Whether you’re looking to dive into the past, get your adrenaline fix, or unwind with riverside meals, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, has it all. Ready to plan an unforgettable weekend getaway? Here are five experiences in Harpers Ferry you won’t want to miss.
Explore Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Step back in time at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, where immersive experiences and 19th-century architecture transport you to the Civil War era. Chat with costumed interpreters about what life in the once-bustling industrial town was like. Wander through museum exhibits detailing Harpers Ferry’s significance in the fight for freedom and civil rights.
Pop into restored shops, like the dry goods store and confectionery. Follow the footsteps of abolitionists and soldiers who shaped American history. Beyond the educational experiences, discover 22 miles of scenic Blue Ridge trails and Civil War battlefields. Climb to Jefferson Rock for sweeping views of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. Thomas Jefferson famously claimed the view was worth crossing the Atlantic to see!
Alternatively, challenge yourself with the Maryland Heights Trail for the most iconic overlook of Harpers Ferry. Up for a true bucket-list adventure? Hike across three states in one afternoon—the park stretches into West Virginia, Virginia, and Maryland.
Pro tip: Avoid parking in the Lower Town area, as it’s small and spots fill up fast. Instead, park at the entrance station and take the free shuttle into Lower Town. Food options are limited, so bring water and snacks if you plan to hike. The park regularly hosts reenactments, ranger talks, and fun weekend events, so check the website before your visit to plan accordingly.
Visit John Brown’s Fort
While you’re in Lower Town, visit John Brown’s Fort to see the tiny brick building that sparked a revolution. The 1859 raid that took place here aimed to ignite a nationwide slave revolt, making this spot one of the most significant landmarks in Harpers Ferry. Walk inside the unassuming fort that stands as a symbol of resistance and abolitionist courage. Immerse yourself in an iconic moment in time through historical markers and interpretive panels.
Depending on when you go, you might even catch reenactors offering a firsthand look at the moment that helped spark the Civil War. Don’t leave without checking out the nearby John Brown Museum for a deeper dive into John Brown, the raid, and its enduring legacy.
Outside, take in the natural beauty of the surrounding cobblestone streets and wooded hills. If you’re looking for a picture-perfect shot, walk around to the side of the building for a postcard-worthy shot of the fort framed against the hillside. This is one of the most visited spots in town, so arrive early to avoid the crowds.
Visit True Treats Historic Candy
Grab some sweet treats with a side of storytelling at True Treats Historic Candy, the only research-based historic candy store in the country. Explore more than 500 teas, candies, and confections—including everything from 1700s maple drops to Prohibition-era root beer candy. Read the card that comes with each treat to learn about its origins and cultural significance.
Taste your way through American history by building a sampler from every era: Victorian Turkish delight, Civil War-era horehound drops, and 1940s Pixi Stix. Feeling adventurous? Try the chocolate sea foam or cinnamon oil drops, two nostalgic gems you may not find elsewhere.
Hoping to catch one of their educational tastings or holiday events? They host them throughout the year, just call ahead to ask. Whether you’re a candy lover with a serious sweet tooth or a history buff looking for a unique glimpse into the past, this museum-candyland combination is one experience you won’t want to miss.
Go Whitewater Rafting with River Riders
Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting at the foot of Harpers Ferry, where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers converge. This prime position makes the area one of the best spots on the East Coast for rafting, no matter if you’re a seasoned pro or a first-timer. Float past rugged cliffs, lush forests, old railroad bridges, and the historic buildings of Harpers Ferry.
Choose a relaxing ride or an exhilarating paddle through Class I-III rapids, depending on your comfort level. Your guides will provide all the gear you need for the 2-3 hour journey, including water shoe rentals if you forget your own. Strike a pose for the on-river photographers as they catch epic action shots along the way.
Need a break after the rapids? Kick back at the riverside basecamp. Grab a bite at the on-site restaurant, sip brews in the beer garden, or relax in a hammock by the water. Even on calm days, you’re pretty much guaranteed to get wet, so bring clothes to change into at the base camp after your adventure. Book ahead of time to avoid spots filling up during your visit.
Enjoy a Meal at Kelley Farm Kitchen
Cap off your day with a scratch-made meal that’s as satisfying as the surrounding views. Set in a quaint converted house, Kelley Farm Kitchen is a cozy, plant-based spot above Lower Town. Locals aren’t the only ones who love the food here—it was voted the #1 place to eat in the U.S. by Yelp a few years back.
Dig into a juicy Impossible burger with all the fixings. Chow down on a fried chicken sandwich. Savor a flavorful bowl of ramen with marinated tofu. Whether you’re craving Asian, Mexican, Italian, or American cuisine, there’s something for every palate. The menu changes with the seasons to spotlight fresh, local ingredients, so don’t expect to try the same thing twice.
If it’s nice out, grab a seat in the garden to enjoy your meal among the flowers and the mountain breeze. Kelley Farm Kitchen may be small, but it has a cult following, so expect a crowd on the weekends. While they don’t sell alcohol, the restaurant is BYOB-friendly, so bring your favorite bottle of wine to sip while you eat. After your meal, walk downhill to Harpers Ferry’s Lower Town to wrap up your visit with a peaceful stroll.
