We have driven by this battlefield dozens of times and finally decided to stop and visit…read more Easy parking, main ealjway was realtively even, and numerous historic markers to read about the civil war era battles in the area. There is a wooded path too. Lovely mountain views Trash free park.....take out Whatever you bring in

A great place to start your tour of Harpers Ferry and its history…read moreBolivar Heights sits just above Harpers Ferry and, seems like a great place to start a tour of the entire area. We got a guided tour and our tour guide started here because from here you can see the hills that represent "the hole" the place where the 2 rivers, the Potomac and the Shenandoah connect. It gives you a wide open look at the town, the rivers, and the surrounding ridgelines. It's a quiet, grassy ridge with a few cannon placements and clear informational signs. It's easy to understand why this high ground mattered during the Civil War.I like this stop because it was simple and stress-free. There is a small parking area, short mostly-level paths, and lots of room to wander without crowds. The signs along the path do a nice job of explaining the fighting here and how it connects to the larger Harpers Ferry story. The cannons are in good shape but always be careful not to stick your hand inside one as small creatures like to use them also. If you want a picture with a cannon closeup or in the background then this is a good place for you. Overall, Bolivar Heights battlefield is an easy, worthwhile add to a Harpers Ferry visit. If you're driving the park's battle sites, put this one near the top of the list and enjoy the view.

An important historical place in Harper Ferry's, and America's, History…read more This fort is one of the most important and well-known buildings in Harpers Ferry. At first glance it looks like a simple brick firehouse with arched doors that were open when we visited. It had a closed office that a tour guide told us led to a small second floor, but it holds a major place in American history. This is the site of John Brown's raid in 1859. He and his group of abolitionists tried to seize the federal arsenal and start a movement against slavery. The raid failed and Brown was captured, but the event pushed the country closer to the Civil War and made the fort a symbol of both freedom and conflict. The fort has been moved several times over the years, but now sits in the lower town area of Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, not far from the confluence of the rivers and the other historic buildings. There are signs nearby that explain its background and the story of the raid. Anybody can walk right up to the structure and walk and look inside. Admission is included with the entry fee for Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, which covers parking and the shuttle bus system, so there is no separate charge to see the fort itself. The site does not have a tour guide or park ranger, but the informational signs and a decent google search will provide you information on the site. If you are going to visit the city, this is a must see site for you. The visit may seem simple on the surface because it is just a small brick building, but understanding its history gives you a true sense of how one short event helped shape the nation's history. It is a place that makes you stop, think, and remember the struggles that led to freedom and the change that made our country what it is today.

The history of John Brown's raid is fascinating. Unfortunately, the "Fort" leaves a lot to be…read moredesired. The building is started out as a storage area for the local fire engine, but was taken over by John Brown during his attempt to capture the nearby U.S. Armory. The insurrectionist took cover in this building until COL Robert E. Lee (yes, THAT Lee) lead an attack which captured Brown and his men. The building has been dismantled and rebuilt several times, so it isn't even all that original. It's not even on its original spot. Inside, all you see are a few plaques and a historic fire engine. That's all, folks. If you're interested in the history of the place, your best bet is to visit the NPS station nearby, and look for a tour. Visiting here should take no more than a few minutes.

LOVE Harper's Ferry. I'm a huge history buff. I used to come here as a child my dad would take us…read more So many memories . Parking is very busy mid day so come early, they also have a parking area then you can shuttle to the town, so check that out before coming. If you love the story of John Brown then this will bring everything to life. When we came the govt was shut down so I couldn't go to the wax museum :'(. I recommend bringing a picnic basket and eating on the grassy area near the river. You can also make a hike day out of everything and hike up the town past the beautiful Catholic Church at the top, hike back down, go over the bridge, and explore over there. Best place ever.

Having lived in Virginia for over three decades, before making the Valley of the Sun home, gave me…read morethe opportunity of visiting incredibly beautiful, vast, extraordinary and historical areas of Virginia, Maryland, DC and West Virginia - some of the most beautiful country America has to offer. West Virginia is by far an underrated state having so many natural and manmade wonders. As well as one of our most adventurous terrains. Harpers Ferry offers something for nearly everyone, from outdoor recreation and history to really quiet riverside walks and ranger-led programs. In historic Downtown, museums and exhibits tell many sides of and dark memories around Harpers Ferry, including the John Brown Museum and John Brown's Fort, Black Voices: African American History, the Industry Museum, and period sites such as the Boarding House, Dry Goods Store, White Hall Tavern, and the Confectionery. Other featured sites include Harper House, the Master Armorer's Quarters, the Civil War Museum, and the Provost Marshal Office. One can stroll the rivers Shenandoah and Potomac converge there and admire the train crossing and the tunnel across the way. Picnicking by the riverside is a wonderful afternoon pastime. Nice and cool streaming waters, especially of a hot and muggy summer's day. Although usually a bustling tourist location, it offers a unique solitude because of its surrounding hills, mountains, trees and overall nature. I have never tired of visiting Harpers Ferry, despite its cruel and violent history, it remains tranquil, beautiful and serene. If you're ever in West Virginia, this is a must visit!

Tony and I spent the night in Harper's Ferry WV. We were going to tour the Historical Park but…read moredecided to comeback at a later date to devote our time and a full day here. There is so much to see. It cost $20 for 1-3 consecutive days per vehicle. We did stop at the Shenandoah Pulp Factory Ruins to explore and investigate. Be sure to spray down with your Buggie Spray or be prepared to be dinner for the insect wildlife!!! It has a small pullover parking area for about 2 cars to share. There is some signage about it's history. Highly recommend if you're in the area. I'm definitely going back!!!

An interesting story and a nice view above Harper's Ferry…read moreJefferson Rock is one of the highlights of Harpers Ferry. It gives a good mix of history, scenery, and a bit of historic adventure that personifies the town. The hike to the rock takes you up the hillside, passing by the iconic St. Peter's Catholic Church along the way. The path itself is fairly manageable, and most sections have railings, but once you reach the rock the protection stops. Because of this, I would recommend the visit only for those who are sure-footed and comfortable with uneven ground, as the drop-offs can be intimidating without barriers. The payoff, however, is worth the effort. From a position next to the rock you get a sweeping view of the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers, as well as the historic town of Harpers Ferry nestled below. The vantage point is both dramatic and peaceful, giving you a sense of why, according to the stories, Thomas Jefferson, during his travels, found this very spot so moving that it now bears his name. For those who wish to explore more, you can continue on the trail past Jefferson Rock and make your way to the Appalachian trail, which adds another layer of history to the walk. The informational sign could use a little care but, overall, this is a scenic and meaningful stop, best enjoyed with good shoes and sure footing. Enjoy.

Rock formation on ApplachainTrail, a short distance from lower town of Harpers Ferry, yet a steep…read moreand very uneven climb to get there - be careful. The rock/area is famous for Thomas Jefferson standing there in 1783 and stating "worth a voyage across the Atlantic." It is a breath taking view! You pass the remains of St Johns Episcopol church and St Peters Church along the way. Worth the walk!

This is a unique section of the Appalachian Trail (AT) in that it's less about hard core hiking and…read moremore about history. Although you might see an occasional through hiker. This part of the AT is connected to the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park (NHP) which has lots of Civil War history attached to it. For more details see https://www.nps.gov/hafe/planyourvisit/hikes.htm The hikes here are very easy with little elevation change. But you will get many beautiful views and like I said there plenty of historical stuff to connect with as well. For more details or volunteer options check out the PATC at https://www.patc.net/

Probably one of the best National Park situated in between the Northern Virginia and West Virginia…read morebordering the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. The Potomac river runs all the way to and is about 61 miles from Washington DC. As we checked in the visitor center we were immediately greeted by a Park Service in full Ranger uniform. We paid the customary $10 per car then he handed us a map of Harpers Ferry. From the visitor center a complimentary bus takes you to the main historic town about 2 miles from the parking lot. Today, there was a special tour with a Park Ranger who enlightened us in great detail of the history including particularly of the armory it once was which equipped the US Capital for its defense all the way from the South. Most of all, the story of John Brown, the abolitionist but could be also be contested as a rebel, depending on one's learning curve. There were a few dwellings and museums and especially the building where John Brown was held up when he was captured during his attempts to raid the armory back in those days, so as to help the cause in freeing the slaves. This building was considered sacred as it triggered the civil war, or so it was thought to have started. The curators at its dwellings were knowledgeable and passionate about their jobs and to me, should serve as the model for how historical places should be curated! Thanks to our lady bus driver who drove us back n forth to the visitor center, Elliot who gave us a history tour of the museum and more importantly, the amazingly enthusiastic Park Ranger David Cox who guided us through a very thoughtful story of its history and told it as if he were speaking of the events as it was happening just then. Great job! Too bad we were pressed for time or we would have lingered longer for a hike on the trails connecting the Appalachian Trail to that area or to cross or kayak the Potomac. It was an awesome day of about 60 degrees in the middle of Winter. It could not have been a better day to visit. I'll definitely come back to either kayak or try out inner tubing in the Summer time. Very well worth a visit!

Can't really review because we tried to come today May 11, 2024 the Yelp page says April to October…read moreon weekends opening at 9 but today when we pulled in at 9 it said closed until 11. Then we came back at noon and it was still closed not a person in sight. Sign says May-October and signage all over the town. Wish there was a little more info but no such luck. I guess that's small town living. Appears to be on someone's personal property no actual parking lot that we saw. Our kid was def disappointed. Bummer for sure.

We had so much fun here! Can't beat the fun, cost, or friendly staff members! My husband and I both…read moreenjoys ourselves as well. It was nice how they had the train we all could ride in and the miniature trains the kiddos can ride themselves. This was just a short drive from our house and was a pleasant surprise!

We spent a full day at River Riders, splitting our time between the Harpers Ferry Waterpark in the…read moremorning and the Aerial Adventure Park in the afternoon. It was a great combination for both the kids and adults. The inflatable waterpark kept the kids busy for the entire session. El Jefe, the large slide, and Thor, the climbing tower and slide, were our favorites. I strongly recommend booking one of the first sessions during the summer. We went early when it was less crowded, and it became noticeably busier later. In the afternoon, we completed the green and blue aerial trails. Both were a lot of fun, and the progression from one to the next worked well. Overall, River Riders is an excellent choice for families or groups looking for an active full day near Harpers Ferry.

I am posting this review to urge prospective guests to exercise extreme caution and to call on…read moremanagement to address severe safety oversights. Despite having prior rafting experience and maintaining strong physical fitness, this individual tubing trip presented hazardous conditions with virtually no on-water safety support. ​Key Issues Observed: ​No Helmets Suggested or Required: Helmets were not recommended, suggested, or provided for navigating rocky rapids. I capsized and hit my head on submerged rocks--a dangerous hazard that warrants clear guidance and mandatory head protection. ​Zero Rescue Personnel: No river guides or safety kayakers were stationed along technical sections. When participants were pinned against rocks or stranded in strong currents, there was no staff to assist. ​Inadequate Instruction & Extreme Strain: Relying solely on arm paddling through boulder gardens offers minimal control and quickly causes physical exhaustion, even for fit individuals. ​Equipment Failures: Some tubes were punctured by sharp rocks, leaving guests stranded in turbulent water with no emergency extraction protocol. Commercial river outfitters have a basic duty of care to provide essential protective gear, clear instruction, and active supervision. I strongly advise making sure these safety practices are in place before booking unless you have experience and are comfortable without the precautions.

For a free museum, this one is worth it! Located in John Brown's old house, it tells the story of…read moreJohn Brown and how he tried to rescue those enslaved a few years before the Civil War. The museum comes with signs to read, art, and several artifacts. There are clean restrooms on the second floor.

How have I not reviewed my favorite place in Harper's Ferry WV!? We first visited in 2023 and so…read moretoday when we were pleasantly surprised to find them open on Monday we had to enjoy the museum again. Just so you're aware the museum is up for sale and it's future is uncertain. Because of that the hours can vary from what you see posted. Due to the uncertainty of its future it is more important than ever to visit and support this historic marvel. Opened back in 1961 the wax figures are extremely life like and tell the entire story of John Brown's life and then the culmination at John Brown's raid on Harpers Ferry that resulted finally in his death by hanging after the botched raid. I feel grateful to have visited a couple times and I really hope once it's sold that the new owners continue to operate it as a wax museum. This type of attraction has become increasingly rare and should be celebrated.