Guide To A Three-Day Weekend In Harpers Ferry, W.Va.
Hillbrook Inn & Spa
4490 Summit Point Road
Charles Town, W.Va. 25414
(304) 725-4223
www.hillbrookinn.com
West Virginia luxury meets quaint English-style countryside on the breathtaking 18-acre estate grounds at the Hillbrook Inn & Spa. Situated outside of Harpers Ferry in nearby Charles Town (and well worth the extra drive), the main house has everything to make your stay comfortable from fine linens to whirlpool tubs and fireplaces. Additionally the furnishings, antiques and unique book and art collections create an "other-worldly" ambiance that makes guests feel like they have found a sanctuary to escape to for a few days. The outdoors is no different and begs for lackadaisical strolls to soak up the peacefulness and serenity that is contained within the property. Highly recommended for at least one night of your stay, it's time to treat yourself to all the niceties deserved on a mini-vacation.
Stonehouse B&B
156 High St.
Harpers Ferry, W.Va. 25425
(410) 279-4988
www.hfstonehouse.com
Built in 1839 and located right in the heart of downtown Harpers Ferry, the Stonehouse B&B is the perfect place to relax with amazing views of the Potomac River and mountains. The B&B has only three bedrooms for guests to choose from, with the top floor suite as the crème de la crème, so booking far in advance is highly recommended. Breakfast, WiFi and parking in the lower town area is included in the rates. From this location, everything in town is within walking distance, but for those interested in unwinding with a good book opt instead for the B&B's cozy indoor common area or the backyard courtyard with waterfall and fish pond as weather permits. No matter your choice, you won't be disappointed.
The Anvil Restaurant
1290 W. Washington St.
Harpers Ferry, W.Va. 25425
(304) 535-2582
www.anvilrestaurant.com
Celebrating 30 years of service in 2014, The Anvil Restaurant is a must-stop for dinner one night during your stay in Harpers Ferry. While this place may not be rated as a fine dining experience, for Baltimore travelers, the crab cakes and dip are well worth the visit, as well as the homemade chips and salsa. There are plenty of seafood options on the menu for fellow Bay lovers, and for everyone else, the menu hosts an impressive list of choices including burgers, chicken, soup, sandwiches, pastas and steaks. If you're celebrating a special event (birthday, anniversary, etc) while dining in, be sure to let the restaurant know as it loves parties and will be happy to help make the experience an extra special one.
Scoop's Ice Cream
173 Potomac St.
Harpers Ferry, W.Va. 25425
(304) 535-6654
Scoop's serves up the best ice cream in Harpers Ferry and with 16 delicious homemade flavors to choose from, it doesn't have to be warm outside to prompt a visit. Stop by during the day for a refreshing snack or stay awhile and order a tender steak burger or juicy hot dog that will melt in your mouth. In addition to ice cream, the shop has a variety of handmade treats like ice cream sandwiches, banana splits, sundaes, floats and more. Plus, its gourmet coffee is freshly ground and serves as a great pick-me-up any time of day.
Appalachian Trail (A.T.)A.T. Conservancy and Visitor Center
799 Washington St.
Harpers Ferry, W.Va. 25425
(304) 535-6331
www.appalachiantrail.org
No visit to Harpers Ferry is complete without a hike along one of the world's most famous and highly visited trails, which spans across 14 states from Georgia up through Maine – the infamous A.T. Pick up the trail in downtown Harpers Ferry and follow it north for some spectacular views along the river. This section of the trail is also paved and fairly level, making for enjoyable, easy-going hiking. Since West Virginia is only home to approximately four miles of the whopping 2,180 that makes up the A.T., it is possible to conquer the trails in the state during your stay. The Visitor Center building located on Washington Street is the headquarters and is considered the half-way point for hikers traveling from either direction. Stop in to read about other hiking adventures on the trail, buy some souvenirs or ask questions about what it takes to enlist as a "section hiker" (or "thru-hiker").
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Keri Ann Beazell is a Baltimore writer following the latest developments in arts and culture, natural wonders, lifestyle and pets. She enjoys promoting thought-provoking discussions, education, new ideas and smiles among readers. Follow her online at Examiner.com
