Harpers Ferry is known as a "very small town with a very big history". Located at the confluence of the Potomac & Shenandoah rivers where the states of Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia meet, the scenery is breathtaking. The area is steeped in history & you can learn so much by taking a tour of Harpers Ferry National Historic Park. Harpers Ferry witnessed the arrival of the first successful American railroad, abolitionist John Brown's attack on slavery, the largest surrender of Federal troops during the Civil War, and the education of former slaves in one of the earliest integrated schools in the United States.
There are two sections of the National Park. When you arrive, you'll want to park at the main section of the park (if you're coming from the hotel, it is on the right). Park ($6/car as of last summer) and enjoy the visitor's center. Then, catch the free shuttle down to "Lower Town". I find "Lower Town" to be much more interesting. Lots of museums, re-enactors, exhibits, shops, etc.
The hotel has offered the use of their shuttle service if you can get a group of girlfriends to go with you. Just check at the front desk. They'll drop you off and give you the driver's cell number for pick-up. Great deal!!
If you don't have a National Parks passport, maybe now's the time! The 104 page travelogue lists every National Park area in the United States. Every time you visit a National Park, you can visit the ranger station/information desk/gift shop to get your passport stamped. Why not enjoy America's national treasures and have a souvenir to prove it?
There are three cancellation stamps at the visitor center at the main entrance of the park. There are two more in "Lower Town".
This is one of the most beautiful places in our country. I truly hope you schedule a little time to enjoy the beauty of the surroundings. If you have the energy, hike to the top of Jefferson Rock. Thomas Jefferson once referred to Harpers Ferry as "perhaps one of the most stupendous scenes in nature." If that doesn't sell you, I don't know what will!
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