Location: Ranson
Top Things to do in Ranson
- 1. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
- 2. River & Trail Outfitters
- 3. Cascade Falls
- 4. Bloomery Plantation Distillery
- 5. Peter Burr House
- 6. Appalachian Trail Conservancy Headquarters
- 7. Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races
- 8. 868 Estate Vineyards
- 9. Appalachian National Scenic Trail
- 10. Old Opera House
10 Things to Do in Ranson That You Shouldn't Miss
Ranson (formerly Corporation of Ranson) is a city in Jefferson County, West Virginia, United States. The population was 4,440 at the 2010 census. Although the Census Bureau listed it as a town in 2000, it is classified (along with all other municipalities with populations between two and ten thousand) as a city by state law.
Restaurants in Ranson
1. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is indeed one of the crown jewels in the National Park Service. Covering over 4,000 acres in 3 states (WV, VA and MD) at the scenic confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers and the Potomac River water gap through the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Park features an amazing diversity of American History all in one place: Great figures such as George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Brown, Frederick Douglass, Robert E. Lee, U.S. Grant, "Stonewall" Jackson, JEB Stuart, Philip Sheridan, W.E.B. Du Bois, Kate Field and many others swirl around Harpers Ferry like a whirlwind! The C&O Canal National Park, Appalachian National Scenic Trail and the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail all converge at Harpers Ferry NHP. Twenty miles of hiking trails in the Park offer more than a one weekend getaway. Local private businesses offer whitewater rafting, tubing, fishing and many outdoor activities, along with dining and overnight accommodations. Come visit beautiful Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and be swept away by the mountains, the rivers and the history for a visit you and your family will long remember!
Reviewed By AlisonsD4 - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
We stopped here on a rainy Wednesday afternoon during Spring Break. It probably would have been stroller friendly if it hadn't been raining and we could have left the stroller outside in smaller exhibits. The park itself is very interesting with plenty to keep my tweens interested. You walk around and different buildings have different displays.
Many of the shops in the area were closed that day and there aren't many food options either. That was the only drawback to the date/time (or perhaps weather?) for our visit.
2. River & Trail Outfitters
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 411 reviews
River and Trail Outfitters of Knoxville, Maryland has been family owned and operated since 1972. River and Trail offers guided and unguided white water and mellow water rafting, tubing, kayaking, canoeing trips as well as biking hiking, climbing and cross-country skiing in the historic and scenic Harpers Ferry, WV area. We also sell new and used canoes, kayaks and paddling accessories located in our shop. Check out our website for details on our various trips, ranging from our Paddle N Wine Tour to our Team Building
Reviewed By vrobert132 - Madison, Wisconsin
Our experience with River & Trail Outfitters was great. The staff is so kind, welcoming, and accommodating; you could tell they truly wanted us to have the best experience as possible. We did the Shenandoah River Float, which was exactly what we were looking for. Very calm river, beautiful scenary, and just enough current to help you along the way.
The food was definitely better than we expected, and the starting point was easy to find and clearly marked. Shoutout to Wayne, Ryan, Will & Maury who helped make our experience unforgettable! Our large group of 70 people had a blast spending the day outdoors with the crew. Nothing but the most pleasurable experience!
3. Cascade Falls
Overall Ratings
5 based on 143 reviews
Reviewed By Marc L - Virginia
Short Hiking Trail with a wonderful cascading waterfall at the end. Definitely bring comfortable clothing and shoes for a hike. Also bring water and snacks or lunch with you on the trail. It is about 2 miles from the parking lot to the waterfall, however it is winding trails and depending on hikers on the trail, could be in for a lengthy hike. Average took about 2 hours to walk the trail with a few stops along the way for photos. Definitely would recommend stopping to see. Parking is $3,00 per vehicle and there is very limited parking, so better to arrive early in the morning. Restrooms are available at the parking lot but not other amenities, so bring what you need.
4. Bloomery Plantation Distillery
Overall Ratings
5 based on 249 reviews
Reviewed By Dutch1638 - Fayetteville, Pennsylvania
We visited Bloomery based on a couple of recommendations. We weren't disappointed. The property is really interesting and the tasting room is an experience. Their liquors are unique and outstanding. Bloomery is a "destination" for us.We are glad that you listened to those recommendations and visited us! Certainly proud to be a destination for you! Thanks for the nice review, hope to see you up on our hill again soon!
5. Peter Burr House
Overall Ratings
4 based on 2 reviews
Reviewed By casallese - Baltimore, Maryland
The Peter Burr House is one of the oldest houses in West Virginia and was home for the Burr family from the mid-1800's for over a hundred years. It was built in parts and is on the National Register of Historic Places. We visited recently when it was being shown as part of the Shenandoah-Potomac Garden Council House and Garden Tour. The house itself gives lots of evidence about how difficult it was for our ancestors to build our country and the methods they used to survive. On the day we visited , volunteers were available to speak about the house, demonstrate homemaking chores like spinning and butter making, basket weaving and gardening and bread baking. We were even able to purchase a delicious raisin bread baked in the outdoor stone oven. The house is not always open so visiting the website for the Jefferson County Landmarks Commission is a must. If you love American history you will love the Burr House.
6. Appalachian Trail Conservancy Headquarters
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 171 reviews
The main visitor center for the Appalachian Trail and one of the most famous landmarks on the entire 2,190-mile national scenic trail. It's considered the 'psychological half-way point' on the Appalachian Trail. All are welcome, from tourists to "thru-hikers" walking the entire trail. The center has exhibits, a gift shop where you can purchase maps, books, and souvenirs. A 10-foot 3D map shows the entire East Coast, with a miniature replica trail shelter built into the back side. A hiker lounge offers long-distance hikers a place to relax and recharge, with cold and hot drinks available. A collection of more than 25,000 photos of hikers taken since 1979 is one of the most unique features. Those intent on walking the entire A.T. will have their photo added to the collection, but anyone can take a photo of themselves out in front on the sign for a memorable snapshot. By visiting Harpers Ferry, you'll have already started the 14-state challenge, which encourages hikers to visit one location in each of the Trail's 14 states. If you visit lower town historic Harpers Ferry just a half mile away and walk across the footbridge over the Potomac River, you'll have already completed two states.
Reviewed By Kelli D - Winchester, Virginia
I love this place! It's small, but it's rich with stories from the past and provides visitors with a window into our fascination with the trail in the present. You may meet a few thru-hikers during your visit, since it is the midway point for the Appalachian Trail. You'll also be able to take a look at an enlarged map of the trail and a book of portraits of previous thru-hikers. Each of the portraits are dated. A friend and I once took turns looking for a thru-hiker who passed by on our birthdays. There's a lot of great items available there too. Look here before buying your Harpers Ferry souvenir!
7. Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races
Overall Ratings
3 based on 936 reviews
With nearly 5,000 slots, over 100 tables, live thoroughbred racing and 7 delicious dining options, the Hollywood treatment is yours for the taking.
Reviewed By UpstateNYers13902 - Binghamton, New York
The casino is clean and well decorated but that there is smoking everywhere except in the poker room. If you are a non-smoker or have allergies it's not a good place for you. The food court is average and a bit pricey. We did not...MoreThank you for your review and feedback. We do provide non-smoking areas in our casino for guests who want a smoke-free gaming experience. Hopefully we'll see you back at the casino soon!
8. 868 Estate Vineyards
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 111 reviews
A welcoming vineyard with award-winning wine in the heart of DC's Wine Country. We have plenty of food options on site, including gourmet fare in our full service restaurant, Grandale Vintner's Table, sandwiches in our Tasting Room and casual food at our Grill. (The Grill is open weekends May - Oct.) 868 Is dog-friendly (outside) and child-friendly.
Reviewed By EarleneBrad
Greeted by Shirley who presided over our tasting. We had a lot of info about the wines. There were 6 to taste. Although they were good, we are not true French Oak fans and all but the Chardonnay were done in Oak. We opted not...MoreSo glad you had the chance to come see us! We look forward to seeing you again soon - Nancy
9. Appalachian National Scenic Trail
Overall Ratings
5 based on 83 reviews
Very long hiking trail spanning over 2,100 miles and 14 states.
Reviewed By podrozniczka60 - New Jersey
We walked many sections of Appalachian Trail in several states and majority of areas -if not all - are truly beautiful. In Harpers Ferry the Appalachian trail visits the town and for the long distance hikers it is a customary stop for rest, supplies and gear repairs. While visiting the town you will certainly see a lot of great little stores catering to hikers. The sections of Appalachian Trail near the Harpers Ferry are gorgeous and worth exploring even if only for a day trip. The views of Shenandoah and Potomac rivers from many points are breathtaking.
10. Old Opera House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 18 reviews
Reviewed By Bonnie H - Charles Town, West Virginia
Have been here several times to plays with family and friends. The shows are very professionally done and there have been some great plays done here. Local actors who all take their craft seriously. I wish in the times they were not doing plays they would show films but I am told it is to costly to get a projector to do so.
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