25 Best Things to do in Hagerstown!

Located in the heart of Maryland, Hagerstown offers a blend of historical charm and modern amenities, making it a perfect destination for both history enthusiasts and leisure travelers. From its rich Civil War history to vibrant cultural scenes, Hagerstown promises a memorable getaway for visitors of all interests. In this comprehensive guide, we showcase best things to do in Hagerstown during your visit to Maryland.

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1. Must-See Attractions

Washington County Museum of Fine Arts

The Washington County Museum of Fine Arts is located in City Park, it features an impressive collection of American art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts in Hagerstown. Highlights include Hudson River School paintings and contemporary exhibits. This museum hosts many educational programs and live workshops for all ages. The friendly staffs are always ready to provide more insights about the exhibits. The museum shop offers many unique gifts and souvenirs. It’s a must-visit for art lovers and anyone interested in Hagerstown’s cultural heritage.

Antietam National Battlefield

The Antietam National Battlefield is a place of historical significance in Hagerstown. The site of the Battle of Antietam, one of the key battles of the Civil War, offers a profound experience. The Visitor Center provides exhibits and a short film about the battle. Walking the grounds, you can see monuments and markers that tell the stories of those who fought there. The landscape includes landmarks like Dunker Church and Burnside Bridge. Visiting Antietam National Battlefield is a meaningful experience, honoring history and those who were part of it. Enjoy your visit!

C&O Canal National Historical Park

The C&O Canal National Historical Park is a peaceful retreat in Hagerstown. The park stretches along the Potomac River, offering a scenic escape. Walk or bike along the towpath, lined with historical markers. The natural beauty includes views of the river, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. Explore lockhouses and canal structures to learn about the canal’s history. Fishing and boating are popular activities in the calm waters. It’s a most notable park for nature lovers and history buffs. Enjoy your time in this beautiful park!

Discovery Station at Hagerstown

The Discovery Station is a great spot for curious minds in Hagerstown. The museum offers various interactive exhibits perfect for both kids and adults. You can explore science, technology, and history in a hands-on way. Highlights include space, dinosaurs, and robotics exhibits. Educational programs and live workshops are also available for all families and school groups. The friendly staffs are always available to help. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, it’s worth a stop to explore and learn at this fantastic museum!

South Mountain State Battlefield

The South Mountain State Battlefield is a place of historical importance in Hagerstown. The battlefield marks the site of a significant Civil War battle. Several trails lead to key locations with informative markers. The park offers beautiful views of the mountains and countryside, making it a peaceful place for reflection. Guided tours and ranger programs provide deeper insights into the events. The Visitor Center has exhibits and information about the battle. South Mountain State Battlefield is a must-visit for history and nature enthusiasts.

2. Outdoor Adventures

Hiking and Biking

Hagerstown is great for hiking and biking. This area offers a variety of trails for all visitor’s skill levels. The Appalachian Trail nearby provides stunning views and a peaceful escape into nature. The Antietam Creek Trail offers scenic river views and wildlife. For biking, the Western Maryland Rail Trail is perfect, with its paved, flat surface through picturesque landscapes. In town, Hagerstown City Park has well maintained trails for both hiking and biking. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery on your next outdoor adventure!

Boating and Fishing

Boating and fishing are great activities for outdoor enthusiasts in Hagerstown. The Potomac River is a popular spot, offering calm waters and plenty of fish like bass and catfish. Greenbrier State Park has a beautiful lake with boat rentals and fishing opportunities for trout and bluegill. For a more adventurous experience, try fishing in the local streams and creeks, which are stocked with fish. Boating and fishing in Hagerstown offer a chance to connect with nature. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just looking for a relaxing day, Hagerstown has something for visitors.

State Parks and Nature Reserves

State parks and nature reserves in Hagerstown, offer great outdoor experiences. Greenbrier State Park is a favorite, with its beautiful lake, sandy beach, and hiking trails. Washington Monument State Park features the first monument dedicated to George Washington and offers stunning views. South Mountain State Park has miles of hiking trails, including a part of the Appalachian Trail. Smaller reserves like Cushwa Basin and Hagerstown City Park provide peaceful places to enjoy nature. Each park and reserve has its own unique charm.

Wineries and Vineyards

Wineries and vineyards in Hagerstown, are ideal destination for all wine lovers. Big Cork Vineyards is a favorite with beautiful scenery and friendly staff. Enjoy a wine tasting with views of the vineyards. Blue Mountain Wine Crafters offers wines made from locally grown grapes, and has live music events. Red Heifer Winery is a small, family-owned vineyard with intimate tastings. Each winery has its own charm, offering a chance to taste fantastic local wines. Enjoy your wine tour in Hagerstown!

Festivals and Outdoor Events

Hagerstown is known for its vibrant festivals and outdoor events. The Western Maryland Blues Fest features live blues music and great food downtown. The Hagerstown City Park Summer Concert Series offers free concerts in the park’s band shell. Augustoberfest celebrates Hagerstown’s German heritage with traditional music and food. The Hagerstown Fairgrounds host various events, including craft fairs, car shows, and seasonal festivals. Enjoy the local culture and community spirit at these fantastic events.

3. Iconic Landmarks

Hagerstown Roundhouse Museum

The Hagerstown Roundhouse Museum is a must-visit for train enthusiasts in Hagerstown. The museum preserves the rich history of railroading in the area. Inside, you’ll find exhibits that showcase the life and work of railroaders. Highlights include a large model train layout and various artifacts. This museum hosts plenty of special events and programs for the entire year. The friendly staff is knowledgeable and passionate about railroading. Whether you’re a train enthusiast or just curious about railroading history, this museum is worth a stop.

Maryland Theatre

The Maryland Theatre in Hagerstown, is a historic and iconic landmark. Open since 1915, it hosts a variety of performances, including concerts, plays, and dance shows. The beautiful architecture and historic charm make every visit special. The stunning interior with ornate designs and a grand stage create a captivating atmosphere. The theatre also offers educational programs and workshops for all ages. The friendly staff is passionate about the theatre, ensuring an enjoyable visit. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, the Maryland Theatre is worth a stop.

Hagerstown Aviation Museum

The Hagerstown Aviation Museum is a notable landmark for aviation lovers in Hagerstown. The museum is dedicated to preserving aviation history and has a collection of aircraft that tell aviation’s story. Highlights include the Fairchild aircraft collection, adding a local touch. Special events and programs offer deeper insights into aviation history. The knowledgeable staffs shares some interesting facts and stories. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or just curious about planes, the museum is worth a visit. Enjoy exploring the world of aviation!

Jonathan Hager House and Museum

The Jonathan Hager House and Museum is a fantastic destination for history lovers in Hagerstown. Built by Jonathan Hager, the founder of Hagerstown, in 1739, the well preserved stone house offers a glimpse into colonial life. Inside, you’ll find period furnishings and artifacts, with each room telling a story of the past. The guided tours are informative, providing a deeper understanding of the house’s history. The museum also has beautiful gardens and a peaceful setting. The friendly staff is knowledgeable and ready to share interesting facts.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

Hagerstown City Park

The Hagerstown City Park is a peaceful and beautiful spot for outdoor activities. The park features a scenic lake perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic by the water. There are several walking trails where you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and spot local wildlife. The Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, located within the park, offers a great collection of art. The park also has playgrounds for kids and open spaces for various sports, making it ideal for family outings. Throughout the year, the park hosts events like concerts and festivals, adding to its charm.

Valley Mall

The Valley Mall in Hagerstown, is a one of the great shopping destination to buy anything for anyone. The mall has a variety of stores, from popular brands to unique local shops. You can find everything in this mall, from clothing and accessories to home goods and electronics. The food court has many options for snacks or full meals. The mall is family-friendly, with a play area for kids and events throughout the year. With its convenient location and wide range of shops and services, Valley Mall is a must-visit spot. Enjoy your shopping experience!

Hagerstown Suns Baseball

The Hagerstown Suns Baseball is a fantastic experience and a lively place for sports fans in Hagerstown. The Suns are a minor league baseball team, and watching a game is a great way to spend an evening. The lively atmosphere at the stadium is fun, with classic ballpark snacks like hot dogs and popcorn. The stadium is family-friendly, with activities and entertainment for kids. The welcoming staff and fans make the experience enjoyable. Whether you’re a die-hard baseball fan or looking for a fun outing, Hagerstown Suns Baseball is worth checking out.

Antietam Recreation

The Antietam Recreation is a fantastic spot for fun and adventure in Hagerstown. The center offers a variety of activities for all ages, including zip-lining, paddle boating, and horseback riding. It’s a fantastic place to spend a day out with family and friends. Their live shows are entertaining and perfect for all ages. The friendly staffs ensures all visitors has a good quality time. Antietam Recreation also hosts special events throughout the year, adding a unique touch to your visit. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a relaxing day out, Antietam Recreation has something for everyone.

Bowling at Dual Lanes

The Bowling at Dual Lanes is a fun-filled and relaxing experience to enjoy with friends and families in Hagerstown. The family-friendly bowling alley is perfect for all ages. You can enjoy a game or two with friends and family on well maintained lanes. There’s also a snack bar with a menu that has something for everyone. The friendly staff is always ready to help and ensure you have a great time. Whether you’re a pro bowler or just looking for some fun, Dual Lanes is a great place to visit. Enjoy your game!

5. Natural Attractions

Greenbrier State Park

Just 30 minutes from Hagerstown, Greenbrier State Park is a beautiful spot for outdoor activities. The park features a sparkling lake perfect for swimming and fishing. The sandy beach is great for relaxing in the sun. Several hiking trails offer scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere. Picnic areas are ideal for family outings, and boat rentals are available. Greenbrier State Park is a wonderful place to connect with nature. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, this park has something for visitors.

Fort Frederick State Park

Just outside Hagerstown, Fort Frederick State Park is a great spot for history buffs and nature lovers. The park is home to Fort Frederick, which dates back to the French and Indian War. The stone fort is well-preserved, offering a glimpse into the past. Beautiful hiking trails wind through the forest and along the Potomac River. There are picnic areas and a campground for longer stays. The friendly, knowledgeable staff is always ready to help.

Washington County Rural Heritage Museum

The Washington County Rural Heritage Museum is another great spot for history lovers in Hagerstown. The museum offers a look into rural life of the past with exhibits showcasing old farming tools, household items, and local history. Outside, explore historic buildings like a schoolhouse, church, and log cabin. The friendly, knowledgeable staff is always ready to share interesting facts. Special events and programs make each visit unique. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, it’s worth a stop.

How to Reach Hagerstown

Reaching Hagerstown, is easy with several options available. If you’re flying, the closest major airport is Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). From there, you can rent a car and drive to Hagerstown, which takes about an hour and a half. Another option is Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), about a 2 hours drive away.

For those preferring to drive, Hagerstown is well connected by highways. You can take Interstate 70 or Interstate 81, both of which pass through the city. Public transportation is also an option, with Greyhound offering bus services to Hagerstown from various locations. Once you arrive, you can use local transit or taxis to get around. Reaching Hagerstown is straightforward and convenient.

Local Transportation

Getting around Hagerstown, is pretty straightforward. The public bus system, County Commuter, runs on various routes throughout the city and nearby areas, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also available for quick, direct rides. Renting a car from one of the local agencies offers the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Biking is another option, with some designated bike paths and lanes in the area. Walking is pleasant in downtown Hagerstown, where many attractions and services are within walking distance. With these options, getting around Hagerstown is easy and convenient. Enjoy your travels!

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FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

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