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Harpers Ferry Historical Park, close to DC, Maryland, and Virginia, has multiple pieces of the civil war puzzle of the area from the battlefield to the actual town existing today, much as it did in the late 1800s telling the story of abolitionist John Brown who raided Harpers Ferry in attempts to end slavery. Make the most of your visit to this fascinating town with our Harpers Ferry, West Virginia travel guide.
Harper’s Ferry, WV, is the perfect setting for lunch or dinner, strolling shops and having an outdoor adventure. The Historical Park is in great condition. The sweeping rock formations surrounding the town combine scenic views and history.
River & Trail Outfitters– Enjoy rafting and kayaking with River & Trail Outfitters, or at their Knoxville location, have a blast doing whitewater tubing and hiking.
Harpers Ferry Historical Park– Buildings in this historic town showcase life as it was when Harpers Ferry was preparing for war in the late 1800s with replica furniture and accessories. Harpers Ferry is most notable for an attack by John Brown, an abolitionist, “in an attempt to start an armed revolt of enslaved people and destroy the institution of slavery.” John’s story is also told in the John Brown Wax Museum. Some of the historic buildings are now shops and restaurants which is great for spending the day. Here are a few of my favorites:
The Point– You’ll get a great view of the river, railroad tunnel, and surrounding rock formations at The Point, from the pedestrian bridge joined and running parallel to the train tracks, located to the far right of the Harper’s ferry station (this is also how to get from the town to the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal trail).
Hike Harpers Ferry– The trails or the Appalachian Trail go into Harpers Ferry making it a great place to sleep if you’re doing a long hike, or to enjoy hiking the AT (Appalachian Trail).
We loved all the places to eat in Harpers Ferry so you won’t have trouble finding a good restaurant in Harpers Ferry, WV. There were several wonderful outdoor patios with great service, and as always, some tasty treats!
Coach House Grill and Bar– Great outdoor seating, excellent food, and a cool historic setting, Coach House Grill and Bar even has indoor seating for hot summer days.
A La Mode Café– A La Mode Cafe has Italian ice or ice cream that will have you chillin.
Almost Heaven Pub and Grill– Great location with a nice view, Almost Heaven Pub and Grill has good American pub food.
Hillbrook Inn– In nearby historic Charles Town, WV, Hillbrook Inn boasts a fine dining menu with seasonal and fresh ingredients.
Accommodations in Harpers Ferry balance history with romance perfectly! This selection is right in Harpers Ferry or just a little outside in case you want to get away from the crowds in the peak of summer.
The Town’s Inn– Directly in Harpers Ferry National Park historic town, The Town’s Inn provides simple accommodations but an amazing location, just steps from the cobblestone streets of Harpers Ferry, shops, dining, and outdoor adventure.
The Bavarian Inn– While not directly in Harpers Ferry, The Bavarian Inn is just a short drive and worth the view from the Infinity Pool nestled above the Potomac River, a brewery and guest rooms with gas fireplaces and whirlpool baths to enhance the luxury experience. The Inn is located steps away from the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park.
Hillbrook Inn– A luxury bed-and-breakfast, the Hillbrook Inn has a spa and fine dining restaurant in nearby historic Charles Town, WV. They are a pet friendly inn, so Fido doesn’t have to miss the fun.
Events in Harpers Ferry– In Harpers Ferry you can take a guided hike, hear stories of long ago, or historical lectures.
Everything you need to know about traveling.
The history of Harpers Ferry is a rich and diverse one. You’ll be able to discover key points in history often overlooked. This best in show list for Harpers Ferry, WV will help you see and do the best the area offers.
Accommodation – The Bavarian Inn – The Bavarian Inn is close to the action, but offers quiet respite outside of town. It has an Infinity Pool nestled above the Potomac River, a brewery and guest rooms with gas fireplaces and whirlpool baths to enhance the luxury experience. It is located steps away from the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park and a short drive to Harpers Ferry, a historic destination.
Food – Hillbrook Inn – The Hillbrook Inn is in nearby historic Charles Town, WV, which boasts a fine dining menu with seasonal and fresh ingredients. This is a close second for accommodations, so check out their pet friendly rooms too.
Things to Do – River & Trail Outfitters – At their Knoxville location, River & Trail Outfitters offer Whitewater tubing, which is not only fun but a rare opportunity. What a blast to float your way down one of the top 10 tubing rivers, on class II-III rapids.
Alise’s Favorites and Suggestions –
–Amtrack goes right into Harpers Ferry if you prefer not to drive
– Take a quick drive to Shepherdstown, WV, another historic town, with shops and restaurants, check out the jalapeno and cheese popcorn or the birthday cake popcorn at Mountaineer Popcorn Company
– Gregg rode his road bike from Shepherdstown, WV to Rock Creek Park in Washington, the trail was tightly packed, but the last 20 miles toward Washington was very rocky and luckily did not blow a tire
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park– Ride to or from Harpers Ferry entry point on the C&O. While many parts of the C&O are not suitable for thin road bike tires, at least from the Shepherd’s town (and a bit before) entry point to Seneca boat ramp just before lock 24 (22 miles before the trail ends in Washington) it is a well packed and sufficient for Gregg’s road tires.
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These items will make your travels memorable.
August 29, 2021
The information provided through this website is for informational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any illness or disease. It is not professionaladvice, nor is it intended to create any type of relationship between us. You should not act on any of the information on this website without seeking professional legal, financial, medical, mental health, travel,or other professionaladvice or care. All subscribers that havejoinedthrough a request for information initiated by the subscriber have the opportunity to opt-out at any time. We are a part of multiple affiliate sales networks; we may be compensated if you (the consumer) choose to utilize the links located throughout ourcontent andour website.By accessing or using this website, you agree to abide by the Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Affiliate Policy. Content may not bereproduced in any form.
