9 Best Things to Do in Harpers Ferry

Located just one hour from Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, Maryland, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, is an idyllic mountain town renowned for its rich American history, stunning scenic views, and diverse outdoor recreation opportunities.

While the town may be small, it’s loaded with adventures. History buffs can tour original Civil War battlefields. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the Blue Ridge Mountains and local rivers. Foodies can savor their way through Downtown Harpers Ferry, exploring the numerous breweries and wineries in the area. And those looking for a relaxing trip can enjoy all that our Mountain Mama cabins have to offer.

No matter who you are or what your perfect escape entails, Harpers Ferry has it all. Here’s our 10 best things to do in Harpers Ferry.

1. Go Tubing Down the Local Rivers

Did you know that Harpers Ferry is ranked as one of the top places in the United States for tubing?

Harpers Ferry sits at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, providing the perfect setting for both flat-water tubing and white-water tubing. Local outfitter companies such as River Riders and Harpers Ferry Adventure Center offer a variety of guided tubing trips and rentals, ensuring you have a safe and memorable adventure!

Pro tip: River Riders also offers snow tubing in the winter!

2. Tour the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, is home to numerous Civil War battlefield sites and is recognized for its historical significance during the American Civil War. The Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is the most seamless way to explore the many historic sites within Harpers Ferry.

We recommend starting at the Visitor Center parking lot in Historic Lower Town and making your way to historic buildings along the path at your own pace, such as John Brown’s Fort, where Abolitionist John Brown’s raid took place. Other notable stops along the way include St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church and the blacksmith’s shop.

Check out our full guide before your walking tour to make sure you don’t miss any of the Civil War battlefields in town.

3. Eat Breakfast in Downtown Harpers Ferry

Food may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of visiting, but Harpers Ferry has some spots worth trying.

Breakfast, in particular, is a local favorite. Before you begin your day of adventures, fuel up at one of the many breakfast restaurants in town. Bolivar Bread Bakery is one of our favorites, serving up freshly-made baked goods every morning. The Country Cafe also offers some of the best classic breakfast options, including donuts on Saturday mornings.

4. Hit the Hiking Trails

Nature lovers will rejoice in the abundance of hiking trails available near Harpers Ferry. From the famous Appalachian Trail to the picturesque Jefferson Rock, people of all ages and experience levels can find a trail that suits them here.

Harpers Ferry is a fantastic base for exploring the Appalachian Trail, as it’s famously known as the “halfway point” of the entire trail. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) Headquarters and Visitor Center is located right in town. It’s impossible to hike in Harpers Ferry without setting foot on the ‘AT’.

Jefferson Rock offers a short, easy hike that starts in Historic Lower Town, providing a historic tour as you make your way to the destination. Named after Thomas Jefferson, Jefferson Rock is iconic for its views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers, and the town itself.

The Maryland Heights Trail is a great option if you want a longer trail, with routes ranging from 4.5 to 6.5 miles. It also starts in Lower Town.

5. Take a Day Trip to Charles Town

Just a short 15-minute drive from Harpers Ferry is the town of Charles Town, WV. This charming town is known for its quaint Downtown streets, rich history, and horse racing.

Some of our favorite things to do when visiting include seeing a show at The Old Opera House and touring the Jefferson County Museum. If you want to try your luck, head to the Hollywood Casino for slots and horse racing simulations!

Be sure to check out our full guide for more day trips from Harpers Ferry.

6. Tour Local Breweries

While Loudon County might be known for its award-winning wineries, local breweries are gaining traction in the region.

From lively pubs to family-owned microbreweries, there are tons of options for craft beer in and around Harpers Ferry. Harpers Ferry Brewing is a well-loved brewery just across the river from Downtown Harpers Ferry. Not only does it offer delicious in-house brews, but it also boasts incredible views of the Potomac River from its expansive deck.

Other options nearby include Flying Ace Farm, Abolitionist Ale Works, and Hillsborough Winery, Brewery, and Vineyard.

7. Go Ziplining through the Blue Ridge Mountains

Have you ever dreamed of ziplining through the mountains? River Riders, the nearby outfitter company, offers ziplining tours that provide a thrilling experience.

The tour lasts 2 to 3 hours and requires riders to weigh at least 40 pounds. While on it, you’ll move through seven different ziplines, two sky bridges, and even a 50-foot free fall jump.

Don’t worry. If ziplining isn’t your thing, there are tons of family-friendly activities to enjoy through River Riders. You can head to Harpers Ferry Aerial Adventure Park instead, a challenging, fun ropes course for people of all ages.

8. Visit “The Point”

Harpers Ferry boasts incredible views from many different vantage points, but the most popular lookout spot is known as “The Point.” The Point is situated where the Potomac River and Shenandoah River meet, offering breathtaking views of both rivers and the Blue Ridge Mountains beyond.

You also have great views of Harpers Ferry itself, especially in the wintertime. However, one of the most impressive features of this lookout point is its ability to view three different states simultaneously. That’s right: West Virginia, Virginia, and Maryland are all in view once you reach The Point.

We recommend visiting for sunrise or sunset, as it’s beautiful at both times of day.

9. Explore Downtown Harpers Ferry

Beyond the abundance of historic buildings in Downtown Harpers Ferry, the quaint square is home to mom-and-pop restaurants, eclectic shops, and local museums.

• Museums: For museums, head to the John Brown Wax Museum for a glimpse into the life of Abolitionist John Brown, and the Restoration Museum, which is dedicated to preserving historic buildings in the area.
• Shopping: For unique shopping experiences, be sure to check out The Vintage Lady and Tenfold Fair Trade Collection.
• Dining: For delicious food, check out Cannonball Deli, The Rabbit Hole Gastropub, or the Hillbrook Inn Restaurant.

If you prefer a spooky way to experience Downtown Harpers Ferry, we recommend taking a ghost tour at night. Be sure to make reservations beforehand, as this is one of the most popular activities, especially during the Halloween season.

Enjoy Your Trip to Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

Harpers Ferry is loaded with adventures for every type of traveler.

Adventure seekers can take advantage of the many outdoor activities around, from tubing to ziplining and everything in between. Foodies can savor their way through local restaurants, breweries, wineries, and more. And those looking for a more relaxing trip can take advantage of historic walking tours, leisurely hikes, and relaxing at your Mountain Mama Cabins’ rental.

No matter what type of trip you are looking for, Harpers Ferry has everything you could need. We hope our top 10 favorite things to do in Harpers Ferry helps you plan your memorable getaway!