Discover Berkeley Springs, WV: Healing Waters, History, and Artsy Vibes

Tucked right in the heart of town, Berkeley Springs State Park is best known for its historic mineral spa, where visitors have been unwinding for centuries. The natural warm springs were once believed to have healing powers—people soaked to soothe aches or just melt the stress away. Even George Washington was a fan!

Highlights:

• Year-round spa services at two historic bathhouses
• Natural warm spring water with a relaxing vibe
• Great for families, couples, or solo recharge time
• Peaceful park setting in the middle of town
• Lots of charm and local history to soak up

Pro Tip:

Book a session at the Roman Bath House—private tubs filled with mineral-rich water are the perfect way to unwind after a road trip.

Address: 2 S Washington St, Berkeley Springs, WV 25411
Phone: 304-258-2711
wvstateparks.com/park/berkeley-springs-state-park

If you're a cat person—or even just cat-curious—Give Purrs A Chance is the perfect stop. This nonprofit cat adoption center has helped rehome over 500 cats since 2017, and the best part? You can hang out and play with the cats even if you’re not adopting. The whole place is inside a cozy two-story Victorian house where the cats roam free and run the show.

Highlights:

• Free-roaming cats in a charming Victorian home
• Over 500 adoptions since opening
• Visitors welcome even if not adopting
• Catique Boutique with handmade and vintage items
• Supports local artists and rescues

Pro Tip:

Pop into the Catique Boutique—you’ll find some unique, cat-themed goodies made by local artists, perfect for gifts or just treating yourself.

Address: 51 Independence St, Berkeley Springs, WV 25411
Phone: 304-258-7299
givepurrsachance.org

Tucked inside a former 19th-century Roman bath house, the Museum of the Berkeley Springs is a hidden gem for history buffs and curious wanderers alike. It’s all about sharing the rich (and quirky) past of the springs in a way that’s fun and easy to dive into. From old documents to Native American artifacts and vintage sketches, there's a little something for everyone.

Highlights:

• Located in a historic Roman bath house
• Exhibits packed with local history and photos
• Tools and arrowheads from Native American tribes
• Sketches by Porte Crayon on the “Delights of Berkeley”
• Rotating displays and one-of-a-kind artifacts

Pro Tip:

Don’t skip the Porte Crayon sketches—they offer a super charming (and sometimes funny) glimpse into how people enjoyed the springs back in the day.

Address: 2 Fairfax St, Berkeley Springs, WV 25411
Phone: 800-447-8797
museumoftheberkeleysprings.com

Perched on a hill overlooking town, the Berkeley Springs Castle (also called the Samuel Taylor Suit Cottage) looks like something straight out of a fairytale. Built back in 1885 as a getaway for a D.C. colonel, this stunning stone mansion has seen it all—from summer camps to museum days. While it’s a private residence now, it still steals the show from just about any angle.

Highlights:

• Gorgeous 19th-century stone architecture
• Located on a scenic hilltop
• Historic former retreat of Colonel Samuel Taylor Suit
• Previously used as a summer camp and museum
• Available for private event rentals

Pro Tip:

You can’t go inside for tours, but drive or walk by around golden hour—the view of the castle with the sun hitting it just right is seriously magical.

Address: 276 Cacapon Rd, Berkeley Springs, WV 25411
Phone: 304-258-4000
berkeleyspringscastle.com

Attractions for Couples

For a cozy, upscale dinner in town, Lot 12 Public House is a total standout. Set inside a beautifully preserved 1913 home, this place nails that warm, intimate vibe with food that’s just as thoughtful. The menu shifts with the seasons, offering fresh, locally sourced dishes crafted by husband-and-wife team Jan and Jonathan Heath, both proud Berkeley Springs locals.

Highlights:

• Elegant setting in a historic home
• Seasonal New American menu
• Locally sourced, farm-fresh ingredients
• Curated wine list
• Vegetarian and gluten-free options available

Pro Tip:

Reservations are a smart move—especially on weekends—and be sure to ask about the nightly specials. The kitchen loves to get creative with what’s in season.

Address: 117 Warren St, Berkeley Springs, WV 25411
Phone: 304-258-6264
lot12.com

Just a quick 3-mile drive west of town, Prospect Overlook (also called Panorama Overlook) is one of those “pull over and wow” kind of spots. From up here, you get wide-open views of the Potomac River winding through the Great Cacapon Valleys, with West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Maryland all meeting in one epic vista.

Highlights:

• Stunning tri-state panoramic views
• Easy roadside stop with parking
• Historic marker about Civil War events in 1862
• Great photo op, especially at sunset
• 11-mile hiking trail from Cacapon State Park

Pro Tip:

Bring a pair of binoculars and a snack—it’s a perfect spot to take a breather and enjoy the scenery. If you’re up for a hike, the trail from Cacapon State Park makes this an awesome reward at the end.

Prospect Overlook, 3299 Cacapon Rd, Berkeley Springs, WV 25411
Phone: 301-707-3201

Where to Eat

Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast spot or just a solid coffee hang, Fairfax Coffee House & Eatery is a local favorite that feels like home. Set right in the heart of Berkeley Springs, this laid-back spot has a warm vibe, friendly faces, and some seriously tasty homemade breakfast and lunch options. It’s the kind of place where regulars know each other’s orders.

Highlights:

• Hearty breakfast and lunch menu
• Spacious, relaxed atmosphere with bar seating
• Board games and comfy hangout corners
• Local merch like mugs and t-shirts
• Outdoor seating for sunny-day people watching

Pro Tip:

Grab a seat outside with your coffee on a nice day—it’s one of the best places in town to people watch and soak in the local charm.

Address: 23 Fairfax St, Berkeley Springs, WV 25411
Phone: 304-500-2710
fairfaxcoffeehouse.com

Stepping into Maria's Garden and Inn feels like visiting a home filled with love, faith, and great food. Run by the Perry family and inspired by matriarch Margaret “Peg” Perry’s kitchen talents, this cozy spot combines hearty meals with heartfelt history. The dining area is filled with religious relics, statues, and rosaries collected over the years, giving it a truly one-of-a-kind charm.

Highlights:

• Homestyle meals in a faith-filled setting
• Unique decor featuring religious keepsakes from around the world
• Family-run with deep local roots
• Charming connected inn for overnight stays
• Warm, welcoming atmosphere

Pro Tip:

If you’re staying overnight, grab breakfast early and take a moment to explore the artifacts around the restaurant—there’s a story behind nearly every piece.

Address: 42 Independence St, Berkeley Springs, WV 25411
Phone: 304-258-2021
mariasgarden.com

If you’re looking for a no-frills spot to kick back, grab a bite, and catch the game, Hillbilly Heaven Bar and Grill is the place. Opened in 2010 by local brothers Tim and Andy Coble, this laid-back hangout is part sports bar, part neighborhood gathering spot, and all good vibes. Whether you’re here for pulled pork, prime rib, or seafood, you’ll want to pair it with something from their huge drink menu.

Highlights:

• Casual, friendly atmosphere
• Big menu with hearty bar food
• Full drink selection—local to international
• Pool tables and sports on the TVs
• Often ranked the area’s #1 nightclub

Pro Tip:

Come by on a game night or weekend evening—the energy’s great, and the prime rib specials go fast. Plus, there’s always a cold beer with your name on it.

Address: 3280 Martinsburg Rd, Berkeley Springs, WV 25411
Phone: 304-258-0004
facebook.com/HillbillyHeaven10

Recommended for Nature Lovers

Tucked at the foot of the Cacapon Mountains—home to the highest peak in West Virginia’s eastern panhandle—Cacapon Resort State Park is your go-to for a peaceful, nature-filled escape. Whether you're up for hiking, swimming, or just unplugging for a while, this place has it all. Stay in one of their cozy 12 timber cabins, fully equipped with modern kitchens, comfy living spaces, and full bathrooms—perfect for both families and quiet getaways.

Highlights:

• 12 fully-equipped rustic cabins with modern amenities
• 6 scenic hiking trails, including Cacapon Ridge and Ziler Loop
• Swimming and boating available in summer
• Lifeguard on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day
• Peaceful setting in the shadow of the mountains

Pro Tip:

Try the Ziler Loop Trail if you're up for a challenge—it’s 8km of rewarding views. For something easier, the Cacapon Ridge Trail is a great intro to the park’s beauty.

Cacapon Resort State Park, WV-9, Berkeley Springs, WV 25411
Phone: 301-258-1022