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Home to historic buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, bustling nightlife, and cozy bed and breakfasts, Hagerstown is one of the best places in the region to escape for a romantic getaway. If you and your partner are history buffs, Hagerstown and Washington County are great destinations for learning about the county’s Civil War history. So many parks in the area are impeccably maintained. In fact, Escape Here named Hagerstown the No. 1 destination for beautiful city parks in the entire country. If you’re planning a trip to the area for a sweet romantic getaway, here are 12 of the most romantic things to do in Hagerstown and Washington County—some better suited for warmer temperatures.
1. Jonathan Hager House
The city of Hagerstown was founded in part by a love story, when Jonathan Hager settled here in 1740 and built a house for his wife, Elizabeth. He was so smitten with his bride that he named the town after her, “Elizabethtown,” which was later changed into Hagerstown in 1813 by the state legislature, to honor them both. Before his death, he was largely active in starting up new businesses including the John Wesley United Methodist Church. Today, the original Hager House that Jonathan gifted his bride is open and available for tours. Couples can go on a romantic adventure through the house to admire vintage furniture and decor that has remained in immaculate condition since the 18th century. Tours are only available through appointments, so book in advance.
2. Boonsboro, MD - Home of Romance!
Get the full idyllic romatic experience by staying overnight at the Inn Boonsboro (pictured), a bed-and-breakfast owned by the famous romance novelist Nora Roberts. Lovers will be delighted to find each room at the inn is named after famous literary couples like Elizabeth and Darcy (Pride & Prejudice), Marguerite and Percy (The Scarlet Pimpernel), and Westley and Buttercup (The Princess Bride). To continue the romantic Nora Roberts experience, swing by Turn the Page, a bookshop also owned by the author, and Gifts Inn Boonsboro to purchase works by local artisans. Do a Sip & Savor stroll through town by starting at Pathfinder Farm Distillery's Tasting Room, then some shopping at Josie's on Main, and dinner at the Sizzling Fajita or Jeovanni's Pizzeria. For some nostalgia, stoll on to visit one of the museums in town, The Nationbal Road Musuem, The Trolley Museum and the Boonsborough Museum of History.
3. Hagerstown’s Arts & Entertainment District - Dinner & A Show
Take your date to the heart of Hagerstown—its Arts and Entertainment District—where dozens of restaurants and bars await. Fantastic restaurants include Bulls & Bears Pub & Eatery, a locally owned New York style pub establishment, Schmankerl Stube for Bavarian cuisine, or sip some spirits at Meinelschmidt Distillery. Within walking distance to all of the restaurants, the Maryland Theatre is a fabulous place to continue your date. It’s home to the Maryland Symphony Orchestra, which never disappoints during its performance in the 1915 theater. Enjoy a delicious romantic meal and live theater at the Washington County Playhouse and Dinner Theater. The playhouse features exciting shows of murder mysteries, musicals, comedies and dancing. Before the show, couples can help themselves to the hot buffet that includes a deliscious spinach souffle, their signature dish.
4. Washington County Museum of Fine Arts
Browse through the impressive collection and exhibitions of over 7,000 objects (paintings, prints, drawings, sculptures) at the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts. The diverse collection began with an initial gift by the Museum’s founders, Mr. and Mrs. William Henry Singer, Jr. who lived in Hagerstown and wanted this musum to be forever available to all. There is a wide array of artwork from around the world and different eras, including strengths in American art, 19th-century European art, Old Masters, and art of world cultures reflecting the founders’ cosmopolitan worldview. Couples who want to explore their creative sides can join several workshops at the museum including bookbinding, photography and watercoloring.
5. Opening receptions at galleries
Win your date’s heart by taking him/her to some of the opening reception nights at Washington County Arts Council in downtown Hagerstown or visit the Mansion House Art Center, in City Park. Both of the galleries are known for their welcoming spaces that display works of talented local artists. They often host opening reception events for local and regional artists displaying their works with the artists on site to talk about their pieces. Receptions at Washington County Arts Council are held monthly and feature different artists. Wine and hors d'oeuvres are served at the receptions.
6. Grapes & Grains
Our craft taste-makers are growing and offering some of the best wines, brews, and spirits in the state of Maryland - many are award winning! Download our Grapes & Grains Guide, and make plans to sip and savor on your romantic getaway! (Please do not drink and drive; always have a designated driver before you go).
