The beautiful state of West Virginia is nestled in the compact forests of the Appalachian Mountains. Tourism is a significant contributor to its economy as its picturesque landscape makes it a mecca for outdoor recreation. You can stay for a few days in one of the hotels or treehouse cabins in West Virginia. During winter, Canaan Valley attracts visitors who go cross-country and downhill skiing. If you are looking for a challenging rock-climbing adventure, visit the scenic crag called Seneca Rocks. Hikers, mountain climbers, hunters, or watersports enthusiasts will love Monongahela National Forest. Aside from natural features, this state also has several historical attractions like Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. Scroll down to find out more about the best places to visit in West Virginia, the USA.
1. Morgantown
Morgantown is a city that offers something for everyone. Art lovers can visit Art Museum of West Virginia University that houses art collections and has a fantastic Nath Sculpture Garden. Learn about local history at Morgantown History Museum. Outdoor lovers will enjoy hiking, admiring the flora at Core Arboretum, or hiking while surrounded by Morgantown’s panoramic views at Dorseys Knob Park. If you are a wine-lover, join a wine-tasting tour where you can also sample red, white, fruit, and other specialty wines at Forks of Cheat Winery. Shop until you drop at Morgantown Mall and Seneca Center. You will never run out of fun things to do while in this city.
2. Thurmond
Thurmond was a ghost town located along New River with only five people living in it, according to a 2010 census. Back then, it was a coal-mining town, but now, it is preserved as a historic district that has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Thurmond had two banks, two hotels, and a railyard but economic depression, fires, and the switch to diesel locomotives led to this town’s abandonment. Visit Thurmond Depot Visitor Center and learn some history about the town, steel railroads, and steam-and-coal-powered locomotives.
3. Bluefield
Oozing a welcoming small-town charm, Bluefield is known to have an amazing, cool temperature during summer. Marvel at picturesque vistas of Bluefield from an observation deck at East River Mountain Scenic Overlook. Capture Instagram-worthy photos with the mountainous landscape and lush greenery as your backdrop. Bluefield also has parks that are great for enjoying the outdoors. Lotito City Park features a playground, picnic sites, hiking trails, and a ride on the Ridge Runner Train. Develop a newfound appreciation for art at Gary Bowling’s House of Art, a community-focused art gallery. Seafood lovers cannot miss visiting Captain D’s to enjoy freshly prepared seafood.
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Charleston
Visit Charleston, West Virginia’s state capital, and tour West Virginia Capitol Complex that faces Kanawha River. Within this complex, you will see West Virginia Capitol Building with its sculptured golden dome, West Virginia Executive Mansion, and statues of prominent leaders such as Abraham Lincoln and Stonewall Jackson. West Virginia State Museum allows you to journey through the history of this state. Clay Center houses Juliet Art Museum, Avampato Discovery Museum, and Caperton Planetarium & Theater for watching films and live performances. Take a stroll through Capitol Street to see its historical buildings, dine at the restaurants, or buy fresh produce at a farmers market called Capitol Market.
5. Parkersburg
Parkersburg is a city located at the point where Ohio River and Little Kanawha River meet. This city is known for Blennerhassett Island, a small island located near Ohio River. Get on a sternwheeler riverboat that will take you to this park with a Palladian mansion open for tours and Blennerhassett Museum of Regional History that houses artifacts. You can also hike around the island, ride on a horse-drawn chariot, rent a bike, or fish from the shores if you have a fishing license. Other attractions in this city include Parkersburg Art Center, Julia-Ann Square Historic District, and Fort Boreman Park.
6. Martinsburg
Discover the history of this city by visiting Belle Boyd House that was built in 1853. Now serves as a museum, this house was the childhood home of a renowned Confederate spy, Isabella “Belle” Boyd. Admire its unique Greek Revival architectural style, period décor, and the displayed exhibits. The limestone-built General Adam Stephen House & Triple Brick Museum house period pieces and display important archaeological objects. If looking for a family-friendly spot, For the Kids, by George Children’s Museum offers hands-on activities for kids as they learn about their heritage and railroad history.
7. Summersville
Summersville is a city surrounded by Gauley River’s crystal-clear waters whose damming resulted in Summersville Lake’s formation. Watersports enthusiasts will love this city that offers a galore of outdoor recreational activities. Summersville Lake is ideal for boating, fishing, snorkeling, and scuba diving to see its aquatic life and sunken boats. You can enjoy camping, rock climbing, or hiking up 122 steps to the operational Summersville Lake Retreat Lighthouse along its banks. Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting at Gauley River National Recreation Area. Kirkwood Winery & Isaiah Morgan Distillery offer tastings of many different sweet wines and three whiskey types.
8. Wheeling
Explore the historical city of Wheeling by visiting West Virginia Independence Hall where the Wheeling Convention took place and is now a museum with exhibits that educate on the history of West Virginia. Other historical attractions include Wheeling Suspension Bridge and Wheeling Island Historic District. For a date with lady luck, visit Wheeling Island Hotel-Casino-Racetrack that features slot machines, poker, and table games like Blackjack. You can also enjoy watching greyhounds racing and wager on your favorite dog. Wheeling Park has a waterslide and swimming pool, and it offers pedal boating on Good Lake and ice skating.
9. Princeton
Princeton had its beginnings as a railroad transportation hub and a coal-mining city. This city attracts tourists who want to see Mercer Street Historic District lined with food joints and shops. Princeton Railroad Museum displays a VGNRWY 308 caboose, different railroads, and artifacts such as lamps, lanterns, and photographs. Relax and unwind at Glenwood Recreational Park that features trails, paddle boat rentals, other watersports activities, courts for playing sports like basketball, a play area for kids, and picnic sites. Grab your friends and put your problem-solving skills to test at Out of the Box Escape Room to free yourself within the set time.
10. Huntington
Huntington lies on the shores where Ohio River and Guyandotte River meet, making its inland port very busy. Discover its Downtown Historic District, Ritter Park Historic District, and Central District listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Art lovers can visit Huntington Museum of Art famous for its vast art collection, library, aquarium, outdoor sculpture garden, hiking trails, and C. Fred Edwards Conservatory that preserves tropical and subtropical plants. Shop for antiques at Old Central City and unwind in parks such as Harris Riverfront Park and Ritter Park.
11. Shepherdstown
Shepherdstown is believed to have been first occupied in 1730, making it West Virginia’s oldest town. Shepherdstown Historic District along German Street is lined with old brick-built buildings. At the center of this district, you will find the Federal-style Entler Hotel that is one of the town’s landmarks. The Rumsey Monument is a granite column built in honor of James Rumsey who demonstrated how a steamboat worked in Potomac River in 1787. A tour of this town would be incomplete without going on Shepherdstown Mysteries Walk with a costumed guide who will take you to different haunted sites as he or she shares information about them.
12. Marlinton
Visit this scenic, rural town that is Pocahontas County’s seat. A haven for nature lovers, Marlinton offers Greenbrier River that lazily flows through the center of town and the Greenbrier River Trail that is great for biking and hiking. Escape to Watoga State Park that features several serene cabins, lodges, and two camping grounds for you to stay in as you experience a full immersion into nature. Indulge in activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, hiking in scenic trails, visiting museums, and marveling at spectacular views from Ann Bailey lookout tower while in this state park. Pocahontas County Opera House hosts live performances.
13. Buckhannon
Buckhannon is a city that offers a mix of different attractions. Attend the eight-day West Virginia Strawberry Festival and enjoy a horse and carriage parade, watch various performances, and eat delectable foods made using strawberries. Visit the gallery at Ron Hinkle Glass to see unique decorative art glass pieces available for purchase. Artists on Main sells unique handmade items such as pottery, jewelry, and paintings and offers arts and crafts classes. Outdoor enthusiasts will love Audra State Park that is great for swimming and kayaking on Middle Fork River, camping, hiking, and touring Alum Cave.
14. Lewisburg
Lewisburg exudes a small-town charm with a vibrant arts scene. Greenbrier Valley Theatre hosts live performances of eclectic plays, poetry, and dance. Polish your skills in performing arts and dance by taking classes at Trillium Performing Arts. This city also boasts one of the four remaining Carnegie Halls worldwide where you can watch live performances and explore galleries and exhibits. Greenbrier Historical Society houses a collection that conserves and educates on Greenbrier Valley’s history and culture. Besides historical and cultural attractions, Lewisburg is also home to Lost World Caverns featuring unique limestone formations.
15. Harpers Ferry
Harpers Ferry is famous for being the site where John Brown executed his failed attempt at usurping the federal weaponry in his fight to abolish slavery in 1859. Explore Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, tour the preserved 19th-century buildings, learn about the civil war from the exhibits at the Civil War Museum, see John Brown’s Fort where he hid after his failed raid, and hike along the battlefields. John Brown Wax Museum brings to life the events that occurred during his raid. Appalachian Trail Conservancy Headquarters and Visitor Center displays exhibits that provide information to people who want to hike the Appalachian National Scenic Trail.
16. South Charleston
Settlement in South Charleston began in 1906. One of the city’s famous landmarks listed on the National Register of Historic Places is Criel Mound, a burial mound opposite the business district in downtown South Charleston. History buffs will enjoy learning about the history of the Adena people at South Charleston Museum. Little Creek Park has sports fields, tennis courts, picnic areas, hiking trails, and an 18-hole disc golf course. Antique lovers can visit South Charleston Antique Mall and Mound Antique Mall to shop for unique pieces. Combine history and outdoor activities for a great time in South Charleston.
17. Hurricane
Hurricane is a city that was established in 1873. Located in Putnam County, Hurricane’s growth was facilitated by the construction of a railroad and depot. Hurricane City Park features family-friendly amenities such as a state-of-the-art spray ground where kids can cool off in summer, walking trails, picnic sites, playgrounds, and fields for playing basketball and baseball. Shop for antiques at Atelier Inge Antiques. Enjoy a day of self-pampering at Beth’s Massage Spa and Wellness or At Whit’s End Massage Therapy. This city offers a chilled place to relax away from the hustle and bustle of a busy city.
18. Elkins
Elkins is a picturesque mountainous city that offers fun outdoor activities and a rich arts and culture scene. Annually, in October, this city holds the Mountain State Forest Festival with entertainment such as concerts, competitions for cutting trees into logs, various exhibits, parades, delicious local foods, and the crowning of Queen Silvia ceremony. Explore the city’s scenic landscape while on a train with Mountain Rail Adventures. Monongahela National Forest is a haven for anyone who wants to reconnect with nature. Nurture your inner creativity at Randolph County Community Arts Center by participating in their arts program.
19. Bethlehem
Bethlehem is a town in Ohio County that has a rural vibe. Have fun with your kids at Bethlehem Community Park that features playgrounds, picnic shelters, and sports fields. Rent a picnic shelter and have a party or barbecue with friends. Oglebay Good Zoo is home to some rare and endangered animals such as golden lion tamarins, Burmese python, radiated tortoises, miniature donkeys, and Linnie’s two-toed sloth. Indulge in recreational water activities such as kayaking, boating, aqua cycling, and pedal boating at Schenk Lake. Relish the peace and serenity that comes with being in this rural town.
20. Williamstown
Williamstown’s main attraction is Henderson Hall Historic District. This district comprises Henderson Hall that George Washington Henderson constructed. It houses invaluable artifacts, the grounds with other buildings, and the family cemetery. Williamstown also offers easy access to nearby Marietta attractions. Ohio River Museum features exhibits that educate on the history and importance of Ohio River, including a sternwheeler powered by steam. The Ohio River Sternwheel Festival held in these two cities further celebrates this history through paddle steamer races, pageants, delicious local foods, music performances, and a display of fireworks.
21. Star City
Located in Monongalia County, Star City is a small town that was established in 1907. This town is perched on a hill and offers views of Monongahela River. Enjoy the outdoors at Edith Barill Riverfront Park, home to the John F. Kennedy Memorial and his son’s sculpture saluting him. Keep fit while biking or hiking on the Caperton Trail and Mon River Trail North. Kids can use up their energy running around at Tug Boat Depot playground. Launch your boat in the public boat ramp and enjoy fishing in the river. This activity-packed park is just what you need for a relaxing day outdoors.
22. Westover
Westover is a beautiful city that lies on Morgantown’s opposite side, with the two cities being connected by Westover Bridge. When looking for family-friendly entertainment, head out to Launch Pad Trampoline Park that features amenities such as an open jump, foam pit, launch hoops for dunking, dodgeball, an arcade, rock wall climbing, and a toddler playroom. This city also offers convenient access to Morgantown’s attractions such as Core Arboretum, Caperton Trail, and Morgantown History Museum.
23. Pleasant Valley
Fly to Pleasant Valley and land at Frankman Field. Start your tour of this city by visiting Convention & Visitors Bureau of Marion County where you will get in-depth information about this city, including its attractions. This city offers easy access to Fairmont, which has numerous parks offering different recreational activities. Prickett’s Fort State Park is home to an 18th-century fort. Valley Falls State Park features a beautiful waterfall on Tygart Valley River and activities for fishing, hiking, and biking. Get into the Christmas spirit by attending the annual Celebration of Light festival held at Morris Park.
24. Weirton
Weirton is a city sandwiched between Brooke and Hancock counties. Weirton Area Museum and Cultural Center is the best place to visit if you want to learn about the city’s cultural and historical heritage as shown through artifacts and exhibitions. Have fun playing golf at the 18-hole, 72 par putting green at Williams Golf and Country Club. Grab your friends or family and head out to Blue Steel Grill & Cafes / Steel Valley Bowling Center where you can enjoy bowling and playing games such as pool and air hockey. This spot also has a restaurant with an extensive menu with snacks such as Italian burgers, wings, nachos, and quesadillas.
25. Moundsville
Grave Creek Mound, which gives this city its name, was built by the pre-Columbian Native American people called the Adena. At 70 feet (21 meters), it is the largest Adena mound. Delf Norona Museum, which is set at Grave Creek Mound Archaeological Complex, showcases the Adena people’s culture and displays a collection of objects excavated from the mound. West Virginia Penitentiary offers historical and paranormal tours of the Gothic-style prison and an escape room. Take a peek into the prison’s paranormal activity by going on a night tour.
A state with a mix of everything
West Virginia boasts cities with museums, historic districts, and festivals that celebrate these different cities’ cultural and historical heritage. With breathtaking and diverse natural features, this state is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore all these and so much more during your vacation in the Mountain State.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
-
7 Best All-Inclusive Resorts In West Virginia, USAPlarlene Juliane -
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Create an account to