Boonsboro’s small-town feel remains despite recent growth
Folded within the mountainous landscapes of western Maryland, Boonsboro sits at the crossroads of its historic past and developing future. Founded in 1792, the small town has a notable historical footprint as the location of two Civil War battles—one of many significant stories displayed at the Boonsborough Museum of History and the Bowman House, home of the Boonsboro Historical Society. In recent years, the town has embraced revitalization, brought on, in part, by best-selling author Nora Roberts, a longtime resident. “Boonsboro has a quaint main street that’s become more upscale because Nora Roberts has invested in the town,” says local associate broker Cynthia Sullivan of Sullivan Select LLC. “She’s bought a lot of property along the main drag and is breathing new life into it.” The author refurbished a historic hotel now called the Inn BoonsBoro, which is also the centerpiece of one of her books by the same name. Today, the town continues to blend its history and growth, while maintaining an idyllic setting— all of which attracts new residents. “Boonsboro is still more country and rural, with a lot of history behind it,” Sullivan says, adding that the community’s small-town charm is its main draw. “I don’t think the town will ever lose that.”
Housing ranges from 19th-century homes to new builds
Boonsboro’s blend of old and new is mirrored in its housing inventory, which ranges from historic homes dating back to the early 19th century to modern homes built in the past two decades. Older single-family homes line Old National Pike, the town’s main route, and properties become larger as town roads branch off into smaller streets. Cape Cods, along with ranch- and colonial-styles, are the most common for older houses. New developments feature recently built homes with more contemporary stylings; New Traditional and Neo-Colonial architecture are common among those houses built in the past 20 years. Farmhouse-inspired bungalows and stately American Foursquares reflect the town’s rural roots, adding variety and charm to the housing mix, while townhouses and a few lots of land round out Boonsboro’s real estate inventory. Fixer-uppers can cost as low as $65,000, and turnkey properties typically start around $230,000. Prices range up to $650,000.
Students attend well-rated schools in Washington County
Students are part of the Washington County Public School District, which is ranked in the top 10 school districts in the state and earns an A-minus from Niche. Kids may begin their education at Boonsboro Elementary and Boonsboro Middle, both of which earn A-minus overall grades. Boonsboro High School earns a B-plus and offers a strong academic curriculum, which includes Advanced Placement courses and a career and technical education program. Parents may also choose to enroll their kids into one of the few faith-based private schools in the community.
Appalachian Trail access and lakeside fun near Boonsboro
Parks in town include Shafer Park and Boonsboro Park, adjacent and centrally located tracts. Shafer Park has a playground and sports facilities, while Boonsboro Park features the Boonsboro Pond, locally also known as the Hawkins Grove fishing pond. State parks surround Boonsboro, providing access to hiking trails and campsites. Washington Monument State Park connects to the Appalachian Trail and is dotted with historic spots like monuments and battlefields. Greenbrier State Park features a beach with a swimming area and boat ramps along Greenbrier Lake. Just northeast of Greenbrier Park is South Mountain State Park, which also features a section of the Appalachian Trail and offers 40 acres of recreation. Another local attraction is the Crystal Grottoes, a series of caverns in Boonsboro that draws visitors from across the nation.
Small-town charm with grocery access and nearby retail hubs
Boonsboro’s revitalized downtown area, anchored along Old National Pike, comprises a handful of local establishments imbued with the region’s Appalachian heritage. Nora Roberts’ refurbished Inn BoonsBoro stands proudly at the intersection of St Paul Street and the Pike, surrounded by restaurants, cafés and other small businesses. A town staple for over 20 years, Turn the Page is a bookstore owned by Roberts’ husband. Eateries range from pizzerias to Mexican spots and cafés like Stone Werks Coffee + Sweets. Pathfinder Farm Distillery, which has a tasting room and cocktail bar, is also popular among locals. A Weis Markets is close to home, while Hagerstown and Frederick offer additional shopping and dining options, including big-box retailers and familiar chains.
Annual events and seasonal festivals bring residents together
Boonsboro offers a vibrant calendar of cultural and community events that bring residents together year-round. A highlight is Boonesborough Days, held every September, celebrating over 50 years of tradition. The Boonsboro Farmers Market livens up Tuesdays from 4 to 7 p.m. every week at Shafer Park, which also hosts the popular Concert in the Park summer series and family-friendly Movies in the Park. In May, children up to age 12 can enjoy the Annual Fishing Derby at Hawkins Grove Pond. Seasonal festivities for Christmas, Halloween and Independence Day round out the town’s rich community spirit.
Boonsboro is car-dependent with access to major highways
Boonsboro is a car-dependent community with convenient access to major routes like Interstate 70 and Highway 40. It’s located just 11 miles from Hagerstown and 17 miles from Frederick; both towns are home to the nearest comprehensive medical facilities. For air travel, residents typically use Baltimore/Washington International Airport or Dulles International Airport.
Written By
Christina von Claparede-Crola
