Located in West Virginia, Harper's Ferry is perfect for a day trip if you are coming from nearby Maryland, Virginia or Washington D.C. Furthermore, any of these attractions could stand in as one leg of a lengthy vacation during the winter. Attractions suitable for all ages are found in this region.
Head to Historic Harper's Ferry every year for their Old Tyme Christmas celebration. The city is decorated with modern touches such as twinkling lights but most of the decor is old-fashioned. The decorations are up from the end of November until the beginning of January, and the festivities run for several weekends throughout December. Santa Claus will visit the town and carolers will sing to you as you stroll around. Go inside the shops or walk in the streets for puppet shows, storytelling, arts and crafts, musical performances and more events to remind you of a true, old-time Christmas.
Learn some interesting history of the area with a day trip to the Harpers Ferry John Brown Wax Museum. On Oct. 16, 1859, John Brown led a raid on Harpers Ferry at the Baltimore and Ohio railroad bridge, the rifle factory on Shenandoah and the United States armory and arsenal. He was fighting for the rights of American slaves, and he invited those descended from Africa to join him in the rebellion. You will see these sites and more at this museum. The museum opens at 9 a.m., but the closing time varies occasionally, so it is best to call ahead.
If you are looking for a spooky winter day trip, check out the Haunted Cottage/Booth House. Events change frequently, but include children's classes where kids can do paranormal work. If you'd like to become a paranormal investigator, try one of the courses offered. Head over to the National Paranormal History Museum or try a Haunted History Tour such as the Haunted History Walk Through; History of the Paranormal and Walk Through; Grand Tour and Workshop; or Grand Tour, Workshop and Ghost Hunt.
