New in Town? Places to Visit in Charles Town

When you’re new in town, it can be difficult to figure out the best places to shop, dine, and hang out. This is especially true in an area like Charles Town that’s so close to places like Sterling, Virginia, Hagerstown, Maryland, and Washington, D.C.

Charles Town is located in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia, which is not only close to Virginia, Maryland, and D.C., but is also close to more well-known West Virginia hotspots, like Harpers Ferry and Shepherdstown.   

Sometimes, it’s easier to drive out to Frederick, Maryland for a date night or to head into Virginia to shop because you’re just not sure what there is where you live. Here’s a list of places to visit in downtown Charles Town (and around) to help you get to know the area.

Ideas for Date Night

You don’t need to travel into Frederick or Leesburg to find great food and entertainment. There are plenty of local restaurants to try in downtown Charles Town, and if you’re looking for some entertainment, you can check out what shows are playing at The Old Opera House.

If you’re in the mood for Mexican food, check out Ortega’s Taco Shop downtown. Their street tacos are to die for! There are also a handful of Mexican restaurants just minutes from downtown, including Mi Degollado in Charles Town and El Ranchero in Ranson.

Charles Town is also home to a fabulous Puertorican restaurant, Cocina Plantosaurus. If you’re vegan or enjoy plant-based cuisine, this is the place to be. Check them out on Sooshi Tuesdays for vegan, gluten free sushi items!

Volcano sushi roll at Cocina Plantosaurus

For those who appreciate a good drink, head down to Paddy’s Irish Pub or Abolitionist Ale Works. From authentic Irish fare and delicious cocktails to artisan pizza and craft beer, these are two fabulous options for a fun date night.

Love Thai food? Check out Sumittra Thai Cuisine in downtown Charles Town. Just twenty minutes away, you’ll also find Kome Thai & Sushi Bistro in Shepherdstown.  

Places to Take the Kids

If you’re looking for some places to take the kiddos on the weekend, you’ll want to check out Kylie’s Confections. From freshly baked cosmic brownies and signature cupcakes to hearty soups and sandwiches, this bakery is the perfect place to stop in for a fun treat or quick lunch.

In the summer, The Caverns Ice Cream Shop is the perfect place to grab a cold treat. You can visit them in the winter, too, for soups and sandwiches!  

Orr’s Farm Market in Martinsburg is another popular weekend spot to take the kids. Just 30 minutes from Charles Town, Orr’s is the perfect place to pick fruit and berries or interact with animals.

Calf at Orr's

Their barnyard packages, which are available by reservation only, include:

• Admission to barnyard animal viewing, which includes their bunnies, goats, sheep, and other adorable creatures
• Access to their Farmer Fun Playground
• A scenic hayride
• Storybook trail
• Other fun activities, depending on which package you choose!

You can also book birthday parties for your littles at Orr’s. Find out more information here.

Looking for activities to enroll your child in? Charles Town has:

• Dance: Decade Dance Academy and the Old Opera House
• Martial Arts: Grappling Arts 360
• Horseback Riding: Crossties Ancient Oaks Farm

Meetups with Friends

If you’re meeting up with friends or coworkers, Charles Town has some intimate spots for coffee and lunch dates.

Stop into Sibling Coffee Roasters for a delicious latte and baked goods (my go-to latte flavor is lavender) or head down to Teyta’s Treats, a Middle Eastern bakery with so many yummy goodies, for baklava, freshly baked breads, meat pies, and more.

Grab your girlfriend and head over to Needful Things Emporium for a unique shopping experience. Check out the various vendors showcased inside, then walk down to Fuzzy Dogs Books & Music to peruse their three floors of books and records.

Self-Care

Don’t forget to take time for yourself while exploring downtown!

• Hair and Facials: Studio M Boutique and Headhunters Salon and Day Spa
• Nails: Nails by KenzieM and Natalie’s Nails in Ranson
• Makeup and Skincare: Sokel Makeup & Skincare and Wholeisitc Esthetics
• Massage: Effleurage Spa and Lavender Rose Holistique in Martinsburg
• Yoga: Double Iris Yoga & Massage
• Tattoos: Blue Heron Tattoo, No Tomorrow Tattoo, and HQ Tattoo & Art Collective

Nails by KenzieM

Stay up-to-date on events and business updates by following the Charles Town Now Facebook page.

If you’re looking to move to Charles Town, contact one of our agents today. Not only can we help you find the right home, but we can also point you to the best restaurants, shops, and experiences in the area!