Encased in high and low mountains, lush forestry and an endless sea of greens, West Virginia is one of the must-visit destinations in the Appalachian region of southern United States. Known for its old charm, rolling majestic hills, as well as its historical mining towns, West Virginia is truly a sight to behold and a place to experience. It’s an ideal destination for couples who are after a vacation or a day trip indulging in fun activities, including hiking, rock climbing, fishing, and white-water rafting. West Virginia is absolutely the best place for outdoor thrills. Because of the climate, travelers who want to take a trip here will have unlimited options on what to do, whether it’s the summer or winter season. Some of the most popular accommodations in the city are RV rentals and treehouse cabins. Check out our list below of the top romantic things to do in West Virginia, the USA for an experience you won’t forget.
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1. Have an off-road adventure
With West Virginia’s many challenging tracks and adventure-worthy trails, it’s not surprising that off-road rides have been such a popular thing to do in the area. This excursion in the town of Fayetteville lets you explore the New River Gorge with a UTV, or utility terrain vehicle. After your orientation, you’ll be enjoying the rugged trails of the national park for two hours. This Viator tour is completely friendly to all skill levels, so if you’re a beginner, there’s absolutely no need to worry. Your guide will be assisting you the whole way.
Book Tours : New River Gorge Side by Side Family Tour
2. Dig deep into the state's culture at West Virginia State Museum
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you’re interested in knowing more about the beautiful Appalachian state of West Virginia, spend your next date at this history museum. Located in the Culture Center in Charleston, West Virginia State Museum aims to educate and inspire the public with its collection and protection of the tradition and culture in the state. If you’re on the lookout for budget-friendly dates, admission to this museum is free. Go on an arts and culture trip with your loved one and discover the rich history of West Virginia.
West Virginia State Museum
Address: 1900 Kanawha Blvd E #435, Charleston, WV 25305, United States
Website: West Virginia State Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 9am- 5pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
3. Ride a pontoon boat from Sunset Beach Marina
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
When you find yourself in Cheat Lake, one of the picturesque places in West Virginia, entrust your adventure needs to Sunset Beach Marina. Nestled in a cove, this rental company in the area provides all that you may need for your boating. From kayaks and paddleboats to wakeboards and pontoons, you’re guaranteed to enjoy the waters of Cheat Lake. Aside from these boating services, if you’re ready to embark on the grand ol’ lake life, Sunset Beach Marina offers full services for everything marina-related.
Sunset Beach Marina
Address: Sunset Beach Rd, Morgantown, WV 26508, United States
Website: Sunset Beach Marina
Opening hours: 10am - 7pm (daily)
4. Get to know the Appalachian culture at Heritage Farm Museum & Village
Most tourists who stop by West Virginia are either hiking the entirety of the Appalachian Trail or are simply enjoying extreme adventures due to the abundance of outdoor activities in the state. Chances are, you are here for the exact reasons, too. Get to know more about your wonderful trail by paying a visit to the open-air Heritage Farm Museum and Village in Huntington. With a focus on the history and culture of Appalachia, some of the museum’s major features are the Progress Museum, Country Store Museum, Industry Museum, and Transportation Museum.
Heritage Farm Museum & Village
Address: 3300 Harvey Rd, Huntington, WV 25704, United States
Website: Heritage Farm Museum & Village
5. Spend an intimate tasting at Daniel Vineyards
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Just a friendly reminder: We are down to our LAST 2 CASES of the Sweet Baby Blush. Once this limited edition wine is...
Posted by Daniel Vineyards on Thursday, December 17, 2020
You may be wondering, what’s a romantic outing without one of the classic date night activities? Well, now we’ve got you covered in this department. Crab Orchard in West Virginia is home to one of the best vineyards in the state, Daniel Vineyards. This winery was established in 1990 at a former 192-acre (77.6-hectare) golf course. Besides the vineyards, the property is also home to a farm of blackberries and blueberries. If you are an enthusiast of good wine, schedule a wine tasting and tour of this romantic spot in West Virginia.
Daniel Vineyards
Address: 200 Twin Oaks G, Crab Orchard, WV 25827, United States
Website: Daniel Vineyards
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
6. Enjoy horseback riding with Mountain Trail Rides
If you are one of those couples who prefer outdoor thrills rather than intimate candle-lit romantic dinners, you might love going horseback riding with Mountain Trail Rides. It’s an ideal destination for a vacation, honeymoon, or a weekend getaway with your special someone. There are a lot of exciting things to expect. Each trail has its spectacular views, and you have to see those scenes for yourself.
Mountain Trail Rides Horseback Riding
Address: 8082, 255 Freeland Rd, Davis, WV 26260, United States
Website: Mountain Trail Rides Horseback Riding
Opening hours: Mon: 9:30am - 3:30pm; Wed - Sun: 9:30am - 3:30pm (closed on Tue)
7. Go hiking in Blackwater Falls State Park
Situated in the Allegheny Mountains of Tucker County, Blackwater Falls State Park is one of the most photographed spots in the city. Its name’s origin is because of its amber waters and red spruce needles. Although its 2358 acres (954 ha) of rugged natural beauty and towering forestry certainly don’t lack breathtaking and Instagram-worthy features, the iconic falls, themselves, are absolutely the park’s crown jewel that will steal your breath. There’s just something romantic about witnessing something ethereal while being with the love of your life, especially if the views include this tannin-stained Blackwater River. But there’s more to the state park other than the Blackwater Falls. Make sure to fully explore to have a pleasant time.
Blackwater Falls State Park
Address: 1584 Blackwater Lodge Rd, Davis, WV 26260, United States
Website: Blackwater Falls State Park
Opening hours: 6am - 10pm (daily)
8. Go trekking in Spruce Knob
Known as West Virginia’s highest peak, with 4 863 feet (1482 m) above sea level, Spruce Knob is one of the destinations you shouldn’t miss when in the state. It offers travelers a perfect opportunity to hike amazing trails that lead to spectacular views. Make your hiking more fun by bringing your special someone with you and enjoy each other’s company with nature as your audience. The trails in this romantic place in West Virginia are easy enough to walk, so you don’t have to worry if it’s your first time hiking. Spruce Tower at the top of the hill is a perfect spot to see the landscape from above.
Spruce Knob
Address: U.S. Route 33/West Virginia Route 28,, Forest Road 104, Riverton, WV
Website: Spruce Knob
9. Take an underground tour of Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine
If you want to experience something new, consider joining an underground tour of the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine. The tour includes a ride through the mine in a ‘man car’ that can hold up to 35 people. Tourists who will join the journey need to wear a jacket since the mine can be on the colder side. Apart from the underground tour, you can also enjoy the Coal Camp, which is composed of a coal camp house, church, and a miner’s shanty. You can also buy cute pins from its museum and gift shop.
Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine
Address: 513 Ewart Ave, Beckley, WV 25801, United States
Website: Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
10. Explore Durbin & Greenbrier Valley
The Durbin & Greenbrier Valley is a tourist railroad destination in Durbin, West Virginia, commonly known as the Durbin Rocket. Enjoy a ride on this historic train and get to learn a lot about the region’s railway history. Apart from the classic trains, there are also several trails in the area that are ideal for scenic walks. There are also striking lakes and lush forestry around the area, which makes it an excellent place to hang out with your special someone.
Durbin and Greenbrier Valley Railroad
Address: 315 S Railroad Ave, Elkins, WV 26241, United States
Website: Durbin and Greenbrier Valley Railroad
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
11. Unwind at The Salt Cave and Spa
If it’s pure relaxation you’re seeking, The Salt Cave and Spa in West Virginia is the place to go. Offering salt and halotherapy services, guests looking for the perfect spot to remove the pain of their aching muscles will find this place delightful. According to the staff, the therapy can help guests with respiratory issues, allergies, skin conditions, and arthritis. One of the best things about this spa is its ambiance that will make you feel like you’re inside a cave. Zero-gravity chairs are available inside, where you can let go of your worries and pain.
The Salt Cave and Spa
Address: 6705 Pocahontas Trail, White Sulphur Springs, WV 24986, United States
Website: The Salt Cave and Span
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 7am - 11pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 6pm
12. Enjoy a day in Berkeley Springs State Park
Tucked in the historic neighborhood of Berkeley Springs is Berkeley Springs State Park, which is home to a mineral spa used since the colonial times. Famous for its warm refreshing spring water, travelers make it a point to visit the park whenever in West Virginia. The park offers a plethora of activities, both relaxing and exhilarating. Its Old Roman and Main bathhouses offer spa facilities such as saunas, baths, and massages. For recreation, on the other hand, aerial tours, ATV riding, boating, camping, fishing, whitewater rafting, and snow sports are a daily occurrence in the park. It’s an excellent spot where you can experience the best of both worlds.
Berkeley Springs State Park
Address: 2 S Washington St, Berkeley Springs, WV 25411, United States
Website: Berkeley Springs State Park
Opening hours: 7am - 10pm (daily)
13. Explore the serene village of Snowshoe
Inviting all outdoor enthusiasts to Snowshoe, where the majestic mountain is calling your name. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or challenging steeps, wicked features or hidden valleys, bitter cocktails or sweet treats, fuzzy cushions or pumping rhythms, Snowshoe is the place to go where your choices on the mountain are limitless. There are a lot of activities to indulge in while you’re in this community, including skiing, snowball fights, hiking, camping, and all other fun things that you can do with a lot of snow. If it’s a West Virginia honeymoon destination you require, then you know the place to go.
Snowshoe
Address:10 Snowshoe Drive, Snowshoe, WV 26209
Website: Snowshoe
14. Have a candle-lit dinner at Laury's Restaurant
Posted by Laury's Restaurant on Thursday, 1 December 2016
Featuring one of the city’ s best fine-dining experiences since the 90s’, Laury’s Restaurant is enclosed inside Charleston’s Amtrak train station. Nestled on the banks of Kanawha River, diners who choose to dine at Laury’s Restaurant will witness stunning views of the river and downtown Charleston. Its menu offers a plethora of food palettes; from seafood dishes and steaks to pasta and signature salads, you’ll have plenty of options. You can even pair your main entree with classic wines. Starters comprise lobster stuffed mushroom and parmesan-encrusted escargot. What makes this place a must-visit, apart from its tasty cuisine, is its intimate and elegant ambiance that’s ideal for romantic dates.
Laury's Restaurant
Address: 350 MacCorkle Ave SE, Charleston, WV 25314, United States
Website: Laury’s Restaurant
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 5pm - 10pm (closed on Mon & Sun)
15. Take a romantic walk around Ritter Park Rose Garden
Known as one of the country’s best rose gardens, The rose garden in Huntington’s Ritter Park is one of the most romantic places you’ll get to visit when you’re in West Virginia. Boasting over 3000 roses of different colors and greeneries all over the park, there’s nothing more romantic than having this beauty as your view while strolling around the park. The ideal time to visit the garden is from May to mid-June when the roses reach their full blooms, and the garden bursts into color. The stonework you’ll see in the garden is like one from a fairytale.
Ritter Park Rose Garden
Address: 1570 McCoy Rd, Huntington, WV 25701, United States
Website: Ritter Park Rose Garden
Opening hours: 12am - 12pm (daily)
A romantic getaway to West Virginia
Imagine all the things you can experience while in West Virginia, where every moment is something you can look forward to. Bring your special someone for a more magical escape. For great ideas, check out our list above of the top romantic things to do in West Virginia.
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