The Ultimate Harper’s Ferry Getaway: Where to Stay, Hike, Eat, and Explore

The Blue Ridge Mountains meet history in one of the most charming small towns in America — Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia. With mountain views, Civil War history, and trails that connect right into the Appalachian Trail, this spot is one of the best weekend getaways from D.C. or Maryland for anyone who loves adventure, small-town charm, and great food.

Here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect Harper’s Ferry escape — where to stay, where to play, where to eat, and what to hike.

1. Where to Stay

2. Where to Play

3. Best Hikes

4. Where to Eat

5. 3 Day Itinerary
   

Where to stay:

1. Rent a home in the historic area (we loved this one)- Harpers Retreat, a cozy two-bedroom, two-bath home just minutes from the heart of historic Harper’s Ferry. The house sleeps up to six guests with two queen bedrooms plus a pullout sofa, making it perfect for families, couples, or small groups.

   We loved that it had an open kitchen, washer and dryer, and lots of living space. Outside, there’s a fire pit, a private deck, and even a barrel sauna. Bonus Tip: You can walk straight from the house to town and the trails. Park once, settle in, and enjoy an easy, car-free weekend!

Where to play:

1. Historic Harper’s Ferry National Historical Park- Harper’s Ferry might be one of the smallest towns in the U.S., but it’s also one of the largest National Park towns — the entire area is part of the National Park System. Walk cobblestone streets, feel like you stepped back in time, and learn more about John Brown’s raid and Civil War history.

2. Jefferson Rock- One of Harper’s Ferry’s most famous viewpoints, Jefferson Rock sits just above the historic town. Thomas Jefferson himself once stood here in 1783, calling the view “worth a voyage across the Atlantic.” One of the most photographed spots in town and one of the best views.

3. The Point Overlook- Walk to the very end of Shenandoah Street in Lower Town to The Point, where the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers meet. It’s one of the most scenic spots in Harper’s Ferry and a must-stop photo spot.

4. The Old Cemetery- Sitting high above town, the Harper Cemetery was an easy walk from our AirBnb. The views over the Blue Ridge Mountains are incredible, and the old headstones date back to the 1700s and 1800s.

5. The Train Station- This one’s still in use! You can actually take an Amtrak train straight from D.C. to Harper’s Ferry. It’s a great day-trip option or an easy car-free getaway.

6. River Riders Family Adventure Resort- For summer adventures, River Riders is a must. River tubing, whitewater rafting, zip-lining, kayaking, and e-bike rentals — all with insane views of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers. It’s one of the best summer activities in Harper’s Ferry for anyone looking to add a little adventure to their weekend. Tip: Check out their new inflatable water park!

7. Appalachian Trail Conservancy Visitor Center- Stop by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy headquarters right in town. It’s one of the only places where the trail runs directly through a town, and you can sign the logbook alongside hikers completing their thru-hike.

   
   

Best Hikes:

1. Maryland Heights Trail – A challenging 4.5-mile hike with one of the most iconic overlooks on the East Coast. A steep climb, but worth it for that panoramic view where the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers meet. Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging, Distance: 4.5 miles, Dog Policy: Dog-friendly

2. Loudoun Heights Trail – Cross the river to the Virginia side and enjoy quieter, less crowded overlooks Difficulty: Moderate, Distance: 7.5 miles, Dog Policy: Dog-friendly

3. Stone Fort Trail – A moderate 5-mile loop with scenic overlooks and Civil War history. See remnants of Union fortifications and forest views. Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 5 miles Dog Policy: Dog-friendly, leashed

4. Murphy-Chambers Farm Trail – An easy 2-mile loop perfect for families or history lovers. This trail has interpretive signs about John Brown’s raid and Civil War battles, plus beautiful river views. Difficulty: Easy Distance: 2 miles Dog Policy: Dog-friendly

5. Weverton Cliffs Trail – A short but steep 2.3-mile round trip just outside Harper’s Ferry. One of the best sunrise or sunset hikes near town. Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 2.3 miles Dog Policy: Dog-friendly, leashed

Where to eat:

1. The Rabbit Hole – A must-eat spot with patio views right over the river. Great burgers, sandwiches, and local craft beer. Try to get an outdoor table for the best views in town.

2. Bolivar Bread – Fresh-baked bread, croissants, and pastries made from scratch. Perfect breakfast stop before hiking or exploring downtown, plus it's walkable from the Airbnb!

3. The Appalachian Snail Café – Cozy café serving coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and baked goods. Ideal for a quick morning bite within walking distance of town.

4. Kelley Farm Kitchen – A plant-based restaurant just outside the main historic area with creative vegan dishes and hearty portions. Try the loaded fries or BBQ jackfruit tacos.

5. The Coffee Mill – Local favorite right in the heart of town serving ice cream, espresso drinks, and smoothies. Great stop for an afternoon pick-me-up or a sweet treat after exploring the historic district.

   
   

Our 3 Day Itinerary:

Day 1

• Afternoon: Check into Harpers Retreat Airbnb and get settled. Take a walk into the historic town to explore shops and the Harper’s Ferry National Historical Park exhibits.

• Evening: Climb up to Jefferson Rock or the old Harper Cemetery for sunset views over the mountains, then head to The Rabbit Hole for dinner on the patio with river views.

Day 2

• Morning: Start with coffee at The Appalachian Snail Café then hike the Maryland Heights Trail for that iconic overlook view of Harper’s Ferry.

• Lunch: Grab a casual meal in town — Kelley Farm Kitchen and Almost Heaven Pub & Grill are both great options.

• Afternoon: Spend the afternoon exploring Loudoun Heights Trail for quieter views and forested overlooks, or visit the Appalachian Trail Conservancy Visitor Center to learn more about the thru-hike community.(Summer option: head to River Riders Family Adventure Resort for tubing, zip-lining, or kayaking on the Shenandoah River.)

• Evening: Relax back at your Airbnb and enjoy a quiet night in — or stroll back to town for dessert and drinks

Day 3

• Morning: Visit Weverton Cliffs for one last epic overlook before heading home, or explore The Point Overlook where the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers meet.

• Lunch: Stop for one last bite at Bolivar Bread  before leaving — or grab an adult lunchable for the drive.

• Afternoon: Visit the Harper's Ferry Visitor Center and check out any spots you missed!

  
  

Ready to Plan Your Adventure?

For more family-friendly road trips and info on our favorite destinations for adventurous families check out our adventures at We Chose Adventures. Join us as we explore more family-friendly trails, scenic drives, and outdoor getaways in the Mid-Atlantic and beyond!