Harpers Ferry

Travel Guide

Bordered by the Mississippi River, this picturesque village is the gateway to western Iowa’s outdoor attractions.

With a population of less than 400, Harpers Ferry has authentic small-town charm. It’s also one of Allamakee County’s oldest villages and provides a glimpse of Mississippi River towns of the past.

Stroll through the town center to explore the historic architecture and storefronts. Each Friday during summer and autumn, growers and artisans gather for the farmers market, which showcases local produce and crafts. Take a break to enjoy a meal and view at a waterfront restaurant or bar. Savor your favorite drink and watch the reflection of the sunset in the flowing waters. 

Explore the Mississippi aboard a river cruise. Sit back and relax as your guide tells you about the region’s local history and enjoy unparalleled views of the waterfront. Harpers Ferry’s recreational activities are largely centered on the river. Go swimming, fishing, tubing, canoeing or kayaking. Rental facilities are available in the downtown area. 

Harpers Ferry is primarily an outdoor enthusiast’s destination. Yellow River State Forest borders the town to the west and offers a pristine landscape ideal for camping or hiking. The area is known as a prime trout fishing destination and is visited by anglers from all over the Midwest. Trails snake through Yellow River State Forest and make it an excellent place to bike or hike. 

Explore the history of Harpers Ferry’s first inhabitants at Effigy Mounds National Monument, an ancient Native American burial ground. The prehistoric site features the biggest concentrations of burial mounds found in the United States, with effigies shaped like birds, bears and other animals. The Visitor’s Center has exhibits showcasing the unique history of the site. Take a guided tour of the mounds or embark on a solo adventure using the miles of trails running throughout the park. 

Harpers Ferry sits on the eastern border of Iowa, just over two hours by car from Madison, Wisconsin. Travel the Great River Road, following the Mississippi an hour north to La Crosse for beautiful waterfront scenery.

Waterfront Hotel
Waterfront Hotel
3 out of 5
113 S Main St, Prairie Du Chien, WI
The price is P6,143 per night from 24 Mar to 25 Mar
P6,143
P6,851 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 24 - Mar 25
Stay at this 3-star hotel in Prairie Du Chien. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the restaurant in our reviews. ...
9/10 Wonderful! (674 reviews)
"Great first impression, owners were engaging, and staff helpful. Hoping for a growing business along with the other family businesses. Great views from the room window where eagles came into view!"

Reviewed on Mar 6, 2025

Waterfront Hotel
AmericInn by Wyndham Prairie du Chien
AmericInn by Wyndham Prairie du Chien
2 out of 5
37502 Us Highway 35 And 18 S, Prairie Du Chien, WI
The price is P3,657 per night from 19 Mar to 20 Mar
P3,657
P4,041 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 19 - Mar 20
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Prairie Du Chien. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
8/10 Very Good! (501 reviews)
"Good food and staff. Clean and quiet. Easy parking"

Reviewed on Mar 5, 2025

AmericInn by Wyndham Prairie du Chien
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Prairie du Chien, WI
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Prairie du Chien, WI
3 out of 5
1801 Cabela's Lane, Prairie Du Chien, WI
The price is P4,789 per night from 1 Apr to 2 Apr
P4,789
P5,339 total
includes taxes & fees
Apr 1 - Apr 2
Stay at this 3-star family-friendly hotel in Prairie Du Chien. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (842 reviews)
"Property needs minor fixes taken care of. Restaurant wasnt open either"

Reviewed on Mar 13, 2025

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Prairie du Chien, WI
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Kasa Downtown Des Moines
Kasa Downtown Des Moines
4 out of 5
550 Watson Powell Junior Way, Des Moines, IA
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly aparthotel in Des Moines. Enjoy free WiFi, a business center, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Wells Fargo Arena ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (79 reviews)
Great spot, not quiet.
"Everything was great except this room is VERY close to the main entrance and the walls are VERY thin, making it a noisy stay. On top of that, someone started vacuuming the hallway outside at 7am."

Reviewed on Mar 10, 2025

Kasa Downtown Des Moines
Moon River Cabins
Moon River Cabins
3 out of 5
905 South Riverview Dr, Bellevue, IA
Stay at this 3-star cabin in Bellevue. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Bellevue State Park and South Bluff Nature ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (59 reviews)
The Stars where so BRIGHT!
"Friendliest staff! Beautiful cozy Cabin! Loved my jetted bathtub! Terrific view. Quaint town! Close to major city. The Stars were so BRIGHT!!! Cozy fire place kept cabin warm along with central heating cooling and tons of ceiling fans. So Romantic and most of all peaceful 😌"

Reviewed on Oct 29, 2024

Moon River Cabins
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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