Update: This was an article from a few years ago and has been updated with latest business and information.
Berkeley Springs comes out of nowhere. You’re driving through the Eastern Panhandle and bam, there it is—colorful storefronts, historic buildings, a state park with a charming gazebo and a wealth of history—all in a quaint and walkable downtown. Eclectic stores line the streets offering local art, new-age products, and antiques while spas and health shops dot each block.
Healing Waters
You probably already know a few things about Berkeley Springs State Park—like how George Washington often visited the warm waters still visible in the center of town. There you can watch as overflow from the springs pours into the park’s channels at 74 degrees. The springs supply the town’s water and have made Berkeley Springs a tourist haven since the 1700s when people frequented Roman baths.
At the park, visitors can relax at the Old Roman Bathhouse—in continuous use since 1815—choosing from one of nine large historic baths with ceramic tile. The water is heated to about 102 degrees before you’re invited to relax for 30 or 60 minutes inside a private bathing chamber.
Spas and Wellness
Spas in general are plentiful in this panhandle. At Atasia Spa, Frankie Tan provides services that have garnered attention from The Washington Post, New York Post, and Southern Living. The renowned spa offers manicures, pedicures, facials, and many types of massage, Reiki, and other services.
Shopping
Just as seemingly endless fresh water pours into the Potomac from Berkeley Springs, there seems to be no end to the remarkable shops lining downtown’s streets. More than 20 stores offer everything from soaps and herbs to antiques and cigars. Some standout businesses include:
- Portals – Homeopathic products, books, jewelry, and vintage clothing.
- Jules Enchanting Gifts and Collectibles – A charming boutique with collectibles and gifts.
- Nature Niche – Birdseed, squirrel feeders, wind chimes, and cleaning supplies.
- Hunter’s Hardware – A local institution for home improvement needs.
Art and Culture
Art thrives in Berkeley Springs. Downtown, you can’t miss the colorful Mountain Laurel Gallery, which features unique handcrafted gifts, wooden boxes, jewelry, and bags.
The Ice House Arts Center hosts music, theater, and art exhibitions that change quarterly. The four-story, 40,000-square-foot space provides studio space, classrooms, and an impressive co-op gallery.
Festivals and Events
Berkeley Springs is home to the annual International Water Tasting, the largest and longest-running water tasting competition in the world, held during the last weekend in February.
Dining
Dining in Berkeley Springs is a mix of fine dining and casual comfort food:
- Lot 12 Public House – Seasonal, upscale comfort food by a James Beard-recognized chef.
- Mi Ranchito – A family-owned Mexican restaurant serving traditional favorites.
- Creekside Creamery Market and Café – A cozy café offering sandwiches, soups, and hand-dipped ice cream.
- Star Theatre – A historic movie theatre with classic charm.
Lodging
Visitors have a variety of accommodations to choose from:
- The Country Inn at Berkeley Springs – A historic inn next to the state park.
- Highlawn Inn – A charming Victorian bed-and-breakfast.
- Berkeley Springs Cottage Rentals – Private getaway cabins and rentals.
- Berkeley Springs Getaways – High Tech Log Private Log Cabin that is Pet Friendly
Outdoor Adventures
Just 20 minutes outside of town, Cacapon Resort State Park offers hiking, biking, and year-round cabin rentals. The park provides a full-service lodge, golf course, and horseback riding trails.
Whether you’re here for the healing waters, the arts, or just a peaceful getaway, Berkeley Springs has something for everyone.
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