Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

History: The strategic location of Harpers Ferry, at the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers, made the town the natural choice for Civil War communications and a supply depot. This is where radical abolitionist John Brown led a pre-war, anti-slavery uprising (which Robert E. Lee helped to squelch). General Stonewall Jackson, who had earlier trained Confederate troops in the area, facilitated the largest surrender of Federal troops during the war at this site.

More to Explore: Several museums and quaint shops occupy the 19th-century buildings of Harpers Ferry. In addition to historic attractions, the area offers outdoor activities such as hiking, zip-lining, rock climbing, white-water rafting, canoeing and kayaking.