Charles Town Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Charles Town which includes street scenes and a small town or village
Charles Town showing a monument and heritage elements
Charles Town
Charles Town featuring heritage elements
Charles Town

George Washington’s brother, Charles, founded this town. View parts of his original abode along with other historically important buildings. 

Charles Town is known for its associations with the Washington family. It’s also the site where prominent abolitionist John Brown was hanged before the American Civil War began. Get familiar with the town’s past at historical homes and play slot machines at the casino.

The town was founded in 1786 by Charles Washington, George Washington’s younger brother. As you explore, notice that the streets are all named after Washington family members, including his brother Samuel and wife Mildred and a square named after George.

Visit Happy Retreat, the one-time home of Charles Washington. Admire the Greek Revival-style structure from outside. The interior is not generally open to the public.

Another major historical site in town is the Gibson-Todd House, an architecturally eclectic building dating back to the late 19th century. Look for the marker on the grounds, indicating the spot where abolitionist John Brown was hanged for attempting to incite a slave rebellion.

Stroll down Washington Street to see the still-functioning Jefferson County Courthouse where Brown was tried. Learn more about the history of Charles Town and the surrounding region at the Jefferson County Museum.

When you’ve exhausted the town’s heritage attractions, enter the Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. Watch thoroughbreds racing, hope to get lucky on some of the 2,700 slot machines, play table games or enjoy a meal at an on-site restaurant. Other fun activities in the region include tastings at Bloomery Plantation Distillery, which produces a range of flavored liqueurs.

Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking the trails and bird-watching at the nearby Shannondale Springs Wildlife Management Area or playing a round of golf at Sleepy Hollow Country Club. For evening entertainment, attend a performance at the intimate Old Opera House theatre.

Charles Town is just over an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C. The nearest train station is in Harpers Ferry, about 7 miles (11 kilometres) away. Delve into history of the Civil War era and beyond at this small Appalachian town.

Days Inn by Wyndham Charles Town/Harpers Ferry

Days Inn by Wyndham Charles Town/Harpers Ferry

2 out of 5
642 E Washington Street, Charles Town, WV
The price is ₹5,737 per night from 13 Aug to 14 Aug
₹5,737
₹6,483 total
13 Aug - 14 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Charles Town. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,001 reviews)
"Nice, quiet, clean place to stay without blowing up your budget."

Reviewed on 16 Jul 2025

Days Inn by Wyndham Charles Town/Harpers Ferry
Hampton Inn & Suites Charles Town

Hampton Inn & Suites Charles Town

2.5 out of 5
157 Pimlico Dr, Charles Town, WV
The price is ₹10,885 per night from 27 Jul to 28 Jul
₹10,885
₹12,191 total
27 Jul - 28 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this hotel in Charles Town. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in their reviews. ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,003 reviews)
"Good place to stay."

Reviewed on 12 Jul 2025

Hampton Inn & Suites Charles Town
Holiday Inn Express Charles Town by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Charles Town by IHG

2.5 out of 5
681 Flowing Springs Rd, Charles Town, WV
Fully refundable
The price is ₹9,557 per night from 30 Jul to 31 Jul
₹9,557
₹10,799 total
30 Jul - 31 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Charles Town. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,004 reviews)
"Very nice room great pool good shuttle service"

Reviewed on 14 Jul 2025

Holiday Inn Express Charles Town by IHG
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Brushcreek Falls RV Resort

Brushcreek Falls RV Resort

3 out of 5
5127 Eads Mill Rd, Princeton, WV
Stay at this 3-star golf cabin in Princeton. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (92 reviews)
"Well maintained, staff were very couteous and mini golf was quite fun. We stayed in the farm house that can accomodate upto 12 guests (4 Bedrooms and 2 Bathrooms), the house was decorated with antique/rusty tools that gave it a unique character,kids loved it!! Overall it was a fun experience."

Reviewed on 22 Jun 2025

Brushcreek Falls RV Resort
Bear Paw Cottage- 12 Mins To Seneca Rocks 3 Bedroom Cottage

Bear Paw Cottage- 12 Mins To Seneca Rocks 3 Bedroom Cottage

3 out of 5
12903 North Fork Highway, Cabins, WV
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly cottage in Cabins. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and an in-room coffee maker. Popular attraction Echo Park is located ...
A good stay
"Family had a good time in the mountains at Canaan and Whitegrass. The place was just what we needed. Thanks."

Reviewed on 22 Jan 2025

Bear Paw Cottage- 12 Mins To Seneca Rocks 3 Bedroom Cottage
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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3/5 - Okay

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