Berryville is a destination for people who would like to experience small town charm and character at its best, just 60 miles west of Washington, D.C. If you're coming from D.C., you'll find that the city sits at the junction of U.S. Route 340 and V.A. Route 7.
Spend some time walking Berryville Main Street in the city's historic downtown corridor to shop and dine, enjoy the park, and check out the city's vibrant cultural hub, the Barns at Rose Hill. While you are downtown, you can check out the Clarke County Historical Association's museum, which houses exhibits of local artifacts, historic photography and footage, and even commissioned artwork that explores the region's past.
History lovers should also check out Fairfield, a historic Georgian estate near Berryville that was built in 1768 for George Washington's cousin, Warner Washington. Young George Washington surveyed the land of present day Berryville himself in 1750.
Revolutionary War hero and General Daniel Morgan is also connected to Berryville. Legend holds that he engaged rowdy young residents at the intersection of Winchester Turnpike and Charlestown Road near a rowdy tavern, and the area subsequently earned the nickname "Battle Town." Morgan built a homestead on the site of that old tavern, which he also named "Battle Town." After the Revolution, Morgan returned to the city and resumed brawling in the tavern, which operated long after he passed until recent years as the Battletown Inn. During the Civil War, the Inn served as a military hospital.
The Clermont Foundation and Clermont Farm is another notable local historic site that is also connected with George Washington, who surveyed the property at just 18 years old, and was owned by such notable Northern Virginians as the Fairfax and the Culpepper families. This property well represents the history and functions of typical Georgian-era planter homesteads.
Today the Clermont Foundation operates primarily as a research and training facility dedicated to preserving history. As such, this site is only open to researchers, teachers, and students by appointment, and the public may only enter during select public events, so be sure to schedule your educational trip in advance or check with the venue in advance before visiting.
If you love historic architecture, consider driving to nearby Boyce to see The Old Chapel Episcopal Church, which is notable as one of the oldest Episcopal churches west of the Blue Ridge Mountains that is still in use today.
Many city dwellers escape to Berryville for the weekend to hike the gorgeous surrounding countryside, from the Blue Ridge to the Shenandoah River. You can also hike portions of the Appalachian Trail in Clarke County, or spend your time enjoying outdoor recreation like kayaking, mountain biking, and more. Berryville is also located just 16 miles from Harpers Ferry, a historic destination.
However, you don't have to head out to the countryside to enjoy some fresh air. Visitors and residents frequent the Chet Hobart Park, located downtown, to socialize, swim, watch a Little League game, or attend local events like the Spring Craft Show, which takes place each April.
Stop into the Holy Cross Abbey, a Trappist monastery located in Berryville, if you'd like to observe a service, or even pick up a jar of creamed honey and other items made by the monks.
Whether you're looking to enjoy some fresh air, hike, bike, or enjoy some arts and culture and small town charm, you'll find everything you desire in historic Berryville, Virginia.
When is the best time to visit Berryville, VA?
As the hub of the county, Berryville is the place to celebrate annual holidays and events which carry on longstanding community traditions. Each April, deal lovers, vendors, and locals flock to the Downtown Berryville Yard Sales. The Clarke County Farmers' Market also takes place in Berryville on Saturdays from May through October. Each Independence Day, the town celebrates the 4th of July on Berryville's West Main Street, when the Clarke County Ruritan Fairgrounds come alive with fireworks and family-friendly festivities.
The Summer Steam Show, held by the Shenandoah Valley Steam and Gas Engine Association, is also held at the Ruritan-Clarke County Show Grounds each July. Be sure to visit in mid-August for the Clarke County Fair to take in all the farm, garden, and livestock exhibits, and of course the carnival rides and festival food. The event brings the agricultural community together in a celebration of local pride and culture.
The Watermelon Fest also takes place each September, which draws in big name Bluegrass Acts and their fans.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Berryville, VA:
Berryville by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs demonstrating mean rate patterns by star rating class in Berryville, VA. You can use these charts to determine the cheapest time period to make a reservation in Berryville for any future trips.
What are the luxury hotels near Berryville, VA?
4 Star Average Prices: $113.75
You can experience the historic beauty of Berryville first hand when you stay at the Smithfield Farm Bed and Breakfast. This three-star property is a hidden jewel that is both historic and hospitable. Each of the five clean and comfortable guest rooms is appointed with beautiful antique furniture and traditional bedding that still manages to feel cozy and inviting.
Stay here and you will be close to the Veramar Vineyard. Guests also enjoy free wireless internet and complimentary breakfast service, served daily. You can also grill out on one of the property's outdoor barbecues in the garden. In the cooler months, the fireplace downstairs makes for a romantic place to sip on a free cup of coffee and tea in the common area.
What are the budget hotels in Berryville, VA?
3 Star Average Prices: $121.10
Budget travelers seeking affordable hotel rates near Berryville will find them at the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Winchester. This hotel is located within the historical district and lies just miles from Shenandoah University and Apple Blossom Mall.
Each guestroom also comes equipped with a fridge and microwave, so you can stretch your budget further by stocking up on snacks and sandwich goodies for the room and take advantage of the free complimentary continental breakfast, served daily. When you stay at the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Winchester, you also gain access to an indoor pool and a fitness center, and the complimentary wireless internet service and Smart televisions also make this hotel a hit for families.
