What better way to spend a weekend than drinking and dining in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle? We can’t think of one! This region is a treasure trove of shops, restaurants, museums, natural attractions and more that beg to be explored. So pack a bag, get in the car and go!
In these uncertain times, keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket-to-visit list at a later date.
West Virginia’s shape is unmistakable, thanks in large part to the state’s dual handle grips. The northern enclave extends to the border of Ohio and Pennsylvania, while the eastern enclave intrudes into Maryland and Virginia.
Each enclave adds remarkable variety, both culturally, geographically and historically, to the Mountain State. Each is well worth taking the time to explore. Since we’ve already described a trip through the Northern Panhandle, we’ll turn our attention to wine, dining, and exploring the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia.
It is generally accepted that the eastern enclave includes eight counties: Berkeley, Grant, Hampshire, Hardy, Jefferson, Mineral, Morgan and Pendleton. It had a combined population of over 260,000 in 2010, and it is the fastest growing region (in terms of population and housing) in West Virginia.
The largest city in the eastern enclave is Martinsburg. The oldest towns, which are also the oldest in the entire state, are Romney and Shepherdstown, both chartered in 1762. The best known historically is Harpers Ferry. Other big names here are Charles Town and Berkeley Springs. The highest and lowest elevations above sea level in the state are found here: Spruce Knob, at 4,863 feet, and the Potomac River at Jefferson, at 240 feet.
Begin your exploration of the Eastern Panhandle with a sunrise at Spruce Knob, West Virginia’s highest peak. Next, stop for breakfast at the Gateway Restaurant in Riverton.
a sunrise at Spruce Knob, West Virginia's highest peak. Then stop for breakfast at The Gateway Restaurant in Riverton." data-pin-url="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/west-virginia/eastern-panhandle-roadtrip-wv/">
Next stop, Romney, West Virginia. If you plan ahead and can pick the timing right, book a ride through The Trough on the Potomac Eagle Railroad.
Alternatively, take a stroll through the quaint downtown area and order lunch and a drink at the Main Street Grille.
End the day at Cacapon Resort State Park for a delicious dinner, a relaxing walk, and a luxurious overnight stay.
Good morning! When you’re ready, say goodbye to the gorgeous Cacapon Resort and make your way to Berkeley Springs. If you need breakfast, try the Fairfax Coffee House. If you need lunch, try Tari’s Cafe. If you need a historical diversion, try a visit to the country’s oldest spa at Berkeley Springs State Park. If you’re looking for a great view, head to Prospect Peak.
Berkeley Springs. If you need breakfast, try Fairfax Coffee House. If you need lunch, try Tari's Cafe. If you need a historic diversion, try a visit to the nation's oldest spa at Berkeley Springs State Park. If you're looking for a gorgeous view, hit up Prospect Peak." data-pin-url="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/west-virginia/eastern-panhandle-roadtrip-wv/">
Don’t forget to save time for Charles Town and Harpers Ferry. With the day trips themselves, you will only have time to see the highlights – try the Charles Town Visitor Center for a glimpse of this historic city.
At Harpers Ferry, be sure to drive through Old Town to St. Peter’s Church, then to the meeting point of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers.
Harpers Ferry, make sure to walk through Old Town up to St Peter's Church and then down to the point where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers meet." data-pin-url="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/west-virginia/eastern-panhandle-roadtrip-wv/">
What a weekend whirlwind! For a map of this exploratory journey, go to Google Maps here. Of course, you can always take a week’s trip instead. Who knew there was so much to do just in the East Panhandle? No wonder it grows so fast!
Address: West Virginia Eastern Panhandle, West Virginia, United States
a sunrise at Spruce Knob, West Virginia's highest peak. Then stop for breakfast at The Gateway Restaurant in Riverton." data-pin-url="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/west-virginia/eastern-panhandle-roadtrip-wv/">
Berkeley Springs. If you need breakfast, try Fairfax Coffee House. If you need lunch, try Tari's Cafe. If you need a historic diversion, try a visit to the nation's oldest spa at Berkeley Springs State Park. If you're looking for a gorgeous view, hit up Prospect Peak." data-pin-url="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/west-virginia/eastern-panhandle-roadtrip-wv/">
Harpers Ferry, make sure to walk through Old Town up to St Peter's Church and then down to the point where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers meet." data-pin-url="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/west-virginia/eastern-panhandle-roadtrip-wv/">
