Harpers Ferry, W.Va.

Getting there:

Harpers Ferry is a 3½-hour drive from Pittsburgh, heading east on the Pennsylvania Turnpike and south on Interstate 70. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, 767 Shenandoah St., Harpers Ferry, W.Va. 25425; 1-304-535-6029. www.nps.gov/hafe/index.htm Visitors are encouraged to park at the main Visitor Center at 171 Shoreline Drive and ride the shuttle bus into Lower Town. There is parking at the Harpers Ferry Train Station, but space is limited.

Where to stay:

• Light Horse Inn, three bedrooms; guests have use of the dining room, living room and kitchen. Hearty hot breakfast is served at 9 each morning. It’s an easy ¾-mile walk to Lower Town, although it’s a steady climb going back. You can park your bikes in the basement. ($170/night) 1084 Washington St., Bolivar, W.Va. 25425; 1-877-468-4236 Behind the inn, The Barn is open 4 to 11 p.m. Thursday through Sunday and for special events. Offers craft beers and full bar.

Food and drink:

• Bisou Bistro, one of the best restaurants here in a charming 1790s’ stone house that has served as a military hospital, military barracks, antique store, stained-glass studio, boarding house and Montessori school. It serves New Orleans Cajun and Creole French cuisine. Each patron can choose a book to take home from one of its three bookcases. (I got a $50 photo book on the national parks). 1226 W. Washington St., Harpers Ferry, W. Va. 25425; thebisoubistro.com • The Anvil, full restaurant and bar. This is just a few steps from Bisou Bistro. 1290 W. Washington St., Harpers Ferry, W. Va. 25424. 1-304-535-2582; www.anvilrestaurant.com/