Looking for rich Civil War history, scenic farmland, and small-town tranquility? Head to Sharpsburg! Tucked into western Maryland near the Potomac River, Sharpsburg is best known as the site of the Battle of Antietam—the bloodiest single day in American history. Today, it's a peaceful town surrounded by countryside, historic landmarks, and outdoor recreation.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Sharpsburg is from April through October. Spring and fall offer mild weather and beautiful views of the countryside and battlefields. Summer is ideal for Civil War tours and festivals, while winter is quiet and reflective with fewer crowds.
How to Get There
- By Car: Sharpsburg is located near MD-65 and MD-34, about 90 minutes from Washington, D.C. and Baltimore.
- By Air: The nearest major airports are Dulles International (IAD) and Baltimore/Washington International (BWI), each about 1.5 to 2 hours away by car.
- By Train: MARC trains and Amtrak serve nearby towns like Harpers Ferry and Martinsburg, with rental car or shuttle options to Sharpsburg.
Where to Stay
- Jacob Rohrbach Inn – Charming B&B steps from Antietam Battlefield, offering historic ambiance and hearty breakfasts.
- Bavarian Inn (Shepherdstown, WV) – Elegant riverside inn just 10 minutes away with German cuisine and scenic views.
- Red Byrd Cottage Retreat – Quaint and quiet cottage rental perfect for couples or history buffs looking to unwind.
Top Attractions
⮕ Walk Through History at Antietam National Battlefield
Antietam National Battlefield is a lovely unit of the National Park Service, preserving the site of the seminal Civil War Battle of Antietam, which took place in September of 1862. The battlefield, which is located along the banks of Antietam Creek in Sharpsburg, sits within the beautiful foothills of the Appalachian Mountains near the stunning Potomac River. It was established as a National Battlefield Site in 1890 and redesignated in its current state in 1978. Today, visitors can explore the National Register of Historic Places-listed site and learn about its history through exhibits and audio tours at its family-friendly visitor center. Antietam National Cemetery, which adjoins the park, inters nearly 5,000 Civil War-era burials, along with gravesites of veterans from other major American conflicts. Other attractions include the Pry House Field Hospital Museum, which showcases medical care technology from the 19th century.
302 E Main St, Sharpsburg, MD 21782
⮕ Reflect on a Pivotal Moment at Burnside’s Bridge
Burnside's Bridge is a landmark bridge located within the Antietam National Battlefield grounds, originally constructed in 1836. The bridge is one of five similar bridges designed by master bridge architect John Weaver and is considered to be one of the most photographed and photogenic bridges of the Civil War era. It crosses over lovely Antietam Creek and played a seminal role in the Civil War Battle of Antietam, when Confederate soldiers held off advance attempts from Union IX Army Corps troops under the command of Major General Ambrose E. Burnside. Following the war, the United States government acquired the bridge and its surrounding land for incorporation into the National Battlefield site. Today, visitors can walk across the bridge as part of exploration of the larger battlefield site and view lovely panoramas of the surrounding area.
Union Advance Trail, Sharpsburg, MD 21782
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
⮕ Sip Local Wines at Antietam Creek Vineyards
Antietam Creek Vineyards are located on the grounds of a beautiful 1903 dairy barn in Sharpsburg, set against the shadow of beautiful South Mountain less than an hour from Washington, D.C. The winery, which is owned by married duo Joan Larrea and George Warmenhoven, borders the southern edge of the Antietam National Battlefield, which commemorates the deadliest battle on American soil in the nation's history. Visitors can taste delicious estate wines throughout the year at the winery's public tasting room, including favorite red and white varietals such as Cabernets Franc and Sauvignon, Malbec, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Albariño. Fruit wines are also crafted seasonally, including peach wine produced with fruit grown directly on the farm's estate. On select days, food and barbecue trucks are parked on site, offering dining options to complement wine tastings and sales.
4835 Branch Ave, Sharpsburg, MD 21782, Phone: 240-490-2851
⮕ Visit a Landmark of Civil Rights at The Kennedy Farm
The Kennedy Farm is a lovely National Historic Landmark property in southern Washington County which is historically noted as the planning site of radical abolitionist John Brown's raid on Harper's Ferry in 1859. The farmhouse, which is also known as John Brown's Headquarters, was occupied by Brown and his co-conspirators for three months while they planned an attack on a federal armory as part of an attempted slave rebellion. Though Brown's rebellion was a failure and he was executed for his crimes, the attempted raid is noted today as a major galvanizing force in anti-slavery positions leading to the outbreak of the American Civil War. Today, the farm is open to the public as an historic site and memorial, returned to its 19th-century condition by the Black Elks nonprofit organization. It is open to the public for guided tours by appointment, showcasing restored historic rooms and decor in its two-story structure.
2406 Chestnut Grove Rd, Sharpsburg, MD 21782
⮕ Explore African American Heritage at Tolson's Chapel
Tolson's Chapel is a National Register of Historic Places-listed church in Sharpsburg, noted for its use as a Freedmen's Bureau school for African Americans immediately following the American Civil War. The church, which was constructed in 1866, serves as a living symbol of the importance of the Emancipation Proclamation and the promise of new life it held for African Americans following the abolition of slavery in America. Following its deconsecration in 1998, the church underwent major restoration and preservation efforts led by the Sharpsburg community. Today, it is overseen by the nonprofit group Friends of Tolson's Chapel and open to the public for guided tours throughout the year by appointment.
111 E High St, Sharpsburg, MD 21782
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Newcomer House – Civil War-era farmhouse that now serves as an interpretive center and gateway to the Heart of the Civil War Heritage Area.
- Pry House Field Hospital Museum – Located on General McClellan’s headquarters grounds, offering insight into Civil War medicine.
- C&O Canal Towpath – Bike or walk this scenic trail that runs along the Potomac River and offers access to Harpers Ferry and Shepherdstown.
Where to Eat
- Nutter’s Ice Cream – Famous for generous scoops, this local favorite is a must-stop after exploring the battlefield.
- Captain Bender’s Tavern – Cozy pub in nearby Sharpsburg offering burgers, wings, and a full bar in a relaxed atmosphere.
- Blue Moon Café (Shepherdstown) – Just a short drive away, this eclectic café serves fresh, creative fare in a leafy riverside setting.
If you are interested in local events:
- Antietam Battlefield Memorial Illumination (December) – A moving annual tribute with 23,000 candles, one for each casualty of the battle.
- Sharpsburg Heritage Festival (September) – Local celebration featuring crafts, food, live music, and Civil War history exhibits.
- Living History Weekends (various dates) – Reenactments, encampments, and demonstrations at Antietam National Battlefield.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30–60 Minutes of Sharpsburg, Maryland:
- Harpers Ferry, WV (20 min) – Hike, shop, and explore a town rich in Civil War and abolitionist history at the meeting of two rivers.
- Shepherdstown, WV (15 min) – Stroll this artsy college town filled with boutiques, restaurants, and historic buildings.
- Boonsboro, MD (15 min) – Home to Antietam Creek Vineyards and the Inn BoonsBoro, owned by author Nora Roberts.
- South Mountain State Park (30 min) – Hike the Appalachian Trail and visit scenic overlooks along the ridgeline.
- Hagerstown, MD (25 min) – Offers shopping, museums, and the Maryland Theatre for live performances.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What is Sharpsburg known for?
- Sharpsburg is a lovely town in Maryland, best known as the home of Antietam National Battlefield.
- The battlefield is a National Park Service unit that preserves the site of one of the bloodiest battles of the American Civil War.
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What historical sites can visitors explore in Sharpsburg?
- The town features numerous National Register of Historic Places-listed locations.
- Key sites include the Sharpsburg Historic District and Tolson's Chapel, an important school for freed African Americans following the Civil War.
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What annual events take place in Sharpsburg?
- Each year, the city hosts a renowned Memorial Day celebration.
- This event is considered to be one of the nation’s first Memorial Day celebrations at its inception.
Plan Your Trip
Table of Contents:
- 1. Walk Through History at Antietam National Battlefield
- 2. Reflect on a Pivotal Moment at Burnside’s Bridge
- 3. Sip Local Wines at Antietam Creek Vineyards
- 4. Visit a Landmark of Civil Rights at The Kennedy Farm
- 5. Explore African American Heritage at Tolson's Chapel