Mountain Lodge Overlooking Historic Civil War Battlefield

On September 17, 1862, one of the fiercest and most famous battles of the Civil War took place along a creek in northern Maryland called Antietam. Today, visitors can explore the site and learn more about that historic day at Antietam National Battlefield. Less than 2 miles away stands Antietam Overlook Farm, an old-fashioned farmhouse surrounded by 95 acres of breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountain scenery. From the grounds of this secluded retreat, you can look out not only on Antietam but on parts of Virginia, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania as well.

The Select Registry inn’s homey main room is anchored by a large stone fireplace surrounded by books, rocking chairs, and thoughtfully placed games. While all of the bedrooms at the farm have a fireplace and all but the Wicker room have a screened-in porch and a roomy soaking tub, each room is uniquely decorated. The Overlook suite boasts a sweeping view of the battlefield from its many windows, and the bed is tucked into a nook carved into knotted pine walls. The Birdwatcher room looks out onto the woods and valley below—keep an eye out for hummingbirds and deer. In the morning, you’ll wake up to a lavish three-course breakfast served next to the fireplace in the dining room. Menu items range from the chef’s special cinnamon-raisin bread pudding to cream-cheese scrambled eggs.

Keedysville, Maryland: Civil War History and Natural Caves

Located in northern Maryland near the borders of West Virginia, Virginia, and Pennsylvania, the small town of Keedysville is close to some of the most important sites of the Civil War. Besides the Antietam National Battlefield, you’ll be a 20-minute drive from Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and an hour’s drive from Gettysburg National Military Park.

Keedysville is only a little more than an hour away from Baltimore, but there’s plenty to do nearby. The dramatic Crystal Grottoes Caverns—Maryland’s only tourable caves—have more limestone formations per square foot than nearly any other spot in the world. The interior stays warm in winter, so experienced guides can lead you past all the otherworldly stalactite and stalagmite formations all year round.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.