Cocktails, Local Beer, and Martinis in the Town of Bath

The obvious first stop to any trip to Berkeley Springs is the Town of Bath itself.  Here the legendary mineral waters bubble up from the ground at a consentient 74.3 degrees.  The small community of less than 800 people boast award winning restaurants, loads of outdoor seating, and options for beer, wine, and cocktails.

Berkeley Springs is known for having the World’s Best Water, and that water also makes the World’s Best Booze.  Whether you are on a quick weekend escape, a long vacation at a riverfront cabin, or looking simply swinging through for a watering hole after a hike, we have created the ultimate list of places to sip, sample and responsibly chug your way through Berkeley Springs, West Virginia.

Stop #1:  Fill Your Water Bottle at Berkeley Springs State Park

Before a day of drinking, it’s important to have plenty of water and Berkeley Springs State Park gives you the chance to taste the world’s finest directly from the tap.  Located in the back of the park are two fountains that are assessable all day and year long.  Fill up a jug or a bottle with our famous mineral water or simple directly from the fountain.  Known historically as the Gentleman’s Spring these spickets carry Lord Fairfax’s legacy ensuring that the waters of the Berkeley Springs would always be free to the public.

Stop #2:  Proof on Washington – Local Bourbons in Quirky Themed Cocktails

Proof on Washington is a no-reservations upscale pub with outdoor seating and a vast array of whiskeys.  From Pappy to Maker’s Mark, you are sure to find the right hooch to wet your whistle.  Since the days of prohibition, West Virginia has been known for its ability to produce the finest spirits.  While you will not find white lighting here, you will find over a dozen West Virginia made spirits including Swilled Dog, Smooth Ambler, and Devils Due.  Opt for a Cherry Bounce, A bold blend of sour cherries, warm baking spices, and smooth whiskey, it is their take on George Washington’s favorite sip. This rich, spiced cherry cordial is subtly sweet, delightfully complex, and best enjoyed while toasting to history.

Stop #3 Cacapon Mountain Brewing Company – Locally Crafted Beer, Smash Burgers, and Cornhole

Berkeley Springs’ only brewery is located in a factory once used to produce socks and hosiery.  Cacapon Mountain Brewing Company‘s flagship beer, Poor Tom, is a favorite among locals and their rotating taps ensure that there is always something new and fresh awaiting you.  Seasonally you will find hop forward IPAs, malty stouts, and refined red ales that offer a flavor experience that only a true microbrewery can provide.  Enjoy cornhole in the beer garden and live music most weekends.  The menu features smash burgers hotdogs, and nachos with vegetarian options.

Stop #4 The Cardinal Bar – Small Town Dive Bar

The Cardinal Bar is the Berkeley Springs take on a no thrills classic dive bar with out of this world hotdogs!  Choose from a selection of regional craft and domestic beers or opt for the Harris Tetter Hookup their knockout take on a Malibu Sunset with house infused pineapple vodka.  There are the only bar in the downtown district of Berkeley Springs will a billiards table and also feature arcade games and a jukebox.

Stop #5 The Naked Olive Lounge – Martinis and Mid Atlantic Cuisine

There is no better place for martinis in Berkeley Springs than The Naked Olive Lounge.  Their small bar area is filled with the essence of a speak easy and their nearly hidden entrance next to a retail space by the same name add to the charm.  While the retail space sells upscale mixers, olive oils, and vinegars, the restaurant side has cocktails paired with crabcakes. flat breads, and grinders.  With a long list of craft martinis and live music on every Saturday, it is an absolute must on your libation itinerary.

Stop #6 The Vine Trattoria – Wine in a Mediterranean Setting

The Vine Trattoria located directly across the street from the State Park.  Here you will find an array of wines along with Mediterranean Cuisine ranging from seafood to pastas.  Their warm atmosphere, indoor and outdoor seating, and upscale plating have established them as a popular new spot along Fairfax Street.

Stop #7 Ravenwood Carriage House – European Imports with Nightly Live Music

Ravenwood is a reservation only restaurant and market where you can pair robust wines with delicate cheeses.  Specializing in European Imports, these pairing are matched with homecooked upscale meals served in a dining room setting with live acoustic music nightly.  Enjoy wild game, decadent deserts, and exotic fare in a setting that leaves you knowing everybody in the restaurant upon your exit.

Stop #8 Lot 12 Public House – Wine Pairing and Award-Winning Meals

Lot 12 Public House is one of the most recognizable restaurants in West Virginia.  Operated by Chef Damian Heath and his wife Betsey, this establishment has been a cornerstone of the state’s culinary identity for over two decades.  With an exquisite wine selection and a seasonal prefix menu, this historic location is one stop that should not be missed on any itinerary in Berkeley Springs.  Reservations are not required but are highly encouraged.

Stop #9 The Country Inn of Berkeley Springs – Tavern Sips that Follow You to Your Room

The Country Inn of Berkeley Springs is the perfect place to end the night because they are the only bar in Morgan County located within a place to stay.  The Morgan Tavern features wines, cocktails, domestic beer, and regional craft brews.  The resort style open container rules allow you roam the halls of the historic building and enter the outside garden area while enjoying a glass of merlot allowing you to fully relax and finalize a day of bar hopping.

*Bonus* Capstone Spirits Distillery – Distillery Tours and Homemade Honey

Capstone Spirits is Morgan County’s only distillery.  Here they raise their own bees and use the honey to produce small batch gins and vodkas.  Their fragrant gins fill your mouth with the flavors of every botanical.  Visit them in person for free distillery tours every weekend!  Capstone is located outside of town so be sure not to drink and drive.