Outdoor Activities
But it’s not only traffic-less streets that draw visitors
to Shepherdstown; it’s also the town’s storied past and unique shops
that bring in people eager for a break from the rat-race. On the banks of the Potomac
River, this town (once called Mecklenburg) became a hub for many professions that
needed the river to ship goods and run their mills. Now, the Potomac and nearby
Shenandoah River are perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and even whitewater rafting.
The rapids – ranging from Class I to Class III – are wild enough to be
exciting, but mild enough for the whole family to enjoy. Many rafters are even treated
to bald eagle sightings while paddling down the Potomac River. Historical River Tours offers a fun and educational way
to learn about the area’s Civil War past while negotiating the rapids in a
family-oriented rafting trip.
History
Rafters may even hear the story about when George
Washington needed troops to help defend Boston and the boys from Mecklenburg marched
over 600 miles in 24 days in the famous “Beeline March to Cambridge.”
Shortly after the American Revolution, James Rumsey, once a resident of Bath (Berkeley
Springs) and Shepherdstown, invented the steamboat and tested it on the Potomac
River beside present-day Shepherdstown. A monument to his achievement stands beside
the river and there have been numerous groups that have tried to re-create his famed
steamships.
During the Civil War, Shepherdstown (then being called Shepherd’s
Town) was overrun by close to 8,000 wounded soldiers from the Battle of Antietam.
Over 285 Confederate soldiers are buried in Shepherdstown and there is now a walking
tour for those interested in the aftermath of the horrible fight at Antietam Creek.
A Night at the Movies
Following a stroll on the walking tour, visitors
can enjoy catching a movie at the
Shepherdstown Opera House. This movie theater was built in 1909 and was one of the
first theaters in the nation. After being renovated in 1992, this theater now plays
modern movies while still keeping its turn-of-the-century charm.
Dining
After the movie, stop by Shaharazade’s Exotic
Tea Room and try one of 40 different teas from around the world. Shaharazade’s
also offers fruit salads, grilled sandwiches, and many other Mediterranean and Middle
Eastern dishes. Or if you’re in the mood for more substantial fare, head off
to the Yellow Brick Bank, an upscale restaurant specializing in northern Italian
and American cuisine. Diners love their beef and chicken and many recommend the
corn chowder.
Lodging
Following the delicious meal, remember that Shepherdstown’s
many hotels offer the perfect place to lie down and rest. The Bavarian Inn blends fine dining, elegant rooms, verdant
golf greens, and a hint of Old World Germany to create a one-of-a-kind experience.
Oenophiles will be pleased to know that the
 Bavarian Inn
has a selection of over 600 wines from around the world. Lodgers may play a round
of golf at nearby Cress Creek Golf Club then cool down with a dip in the pool.
If today’s fast-paced world gets to be too
much, visit the Thomas Shepherd Inn and stay in one of its lushly decorated
rooms. This is truly an inn devoted to a simpler way of life and none of its six
guest rooms have televisions in them. However, guests may choose to stay connected
by the inn’s wireless network or the one television in the lounge. Complete
with a delicious breakfast in the morning, this bed and breakfast makes returning
home almost impossible.
But quaint inns, charming B & B’s, and
beautiful sights are only a few reasons to visit this small town gem though. Numerous
local shops dot the landscape and offer everything from baby clothing to fresh fruit
and vegetables. So remember, when life on the Beltway gets to be too hectic and
stressful, you only have to drive 80 miles to feel worlds away.
For more information, click here to visit Jefferson County Convention & Visitors
Bureau.
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