Homes for Sale in Shepherdstown WV

Voted as one of the U.S. coolest towns, the picturesque Shepherdstown welcomes you with a perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity. You don’t need to paint the town red as it's aligned with red-brick buildings. But more than its facade and world-famous summer theater festival, there’s more to this charming town of Jefferson County. Located only 90 minutes away from Washington, D.C.- Baltimore metro zone, this West Virginia’s oldest town is ideal for residents looking for a laidback way of life.

Tucked away from the busy urban life, this remarkable community in the lower Shenandoah Valley along the Potomac River might not have the most affluent resident groups in West Virginia. But this humble town still has a lot to offer with its residential development. Perfect for a starting or growing family or even young professionals as its real estate neighborhoods offer subdivisions with single-family and duplex homes.

It’s also home to Shepherd University, a renowned public university where learning goes beyond the classroom walls. The university also held art and cultural events wherein both the students and community residents flocked.

Arts and community events flourish in Shepherdstown. As mentioned above, this town boasts of the Contemporary American Theater Festival, one of New York Times recognized “50 Essential Summer Festivals.” Aside from the theater fete, there are multiple studio tours, gallery shows, and workshops around. Film-related festivals are a go-to for movie enthusiasts such as the acclaimed American Conservation Film Festival, Cut to the Chase Film Festival, and Shepherdstown Film Society.  

Another fascinating identity of this town is its historical sites. The wholesome town of Shepherdstown dates back to the 18th century. No wonder it still has its Old World ambiance and colonial elegance. For Civil War history lovers, the Historic Shepherdstown Museum is a must on their checklist. The Historic Shepherdstown Commission has preserved and exhibited antiques and documents from the town’s first three centuries that include Civil War artifacts, rifles, and a mail wagon. 

But wait, there are more museums with equally compelling collections. On one hand, here are Hagerstown Railroad Museum and the Hagerstown Roundhouse Museum which feature collections from the Western Maryland Railroad Company, a trolley, trains for kids to run, and railroad artifacts dating back to 1833. On the other hand, the Hagerstown Aviation Museum showcases museum aircraft that were built in Hagerstown. When it’s about the county’s rural and agricultural heritage, don’t forget that it’s in the Washington County Rural Heritage Museum.  

Up for some thrill? This seemingly easy county can tease you with its mystery. Shepherdstown is distinctly known as one of the most haunted towns in the U.S. Not for the faint-hearted, hop in the Shepherdstown Mysteries Walk wherein a guide will tell you about the town’s folklore and creepy tales.

If your idea of recreation spells outdoors, Shepherdstown will not disappoint. With multiple entry points to the Potomac River branching in and around town, you’ll never run out of adventures to indulge with. The residents of Shepherdstown can easily enjoy water activities like swimming, tubing, kayaking, and fishing. Or other land activities such as biking, bird-watching, and camping. Additionally, this remarkable community is surrounded by National Parks like Harpers Ferry, the Antietam National Battlefield, and the C&O Canal.  

After all the activities, indulge yourself in some flavorful feast. You really wouldn’t get to know Shepherdstown until you experience its different dining choices. Because here, there’s something for every taste and budget. On top of the list is the award-winning Bavarian Inn, with an extensive German and American menu. Fancy a charming cafe and outside dining? Head on to the Blue Moon Cafe for their salads and sandwiches. 

If these are what you’re looking for in your next home, we at ERA Liberty Realty are always there for you to assist you in your home buying. Let’s talk! 

Living in Jefferson County, WV

The eastern gateway to the mountain state of West Virginia, Jefferson County welcomes you with its quaint towns, famous historical sites, and scenic beauty rich with recreational opportunities. It’s strategically situated only 60 miles from downtown Washington DC and 45 minutes' drive away from Dulles Airport. Tourists from the surrounding metros flock to the county to escape the fast-paced city life – either to slow down for a quick romantic weekend getaway or revel in a local festival. 

What was mainly hunting grounds for the native Americans and an agricultural district throughout the late 1800s to 1900s has turned and expanded to residential communities. It’s also an ideal site for business opportunities because of its large pool of skilled workforce, lower cost of living, cheaper land, utilities, and taxes. 

Named after Thomas Jefferson, Jefferson County will take you back in time. It’s the home of possibly the oldest town in West Virginia. It also has deep ties with the Washington family with the town that Charles Washington, George Washington’s brother, established. 

Most especially, the Civil War left a huge impact on Jefferson County. It’s evident with historical makers throughout the county. Different museums display artifacts in this pivotal period in our nation’s history. Who would’ve forgotten about the historic abolitionist John Brown’s raid, trial, and death? When the war ended, Storer College became the first higher learning institution for African Americans. 

There are no dull moments in Jefferson County especially when it has municipalities including its county seat Charles Town, Shepherdstown, Harpers Ferry, Ranson, and Bolivar. 

Where the past and present meet halfway, that’s where Charles Town is. As mentioned earlier, Charles Washington founded this town three centuries ago. Stroll through its historic downtown and check out his restored home, Happy Retreat. On the other hand, John Brown’s legend was punctuated at the Jefferson County Courthouse in 1859. Join the West Virginia Historic Theatre Trail and stopover at the eclectic art gem that is the Old Opera House. The night is equally exciting in Hollywood Casino & Inn at Charles Town Races. Try your luck either in the thrilling thoroughbred racing or at the roulette table. The dining options and live entertainment are their finest though there are also locally-owned, original shops and restaurants downtown.

Arguably West Virginia’s oldest town but Shepherdstown is Budget Travel’s one of America’s “Coolest Small Towns.” An hour's drive away from the metropolitan districts of Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, travelers can experience both the creative scene and the outdoor craze here. The performing arts and festivals are in the town’s bloodline. Don’t miss out on Shepherd’s University’s annual Performing Art Series, Appalachian Heritage Festival, and the Contemporary American Theater Festival. Up for some pumping action? Cycle on the C&O Canal towpath or kayak along the forested banks of the Potomac River, it’s your call. 

Quoting Reader’s Digest “If a tech-free escape is on your agenda, skip the usual suspects and set your sights on Harpers Ferry.” Go big or go inside Harpers Ferry National Historical Park for a world of adventure. Conquer the epic Appalachian Trail hike. Get wet and wild whitewater rafting or tubing by the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. What’s more, Harpers Ferry was WV Living’s "Best Town for History" for six years straight. Take a ranger-guided tour of John Brown and his army’s fiery three-day walk in 1859. Drop by at the Storer College or level up your visit with a ghost tour!

A very popular experience can be had at the Shepherdstown Farmers Market. It is available every Sunday from late March until December. It is located on King Street right off of German Street behind the library. Local produce, flowers, herbs, meats, honey, baked goods and more are available.