Close-up of a glass of red wine with a blurred wine bottle in the background.

Things to do in Jefferson County

Whether you’re here for a weekend reset or a full itinerary, Jefferson County makes it easy to fill your day. Browse local shops, book a spa appointment, catch an event, or head outside for fresh air and scenic views. Stay awhile and see how quickly one stop becomes a whole getaway.

Two smiling men wearing helmets cycling on a sunny street with houses and green trees in the background.

From Relaxation to Races - and everything in between.

Logo for 'The Unexpected' featuring a circular design with the phrase 'Expect the Unexpected' and decorative elements, in brown and tan colors.
Horse race with multiple jockeys racing on a dirt track, wearing colorful uniforms and helmets.
Child in a harness crossing a wooden bridge in a forest ropes course with trees and green leaves.
Stage scene with five actors in vintage costumes, two women and three men, inside a decorated room with framed pictures, a fireplace, and ornate wallpaper.
Three gold star-shaped sparkles on a black background.

Activities For All  

  • Experience live Thoroughbred racing at Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races, featuring the Charles Town Classic, Race for the Ribbon, and West Virginia Breeders Classics.

  • The guided Harpers Ferry zipline tour answers your call for adventure. Zip through the treetops as you ride our network of 7 ziplines, including the fan-favorite free fall rappel at the end.

  • Jefferson County is rich with Civil War history, from preserved battle landscapes to interpretive stops that bring the past to life. Ideal for travelers who love story-driven exploration.

  • Step inside beautifully preserved streetscapes filled with architecture, plaques, and places with stories to tell. Perfect for a slower-paced afternoon of discovery.

  • In operation since 1911, the theatre presents six main stage productions, a summer family production, a one-act play festival, and a ballet every year.

Shop Local in
Jefferson County

  • Harpers Ferry Park Association Bookshop — books + gifts, and a popular stop for National Park Passport stamps

  • Harpers Ferry Outfitters — outdoor essentials for river days + hikes

  • Mountaineer Popcorn — incredible assortment of flavors

  • True Treats Historic Candy — historic sweets and a signature stop

  • Bushel & Peck — locally sourced produce

Young boy shopping at a market stall with fresh tomatoes, peppers, and other vegetables.
A man wearing a red cap and sunglasses sitting in a canoe on a river, smiling, holding a wooden paddle, with lush green trees in the background.
Two people, an older man and a woman, smiling and standing in front of a market stall with jars of homemade jam. The man wears a green apron, and the woman holds a bunch of green vegetables. Other shoppers and market tents are in the background on a
Young woman browsing books in a cozy bookstore with wooden shelves, artwork, and decorations.
People sit at a table outdoors in a backyard garden, with trees and greenery around. In the background, there is a small stage or structure with people near it.
A smiling man wearing a hat and gray shirt standing on a grassy area in front of a street with historic brick buildings, with a group of children and adults walking in the background.

Small Town Charm

Three gold star shapes against a black background.
A street filled with people attending a car show, with various classic and sports cars on display, some with hoods open, in front of brick buildings and a clock tower.
A man and woman dancing together outdoors, dressed in traditional Bavarian clothing, with a background of green foliage.

DON’t MiSs eVENTS

  • Late January: Frostyfest

  • Early March: Restaurant Week

  • June: WV Fest in Charles Town

  • July: Contemporary American Theater Festival

  • August: African-American Cultural & Heritage Festival

  • Labor Day Weekend: Charles Town Car Show

  • Late September: Mountain Heritage Arts & Crafts Festival

  • Late September: Annual Oktoberfest

  • Mid October: Freedom’s Run Marathon

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