Some places don’t shout. They whisper. Berkeley Springs, West Virginia, is one of them. Tucked into the Appalachian foothills, this quiet town invites you to let go of schedules, notifications, and the usual hurry. You don’t come here to cross items off a checklist; you come to finally take a breath.
And once you do, you’ll discover there’s far more waiting for you than you’d expect. Here are 24 ways to experience Berkeley Springs and around it, from mineral springs to mountaintop views and old battlefields to cozy cat cafes.
The Healing Heart of Berkeley Springs
- Berkeley Springs State Park: Right in the center of town, these historic warm springs have been drawing visitors for centuries. George Washington bathed here (literally, you can still see the original George Washington Bathtub). The natural springs flow at a constant 74 degrees. During the warmer months, the seasonal outdoor pool fills with spring water, providing a refreshing, naturally filtered swim experience unlike anything you’ll find at home.
- Berkeley Springs Castle: Just a short walk uphill from the park sits the quirky, European-style Berkeley Springs Castle. Built in the late 1800s, it’s a local icon that is part history, part mystery, and worth seeing up close. Schedule a tour.
- Berkeley Springs Bath House (Berkeley Springs State Park): Slip into the warm mineral baths that made this town famous. Private soaking tubs, Roman baths, and professional massages are all offered here.
- Old Roman Bath House (Berkeley Springs State Park): This original 1815 structure still operates, preserving the old-world charm that first made Berkeley Springs a wellness destination.
- Atasia Spa: Tucked just off the main park, Atasia offers massages, facials, and hydrotherapy, blending the town’s historic healing culture with modern relaxation.
- Berkeley Springs Salt Cave: It’s a different kind of stillness. Recline in a zero-gravity chair as therapeutic salt air works its subtle magic.
- Renaissance Spa: Located inside The Country Inn, this full-service spa offers couples massages, body treatments, and a refined spa experience.
- Healing Waters Spa (Cacapon Resort State Park): A bit farther out but well worth it, this spa offers another opportunity to relax deeply after a hike or round of golf.
Views That Stay With You
- Prospect Peak: One of the best panoramic views in the entire region. The Potomac River winds through three states from this vantage point. It’s a short drive and an even shorter walk to the overlook.
- Cacapon Mountain Overlook: The highest point in the area, offering vast vistas of the valley below. A perfect reward after a leisurely hike or scenic drive.
The Great Outdoors (and Then Some)
- Cacapon Resort State Park (10 miles from Berkeley Springs): Cacapon is a playground for nature lovers and families. Test your swing at the Robert Trent Jones Sr. designed golf course. Paddleboard across the lake, hike 23 miles of trails, ride horseback through shaded forests, or try your hand at clay pigeon shooting. There’s also a dog park, playgrounds, a nature center, and a beach with swimming facilities. It’s as relaxed or active as you want it to be.
- Paw Paw Tunnel (20 miles from Berkeley Springs): Part of the old C&O Canal, this nearly mile-long tunnel feels like you’re stepping into another world. Bring a flashlight—and your sense of adventure.
- Cacapon River Outfitters: Float trips, kayaking, or fishing—they’ll get you on the water with ease. The Cacapon River is calm, clear, and full of wildlife.
- Triple C Outfitters (Cacapon State Park): Saddle up for guided horseback rides that weave through wooded trails. Whether you’re a first-time rider or an experienced one, the guides make it easy.
- Good Luck Stables: Looking for more personalized riding lessons or a quieter trail experience? Good Luck Stables offers private rides and lessons throughout the year.
A Bit of History Around Every Corner
- Battlefields / Civil War History: While Berkeley Springs stayed relatively peaceful, nearby sites reveal the larger conflicts of the Civil War. Local museums share personal stories from the era.
- Harpers Ferry National Battlefield (50 miles from Berkeley Springs): A stunning place where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers meet. The preserved town offers museums, hiking trails, and a rich Civil War history.
- Antietam National Battlefield (40 miles from Berkeley Springs): The site of the bloodiest single-day battle in American history. The rolling fields are hauntingly peaceful now, but the gravity of what happened here remains.
Small Town Fun, Big Memories
- Historic Star Theatre: You won’t find a more charming movie house. Classic films, first-runs, and local events all feel special beneath the glow of the old marquee.
- Midway Bowl: An old-school bowling alley where locals gather, families laugh, and visitors discover that a simple game can still make for a perfect evening.
- Ice House: More than an art gallery, The Ice House also hosts classes, live music, and rotating exhibits that showcase the creative heartbeat of the community.
- Mountaineer Birdies: An indoor golf simulator that’s surprisingly challenging and fun. Great for families or anyone looking for a lighthearted competition.
- Cat Café: Adoptable cats lounging all around you. If you’ve never tried a cat cafe, this is your chance.
- Healing Springs Stroll: Take an entertaining tour through the Historic Town of Bath and and State Park of Berkeley Springs
Planning Your Stay Is Half the Fun
The beauty of Berkeley Springs isn’t just the number of things you can do; it’s that none of them rush you. Whether you’re hiking a forest trail or soaking in spring water, you’re given room to slow down. And there’s no better way to fully enjoy that than by staying in your own private cottage.
Berkeley Springs Cottage Rentals offers a diverse selection of cabins, homes, and mountain retreats to suit every type of traveler. Whether you want a romantic weekend, a family getaway, or a place to simply sit on the porch with a cup of coffee, you’ll find it here. And when you book directly, you can save up to 20% compared to third-party sites.
Stop scrolling. Start planning.
Berkeley Springs is waiting. All you need to do is say yes.