There’s so much to see, do, and explore throughout the greater region of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. Detours to nearby Charles Town and Martinsburg also come with an exciting array of extras, which can certainly be added to any extended outing here. In truth, however, making extra stops is entirely unnecessary, as you’ll find plenty of pleasant offerings right onsite of this National Historical Park directly.
Because everyone is an individual with unique, personal interests, activity preferences are sure to differ by group. Still, there are some quintessential, mutually agreed-upon must-dos that most would consider Harpers Ferry rites of passage. Here is a list of just some of those highly hailed highlights.
Start at the Beginning
Whatever you choose to do on your outing to Harpers Ferry, you’ll want to head first to the Visitor Center on Shoreline Drive. Not only is it the place to gather great area guides, brochures, and all the most up-to-date information you need to know, but it’s also the place to purchase park passes, which are required for officially entering the limits of Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.
Guests are welcome to park their cars within the Visitor Center parking lot and take the shuttle bus (included with admission) down to the Lower Town district—the heart of most Harpers Ferry attractions. Shuttles run every 10 to 15 minutes daily during operational hours. Do note, however, that pets are not permitted on shuttles.
Suppose you are planning to bring along a four-legged friend, or you choose not to ride the shuttle for other reasons. In that case, alternate parking can be found at various other access points to the Harpers Ferry Lower Town district. Click here for a complete listing.
Explore Museums and Exhibits in Lower Town
Most would agree that exploring all the different museums and exhibits on display throughout the Lower Town district is an absolute must. There’s certainly no shortage of plentiful pickings to pursue, although be warned that not all attractions may be available at all times. Some closures may be necessary for refurbishments or updates, such as maintenance, repairs, etc. That’s why getting all the latest updates from the Visitor Center is always a best practice.
The onsite museums that Harpers Ferry is best known for include the John Brown Museum, Black Voices: African American History Museum, Industry Museum, and the Civil War Museum. There are also recreated living history exhibits worth looking into. These include the Storer College & the Niagara Movement Exhibit, A Place in Time, the Boarding House, a Dry Goods Store, Philip Frankel & Co./Ready-Made Clothing, White Hall Tavern, Harper House, the Confectionery, A. Burton: Fine Watch Repair/Burton Jewelry Store, and the Provost Marshal Office. Guests are more than welcome to explore on their own, at their own pace, although some find excitement when joining one of several Park Program offerings featured regularly. You can read more about those here.
Venture to the Top of Jefferson Rock
Arguably, the most scenic sight to behold in all of Harpers Ferry, Jefferson Rock can be found at its elevated location along the Appalachian Trail between the Lower Town district and Camp Hill section. It is one of the most-hiked hot spots in the park—a definite must-do, despite the steep and hilly terrain, which can pose a bit of a challenge to some. But once you stand out, overlooking all the unrivaled, pristine beauty encompassing you and those optimal views of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers below, you will know that it was all worth it!
Jefferson Rock gets its name from Thomas Jefferson, who famously stood here on October 25, 1783, and described it as being “perhaps one of the most stupendous scenes in nature.” He published his full description in his Notes on the State of Virginia, published in 1785.
Visitors today take note that you are not permitted to stand directly on top of Jefferson Rock or its supporting base. Standing next to it in the public access area is more than sufficient, though, I promise.
Explore St. Peter’s Church
While ascending along the way to Jefferson Rock from the Lower Town, you will pass by an old, historic stone chapel. This is St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church—another Harpers Ferry highlight worth exploring. The church and its foundational hillside site pack a storied past. While the original structure was damaged, the current building is still a vintage marvel, having been rebuilt in the 1890s.
The church is open to the public on weekends and holidays for tours and other events. Tourists and residents in the area can still attend Mass here every Sunday at 9:30 am, and docents dressed in old-fashioned attire lead tours and answer questions during the peak tourist season, which runs between May and November. Concerts and holiday events are held here as well, as part of the Olde Tyme Christmas in Harpers Ferry event, which takes place annually the first two weekends in December.
Look Upon Three States at Once
There is a spot in Harpers Ferry where you can stand and see three states (Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia) all at once. Known familiarly as “The Point,” it’s another must-see, must-do endeavor often sought out by visitors. Stand here and you can also see the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers as well.
Take a Hike
Harpers Ferry is a hiker’s haven with so many versatile offerings ranging in difficulty levels and types of terrain. You can explore more than 20 different designated hiking trails, from shorter pathways across Civil War battlefields to more rugged adventures that require a bit of climbing and fortitude.
On that note, it’s also worth mentioning that Harpers Ferry just happens to be the distinguishable midpoint of the famed Appalachian Trail. You can view all of the available hiking trails and the challenges that each one entails by clicking here.
Get in the Water
Because you have both the Shenandoah and the Potomac Rivers onsite, it should come as no surprise that Harpers Ferry is particularly preferable to those seeking multiple water-based activities. These range from fishing to tubing, rafting, kayaking, canoeing, and even paddleboarding. Various area suppliers will get you situated with what you need, depending on your intended endeavor.
Always be sure you check that the specific location of the body of water you plan to visit is suitable for your intended activity or recreation. Currents, deepness, and rockiness vary in different sections of both rivers.
Climb a Couple Cliffs
The dense, rocky, and versatile terrain comprising Harpers Ferry makes it an optional outing for climbing enthusiasts. The National Park Service has designated specific scaling walls, which are open during certain seasons. Availability is dependent on peregrine nesting times, weather conditions, and other factors. So, again, it is imperative to check in advance.
Indulge in Eats and Treats
While packing a picnic and enjoying one of several public gathering areas in the park can be pleasantly relaxing and low-key, you should note that Harpers Ferry is home to some delicious onsite dining options as well. The Rabbit Hole, for instance, comes highly recommended to those looking for a classy take on pub fare. There’s also Almost Heaven Pub and Grill, serving up all those casual classics you know and love. Craving craft beer, fresh hot pizza, and scenic views? Harpers Ferry Brewing has you covered! Vegan-friendly options can be found at Kelley Farm Kitchen, and White Horse Tavern provides premium, iconic foodie favorites.
Not looking for a meal, per se? There are plenty of lite-bite snack venues to consider as well. From ice cream to grab-and-go goodies, and even candy (including the famed True Treats Historic Candy), you have no shortage of prime provisions to tuck into on your visit to Harpers Ferry!
Remember, you can customize whichever Harpers Ferry experiences you wish to pursue accordingly, whenever you choose to visit. Learn more on the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park website at www.nps.gov/hafe.
By: LC Hermoza