Exploring Hagerstown’s scenic byways
Dig into history — and local culture — along these three routes.
By WP Creative Group
When your travels combine history, natural beauty and local culture, visiting a charming, small town like Hagerstown, MD, should top your travel bucket list. But sometimes, the journey itself is the destination — like a leisurely road trip along the stunning scenic byways that snake through Hagerstown. Explore the roads less travelled: three scenic byways that crisscross through this Central Maryland region, including The Antietam Campaign Scenic Byway, The C&O (Chesapeake & Ohio) Canal Scenic Byway and The Maryland Historic National Road Scenic Byway.
“It’s a four-season destination, and you might want to see some different sites depending on what time of year you visit,” suggests local resident Jeremy Hulse, Park Manager for South Mountain Recreation Area. “All three byways pass through my hometown of Hagerstown in Washington County,” he says.
No matter which byway you choose — or when you visit — you’ll discover historic sites, quaint cafes, delightful small shops, rustic breweries and plenty of opportunities to explore this picturesque Maryland region.
The Antietam Campaign Scenic Byway
“Antietam Campaign Byway is really cool because it roughly follows the events of the Maryland Campaign of the Civil War, and it’s doable in a day drive,” points out Hulse.
History lovers should stop at sites such as at Antietam National Battlefield and Antietam National Cemetery near Sharpsburg to watch historical re-enactments of the lives of Civil War soldiers and stop in the Pry House Field Hospital Museum to learn about the care of wounded soldiers.
But you don’t need to be a history buff to enjoy the wonders of this scenic bypass. Along the way, you can immerse yourself in the local culture. Not sure where to start? Just stop in Bill van Gilder Pottery in Gapland for local suggestions.
“We get a lot of visitors following this trail,” says Bill van Gilder, owner of the pottery store. He also founded the Valley Craft Network Studio Tour, a curated network or more than a dozen local artisans who handcraft jewelry, clothing, soaps, furniture and more. “It’s where you come to find really fine art made by hand,” explains van Gilder. To introduce visitors to the area, van Gilder hands out a map outlining a “local flavor tour,” which starts in Gapland and continues into Pleasant Valley between Antietam and South Mountain.
For instance, where do locals eat and drink? Hulse suggests visiting Krumpe’s Do-Nuts, with fresh donuts available at their backdoor spot in Hagerstown every night at 7pm, and Dan’s Restaurant and Tap House in Boonsboro.
And van Gilder says, “If you want local flavor, stop at Bonnie’s at the Red Byrd for a fried oyster sandwich.” To satisfy your sweet tooth, van Gilder suggest Nutters, a family-owned ice cream parlor in Sharpsburg. “It’s a great place to take kids on a hot summer day.”
Thirsty? Stop at Pathfinder Farm Distillery in Keedysville, suggests van Gilder, to learn how this family-owned spirits business “turns sunshine into moonshine” by tapping into locally grown ingredients. More of a craft beer fan? “You’ll find a bunch of local breweries in the area like Antietam Brewery,” says Hulse. For wine lovers, check out Antietam Creek Vineyards; which hosts live music on the weekend.
Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy stopping by the many green spaces in the area, including Gathland State Park and a segment of the Appalachian Trail, with a scenic vista at Weverton Cliffs.
The C&O (Chesapeake & Ohio) Canal Scenic Byway
The Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) Canal originated as a corridor to haul lumber, coal, grain and livestock from west to east and now serves as a scenic byway for travelers looking for the perfect daylong trip. Dive into the area’s transportation history at the C&O Canal National Historical Park with a free, one-hour interpretive tour, courtesy of the Williamsport Launch Boat Program. Here, you’ll get an up-close look at the canal’s lockhouse, railroad lift bridge and warehouse. Plus, see the magnificent Conococheague Aqueduct spanning 196 feet and boasting three 60-foot arches.
Following the tour, get refueled at Williamsport’s Desert Rose Cafe and Sweet Shop, “serving karma by the cup, cone and confection.” For more than a decade, this quaint eatery famously attracts hikers and bikers along the canal with its sandwiches, vegetarian options, and quirky attitude (like its “fun on a bun” menu items). For outdoor seating with canal views, head to Buddylou’s Eats, Drink’s & Antiques in Hancock. Sandwiched between antique stores in the basement and attic, Buddylou’s offers homespun charm and home-cooked favorites like cherry pulled pork. Save room for dessert at The Blue Goose Fruit Market & Bakery, dishing up dozens of flavors of scratch-made pies (think strawberry rhubarb and apple cranberry) with locally sourced fruits.
Ready for a cold one? Make a pitstop at Cushwa Brewing Co., aptly named for the Cushwa Basin where the Canal boats turn around. Hint: Try the refreshing Lock 44 lager. Nearby, you’ll find Homaide Brewing Co., a craft nano brewery with rotating brews on tap, like the honey-tinged Bunches cream ale. For handcrafted whiskeys, bourbons and vodkas, head to Meinelschmidt Distillery, located in the heart of downtown Hagerstown.
The Maryland Historic National Road Scenic Byway
Nicknamed “The Road That Built the Nation,” the Maryland Historic National Road aimed to carry settlers and goods from Baltimore to the American frontier. Now transformed into a recreational hub, this hip, historic byway beckons visitors to dig into its storied past.
At Boonsboro’s Washington Monument State Park, hike a stretch of the Appalachian Trail, look for migratory birds (like hawks, eagles and falcons), and soak in stunning panoramic views atop the 1827 stone tower dedicated to George Washington. For an historical perspective, walk the hallowed grounds of South Mountain State Battlefield — the site of the first major Civil War battle in Maryland.
For a taste of nostalgia, visit Wilson’s Historic Village in Clear Spring. With dozens of old-fashioned candies on display, plus antiques and home-made potato chips — this general store will transport you to a bygone era.
Craving cultural experiences? Head to Hagertown’s historic Arts & Entertainment District and City Park, home to theaters, history centers, and art museums. A unique walking trail bursting with public art connects the two cultural districts.
If you’ve worked up an appetite, eat local. Head to Schmankerl Stube Bavarian Restaurant, a staple in Hagerstown for more than 30 years. (Schnitzel, anyone?) Step back in time at another local favorite, Boonsboro’s Old South Mountain Inn. Founded as early as 1732, this stately stone tavern serves American fine dining in an elegant Colonial ambiance.
When you’re ready for libations, head to the many liquid taste-makers dotting the area. For a boutique winery experience, check out the family-owned Blue Mountain Wine Crafters in Funkstown. Enjoy hand-crafted, small-batch wines, with a flair for fruit-based vino such as Maryland Scarlet-Chocolate Cherry. Or sip in bold flavors at the 100-acre Big Cork Vineyards with spectacular mountain views. The eco-friendly winery delivers award-winning varietals from grape to glass — including its silver-medalist, Nebbiolo. If you prefer a brew, try Hagerstown’s Upper Stem Brewery, which grows its own grain, hops, herbs and fruit used to produce its small-batch craft beer.
These Maryland scenic byways thread together small-town experiences worthy of a day trip, weekend getaway, or extended vacation. Ready to dig into history, explore natural beauty, and experience the local culture? Plan your trip to Hagerstown.
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