Charles Town

Travel Guide
Charles Town showing a small town or village and street scenes
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 theater.

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 kilometers) away. Delve into history of the Civil War era and beyond at this small Appalachian town.

Rodeway Inn & Suites - Charles Town, WV
Rodeway Inn & Suites - Charles Town, WV
2 out of 5
741 E Washington St, Charles Town, WV
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is CA $95 per night from Nov. 14 to Nov. 15
CA $95
CA $107 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 14 - Nov 15
Book a stay at this business-friendly motel in Charles Town. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (871 reviews)
"Very nice and friendly staff. The hotel is very close to Hapers Ferry, WV, a huge casino, restaurants, wineries, breweries and more."

Reviewed on Oct. 29, 2024

Rodeway Inn & Suites - Charles Town, WV
The Inn at Charles Town
The Inn at Charles Town
3 out of 5
100 Hollywood Dr, Charles Town, WV
The price is CA $142 per night from Nov. 4 to Nov. 5
CA $142
CA $173 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 4 - Nov 5
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Charles Town. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (409 reviews)
Could have been better
"Check in wasn't all that good. Check in at 3, the first clerk said rooms are not ready til 4. I understand that. Went back at 3:50 ask 2 clerk was rooms ready. She ask for ID and then she put my ID and keys in my face. That didn;t go well at all. She didn't tell me about breakfast, the hours,where ..."

Reviewed on Oct. 28, 2024

The Inn at Charles Town
Home2 Suites by Hilton Charles Town
Home2 Suites by Hilton Charles Town
3 out of 5
70 Jefferson Crossing Way, Charles Town, WV
The price is CA $212 per night from Nov. 6 to Nov. 7
CA $212
CA $237 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 6 - Nov 7
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Charles Town. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (673 reviews)
"This is a good hotel to stay at if you want to visit Harpers Ferry and Antitem. It is centrally located , has numerous food options and a very friendly staff. The property was quiet and clean"

Reviewed on Oct. 22, 2024

Home2 Suites by Hilton Charles Town
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.
Terra Alta - Incredible River Views and Hot Tub!
Terra Alta - Incredible River Views and Hot Tub!
Charles Town
Book a stay at this family-friendly vacation home in Charles Town. Enjoy free WiFi, patios, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Hollywood Casino ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (51 reviews)
Vacaciones de luna de miel
"Está bien hermosa la casa"

Reviewed on Oct. 25, 2024

Terra Alta - Incredible River Views and Hot Tub!
Modern Country House on the Shenandoah River
Modern Country House on the Shenandoah River
Charles Town
Book a stay at this family-friendly vacation home in Charles Town. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and patios. Popular attractions Shenandoah Lake Beach and Holy ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (29 reviews)
Peace and Calm
"Birds chirping, nice breezes and stunning views! Adventures down to the river and room for us all in the great room! Would love to go back!"

Reviewed on Oct. 20, 2024

Modern Country House on the Shenandoah River
Charles Town Home w/ Private Pool & Hot Tub
Charles Town Home w/ Private Pool & Hot Tub
Charles Town
Book a stay at this family-friendly vacation home in Charles Town. Enjoy private pools, patios, and cable/satellite TV service. Popular attractions Hollywood ...
10/10 Exceptional! (28 reviews)
Great Girls Getaway
"Lots of space for everyone, excellent pool and hot tub"

Reviewed on Oct. 22, 2024

Charles Town Home w/ Private Pool & Hot Tub
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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