Did you know that there's a spring-fed pool near Washington DC? This unique spot is worth checking during a warm weather day.
The Jefferson Pools are legendary and have attracted visitors from all over the country. You can come and soak in the restorative waters and feel completely refreshed.
The pools are named after Thomas Jefferson who visited the bathhouse in 1818. Today the natural mountain spa is popular with Virginians, Washingtonians and other travelers.
Another bathhouse was opened right next door in 1836, specifically for women. The story is that Mrs. Robert E. Lee used to spend time at the bathhouse and you can see the chair she used to sit in still on display.
Today both bathhouses are open for visitors daily in season. The bathhouses are not co-ed, except during family hours. Other hours of the day, children under the age of 17 are not permitted.
Jefferson Pools are not a high end spa but it is a charming unique excursion. You will feel as if you have stepped back in time in history while still having a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
Harpers Ferry, the One Christmas Town in West Virginia That’s Simply a Must Visit This Season
Spread holiday cheer at the Harpers Ferry Olde Tyme Christmas event this year. Enjoy the dazzling lights and meet Santa at this festive holiday celebration.
Once the holidays officially arrive here in the Mountain State, you'll find that all of our small towns and big cities come to life. If we had to choose the best Christmas town in West Virginia it would be Harpers Ferry. If you're looking to take one adventure this season that you'll never forget, then you'll surely want to mark your calendars and start planning your trip to Harpers Ferry's Olde Tyme Christmas event. Don’t miss your chance to see Santa, take a carriage ride, and marvel at the twinkling lights in Harpers Ferry at Christmas this year.
advertisement
Throughout the year, people from all over West Virginia and beyond make their way out to Harpers Ferry to experience all that this notable town has to offer.
Once we near the month of December, people begin to gear up for the adventure to Harpers Ferry for the annual Olde Tyme Christmas event. ransforming the town into something out of your favorite holiday storybook, the Olde Tyme Christmas event takes over Harpers Ferry for the first two weekends of December.
To begin, you will find the streets of Harpers Ferry charmingly decked out in twinkling lights and garlands galore. It makes it really look like a proper Christmas town in West Virginia. At the historic St. Peter's Catholic Church, you'll be able to catch a live performance of the Nativity play and track down Santa and Mrs. Claus in town!
Between the two weekends, you'll be able to experience local shops extending their hours and hosting special events, live performances from local musicians as well as historians, horse-drawn wagon rides, and even a historic candy-making demonstration and class.
Kicking off the event in the most marvelous way, those who make it out to Harpers Ferry for the opening ceremony will also have the pleasure of attending special events that only happen that day. Past years have included the Yule Log and Christmas Tree Lighting. If you're ready to discover the magic, you can find updated schedules for Olde Tyme Christmas and get it on your calendar. Enjoy the season in this classic West Virginia Christmas town!
Have you gotten the opportunity to enjoy Harpers Ferry Olde Tyme Christmas? We guarantee that this old-fashioned holiday celebration will bring Christmas cheer to you and your family. Who knows, this might even become a new holiday tradition for you.
Wondering how else you can dive into the holiday season here in the Mountain State? Then don't miss out on your chance to stay at this West Virginia Christmas-themed hotel! It will definitely put you in the holiday spirit! And while you're planning out the most wonderful time of the year, take a look at the Only In Your State Holiday Gift Guides and find the perfect gifts for your loved ones.
If You Only Have One Day to Visit This Small Town in Connecticut, Here’s Everything You Absolutely Can’t Miss
Looking for a perfect day trip? Head to Old Lyme, a small town in Connecticut, and explore its rich art scene. Museums, galleries, and historic sites await.
Ever wished you could explore a town where art and history come alive? Well, you're in luck! Old Lyme, Connecticut, is just the place to do it. This picturesque town on the Connecticut shoreline was once a haven for impressionist painters, and that artistic spirit is still very much alive today. If you're short on time but big on art, here's how to spend a perfect day in Old Lyme.
advertisement
First things first: breakfast. Head over to the Hangry Goose, a waterfront restaurant with a menu as delightful as its views. Whether you're craving eggs Benedict, a hearty omelette, or something a bit lighter, you'll find plenty to fuel your day of exploration.
Ready to dive into Old Lyme's art scene? The Florence Griswold Museum is a must-visit. It's a sprawling campus with something for every art enthusiast. Start your visit at the historic Florence Griswold House, a charming boardinghouse where American Impressionist painters once lived and worked. Wander through the rooms where they created their masterpieces, and be sure to check out the painted panels they left behind on the walls and doors. It's a unique glimpse into the past. Beyond the historic house, you'll find a modern art gallery with rotating exhibitions, beautiful gardens and grounds perfect for a leisurely stroll, and even a cafe for when you need a break.
Next up, let's visit the Lyme Art Association. This place is a real gem for art lovers, and it's been a cornerstone of the Old Lyme art scene for over a century. It actually started with a meeting at Florence Griswold's house back in 1914, when a group of artists decided to create a space to showcase their work. Today, the Lyme Art Association carries on that legacy with a beautiful gallery and a mission to promote art appreciation. They host exhibitions throughout the year featuring talented artists from the region, so you can see what today's painters and sculptors are creating. It's a fantastic way to connect with the past and present of Old Lyme's artistic heritage and maybe even take home a piece of original art.
Now, for a little treasure hunt. The Cooley Gallery is tucked away in a sunny yellow house on Lyme Street, and it's full of amazing American art. They have everything from classic impressionist paintings to cool contemporary pieces. The best part? The owner and founder, Jeff Cooley, has a knack for making everyone feel welcome, whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting your art journey. He's passionate about helping people find art they'll love, no matter their budget.
After a day of gallery gazing, treat yourself to a delicious dinner at the Old Lyme Inn. This historic inn is right in the middle of the Art District, so you'll be soaking up the creative vibes all evening. And guess what? They have a jazz club called The Side Door right there in the inn. Enjoy some live music and a cocktail or two before heading to your room for a restful night (if you're lucky enough to snag a reservation).
Can't get enough of Old Lyme? We get it! Come back again to discover its natural wonders. Hike the trails at the Old Lyme Land Trust, cast a line at Ferry Landing State Park, or kayak the Great Island Estuary. Old Lyme truly offers an escape for everyone.
So, are you ready for an art adventure? Go explore Old Lyme and discover its unique charm for yourself. You won't be disappointed! Know of another town where art and history intertwine? Share your discoveries with us and nominate your favorite Connecticut day trips. For more inspiration, check out this scenic road trip that leads to five of Connecticut’s most charming small towns.
