Excitement, History, and Things to Do in Charles Town, WV

Welcome to Charles Town, West Virginia—a hidden treasure set in the heart of the beautiful and rugged landscape of the Mountain State! Founded by Charles Washington, the younger brother of George Washington, this charming town beautifully balances historical richness with modern vibrancy. Just 70 miles from Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, Charles Town offers a serene escape with all the conveniences of urban life. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there's so much to explore and enjoy in this unique community.

Exciting New Ventures in Charles Town

Funtopia’s Indoor Playground

Fantastic news for families: Funtopia’s Indoor Playground is coming to Downtown Charles Town! Funtopia, an imaginative indoor playground created by Nathan and Lisa Smith, is set to open in downtown Charles Town. Designed for children aged 10 and under, Funtopia will feature colorful play zones that encourage creativity and exploration. With climbing structures, interactive games, and themed play areas, it’s the perfect place for birthday parties and family gatherings. Stay tuned for their grand opening celebration and follow their exciting updates on their Facebook!

Poke Boba

Check out the brand-new Poke Boba at 132 W. Washington St., your go-to spot for a fresh and healthy dining experience. This exciting new spot offers delicious poke bowls and a variety of boba teas. Poke Boba also emphasizes natural ingredients and caters to various dietary needs, including gluten-free and vegan options. Don’t miss the chance to snap a photo with their adorable outdoor sculpture and explore their diverse menu!

The Succulent Garden

Charles Town’s Plant Paradise! For plant enthusiasts, The Succulent Garden at 120 West Washington St., Suite B, is a must-visit. Specializing in cacti, succulents, and tropical foliage, this shop offers a delightful assortment of plants. They have hosted exciting events in the past, such as Plant Bingo, and offered special seasonal discounts, including a festive “Christmas in July.” New plant arrivals mean there’s always something fresh to discover.

Ortega’s Taco Shop

Since 2013, Ortega’s Taco Shop at 100 W Washington Street has been a beloved hotspot for authentic Mexican cuisine. The restaurant honors General Felix Ortega, the grandfather of Mave Greene and great-grandfather of Adam and Natalie Greene, who now proudly carry on his legacy. Treat yourself to refreshing homemade horchata and Jamaica and explore exciting new menu items in their Grab & Go fridge. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a meal on their outdoor patio, you’ll savor delicious options like carne asada, taco salads, pollo quesadillas, pozole, and much more!

Sibling Coffee Roasters

Sibling Coffee Roasters, located at 109 W Washington St., is a must-visit for coffee enthusiasts. Founded by Libby Powell, who began roasting coffee in her home garage using a hot air popcorn maker, the shop has been serving micro-lot single origin beans and expertly crafted roasts since 2017. After a long career as a registered nurse, Libby started this small business as a retirement project. The name "Sibling" has a personal touch, reflecting Libby’s life experience as an only child until her only sibling, Benjamin, was born when she was 14. Indulge in unique offerings like the Bluey Flight, inspired by the popular children’s show, and enjoy premium coffee flavors from around the world.

Sumittra Thai Restaurant

Sumittra Thai Restaurant offers an authentic taste of Thai fusion cuisine. Owner Paijit Phakam-Jittisak combines traditional flavors with modern touches in Charles Town. The name Sumittra, which means "beloved friend" in Thai and is also the name of the managing director’s wife, reflects the restaurant’s passion for cooking and creates a dining experience that feels like enjoying a meal with family. Don’t miss #ThaiTuesday for special dishes. Sumittra continues to offer exceptional food through carry-out and curbside pickup only at this time.

Bushel & Peck

Located in Charles Washington Hall, Bushel & Peck is more than just a farmers’ market; It’s a vibrant community hub operated by the Jefferson Growers, Artisans, and Producers Coalition, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. In another partnership with Community Markets Inc., Bushel & Peck not only champions local agriculture and entrepreneurship but also works to feed families and support farmers. With a delightful range of fresh produce, homemade goods, and lively community events, every visit offers a chance to enjoy local flavors, connect with neighbors, and see how Bushel & Peck is promoting buying local as the norm and a celebrated part of our community.

Fuzzy Dog Books and Music

Literary and Musical Haven Fuzzy Dog Books & Music at 201 E. Washington St. offers a curated collection of rare books and vinyl records. Discover classic and contemporary titles alongside new vinyl arrivals, such as Thee Oh Sees and Joanna Newsom. Visit for a unique shopping experience where literature and music come together.

Studio M Boutique

Sustainable Fashion Located inside Studio M Salon, Studio M Boutique features sustainable and vintage fashion. Founded by Missy Grove, a mom of two with a degree in fashion, the boutique offers upcycled clothing and classic vintage pieces. Explore eco-friendly fashion options and experience clothing with a personal touch. Plus, you can browse and order your favorites online, bringing sustainable style right to your doorstep!

Annual Events and Activities

Charles Town hosts a variety of annual events that bring the community together and offer something for everyone:

• Jefferson County African American Cultural & Heritage Festival (August 16-18, 2024): Celebrate the 30th year of this vibrant festival with activities like a Youth Block Party, Gospel Extravaganza, and a parade on the 300th Block of South Lawrence Street.
• Charles Town Car Show (August 31, 2024): Don’t miss the largest car show in the region, featuring a diverse selection of vehicles, food trucks, and top awards, all in downtown Charles Town.
• Trick or Treat Main Street (October 19, 2024): Enjoy a festive and safe Halloween evening as businesses along Washington Street hand out candy in a traffic-free environment.
• Charles Town/Ranson Christmas Parade (December 7, 2024): Celebrate the holiday season with festive floats, performances, and a joyful community parade at 115 E Washington St.

Follow the Charles Town Now website and their Facebook page for the latest updates on these events and more.

Seasonal Highlights in Charles Town

Imagine your first year living in Charles Town:

• Spring: Visit Cascade Falls and enjoy the seasonal Charles Town Farmers Market.
• Summer: Enjoy local craft beers at Harpers Ferry Brewing and attend the annual Charles Town Classic Festival at Hollywood Casino.
• Autumn: Explore Cool Spring Nature Preserve and take a Ghost Tour through Charles Town.
• Winter: Discover the Jefferson County Museum’s winter exhibits and enjoy the Holiday Lights and Christmas Parade.

Why Move to Charles Town?

Charles Town isn’t just an attractive place to visit, it’s an ideal place to call home. With its blend of historical charm, natural beauty, and modern amenities, Charles Town offers affordable living in a scenic setting. DRB Homes has been building new homes in Charles Town and neighboring areas for over 30 years. Here are some highlights of our offerings:

• Huntfield Single Family Homes: Neo-traditional designs with modern amenities, including tennis courts and playgrounds.
• King’s Crossing Townhomes (Grand Opening): Minutes from Main Street, offering easy access to dining, shopping, and major highways.
• King’s Crossing Single Family Homes (Coming Soon): Spacious homes close to Main Street and surrounded by natural beauty.

As you settle into your new DRB Home in Charles Town, WV, you'll find yourself immersed in a community filled with character, history, and a myriad of activities to enjoy. Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a lover of the arts, Charles Town offers more than just a place to live—it provides a gateway to a lifestyle rich in adventure, culture, and community. And when you want to come home, look no further than DRB Homes!