32 Best Things To Do In West Virginia, USA - Updated 2024

things to do in west virginia
Vanna
Vanna 
Updated
| 15 min read

Located on the eastern coast of the United States, West Virginia is the land of the mountaineers. Aptly named the Mountain State as it sits on the Appalachians, West Virginia is full of gorgeous outdoor destinations and cultural attractions hidden beneath the forest cover. Here, where the “mountaineers are always free” (the state motto), you can go on long multi-day hikes, climb peaks, as well as enjoy a glass of all-natural fruit cordial or craft beer here and there. West Virginia sure is an outdoor lover’s paradise, almost heaven to some extent, but there are many other things to do. When it comes to accommodation, the spa resorts promise a relaxing stay. For a homier feel, the lakefront cabins are your best bet. Planning a trip soon? From glassblowing demonstrations to adventure course competitions, scroll down for the best things to do in West Virginia, USA.

1. Go whitewater rafting at New River Gorge National River (from USD 88.0)

Now that you’ve tried kayaking on the Greenbrier River, it’s time to move on to the next stage: whitewater rafting at the New River Gorge National River. For sure, this will get you wet, with adrenaline pumping through your veins. The New River is one of the oldest rivers in the Americas, with deep canyons surrounding this rushing waterway. For beginners, go whitewater rafting at the upper New River, where you can encounter Class I to Class III rapids. The Viator link below, however, is for the adventure seekers who want to try and navigate the lower New River’s Class III to IV rapids. It’s not for the faint of heart, as the New River is powerful, with large boulders and other hazards littered throughout the entire course. Whether you pick the lower or the upper New River, whitewater rafting here will leave you wanting for more.

Tip from Content Creator

New River Gorge National Park New River Gorge National Park New River Gorge National Park

New River Gorge is one of the most underrated national parks! There are so many different activities to participate in during your visit, the most popular being whitewater rafting. If you're brave enough to face the rapids, this is a thrilling adventure to go on during your visit. 

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National Park Whitewater Rafting in New River Gorge WV

Duration: 6 hours

303 reviews

2. Marvel at the beautiful Coopers Rock State Forest


Moving on with your great West Virginia outdoor expedition, it’s time to head to Coopers Rock State Forest in Bruceton Mills. Its highest points offer spectacular views of the Cheat River canyon, whether it’s the height of summer or even in the winter, when the entire Coopers Rock State Forest transforms into a winter wonderland. Hiking, trekking, and picnics aside, one activity you should try here is bouldering as Coopers Rock State Forest has a great collection of large boulders you can try to scale. There are also cliff faces that you can climb– just make sure you have the proper gear for a safe ascent and descent. There are about 25 campsites scattered around Coopers Rock State Forest so if you want to devote an entire weekend or even week exploring this West Virginia outdoor destination, go camping here.

Coopers Rock State Forest

Address: 61 County Line Dr, Bruceton Mills, WV 26525, USA

Website: Coopers Rock State Forest

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 7am - 8pm; Sat - Sun: 6am - 8pm

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3. See the fine arts collection at Carnegie Hall

Carnegie Hall
Source: Photo by Flickr user Taber Andrew Bain used under CC BY 2.0

Carnegie Hall in Lewisburg isn’t just one of West Virginia’s best spaces for performing arts. It’s also a great place to admire fine arts. There are three galleries and two permanent exhibits here in Carnegie Hall. Each of the three galleries host a variety of exhibits all year round, while the two permanent exhibits (one of the first level and the other on the second floor) are dedicated to West Virginia’s Music Hall of Fame and Carnegie Hall’s history, respectively. In addition to fine art and performances, Carnegie Hall also hosts a slew of special events, from private movie screenings to annual Lewisburg festivals such as Taste Of Our Towns, not to mention the Carnegie Hall Gala.

Carnegie Hall

Address: 611 Church St, Lewisburg, WV 24901, USA

Website: Carnegie Hall

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sun)

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4. Be amazed by Blackwater Falls State Park

Blackwater Falls State Park West Virginia
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Frank Kovalchek used under CC BY 2.0

Tucked deep within the Allegheny Mountains, get ready to be amazed by the Blackwater Falls State Park’s sheer beauty. The highlight of this expansive state park, of course, is the Blackwater Falls, which has a height of 57 feet (17.37 meters). Blackwater Falls is quite distinctive for its amber waters, so colored by the tannic acid produced from the red spruce needles and hemlocks that cover the ground. There are several viewing decks so you can admire Blackwater Falls’ beauty from different levels and angles. We, however, highly recommend you to push on and visit the other attractions in the area to make your trip worthwhile. There’s another falls nearby (Elakala Falls), and the Pendleton Point Overlook, one of the most photographed places in the state, isn’t so far as well.

Blackwater Falls State Park

Address: 1584 Blackwater Lodge Rd, Davis, WV 26260, USA

Website: Blackwater Falls State Park

Opening hours: 6am - 10pm (daily)

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5. Visit Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Harpers Ferry Park sign, WV
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Billy Hathorn used under CC BY 3.0

Where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers meet, that’s where you’ll find the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, one of the cool places to visit in West Virginia. Several key events in American history transpired here, right from John Brown’s Raid in the 19th century, the American Civil War, and even the arrival of the first African slave in the country in the mid-18th century. Some of the attractions you should definitely visit in the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park include The Point, Jefferson’s Rock, Loudoun Heights, and John Brown’s fort. You can also go hiking and explore the natural features of Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, which is actually considered as one of the best walking parks in the United States.

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Address: 171 Shoreline Dr, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425, USA

Website: Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

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6. Try craft beers at Pies & Pints

things to do in west virginia | try craft beers at pies & pints
Source: instagram

Sit down for Happy Hour at this fun place in West Virginia and try their selection of local craft beer, such as Big Timber Porter, Oskar Blues Wild Basin Classic Lime, Sierra Nevada Pale Ale, Lagunitas IPA, and New Belgium Oakspire. There are actually several Pies & Pints locations in West Virginia (we’ll be providing information about the Charleston outlet below), with each branch offering a varied menu of craft beer. Pair your bottle or glass with one of their crowd-favorite pizzas and other specialties.

Pies & Pints

Address: 222 Capitol St, Charleston, WV 25301, USA

Website: Pies & Pints

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 11pm; Sun: 11am - 9pm

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7. Explore ski runs at Snowshoe Mountain

things to do in west virginia | explore ski runs at snowshoe mountain
Source: instagram

Winter is the best time to visit Snowshoe Mountain, the famous ski resort in Snowshoe, West Virginia. When it’s covered in snow, winter sports enthusiasts come out to play to dominate the best ski runs here. But although skiing is the best thing to do in Snowshoe Resort, there’s plenty of fun to be had no matter the season. When the snow melts and the ice thaws, Snowshoe Mountain is great for hiking, mountain biking, golf, and of course, lake activities. In snow or sunshine, Snowshoe Mountain never fails to deliver thrills.

Snowshoe Mountain

Address: 10 Snowshoe Dr, Snowshoe, WV 26209, USA

Website: Snowshoe Mountain

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8. See the glassblowing demonstration at Appalachian Glass


Appalachian Glass in Weston is quite well-known in West Virginia for their glass products. It’s a family-run business established about 75 years ago, with three generations of the Turner family keeping the tradition alive. When you’re at Appalachian Glass, you can participate in one of the glassblowing demonstrations, where some of the Turners and their assistants will teach you all about the fine art of glassblowing. At the shop, you can pick up one of their beautiful products as a souvenir or a special gift for a loved one.

Appalachian Glass

Address: 499 US-33, Weston, WV 26452, USA

Website: Appalachian Glass

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 4:30pm; Sat: 8am - 4pm (closed on Sun)

Price: Prices vary

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9. Experience the adrenaline rush at Greenbrier Aerial Adventure Park (from USD 128.0)

Are you traveling in West Virginia with a competitive bunch? There is no better place to outwin and outlast each other than at the Greenbrier Aerial Adventure Park. Divide into teams and see which team can climb the Alpine Tower (which stands at 164 feet or 50 meters) fastest. This Viator tour will get you about two-and-a-half hours at the Alpine Tower, along with a guide, all the safety gear you need, and water to keep yourself hydrated.

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White Sulphur Springs Alpine Tower Climbing 2.5-Hour Adventure

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

10. Kayak on Greenbrier River (from USD 135.0)

kayak on greenbrier river
Source: www.viator.com

It’s time to get back out to explore West Virginia’s outdoor destinations. Include Greenbrier River in your stop. A part of the Mississippi River watershed, it flows for a total of 162 miles (260.71 kilometers), making it one of the longest and unblocked rivers in the state. It has a special place in history, as well. Back in the early days, the Greenbrier River served as part of the Great Indian Warpath, also known as the Seneca Trail. It is also one of the main water providers in the area. For outdoor recreation, Greenbrier River is popular among kayaking enthusiasts. Meanwhile, on the banks, you can go horseback riding, camping, and follow the historic Seneca Trail.

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West Virginia Kayaking Adventure

11. Admire the lovely West Virginia Botanic Garden


Enter the West Virginia Botanic Garden and be greeted with lush greenery, miles of trails to be explored, and quiet pockets where you can get in touch with nature. Located within the Tibbs Run Preserve, West Virginia Botanic Garden was opened in 2000 on what was once a reservoir. The entire site covers 85 acres (35.39 hectares), all wooded and preserved to provide a place for West Virginians and other guests to see the local flora. Some of the highlights at the West Virginia Botanic Garden include the reservoir basin, the meditation garden, and the woodland trails.

West Virginia Botanic Garden

Address: 1061 Tyrone Rd, Morgantown, WV 26508, USA

Website: West Virginia Botanic Garden

Opening hours: Sat - Sun: 9am - 6pm; Mon - Fri: 7am - 8pm

Price: Free

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12. Tour Oglebay Insitute Glass Museum


Located in Wheeling, Oglebay Institute Glass Museum is one of the two glass museums in West Virginia. This Glass Museum honors the Wheeling-Pittsburgh Corridor’s extensive glassmaking history in the early 20th century, with center pieces and other glassware from this era on display. There are actually over 3,500 artifacts, one of which is the Sweeney Punch Bowl. It holds the distinction of being the largest cut glass in the world. You can also try your hand in glassmaking at Oglebay Institute Glass Museum by joining one of the workshops at the glass studio.

Oglebay Insitute Glass Museum

Address: 1330 Oglebay Dr, Wheeling, WV 260

Website: Oglebay Insitute Glass Museum

Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 10 USD

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13. Get adventurous at Grand Vue Park


Looking for some family-friendly adventure and fun in West Virginia? Head to Grand Vue Park in Moundsville. This adventure resort in Ohio Valley offers everything, from luxury three-star accommodations, an on-site restaurant, and a wide variety of activities to do. You can play golf, go camping, explore the outdoor destinations around the area, and go shopping at the gift shop. Most people head to Grand Vue Park, however, for their adventure park. Here, you can test your endurance on the rope course, climb the rock wall, and race your friends on the zip line.

Grand Vue Park

Address: 250 Trail Dr, Moundsville, WV 26041, USA

Website: Grand Vue Park

Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)

Price: Vary per attraction

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14. Enjoy fabulous views at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park

Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, West Virginia
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Richard A. Weaver used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Once upon a time, steam trains traveled up and down the mountains and forests of West Virginia. You can experience what it was like back then at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park in Cass, West Virginia. There’s an 11-mile (17.70 kilometers) heritage railroad that you can explore via one of the tourist trains. Trust us– it will be one of the most scenic train rides you’ll ever have in your life. After that, you can pick up some souvenirs at the gift shop and enjoy a milkshake and some snacks at The Last Run Restaurant and Soda Fountain. If you want, you can stay the night at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park– there are cabins for rent so you can fully experience everything the state park has to offer.

Cass Scenic Railroad State Park

Address: 242 Main St, Cass, WV 24927, USA

Website: Cass Scenic Railroad State Park

Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)

Price: Vary

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15. Wander in the beautiful Heritage Farm Museum and Village

wander in the beautiful heritage farm museum and village
Source: instagram

West Virginia’s country roads can take you all the way to Huntington, where you can find the beautiful Heritage Farm Museum and Village. It was established by husband-and-wife duo Mike and Henrietta Perry back in 1973 to escape the city life. Now, it’s a famed West Virginia attraction where you can take a look at Appalachian artifacts, go hiking, participate in artisan workshops, and of course, pet the farm animals! Heritage Farm Museum and Village will also welcome you should you wish you to stay the night or even the week. There are log cabins, a retreat center, and two reception halls open for anyone who wants to stay just a little bit longer at Heritage Farm Museum and Village.

Heritage Farm Museum and Village

Address: 3300 Harvey Rd, Huntington, WV 25704, USA

Website: Heritage Farm Museum and Village

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 3pm (closed on Sun)

Price: 12 USD (adults); 10 USD (seniors); 8 USD (kids)

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16. Hike the Appalachian Trail

Appalachian Trail
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Famartin used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Itching to hike the Appalachian Trail? You can access this thousand-mile trail from West Virginia by Harpers Ferry. You can go for a short trek as the Appalachian Trail in West Virginia extends for four miles (6.43 kilometers), or use West Virginia as your jump-off point for a much longer hiking expedition through the Appalachian wilderness. The West Virginia section is great for beginners to advanced hikers. Along the way, you’ll pass by sites of Civil War battles and John Brown’s Raid.

Appalachian National Scenic Trail

Address: 799 Washington St, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425, USA

Website: Appalachian National Scenic Trail

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17. Explore the charming Charleston Capitol Market

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Charleston, West Virginia’s capital, has plenty going on. Take the Capitol Market, for example. Here, you can shop and dine to your heart’s content. With so many things on offer, it’s easy to spend an entire day at Charleston Capitol Market. Admire the turn-of-the-century architecture of this former train station. Find your new favorite lunch spot in the city. Explore the line-up of incredible local specialty shops. Sample farm-to-table goodness in one of the food stalls. Our favorite thing to do in Charleston Capitol Market, however, is to just try out all the restaurants that catch our eye. It’s one of those places where you can eat anything from Italian classics to freshly made sushi.

Charleston Capitol Market

Address: 800 Smith St, Charleston, WV 25301, USA

Website: Charleston Capitol Market

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 6pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm

Price: Free

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18. See the exhibits at Green Bank Observatory


Fans of the night sky and all the wonders it holds, rejoice! This treat is for all of you. Located in Green Bank in West Virginia is the Green Bank Observatory. Its main function? To provide support to the scientific community by using radio waves to explore and discover everything the outer space has to offer. If you’d like to learn more about the Green Bank Observatory, head to the Science Center within the site. There’s an exhibit hall and an auditorium, as well as tours that can take you all the way to the telescopes. The latter are available for an additional fee.

Green Bank Observatory

Address: 155 Observatory Rd, Green Bank, WV 24944, USA

Website: Green Bank Observatory

Opening hours: 8:30am - 7pm (daily)

Price: Free admission

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19. Explore the remarkable Exhibition Coal Mine

explore the remarkable exhibition coal mine
Source: instagram

Beckley’s Exhibition Coal Mine is one of West Virginia’s most historic drift mines. Originally known as the Phillips-Sprague Mine, it was opened for operations from 1889 to 1953 and then opened to the public as the Exhibition Coal Mine not long after. Included in the exhibit are the 1,500 feet (45.72 meters) of old passageways used back when miners hurried in and out of the mine. Highlights of the Exhibition Coal Mine include the underground tours, the coal company house, the miners shanty, and the coal camp school, among other features. All of these tell the grand tale of coal mining in the Appalachian Mountains.

Exhibition Coal Mine

Address: 513 Ewart Ave, Beckley, WV 25801, USA

Website: Exhibition Coal Mine

Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)

Price: 22 USD (adults); 12.50 USD (children); 16 USD (seniors)

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20. Explore Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum


Looking for a different kind of thrill? Something to send shivers down your spine? Maybe the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Museum is right up your alley. Once called the Weston State Hospital, the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum is a National Historic Landmark about 160 years old. It was operational from 1864 until 1994 so you can just imagine all of the stories it holds. You can stick to the traditional historical tours or experience the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Museum’s scary side through its ghost tours. Either way, you’ll learn lots about the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Museum.

Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Museum

Address: c, 71 Asylum Dr, Weston, WV 26452, United States

Website: Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Museum

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 12pm - 6pm (closed on Mon)

Price: Tour prices vary

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21. Stay at the historic The Greenbrier

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

A morning hike with the feel of the fresh mountain air on your skin. A sunny afternoon relaxing by the infinity pool. An...

Posted by The Greenbrier on Wednesday, June 21, 2023

Indulge in a luxurious and historic getaway at The Greenbrier in West Virginia. This iconic resort, nestled amid the stunning Allegheny Mountains, offers an enchanting blend of elegance, charm, and world-class amenities. Step into a bygone era as you explore the meticulously restored and beautifully appointed rooms and suites. Immerse yourself in the rich history of The Greenbrier, which has hosted presidents, celebrities, and distinguished guests throughout the years.

Savor exquisite dining experiences, from fine cuisine to casual fare, prepared by renowned chefs using locally sourced ingredients. Pamper yourself with rejuvenating spa treatments, tee off at the championship golf courses, or engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and tennis.

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22. Experience Old Roman bath at Berkeley Springs

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Berkeley Springs, WV on Friday, May 19, 2023

Immerse yourself in history and rejuvenation as you experience the Old Roman Bath at Berkeley Springs in West Virginia. Discover the healing powers of the natural mineral springs that have attracted visitors for centuries. Step into the tranquil ambiance of the Roman Bathhouse, which dates back to the late 18th century. Surrender to the soothing warmth of the mineral-rich waters as you soak in the traditional stone tubs.

Indulge in a therapeutic and rejuvenating experience as the natural minerals work their magic on your body and soul. The Old Roman Bath offers a serene oasis where you can relax, unwind, and soak away the stresses of daily life. Learn about the rich history and significance of Berkeley Springs as you explore the bathhouse and its informative displays. Feel a connection to the past as you soak in the same healing waters enjoyed for centuries.

Experience Old Roman bath at Berkeley Springs

Address: 2 South Washington St

Website: Berkeley Springs

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23. Wander through the unique West Virginia Mine Wars Museum

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Our Digitization Team (minus our Creative Director, Shaun!) standing outside the WV Mine Wars Museum after a long day of...

Posted by West Virginia Mine Wars Museum on Friday, November 27, 2020

The West Virginia Mine Wars Museum in Historic Matewan is the place to go if you’d like to learn more about the West Virginia Mine Wars which happened in the early 20th century. This oft-overlooked time in American history saw the coal fields of southern West Virginia flooded with African Americans, immigrant families, and other coal miners to fight for better working conditions and basic constitutional rights. Inside the West Virginia Mine Wars Museum, you’ll find relics from this period, from guns used to historic photos. You can also watch digitized film reels and check out other related artifacts.

West Virginia Mine Wars Museum

Address: 336 Mate St, Matewan, WV 25678, USA

Website: West Virginia Mine Wars Museum

Opening hours: Fri - Sat: 11am - 8pm (closed from Sun - Thu)

Price: Free

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24. Visit the State Capitol

West Virginia State Capitol, Charleston, WV, US (15)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Bubba73 used under CC BY-SA 3.0

West Virginia’s State Capitol is a magnificent piece of Italian Renaissance and Colonial Revival architecture, designed by Cass Gilbert. The State Capitol was built in 1924, with construction wrapping up in 1932. You can find the State Capitol as part of the West Virginia Capitol Complex, along with the West Virginia Executive Mansion in Charleston. You can see it up close and sit on the steps but if you’re after a more scenic view, you can view the State Capitol from a spot across the Kanawha River at night, all lit up.

State Capitol

Address: 1900 Kanawha Boulevard East, Charleston, West Virginia, U.S

Website: State Capitol

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5:30pm; Sat: 9am - 5:30pm; Sun: 12pm - 5:30pm

Price: Free

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25. See the historical artifacts at Mothman Museum


Mothman Museum is one of the famous places in West Virginia. Down at Point Pleasant, there’s a pervasive local legend. It’s that of the Mothman, which has been sighted numerous times in the area. It became so famous, the Mothman became the subject of several books and even inspired a movie. You can learn all about the Mothman and the myth that surrounds it at the Mothman Museum, the only one of its kind in the world. You can find a wide variety of merchandise and memorabilia here, from books to items of clothing. Don’t forget to take your picture with the Mothman statue outside.

The Mothman Museum

Address: 400 Main St, Point Pleasant, WV 25550, USA

Website: The Mothman Museum

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 5pm; Fri: 11am - 6pm; Sat: 10am - 6pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm

Price: 4 USD (adults); 1 USD (kids 10 and under)

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26. Sample cocktails at Bloomery Plantation Distillery


Drive to Charles Town for a good time at the Bloomery Plantation Distillery, well-known in West Virginia for their natural fruit cordials. Housed in a log cabin distillery dating back to the 1840s, the Bloomery Plantation Distillery only uses farm-fresh ingredients grown in the area. You can taste authentic flavors in their cordials and cocktails. And with the distillery located along the banks of the Shenandoah River with the Blue Ridge Mountains not far behind, it’s a great place to enjoy a nice cocktail.

Bloomery Plantation Distillery

Address: 16357 Charles Town Rd, Charles Town, WV 25414, USA

Website: Bloomery Plantation Distillery

Opening hours: Mon, Thu: 12pm - 6pm; Fri, Sat: 11am - 8pm (closed on Tue, Wed & Sun)

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27. Tour the hidden Lost World Caverns


Don’t let that picture above fool you. Underneath that beautiful log cabin is an extensive network of caverns, all of which are designated as National Natural Landmarks. Welcome to the Lost World Caverns! Located just outside Lewisburg, Lost World Caverns takes you 120 feet (36.57 meters) below the surface to a gorgeous underworld. It was discovered in 1942 and is said to be the home of the Bat Boy, which caught the local headlines back in 1992. To explore the caverns at your own pace, book a self-guided tour. It will take you roughly 45 minutes to follow the entire length of the trail.

Lost World Caverns

Address: 907 Lost World Rd, Lewisburg, WV 24901, USA

Website: Lost World Caverns

Opening hours: 9am - 6:15pm (daily)

Price: 12 USD (cave tour); 79 USD (wild cave tour)

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28. Explore West Virginia State Museum


While you’re at the State Capitol Complex, consider dropping by the West Virginia State Museum, which is just a short walk from the State Capitol. The West Virginia State Museum will take you on a grand tour of the region, starting from when West Virginia was just a coal forest until you reach today’s contemporary affairs. It’s a deeply affecting look at West Virginia’s history and development, touching on everything from the local arts and traditions to even the state’s archeological and geological character.

West Virginia State Museum

Address: 1900 Kanawha Blvd E #435, Charleston, WV 25305, USA

Website: West Virginia State Museum

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sun & Mon)

Price: Free

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29. Go on a nature walk at Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park

Blennerhassett Mansion
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user WVhybrid used under CC BY-SA 3.0

From Point Park in Parkersburg, hop on a sternwheeler riverboat and cross the Ohio River to Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park, the most famous island along this waterway. It was established in 1789 by the aristocratic Blennerhassett family from Ireland. They turned the once uninhabited island into a lush estate, where, at the center, you can find a well-preserved Palladian mansion. You can explore the grounds on a horse-drawn carriage or via a bicycle and be transported back to the 18th century as soon as you step inside the halls of the mansion itself.

Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park

Address: 137 Juliana St, Parkersburg, WV 26101, USA

Website: Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 11am - 5:30pm (closed on Sun & Mon)

Price: Free (separate fees for riverboat transportation)

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30. Tour the stately Governor's Mansion


Located along the banks of Kanawha River in Charleston is one of the hottest pieces of real estate in the city. It’s the Governor’s Mansion, built in 1925 with its distinctive red-brick exterior and its white pillars. Some say it’s West Virginia’s answer to the White House. The Governor’s Mansion continues to be the official residence of the Governor of West Virginia. Although it’s primarily used for state functions and other important events, the Governor’s Mansion is also open to the public for free tours. We highly recommend checking in ahead as they only accept reservations.

West Virginia Governor's Mansion

Address: 1716 Kanawha Blvd E, Charleston, WV 25305, USA

Website: West Virginia Governor’s Mansion

Opening hours: Thu - Fri: 9am - 11:30pm (closed from Sat - Wed)

Price: Free

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31. Admire mother nature at Monongahela National Forest


Established in 1920, Mother Nature keeps on giving at the Monongahela National Forest in Elkins, West Virginia. It is a sprawling entity, covering and protecting about 921,150 acres (3,727.8 square kilometers), including the Potomac Highlands Region. No wonder the government considers the Monongahela National Forest as one of the most ecologically diverse parcels of land in the United States. Outdoor activities you can enjoy here include camping, scenic driving, and hiking, with treks potentially taking you as far as 4,863 feet (1,482 meters) above sea level. There’s nothing quite like walking among giants like mountain ash, red spruce, and balsam fir, all of which thrive here at the Monongahela National Forest.

Monongahela National Forest

Address: 200 Sycamore St, Elkins, WV 26241, USA

Website: Monongahela National Forest

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32. Enjoy an outdoor activity at Cranberry Mountain Nature Center


While you’re still within the sprawling Monongahela National Forest, stop by the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center for some outdoor fun. You can go out for a picnic and, inside the nature center, learn more about the forest’s ecology at the exhibit hall. If you would like to learn more about the tree species that grow in the national forest, Cranberry Mountain Nature Center is also an ideal place to do so. You can go for a short nature walk here and pick up some information about the different trees that populate the area. If you’re up for a longer trek or multi-day hike, you can also make Cranberry Mountain Nature Center your starting point. The options are endless!

Cranberry Mountain Nature Center

Address: Hillsboro, WV 24946, USA

Website: Cranberry Mountain Nature Center

Opening hours: Thu - Mon: 9am - 4:30pm (closed on Tue & Wed)

Price: Free

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West Virginia: One of the US' underrated states

171102-FS-Monongahela-RS-001
Source: Photo by user Forest Service, USDA used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

We guarantee you that there are plenty of things to do and sights to see in West Virginia. For more information about West Virginia, from accommodations to restaurants to try, do browse our website and find our collection of West Virginia travel guides.

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Frequently asked questions about things to do in West Virginia


Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Vanna is born and raised in the Philippines and describes herself as a local tourist-- she's made it her mission to see as many of the country's 7,000+ islands. But that doesn't mean she's not...Read more

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