If you're craving a quick escape from Northern Virginia, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, is my newest recommendation. Nestled where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers meet, this charming historic town is ideal for a day trip or a relaxing weekend. I recently spent a night there with friends, and this was my experience.

We left NOVA at about 12 p.m., but not without grabbing Brooklyn Bagels before hitting the road. We rode right to our first activity — whitewater tubing. The drive was about an hour and 15 minutes before arriving at River Riders. If whitewater tubing isn’t your thing, they offer a variety of other activities like more relaxed tubing, ziplining, a water park, and more.

The river going through Harpers Ferry with the bridge going over. — When tubing down the river, you'll go past downtown Harpers Ferry. | Photo by NOVAtoday

Our time slot was at 2:30 p.m., and we spent about three hours cruising along the river. The trip offered a mix of calm, tranquil stretches and exciting rapids that carried us downstream.

The patio at The Rabbit Hole in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. — I highly recommend a seat on the patio if the weather allows. | Photo by NOVAtoday

After working up an appetite, we headed to the downtown stretch of Harpers Ferry and got a patio table at The Rabbit Hole. This is a must-try while you’re in the area. I ordered the barbecue pork sandwich with fries, which hit the spot after a long day on the river.

People ordering ice cream at A La Mode in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. — Post-dinner sweet treats are a must. | Photo by NOVAtoday

Afterwards, I recommend walking down the stairs out back and grabbing a scoop of ice cream at A La Mode Café.

Filled to the brim with food and sweet treats, my friends and I made our way to our Airbnb, which was located within a reasonable walking distance of the downtown stretch. Enjoy amenities like a sunroom with a fireplace, a sauna, and a large kitchen for cooking.

The outside of Magpie Pottery in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. — This local shop is a great spot to grab a souvenir. | Photo by NOVAtoday

The next morning, we walked around the downtown stretch and went in and out of different shops in the area. I recommend checking out Epigram Coffee, Battle Grounds Bakery & Coffee, and The Vintage Lady. My favorite shop was definitely Magpie Pottery, which offers the cutest, locally made pottery.

Plus, don’t miss the numerous historical sites in the area, including John Brown’s Fort, Jefferson Rock, and even the Mennen’s Borated Talcum Toilet Powder sign on the rocks above the railroad tracks.

And for all of my hikers out there, I will also mention that the Appalachian Trail goes through Harpers Ferry, making it a great spot to hit the trail if that’s your thing.

Where should I go next?