Things To Do in Charles Town, West Virginia

Charles Town, the big city of Jefferson County in West Virginia, has all the charm of a small town with many of the accommodations normally available in bigger cities.

A Brief History

Founded by the youngest brother of President George Washington, Charles Washington, and chartered in 1789, the city now boasts a population of about 5,500 residents.  Many of Charles Town’s downtown streets first laid out by Charles derive from names of family members and loved ones.  The city has served as the county seat since then and is home to the County Courthouse.  Over time the city of Ranson has grown into Charles Town, making it difficult to distinct the two.

The city now holds many of the county’s major resources. Charles Town opened the county’s only hospital in 1975 to replace the Charles Town Memorial Hospital, now officially known as Jefferson Medical Center as part of WVUH-East medical chain.

Activities and Events

Some of the county’s newest housing developments are nearby to the city and schools making a very attractive opportunity for growing families.  If you are are looking for additional educational opportunities, the Jefferson County Museum includes thousands of Civil War artifacts, Native American exhibits, and World War II exhibits.  Outside of the city center you will find several big-box retail centers which provide convenient shopping.

Unique to the area since 1933 is the Charles Town Race Track.  In 2007 the race track expanded to include what is now known as the Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Race Track.  The complex hosts horse racing, off-track betting, over 4,000 slot machines, and table games which includes a complete poker room.  The facility also includes several restaurants, a buffet, and numerous concerts and events.

Restaurants and Bars

The expansive downtown area is a nice mix of commercial and residential including a couple nice shops and restaurants.  Some standout restaurants in the area are Sumittra Thai Kitchen and Bar, La Mezzuluna Cafe, and Final Cut Steakhouse which is located inside the Hollywood Casino.  Ortega’s Taco Shop is renown by locals for it’s in-and-out casual dining, and  has the best sandwiches and confectionaries in the area.

If you are looking to take in some of the local entertainment, Abolitionist Ale Works is a good stop for pints and pies.  Locals enjoy the down-home feel Irish American fare at Paddy’s pub, and Inkwells Tavern has a nice pull up bar, impressive menu, and live music.

Real Estate in Charles Town

Bordering Virginia’s Loudon County – and the recent addition of expanded commuting opportunities into other parts of Virginia, it is easy to see why Charles Town has grown to be the biggest part of Jefferson County, and I expect that trend to continue.  Some northern Virginia and Maryland commuters miss Charles Town and Shepherdstown because it pushes the limits of their commute, but it can be worth every extra mile when there’s a dream home awaiting.

The purchase market is balanced, with many historical downtown Charles Town properties as well as some modern style housing.  As you stretch out from downtown Charles Town and Ranson towards the outlying areas you will find a full range of home styles and sizes with additional opportunity for growth in the area.

The rental market is similarly balanced with opportunities for single unit apartments up to single-family homes on acreage, though these are not always available.

*This article was written by Adam Miller.  All thoughts and opinions are my own and do not reflect Coldwell Banker or its affiliates. The above information is for promotional purposes and may not be factual.*