Aside from knowing about John Brown's tragically failed attempt to end slavery in 1859, I didn't realize how important Harpers Ferry was in US economic development and in the Civil War itself. The historic old town is one big museum, and surrounding scenery is great, especially at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. But the history is what is most compelling.
Then about an hour south is Shenandoah National Park. Skyline Drive runs north to south, the entire length of the park. It's 100+ miles of jaw-dropping, eye-popping, not-to-be-believed scenery, with turn-outs every mile or two that permit gazing at the spectacular scenery. You can stop at each one, but then you'll never get anywhere, which wouldn't be so bad except that it gets pretty cold at night.
