Things to Do In Harpers Ferry WV | Accommodation, Dining, and Shopping Included

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History, adventure, and nature meet at Harpers Ferry in West Virginia. Just an hour and a half away from Baltimore and Washington, D.C., Harpers Ferry lies across the bridge from Maryland at the intersection of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers.

It is a quaint town full of amazing Civil War sites & history, and in the fall, the foliage along the Potomac Rivers is dazzling. It is a beautiful place to spend a day or, better yet, a weekend.

After just one visit, you will understand why locals refer to West Virginia as “almost heaven.” and why you’ll wish you were soon visiting Harpers Ferry.

Things To Do In Harpers Ferry

This historic town has much to offer the mature traveler, from outdoor activities and scenic views to museums, historic parks, and battlefields.

Civil War canons at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. — Zack Frank / Shutterstock

Take In Civil War History And Amazing Views At Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is run by the National Park Service and encompasses a series of museums where you can learn about the Civil War history of the area. History buffs will especially enjoy the guided tour of the site of the Battle of Bolivar Heights which is one of the top Civil War sites to see.

Harpers Ferry also is a great place to hike, with 22 miles of hiking trails open from sunrise till sunset with great views of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers. There are easy, moderate, and challenging trails available.

For incredible views of the rivers and Harpers Ferry, hike up to Maryland Heights and surrounding mountains. The 5-mile Maryland Heights Loop is our very favorite hike in West Virginia. It’s rated moderately difficult — the first half mile is uphill — but then the hike is pretty simple. If you hike the entire loop, you’ll return to the point where you started.

Another hike that provides fantastic views is the Loudoun Heights Trail. This out-and-back trail near Harpers Ferry leads to Split Rock. It’s rated moderate by the National Parks Service, since there are roots and rocks plus elevation to contend with. The payoff is spectacular, however, featuring scenic views of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers, and the town of Harpers Ferry.

Take The Grandkids To The Harpers Ferry Toy Train Museum & Joy Line Railroad

The Harpers Ferry Toy Train Museum showcases a collection of toys and antique electric trains. The outdoor miniature train ride, known as the Joy Line Railroad, is fun for the young and the young at heart alike. An original railroad section car house serves as the station.

This museum is only open on holidays and weekends between April and October, weather permitting.

See John Brown’s Fort And The John Brown Wax Museum

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, John Brown’s Fort is where an attempt to seize the Harpers Ferry federal arsenal took place. Brown hated slavery, and this was his effort to start an armed insurrection of abolitionists and enslaved people. Captured in this house, Brown was later hanged. His legacy, John Brown’s fort, remains a popular historical attraction.

The John Brown Wax Museum details Brown’s life and views and his raid on Harpers Ferry.

The ruins of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. — Jon Bilous / Shutterstock

Bike Or Walk Through The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Visitors can bike or walk along the towpath of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park. Just cross the footbridge over the Potomac River below mile marker 61 on the towpath. The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal once transported lumber, agricultural products, and coal to market and runs from Washington, D.C., to Cumberland, Maryland. While the canal is no longer in use, some locks and houses remain as reminders of the industrial age looked after by the National Park Service.

The surface of the towpath is flat and made of crushed gravel, making riding easy for bicyclists. The natural beauty and sounds of nature along the path will soothe your senses. Be on the lookout for birds and other animals.

Take A Town Tour Or Ghost Tour

O’ Be JoyFull Historical Tours and Entertainment offers two Harpers Ferry tours that are highly rated and worthwhile.

The Historical Walking Tour explores the town’s history from its first settlement to its participation in building the world’s first successful steamboat.

If you want a ghostly experience, try the 2-hour walking tour through the historic Lower Town of Harpers Ferry. You’ll visit several buildings and sites where paranormal phenomena have been reported and will hear stories about the hauntings and tales of years gone by. This top-rated attraction is also America’s oldest ghost tour.

Have A River Adventure

If you enjoy water activities, check out River Riders for kayaking, tubing, whitewater rafting, paddleboarding, and more in the Potomac river or Shenandoah.

For the more adventurous, mountain biking, zip lines, and other challenging activities are available.

Pay Your Respects At The Nearby Battlefields

Civil War buffs might consider traveling the short distance to the two additional Civil War battlefields located near Harpers Ferry.

Antietam National Battlefield is 6 miles from Harpers Ferry and marks the site of the bloodiest battle in American history.

Monocacy National Battlefield is 23 miles from Harpers Ferry and marks the site of the Civil War battle that saved Washington, D.C., from the Confederacy.

Try Your Luck At The Hollywood Casino At Charles Town Races

Make your way to nearby Charles Town, West Virginia, to try your luck at the Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races. Hollywood Casino has slots, table games, and award-winning restaurants.

Enjoy An Old-Fashioned Christmas

The sound of carols and the clippity-clop of horse-drawn carriages bring the holiday history of Harpers Ferry to life during the Christmas season. You’ll feel like in a Christmas movie!

The Harpers Ferry & Bolivar Olde Tyme Christmas festival includes musical performances, a living history program, a traditional yule log lighting, and much more.

HIke the Appalachian Trail (At Least a Part of A.T.)

The West Virginia section of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail passes right through the heart of Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, the site of John Brown’s Raid and notable Civil War battles.

Harpers Ferry is home to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy Headquarters as well as Visitor Center which is known as the “psychological halfway point” of the Appalachian Scenic Trail. The path that connects the Appalachian Trail to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy passes straight through the campus of the former Storer College which was founded to provide education for freed slaves after the American Civil War.

Often described as a green tunnel, the Appalachian National Scenic Trail is renowned for its rich biodiversity and the sanctuary it provides within the forest. Yet, it’s the scenic viewpoints that offer a much-needed break and a sense of liberation from the extended stretches beneath the canopy.

Reflecting on the trail, Myron Avery, an early pioneer and leader of the Appalachian Trail, once said, “It beckons not merely north and south, but upward to the body, mind, and soul of man.” This sentiment becomes vividly clear when you embark on hikes to breathtaking vistas like Hump Mountain, McAfee Knob, Franconia Ridge, and Katahdin, encapsulating the essence of his words.

Undertaking the entire 2,190+ miles of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail in one trip is a colossal feat. Annually, thousands of hikers take on the challenge of a thru-hike, yet only about one in four manages to complete the full journey.

The average duration for a thru-hiker to complete the entire Appalachian Trail is 5 to 7 months. Once you’ve determined your starting point and time and registered for your thru-hike, strategizing your resupply points and familiarizing yourself with the camping regulations along the Appalachian Trail become essential steps.

It’s crucial to get to know the camping regulations along the Appalachian National Scenic Trail and understand the ATC’s requirements for hikers aiming to be officially recognized as a 2,000-miler. Beyond these logistical considerations, adequate physical and mental preparation plays a major role in this wonderful West Virginia hike.

Best Restaurants In Harpers Ferry

The Country Cafe

The Country Cafe serves breakfast and lunch. If you are hungry for breakfast, order the Beast Omelet — six farm-fresh eggs with sausage, bacon, ham, spinach, tomatoes, onions, green peppers, mushrooms, Cheddar, and Swiss served with toast. Be sure to try their hot, fresh donuts, too.

Where To Shop While Visiting Harpers Ferry

True Treats Historic Candy

The only sweet shop in the nation of its kind, True Treats Historic Candy sells accurate recreations of vintage candy from various eras. Everything from old-time chocolates and bars to Charleston Chews are available to satisfy your sweet tooth.

True Treats sells candies that were invented as far back as the 1500s. Think sugar plums, chocolate sticks, and creamed filberts. They also offer a vast selection of retro and penny candy. This candy shop will take you back to your childhood days!

The Vintage Lady

Earrings, necklaces, bracelets and other unique gifts made by local craftspeople are on offer at The Vintage Lady. This is a great place to purchase a souvenir for yourself or a gift for a friend.

Best Places To Stay In Harpers Ferry

Campsites

Camping is not available in Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, but two nearby parks allow camping: Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park and Shenandoah National Park.

Clarion Inn Harpers Ferry

Clarion Inn Harpers Ferry offers 100 rooms, an indoor pool, and three on-site restaurants. It is near most of the popular attractions in Harpers Ferry.

The Angler’s Inn

The Angler’s Inn is a classic Victorian bed and breakfast. The gourmet breakfasts are made from scratch each day. Refreshments and homemade cookies are available to enjoy on the porch in the afternoons.

The Light Horse Inn

The Light Horse Inn is more than 225 years old and one of Harpers Ferry’s most historic homes. Built during the Revolutionary War, the restored inn now has seven beautiful suites with great views.

What To Know Before You Go

Harpers Ferry is a casual town, so don’t feel self-conscious about wearing jeans around. If you plan on hiking, wear appropriate footwear. Unless you’re visiting in the heat of summer, you will need a jacket.

Dogs are permitted on the hiking trails, but they must be leashed. Watch for animals — deer and other critters are everywhere.

Check the websites in advance to see what is open during the time of year you are visiting. Some museums are seasonal, and some are only open on weekends.

FAQs

How Many Days Should I Spend In Harpers Ferry?

Harpers Ferry is perfect to explore for 3 days. While you might be able to bang out all of its main attractions in 1 day, a weekend is essential to take in the nature and history apparent all around.

Is Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, Worth Visiting?

In order to take in history exactly where it happened, Harpers Ferry is well-worth visiting. With some of the most notable Civil War battlegrounds in the area, history buffs will have a field day in Harpers Ferry.

In addition, if you like the outdoors and hiking, the monumental challenge of the 2,190+ miles of the world-famous Appalachian Scenic Trail.

What is Harpers Ferry Most Famous For?

Harpers Ferry is most famous for its major role in the infamous John Brown’s raid in 1859. Initially established as an armory and arsenal in 1799, Harpers Ferry National Historical Park has been integral to the nation’s narrative since its early days.

However, while John Brown’s raid remains such a significant moment in American history, Harpers Ferry has encompassed a wealth of diverse and compelling events over the last two centuries.

This Iconic Train Ride Is Returning To Baltimore This Holiday Season

Slip into your pajamas and enjoy hot cocoa like a kid again on the B&O Railroad Museum’s Polar Express train ride. Returning for the holiday season from November 24–December 19, families can experience the “magical” train ride, meet Santa, explore the North Pole, and enjoy so much more in downtown Baltimore.

“This year’s ‘Polar Express’ event promises to deliver an unforgettable experience,” the B&O Railroad Museum told TravelAwaits in a statement. “Passengers of all ages will enjoy a host of activities.”

Those activities include:

A train ride on the Polar Express
Meet and greet with Santa
A stop at the North Pole
Festive entertainment
A souvenir and gift shop
Hot cocoa and cookies

Locals and visitors in the Baltimore area will not want to miss this holiday tradition.

“We are thrilled to bring ‘The Polar Express’ back to the B&O Railroad Museum this holiday season,” said Kris Hoellen, executive director of the B&O Railroad Museum. “We love seeing the joy on the children’s faces as special memories are made at this event that has become a family tradition for so many.”

If you’re interested in bringing the whole family together this holiday season, be sure to get tickets soon — they sell out fast. Tickets start at $52 and offer visitors different options and amenities aboard the Polar Express.

According to the B&O Railroad Museum, “the best prices of the season are available from November 24–26, 2023.” After that, tickets will sell out and prices will go up.

Be on the lookout for more holiday content, including:

3 Little-Known Wine Regions For Oenophiles

If you’re an oenophile like me, when you think of good domestic wine, California is probably at the top of your list. The state has a reputation for producing some of the best wines in the world. And although California may be hard to beat, you might want to give other parts of the U.S. a look. Here are three little-known wine regions for oenophiles.

1. Northern Arizona

We found out how good Arizona wine can be on our recent trip through northern Arizona. You may not think of Arizona as a wine country, but you should.

The properties we toured were gorgeous and the wines were flavorful. We learned that, interestingly, Arizona winemakers have more issues with cold temperatures than in the heat. Arizona late spring frosts, which can occur frequently in northern Arizona, can kill the fruit blossoms.

Thankfully, many crops are not harmed but rather stressed due to the weather. According to experts, this can be a good thing as the fruit on stressed vines can have enhanced flavors and aromas, resulting in delicious varietals.

Cottonwood, Arizona, and the Verde Valley Wine Trail lie in the heart of the northern Arizona wine region. The Verde Valley Wine Trail is the newest American Viticultural Area (AVA) in Arizona, bringing the number of AVAs in the state to three.

We spent an afternoon at Page Spring Cellars where we enjoyed a breeze on the deck overlooking the vineyards as we sampled a flight. Another day was spent touring the grounds and watching the band at nearby Alcantara Vineyards. They were breathtakingly beautiful and are just two of the many great wineries in the northern Arizona area.

Make a stop at any of the towns along the Verde Valley Wine Trail — Sedona, Jerome, Camp Verde, Cottonwood, Clarkdale, Cornville, and Page Springs — and sample fine Arizona wine.

2. Texas Hill Country

Texas — where summertime temperatures can remain in the triple digits for weeks — is not a well-known locale for vineyards. But in the hill country, the climate tends to be a little different than that throughout most of the state. The limestone-rich soil lends to the pristine growing conditions here. Located just north of San Antonio and west of Austin, the Texas Hill Country is home to more than 60 wineries.

Situated within the Texas Hill Country AVA is the Fredericksburg AVA. Check out the Fredericksburg Food and Wine Fest, held every October, to get your fix of Texas wines, along with authentic Texas culinary delights.

Book a wine tour to get the inside scoop on Texas wines and sample a wide variety at many different local wineries. Take a wine-tasting tour of the wineries throughout the Texas Hill Country, or stick to a tour of Fredericksburg, where you’ll learn about the history of this German town, see historic homes, and of course, sample fantastic wines.

If you don’t want a full-blown wine tour experience but still want to check out different wineries, grab a seat on the wine shuttle. Leave the driving to the professionals as you visit your choice of three wineries in the area via the comfort of an air-conditioned shuttle.

3. Northern Michigan

While the Midwest may not automatically come to mind when thinking about great wine, Michigan is becoming something of a standout. With five AVAs, oenophiles are flocking to the area to see what the buzz is all about.

Featuring more than 200 wineries, many clustered in the west to take advantage of Lake Michigan’s temperate climate, Michigan is in the top 10 among U.S. states as far as winery count. It’s pretty impressive for a state that has some of the harshest winters in the country and is blanketed in snow for at least a few months each year.

The Greater Traverse City Region, situated on an eastern fork of Lake Michigan, is one of the largest and most popular areas for oenophiles in Michigan. Being situated on Lake Michigan means a milder climate benefitting from the natural lake effect of giant Lake Michigan. All this equates to good soil and better weather, which in turn leads to a longer grape-growing season and more succulent grapes.

Visit Traverse City to find a wide selection of wine events during any season. Other popular wine regions in the state are Fenville in the southeastern area; Lake Michigan Shore; Old Mission Peninsula, situated across Grand Traverse Bay from Leelanau Peninsula; and the newest AVA in the state, Tip of the Mitt.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for independent wineries that have a local connection and aren’t managed by large conglomerates, visit some of the unexpected wine regions in the U.S. You just might be able to chat with the winemaker personally and you’re sure to discover new varietals of reds and whites.

7 Charming Seaside Villages Around Europe Perfect For A Weekend

An old British song goes: “I do like to be beside the seaside.” Written in 1907, it sums up the delight of being by the coast, even if the beach might not be your priority. Lengthy walks in the fresh air, cute café terraces allowing coastal views, and bobbing boats all add to the general atmosphere.

And Europe does seaside villages so well. Just think of Italy and Greece, where pretty much every seaside village is charming. Instead, I share a personal favorite selection of villages and small towns that are not necessarily great for lengthy beach vacations, but absolutely spot on for a weekend away by the seaside.

Mont Orgueil Castle in the distance on a beach in Gorey Village
Photo credit: Richard Klune / Getty Images

1. Gorey Village, Jersey Island

The small village on the Bailiwick of Jersey in the English Channel seems to have it all. Gorey has a cutesy setting along a rounded bay full of colorful fishing boats, an assortment of old buildings complete with restaurants and cafés lining the little harbor, great views out to sea, and an absolutely enormous castle towering above it all. The 800-year-old Mont Orgueil Castle is large enough to spend a day exploring and the village is small enough to, after a couple of nights, become a local at the neighborhood pub.

2. Staithes, North Yorkshire

Getting into Staithes is easier than getting out, because it lies at the bottom of a steep cliff connected by one road with the visitors’ parking lot at the top. But the descent, and the later ascent, are eminently doable and so worth it. The little village — all white-washed tiny houses with doors painted in all colors and windowsills brimming with flowerpots — was once the home of famous explorer Captain James Cook. Staithes is set around a tiny port with one of the best gastropubs in the area right beside it. The Cod and Lobster serves seriously good and very fresh seafood and some great desserts, too.

3. Bamburgh, Northumberland

A little further north along the UK’s North Sea Coast, you’ll find Bamburgh, another village dominated by a magnificent castle. I have to admit that Northumberland is one of my favorite counties in England, filled with castles, villages, and superb, endless beaches. And Bamburgh is the star of the show. Bamburgh is a tiny village green complete with a red pillar box and telephone box, a cricket ground at the bottom of the castle, and perfect small pubs, cafés, and restaurants. And you might even bump into some celebrities, as the castle has starred in many movies. When I was there last, they were filming the latest Indiana Jones movie on the grounds.

Seaside marina in Honfleur, France
Photo credit: kiszon pascal / Getty Images

4. Honfleur, France

Ask anybody who knows France and Honfleur in Normandy is bound to pop up in conversation before too long. The village is set around a small fishing harbor that has featured on many a jigsaw puzzle; it is truly picture perfect. Little sailboats clink their riggings as they bob in the water and the restaurants sell the freshest moules-frites and locally famous scallops. This being the Calvados region of France, a glass of said Calvados (a local type of cider) is always a good idea. Spend the weekend walking along the English Channel coastline, see the many historic buildings, and sit and watch the world go by alongside the Vieux Bassin — the Old Harbor.

5. Saint-Martin-De-Re, France

My absolute favorite weekend spot in France, when I lived in Paris, was the Ile de Re on the Atlantic Coast. Rain or shine — in fact better outside of the summer season because it gets too busy — the village of Saint-Martin-de-Re offers a scenic spot to rest, walk along the coast, eat superb seafood, and simply be in France on a lovely little island. That said, the shopping in Saint Martin is superb, all maritime-inspired fashion and home décor, so bring extra bags.

6. Marsaxlokk, Malta

From one island to another, the intriguingly spelled Marsaxlokk, on the Mediterranean Island of Malta, lies right at the southeastern end of the island and is set around rugged coves. The nearby St. Peter’s Pool is a popular swimming spot, accessed via a scenic coastal walk. The fishermen bring in fresh catches of the day cooked to perfection in the small restaurants lining the harbor. The buildings, overlooked by a chunky church, have the most photogenic aqua-colored shutters and doors, perfect for photographers and Instagram enthusiasts.

The fishing village of Cudillero in Asturias, Spain
Photo credit: Perszing1982 / Getty Images

7. Cudillero, Spain

Along the usually overlooked northern coast of Spain — in Asturias roughly halfway between Bilbao and Santiago de Compostela — lies this charming fishing village clinging to the hills surrounding a perfect natural harbor in a sheltered cove. Said to have been founded by the Vikings, the village brims with colorful houses alongside the cliffs — reminiscent of Cinque Terre in Italy and best viewed from a boat.

Europe has so many coastlines, from the rugged Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea to the relaxed Mediterranean Sea. Choices of charming coastal weekend destinations in Europe are practically endless. But I hope my choices allow you to discover and enjoy some previously unknown regions and villages.

What Vaccinations Are Recommended for Canada?

The second most popular international destination for American travelers (after Mexico), Canada is known for its stunning natural scenery, from Niagara Falls and rugged coastal towns in the east to the majestic peaks of the Rockies to the culturally diverse and artistic port city of Vancouver in the west. The country is also a hockey-lover’s dream, home to the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto and storied teams such as the Toronto Maple Leafs and Montreal Canadiens, both with histories reaching back to the early 1900s.

If you’re planning a trip to the land of the maple leaf, it’s important to know what vaccinations are recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for travel to this destination. (Be sure to visit your doctor at least a month prior to your trip to get any vaccines or medicines you may need.)

Recommended vaccines for travel to Canada

As of November 2023, here are the current CDC guidelines:

Routine vaccinations

Vaccines the CDC recommends prior to every trip include those for chickenpox (varicella), Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTaP), flu (influenza), Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR), polio, and shingles.

COVID-19

COVID-19 is a highly contagious viral respiratory infection. It spreads when an infected person breathes out droplets or small particles containing the virus, which can then enter through the eyes, nose, or mouth of an uninfected person (or contaminate surfaces, in some cases).

For everyone who is eligible, the CDC also recommends being up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection that is caused by the hepatitis A virus. It is primarily spread when an uninfected person consumes food or water that has been contaminated by the feces of an infected person, or when an infected person uses dirty hands to prepare food.

This vaccine is recommended for most travelers and is particularly recommended for those who will be engaging in higher-risk activities, such as visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas, or eating street food.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus. It is spread when blood, semen, or another bodily fluid from someone who is infected enters the body of someone who is not infected, as can happen during sexual contact, sharing drug-injection equipment, or during birth from mother to baby.

The CDC recommends this vaccine for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 going to Canada, and notes that those 60 years old and up may get vaccinated prior to traveling to Canada.

Measles

Measles is a serious highly contagious, airborne disease that can lead to a variety of complications, including death. It is spread when an uninfected person comes into contact with infected nasal or throat secretions (for example, from coughing or sneezing) or breathes the air that was breathed by someone with the condition.

The CDC recommends that infants 6 to 11 months old who are traveling internationally get one dose of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine before their trip. (The dose does not count as part of the routine childhood vaccination series.)

(Note that measles is also listed among the CDC’s “routine vaccinations” above.)

Rabies

Rabies is a viral disease most often spread through the bite of an infected, or “rabid,” animal. It infects the central nervous system in mammals, causing disease in the brain and, ultimately, death.

The CDC notes that Canada is free of dog rabies but that the disease may still be present in wildlife species (especially bats). The organization recommends rabies vaccination prior to a trip to Canada only for those who will be working directly with wildlife on their trip, such as veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers who will be working with specimens from mammals.

Last-minute reminders

Prior to any travel to Canada, be sure to check the official CDC Traveler’s Health page, as vaccination recommendations may have been updated since the publication of this article.

With the breathtaking beauty of Canada awaiting you, make sure you’re prepared. Before you take off to the Great White North, ensure you’re protected and vaccinated.

Disclaimer of Medical Advice: This information does not constitute medical advice or recommendation of any kind, and you should not rely on any information contained in such posts or comments to replace consultations with your qualified healthcare professionals to meet your individual needs.

Cambodia’s Newest Airport Opens As Gateway To Angkor Wat — Why It Will Improve Tourism

Cambodia has recently risen as one of the premier travel destinations in Asia. With its crown jewel of Angkor Wat at the forefront — an archaeological park of temple ruins dedicated to the Buddhist religion — visitors are adding Siem Reap, Cambodia, to their Asian adventure itineraries.

To complement Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the country opened its newest “4E” airport just last week, and it’s called the Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport (SAI). Taking over for the Siem Reap International Airport (REP), SAI is classified as a 4E airport because “it can accommodate larger commercial planes, including many of those used on global long-haul routes,” according to CNN.

Let’s take a closer look at the 3-year project that led to the newer and larger Cambodia airport. From China’s involvement to the brand-new tourism opportunities it presents, here’s what the new structure means for the visitors and people of Cambodia and Siem Reap.

Just about 35 miles away from Siem Reap Airport, SAI is now set to take over incoming flights to Cambodia. Making it easier for visitors with hopes of seeing Angkor Wat, the new airport is just over a 10-minute drive from the ancient structure.

“The new airport, funded by China as part of its Belt and Road Initiative at a cost of about $1.1 billion, was designed to initially handle 7 million passengers a year — 2 million more than REP,” continues CNN.

The new airport is really just an expansion of what was already in Siem Reap. With the help of funding from China, Cambodia is looking to also expand its tourism to pre-COVID numbers.

“Recent data released by Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism reveals the country received 3.5 million international tourists in the first 8 months of 2023,” says CNN. “That’s an increase of 250.8 percent over the same period last year, but a decrease of 19.7 percent over 2019, before the country closed its borders because of the pandemic.”

As of right now, but expanding in the near future, eight Asian airlines are flying out of SAI:

AirAsia
Bangkok Airways
Singapore Airlines
Cambodia Angkor Air
China Eastern
Lao Airlines
Air Busan
China Southern

While its first flights were held in just the past few weeks, Siem Reap-Angkor International will certainly have plans to expand operations in the future. And while the airport’s website is scarce in future information regarding airport shopping and dining amenities, it has taken the first step in becoming a major hub in southeastern Asia.