Harpers Ferry is a great place for people who love history. It has many old sites and ruins from the Civil War, as well as churches. The town is located where the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers meet, which makes it very beautiful. It is in West Virginia, tucked between Virginia and Maryland.
One of the most famous events in Harpers Ferry was John Brown’s raid on the armory. There are also museums, historic sites, and landmarks to visit. People who visit Harpers Ferry often spend a lot of time exploring the Civil War sites, but there are also activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking to enjoy in the beautiful surroundings.
The nearby woods and mountains have pretty rocks and waterfalls to see. The two rivers in Harpers Ferry offer opportunities for outdoor activities and incredible views.
12. Appalachian Trail Conservancy Headquarters
The center houses the conservancy group’s headquarters and offers activities and exhibits about the Appalachian Trail. People who are interested in the trail can come here to learn about its wildlife, plants, history, and scenery. The organization has been working since 1925 to protect, preserve, and promote the trail.
In addition to informative exhibits and helpful staff, visitors can also get brochures, merchandise, and supplies from the gift shop. Thru-hikers, who are halfway through their journey, stop here to check in and receive a special polaroid photo.
The photo serves as a memorable keepsake of their challenging hike and is displayed on the wall along with many others.
11. St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church
One of the most impressive buildings in Harpers Ferry is St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church. It stands out with its tall steeple, which can be seen above the rooftops. The church is the only one in town that survived the Civil War and was built in 1833.
It has a beautiful exterior made of grey and red sandstone, which is complemented by stunning stained-glass windows. Inside, the church is equally attractive with pretty pews, statues, and religious artworks. There are also photographs and displays that showcase its history.
Leaving the church is just as special as entering because of the breathtaking views of the valley and rivers.
10. Antietam National Battlefield
The Antietam National Battlefield in Maryland is a very important site from the Civil War. It is located about twenty minutes away from the country. People can visit there and walk around the fields and farms. They can also learn a lot about the bloodiest day in American military history. This happened on September 17, 1862, when General Robert E.
Lee’s Confederate troops fought against Union forces near the Potomac River. The battle lasted for twelve hours and resulted in the death, disappearance, or injury of over 22,000 soldiers. General Lee then decided to retreat. The battlefield has many monuments and plaques that are emotionally touching and provide information.
There is also a national cemetery next to it. The visitor center is great and provides details about the battle, such as tactics, troop movements, and important moments. Additionally, there are many artifacts and exhibits that delve into the key people involved in the battle.
9. Appalachian National Scenic Trail
A great way to explore the area around the town is by hiking on the Appalachian National Scenic Trail. Since Harpers Ferry is in the middle of the trail, many people start their journey from here to discover the nearby mountains, valleys, and forests.
The trail is quite long, stretching about 2,200 miles across fourteen states, making it one of the most beautiful and lengthy trails in the country. While completing the entire trail would take several months, you can still enjoy parts of it to experience more of the country.
The shorter sections near Harpers Ferry offer breathtaking landscapes and fantastic views of rock formations and waterfalls. Harpers Ferry is a significant milestone for dedicated hikers attempting the entire trail, as it marks the halfway point.
8. Ruins of St. John’s Episcopal Church
Just a short distance from the tavern, visitors can discover the captivating old Ruins of St. John’s Episcopal Church. Sitting atop a grassy bluff, with a view overlooking both rivers below, the decaying walls, windows, and remnants of the church create a remarkable spectacle.
During the Civil War, the church served as a hospital and barracks, but it suffered significant damage from a fire during the intense battle for Harpers Ferry. Although it has been restored, the church was eventually abandoned when the new St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church was constructed nearby.
Now, at this picturesque location, you can delve into the fascinating history of the church, which goes back to 1852. The rugged remains of the church, the slightly overgrown hill it stands upon, and the prominent viewpoints also present excellent opportunities for capturing stunning photographs.
7. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Harpers Ferry is a town with many important historical places and these are protected as part of the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. The park was established in 1944 and includes many different places, including the town center and parts of the Shenandoah River valley.
The park has both museums and landmarks related to John Brown and the Civil War, as well as beautiful natural spots and viewpoints. The park is well taken care of and is the most visited historic site in West Virginia. It is also surrounded by picturesque forests, mountains, and rivers, which makes it even more popular.
6. River Riders
After you have finished exploring many historic sites, River Riders offers exciting outdoor activities and adventure sports to help you relax and unwind. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery and nature by signing up for cycling, kayaking, or rock climbing tours.
In addition to whitewater rafting and tubing, you can also hike and fish along the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers. If you’re looking for more thrills, River Riders has zip lines, obstacle courses, and canopy tours to try.
All of these activities are held in pristine locations amidst mountains, rivers, and valleys, allowing you to fully appreciate their beauty while being guided by experienced professionals.
5. John Brown’s Fort
John Brown’s Fort is located at the meeting point of the town’s rivers and was originally built to protect the Harpers Ferry Armory. It gained recognition when John Brown sought refuge there during his raid on the town.
The fort is now the only surviving structure of the armory and was initially constructed in 1848 for housing guards and fire engines. Ten years later, it became famous when John Brown and his men barricaded themselves inside with hostages. The building was stormed by local militia and marines, and Brown was later hanged in Charles Town.
Besides its historical significance, visitors can appreciate the fort’s architecture and read plaques that tell its captivating story. Additionally, there are many other nearby historic sites, viewpoints, and river walks to explore.
4. Jefferson Rock
In the center of town, you can find a really big rock called Jefferson Rock. It’s special because of its interesting shape, its position that seems kind of scary, and the great views it offers over the river valley. The rock is named after Thomas Jefferson and it looks like a bunch of big pieces of shale stacked on top of each other.
There are four stone pillars under the highest piece of rock that help keep it in place. There’s also a plaque next to them with a description written by the former US President, Thomas Jefferson, praising the cool rock formations and the pretty views. He visited Harpers Ferry in 1783 while traveling in Virginia.
Because the rock is so high up, it gives you an amazing view of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah Valley, and the rivers below.
3. The Point
You can’t miss a great view at the eastern tip of town where the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers meet. It’s called ‘The Point’ and it offers amazing views of the rivers and the beautiful mountains surrounding them. There are also displays that explain the history of the area and what you’re actually seeing.
You’ll even find a rundown railway bridge from the Civil War and some atmospheric ruins from an armory. These create wonderful photo opportunities with the rivers, forests, and mountains in the background. The Point is also interesting because you can see West Virginia, Virginia, and Maryland from there.
2. John Brown Wax Museum
If you’re interested in history, a must-visit place in the town is the John Brown Wax Museum. It’s a small museum located in the center of the town. Despite its size, it offers a detailed exploration of the famous abolitionist John Brown and his brave attack on Harpers Ferry.
Inside the museum’s tall red brick building, you’ll find numerous waxwork models, dioramas, and exhibits that focus on the life and legacy of John Brown. These displays depict his efforts to help enslaved people escape to freedom and his attacks on the town and armory.
The museum uses audio descriptions and innovative lighting to bring the exhibits to life. In total, there are around ninety life-size wax figures spread across three floors of the museum. It first opened to the public in 1962.
1. White Hall Tavern
White Hall Tavern has a long history of attracting people who want to discuss local events, drink, and debate. The tavern has been well-preserved for over a century and a half, with an authentic interior that still looks the same as it did in the past.
Tourists now come to the tavern to see its informative displays and learn about its history with the help of knowledgeable guides. The tavern is located next to John Brown’s Fort and was once criticized by army officers for its negative influence and potential dangers.
In response to these concerns, the front part of the tavern was bought and removed by the army in 1856 to reduce the risk of fires spreading. Today, the tavern gives visitors a unique glimpse into the past with its collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the stories of the workers and soldiers who frequently visited.
