Location: Harpers Ferry
Top Things to do in Harpers Ferry
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The 10 Best Things to do in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia (WV)
Harpers Ferry is a historic town in Jefferson County, West Virginia, United States. It was formerly spelled Harper's Ferry with an apostrophe and that form continues to appear in some references. It is situated at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers where the U.S. states of Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia meet. It is the easternmost town in West Virginia. The town's original, lower section is on a flood plain created by the two rivers and surrounded by higher ground. Historically, Harpers Ferry is best known for John Brown's raid on the Armory in 1859 and its role in the American Civil War. The population was 286 at the 2010 census.
Restaurants in Harpers Ferry
1. Appalachian National Scenic Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 102 reviews
Very long hiking trail spanning over 2,100 miles and 14 states.
Reviewed By 844barbaras - Alexandria, United States
We took a great walk along the scene trail. Amazing view and totally worth going. I had some 'always bored teens' lol with me and they really loved it and took lots of photos. Afterwards told me it was totally worth going to. Priceless.
2. Ghost Tours of Harpers Ferry
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 625 reviews
America's oldest ghost tour is an approximate two hour walking tour around several blocks of the historic "Lower Town" section of Harpers Ferry viewing a number of sites and buildings that have had ghostly phenomenon reported in or around them over the years. Tour includes both legends and historical events which may account for some of the ghostly happenings. These stories of Harpers Ferry's history, legends and unexplained phenomenon are appropriate for children of all ages. Always best to call to make a reservation and check website for dates that we are closed.
3. O' Be Joyfull Historical Tours & Entertainment
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 239 reviews
O Be Joyfull offers historical tours of Harpers Ferry and historical concerts featuring music from the Civil War and from the Irish. Tours and concerts are entertaining, educational and fun!
4. Split Rock Overlook
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 17 reviews
Reviewed By 866TaylorB - Chicago, United States
Split Rock is just as the name implies, two massive rocks that appear to have been split apart perhaps thousands of years ago. To reach the Split Rock Overlook, which overlooks historic Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, and get a panoramic view of the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, you must navigate the 6.6-mile Loudoun Heights Trail that is accessible year-round, is moderately traveled and affords an enjoyable hike on a sunny morning. The view is spectacular and well worth the trip. But, for an historian, the most interesting aspect are the Civil War rifle pits and breastworks that are still visible along the high ground occupied by Confederate troops during the Battle of Harpers Ferry on September 12-15, 1862, and a night attack by Confederate Colonel John Mosby's Rangers on January 10, 1864, that was repulsed by Union Major Henry Cole's Maryland cavalry. The hike can be exhausting but the view is worth the effort. As long as you aren't in a hurry.
5. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,028 reviews
A visit to this quaint, historic community, at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, is like stepping into the past. Stroll the picturesque streets, visit exhibits and museums, or hike our trails and battlefields. Spend a day or a weekend. We have something for everyone, so come and discover Harpers Ferry! Hours: Park Open Daily from Sunrise to Sunset. Museums, Exhibits, and Visitor Center: Open 9:00am - 5:00pm Park Closed: Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
Reviewed By kylesE8563QS
Accessible via Amtrak, Harpers Ferry is filled with history and surrounded by natural beauty.the many worthwhile sights are the Appalachian Trail Visitors Center, the Civil War Museum, John Brown's Fort,The C and O Canal National Historic Park, The African American Museum, St Peter's R.C. Church, and Jefferson Park.The town is located where the Potomac and the Shenandoah Rivers meet, and from the point one can see West Virginia, Maryland, and Virginia.
6. Appalachian Trail Conservancy Headquarters
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 221 reviews
Closed until further notice. The main visitor center for the Appalachian Trail and one of the most famous landmarks on the entire 2,190-mile national scenic trail. It's considered the 'psychological half-way point' on the Appalachian Trail. All are welcome, from tourists to "thru-hikers" walking the entire trail. The center has exhibits, a gift shop where you can purchase maps, books, and souvenirs. A 10-foot 3D map shows the entire East Coast, with a miniature replica trail shelter built into the back side. By visiting Harpers Ferry, you'll have already started the 14-state challenge, which encourages hikers to visit one location in each of the Trail's 14 states. If you visit lower town historic Harpers Ferry just a half mile away and walk across the footbridge over the Potomac River, you'll have already completed two states.
Reviewed By cware0571 - Venice, United States
It was fun to explore the history straight from those who have experienced it!!! Hikers from years past have left notes, journals and other memories so that we can all enjoy!! Informative staff and cozy place for through hikers to relax!
7. River Riders
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,055 reviews
West Virginia whitewater rafting, tubing, zip line canopy tour, kayaking, canoeing, biking, climbing, team building, and outdoor adventure summer camps in Harpers Ferry and C and O Canal National Parks on the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers. We are the closest outfitter to the Washington, DC, Baltimore, MD and Northern Virginia metro areas.
8. Armory Canal Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 49 reviews
Reviewed By sconrad1961
We did not start the walk from the visitors center but took the tram down to Lower Town and then walked a large length of the trail. Signage is excellent, you can learn so much about the history of the Armory and canals. It's very shady at this end of town and it's beautiful to watch the Potomac. You could always end your day by walking the canal trail back to the visitors center lot.
9. True Treats Historic Candy
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 78 reviews
Reviewed By AndreaUbok - Florida, United States
Beautiful presentation candy that the past hundred years. I loved the chocolate cigarettes and all of the old time candies from my childhood.
10. St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 124 reviews
Reviewed By Ladyunsilence - Moundsville, United States
I like this style of church and the stained glass windows. We did stop by earlier in the week and was only open on the weekends to go inside.
