Sharpsburg

History: Laid out by Joseph Chaline in 1763 as the first city in Washington County, Maryland, Sharpsburg was the site of the 1862 Battle of Antietam, the bloodiest single-day battle of the Civil War. Visitors can walk in the soldiers' footsteps at Antietam National Battlefield and take a solemn tour of the adjoining national cemetery, which contains more than 5,000 interments. Nearby, the Pry House Field Hospital is a museum that tells the story of caring for the wounded men. The Kennedy Farmhouse is where abolitionist John Brown and his modest "army" plotted their famous, pre-Civil War raid of Harpers Ferry.

More to Explore: Follow the C&O Canal Scenic Byway to recreational opportunities ranging from hiking and biking to camping and kayaking. The Barron's C&O Canal Museum houses a quaint country store. Also close by is Crystal Grottoes, Maryland's only commercial underground caverns. Sharpsburg epitomizes vibrant small-town living, with crafts and antiques stores, ice cream shops, a limited range of dining options and charming bed and breakfasts that can be found amid all of the local history. Or visitors can enjoy the conveniences provided by several hotels located in nearby towns such as Hagerstown and Frederick.

Photo Credits: Photos of Sharpsburg Courtesy of Hagerstown-Washington County CVB