|
|
 |
|
|
A Little Hub City History
More than 250 years ago, young Jonathan Hager built a home in the area that is now City Park. His house still stands (as the Hager House Museum) as does the city that
grew from his effort. Your family can enjoy several walking tours that will make history come alive, through the struggle for independence and the epic confrontation that preserved it. While in town, stop by and
visit some of our historic churches. We also highly recommend a "historic escape" to the Western Maryland Civil War Room (hint: you can find this famous room in the Washington County Library).
A Retail Renaissance
Over the last thirty years, we've all become accustomed to the convenience of big covered malls in suburban locations. Today, things have come full circle and consumers are
seeking a more active type of retail experience. The kind that comes from specialty shops where you actually talk to an owner who is interested in his work; someone who brings an enthusiasm and commitment you don't
see elsewhere. Browse. Explore. Discover for yourself the varied retail experiences offered here. Specialty bookstores, handcrafted jewelry and custom made gifts. Art and framing galleries. Men and women's clothing.
The best ski shop around. Over 70 retailers in all. All here for a reason. All ready to deliver on a promise of service and quality.
Family Fun
Family fun is alive and well year-round in Down-town Hagerstown. Be sure and check the current Calendar of Events before you begin your visit here! In season, you could discover our
Farmer's Market, in continuous operation since 1791. Or actually participate in the annual reenactment of the Ransom of Hagerstown, an event that features a full dress battle through town. After the reenactment, the
festivities continue with the Grand Ball - be sure to arrive in costume. Don't forget the Civil War tours. Or maybe you might enjoy a Progressive Dinner for charity that takes you to our renowned collection of
international restaurants. The holidays wouldn't be complete without the dramatic Christmas Lighting at City Park. And no place celebrates the week's end like Hagerstown with our noon "TGIF" concerts.
Year-round, there is always something to do in Hagerstown. Downtown is our historic community center. For the visitor, it's worth the trip!
Training Ground
The City of Hagerstown has strong ties with the growth of American railroading (with the pun entirely intended). Before the mainlines converged on our community, we were a rural
society with a lifestyle that revolved around crop cycles. Between 1880 and 1920 we experienced a complete transformation to a year-round industrial economy linked to the goods and services needed by the railroad.
In one decade, from 1910 to 1920, the city population almost doubled. Today, the rich heritage of the Western Maryland, the B&O, the Norfolk & Western, the Reading and the Pennsylvania are preserved
throughout the city. In fact, City Park boasts a steam engine exhibit your whole family will be sure to enjoy. Visit the Roundhouse Museum and you'll understand our pride in the "tie that binds".
Great Performances
The performing arts are alive and well in Downtown Hagerstown! The Maryland Theatre is a rare 1915 neoclassical treasure that hosts our own Maryland Symphony's season and is
also the home for a full schedule of nationally known recording artists, popular plays, children's programming and the Miss Maryland Pageant. Rescued and restored from a tragic fire, the Maryland Theatre is a symbol
of Hagerstown's resurgence and a "must see" on your visit. If you see the movie "Guarding Tess" featuring film star Shirley Mac-Claine, you'll get a sneak preview of our performing arts treasure.
Better yet, see it yourself, only one block from the Welcome Center in the city square. While in town, enjoy yet another of our art forms - treat yourself to dinner theater at the Washington County Playhouse. Make
it an evening to remember!
The Houses of History
Before any of us were born, the footsteps of American history made an impression here in Hagerstown. Thanks to the efforts of interested citizens, you can bring your family
downtown and see how our ancestors lived, worked and played. Tour the Miller House and you'll be swept back in time by the Washington County Historical Society's unique collection of furniture, dolls, clocks and
artifacts. Or visit the Jonathan Hager House, the Mansion House Art Center, or the Roundhouse Museum. While you're at it, why not take a walking tour of entire neighborhoods listed on the National Historic Register.
Whatever your preference, great architecture abounds!
Toast of the Town
Maybe we're a little biased, but we think it would take a couple of weeks with an airplane and a passport to come anywhere close to the dining experience right here in Downtown
Hagerstown. Italian? You bet. German? The best. Authentic Oriental? Of course. Living in a world where time is so precious, we respectfully suggest that you get your hands on a copy of the new Downtown Restaurant
Guide. Place it in a handy spot and make a point to use it. It's a lot less expensive than a world tour! And every bit as interesting to your taste buds. ! |
|
