dinner drink at either Cardinal Bar or Cacapon Mountain Brewing Co. Both are right in town and provide both immaculate vibes, games, and outdoor seating.
Dinner: Lot 12 Public House offers a three-course, farm-centric, prix-fixe menu prepared by local, James Beard-nominated chef, Damien Heath, in a charming American Foursquare-style home with an inviting front porch and vibey bar. Every one of our courses was delectable, but the Seafood Cioppino & Five Spice Duck Leg Confit were two standouts.
Sunset: Prospect Peak/Panorama Overlook: This scenic spot is located three(ish) miles west of Berkeley Springs right off West Virginia Route 9, and worth every second of the drive out of town as it offers a pull-off with breathtaking views, especially at sunset.
Day 2: Exploring the Potomac River Highlands
Sunrise: Cacapon State Park’s Almost Heaven Swing: If you’re an early riser, sunrise at Cacapon Resort State Park is calling you. It’s one of the highest points in the county, and a gorgeous place to watch the sun creep up over the mountains. There’s also a viewing platform where you can take in the views of four states: Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and (of course) West Virginia.
Bike: Cacapon Resort State Park: This park is hands down my favorite mountain bike system to ride. With a mix of tech and flow, these trails have something for everyone. If you’re looking for steep, rocky descents, try Thunderstruck or Ziler South. If flow and speed are more your style, send it down Giddy Up for some tight single track fun and finish up in the Drop Zone Skills Area for some big drops and flowy, forgiving tabletops to hone your skills.
Tour + Tasting: Capstone Distilling: Run by a husband and wife team, this distillery is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys yummy spirits. Tours and tastings are free, and they also have an apiary on-property where they harvest the honey for all of their honey-flavored vodkas!
Lunch: Panorama Public House: This spot serves up “creative comfort food” including uniquely-dressed burgers, mac-n-cheese, bacon baked beans, and chili in a crock, and something cheesy and delicious known as Rumpledethumps. They also have a “Lazy Sundae walk-up window” with homemade ice cream to boot!
Alternatively- Lunch @ Berkeley Springs Brewing Co: Beyond locally brewed beers, this spot serves up some of the best bar food at their Bath Water Brewpub. We could not recommend their nachos or mac-n-cheese more!
Kayaking the Cacapon River OR Biking the C&O Canal to Paw Paw Tunnel: If you go the Paw Paw tunnel route, you’ll want to bring your own bike or rent from C&O Bicycle. As far as getting out on the water goes, Cacapon River Outfitters will rent you a kayak, tube, or canoe to fuel your float/paddle.
Dinner: Big & Tiny’s Tavern: If you find yourself in Paw Paw after either of your adventures, you have to grab dinner at Big & Tiny’s Tavern. This Black x woman x local family-owned spot is located right off the Henry W Miller Highway, and serves up the coldest beer and the best wings.
Day 3: Soaks and Sunday Brunch
Sunday Breakfast/Brunch Buffet: Snag a reservation at The Country Inn and indulge in a delicious buffet imagined and prepared by James Beard-nominated Chef Scott Collinash. We were blown away by the French Toast… and the price! It’s only $15.99 per person!
Take the Waters: We booked the “Just for Two” couples Package at the Renaissance Spa at The Country Inn. It consisted of a 20-minute Whirlpool soak in healing mineral waters and a 50-minute Swedish Couples Massage, and it was so relaxing. Alternatively, you can book a couples’ soak in the state park’s Historic Roman Bath House; an experience that we also love.
Lunch & Local Produce: If you find yourself in town between April and mid-December, you have to stop by the Berkeley Springs Farmers Market before heading home. It takes place every Sunday at the corner of Route 522 & Fairfax Street between 10AM and 2PM. In addition to local produce and hot ready-to-eat food, the market hosts live music and, from time to time, fun and quirky special events like a “Corn Eating Contest” and “Great Zucchini Car Building.”
Berkeley Springs has been named West Virginia’s Coolest Small Town, Best Spa Town in the Blue Ridge, #1 Warm Springs Destination, and one of the Most Romantic Small Towns in America, and in our book, it wins the title of being the perfect getaway for anyone seeking a mix of relaxation and outdoor adventure. We’ll certainly be back soon, so let us know what we missed/need to experience next time in the comments below!
