places to visit in west virginia near me

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19 surprisingly cool things to do in west virginia.

From the newest national park in the U.S. to the Mothman Museum, West Virginia is increasingly intriguing.

The Top Things to Do in West Virginia

Courtesy of West Virginia Department of Tourism

"Almost Heaven, West Virginia."

The state that inspired John Denver's now-classic American anthem, does, in fact, feel a bit like Heaven (or at least what we imagine it to be). Yet it isn't a destination at top of many bucket lists, if it even has a place on those lists at all. It's time to change your mind.

Read on to discover the top things to do in West Virginia.

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve: Glen Jean

Getty Images

If there's only one place you can visit in West Virginia, let it be New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Born out of a COVID-19 relief bill, New River Gorge became the nation's 63rd national park in December 2020. The area – which spans more than 70,000 acres – has long been a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Its 53-mile stretch of the New River (ironically one of the oldest rivers in the world) is famous for whitewater rafting, with beginner- and family-friendly tours and rapids up to Class V, widely considered some of the most challenging to navigate.

Of course, the park also offers other ways to take in its otherworldly landscape – think scenic driving routes, hiking, biking, climbing, fishing and free ranger-led activities including junior ranger programs. Accommodation options inside the park are limited to camping, but there are plenty of hotels and resorts within a short drive.

Bridge Walk: Lansing

Whatever you do in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, don't miss the one-of-a-kind Bridge Walk, where guided tours are offered on a catwalk beneath the famous New River Gorge Bridge. The bridge towers 876 feet above the New River, but don't worry – guests are securely fastened to a cable, and tours move at a relaxed pace so you can feel comfortable (and stop for scenic views and photo ops along the way). Previous visitors say the Bridge Walk is a must in West Virginia, with some calling it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Participants must be at least 8 years old.

If you're feeling extra brave after mastering this walkway, you can even come back for Bridge Day, West Virginia's largest single-day festival, where thousands gather every October to watch daredevils jump off the bridge into the gorge below.

Address: 57 County Route 85/9, Lansing, WV 25862

Hatfield-McCoy Trails

The infamously bizarre Hatfield-McCoy Feud that lasted nearly 30 years (and even inspired a dinner show in Pigeon Forge ) actually took place in West Virginia and Kentucky. Today, the region in which the feud took place is now the largest trail system on the East Coast, with 1,000 miles of wooded pathways, rolling hills and quintessential Appalachian towns to explore.

Waterfall Trail

In June 2022, West Virginia launched a statewide Waterfall Trail, allowing travelers to more easily navigate some of the state's 200-plus waterfalls with a free mobile passport – plus the chance to win prizes along the way. As of 2023, there are 38 trail stops in total. These include the famous Blackwater Falls, where the tannic acid of fallen hemlock and red spruce needles tints the water. Not surprisingly, it's one of West Virginia's most photographed destinations.

Read: The Best Places to Hike in the U.S.

Watoga State Park

Watoga State Park was named a Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association in 2021, along with the adjacent Calvin Price State Forest and nearby Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park. Travelers who want to catch a glimpse of the nighttime light show can opt for tent camping or cabin accommodations, spring through fall.

Address: 4800 Watoga Park Road, Marlinton, WV 24954

Adventures on the Gorge: Lansing

Courtesy of Adventures on the Gorge

The ultimate experience in West Virginia, Adventures on the Gorge, is an award-winning adventure outfitter and resort on the rim of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. The destination resort offers a dizzying array of outdoor activities, the most popular of which is whitewater rafting. Travelers rave about the half- and multi-day excursions for various skill levels, noting that the guides are friendly, helpful and all-around great. Adventure seekers can also enjoy zip lining and canopy tours (including a nighttime MoonTrek), rappelling, mountain biking, guided hikes, horseback riding, cave tours, laser tag and paintball. On Summersville Lake (the largest in West Virginia), there's kayaking, standup paddleboarding and multi-sport excursions that include a little bit of everything.

After an action-packed day, visitors can grab a bite to eat at any of the three on-site restaurants and retreat to their choice of accommodations, which include everything from cozy cabins to glamping tents with views of the New River Gorge Bridge and surrounding forest.

Address: 219 County Route 60/5, Lansing, WV 25862

The Greenbrier: White Sulphur Springs

Courtesy of Greenbrier County CVB

A National Historic Landmark, The Greenbrier served as a hospital for wounded soldiers during the Civil War and World War II. In 1778, it became "America's Resort," first hosting wealthy Southerners, then celebrities, U.S. presidents and even royalty. You don't have to be a guest of the luxury resort (or an A-lister) to get a glimpse of it – guided hotel tours are offered – but overnight guests enjoy upscale accommodations ranging from signature guest rooms to estate homes, a roster of activities for all ages, golf, a spa, restaurants, a casino, retail shops, seasonal events and more. Whether you splurge for an overnight stay or not, don't miss the Bunker Tour, where you'll discover a former emergency fallout shelter and top-secret government relocation facility for Congress from the Cold War period.

Address: 101 W. Main St., White Sulphur Springs, WV 24986

Lost World Caverns: Lewisburg

Go 120 feet underground to explore stalagmites (some of which measure up to 80 feet tall) and stalactites at Lost World Caverns. Self-guided tours typically take about 45 minutes and are appropriate for all ages, while the Wild Cave Tour for ages 10 and up takes visitors to undeveloped parts of the caverns over the course of several hours. This attraction, which was first discovered in 1942, also includes a museum and gift shop. Previous visitors highly recommend Lost World Caverns, cautioning that the caves can be slippery and difficult to traverse in some areas, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes and a light jacket .

Address: 907 Lost World Road, Lewisburg, WV 24901

Harpers Ferry

Perhaps the most well-known destination in West Virginia, Harpers Ferry is more than a quaint 19th-century town. It's a National Historic Park with Civil War sites including battlefields, remnants of campsites and, most notably, John Brown's Fort and the John Brown Museum. If you don't remember this one from history class, John Brown is the abolitionist credited with leading what's now known as the Harpers Ferry Raid, in which he attempted to start an armed revolt of enslaved people in 1859.

Harpers Ferry is also known as the psychological midpoint of the 2,178-mile Appalachian National Scenic Trail and, as such, attracts thru-hikers to the historic Lower Town's restaurants and nearby vacation rentals. Other highlights in Harper's Ferry include The Point, where you can see the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers; crossing the Potomac on a pedestrian bridge to access the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park towpath; and, better still, getting out on the waters in a river tube, cold drink in hand.

Read: The Best Places to Celebrate Black History Month

Berkeley Springs State Park: Berkeley Springs

Soak in the soothing springs of this state park, known for its warm waters, which maintain a comfortable temperature of 74.3 degrees Fahrenheit, and its bathhouses, where available spa services include massages and mineral baths. The springs date back centuries, first flourishing as a health mecca for Native Americans, then drawing European settlers beginning in 1730. Several years later, George Washington discovered the healing powers of the springs and began visiting them regularly. It is largely because of him that the place now known as Berkeley Springs State Park remains the popular wellness destination it is today. Visitors praise the park and surrounding town, noting that you can see the historic Berkeley Springs Castle (reserved for private events only) from here.

Address: 2 S. Washington St., Berkeley Springs, WV 25411

Mothman Museum: Point Pleasant

In 1966, two grave diggers in Clendenin, West Virginia, reported the sighting of a strange winged figure with red eyes. Shortly after the incident, local residents began to make similar claims, with many blaming the massive creature, nicknamed the Mothman, for the 1967 Silver Bridge collapse and subsequent death of 46 people. The story was so bizarre it captured the attention of Hollywood (resulting in "The Mothman Prophecies" movie, based on a book of the same name) and inspired the Mothman Museum in the town of Point Pleasant, where the mythical creature is said to reside. The museum features original newspaper clippings, handwritten police reports, props used in the 2002 film and more. The Mothman Statue stands 12 feet tall outside of the museum, and the Mothman Festival is hosted every September. Previous patrons of the museum say it's fun and interesting, and that admission – less than $5 for adults – is cheap.

After you explore this eerie museum, spend some time in Point Pleasant, an attraction in itself with great restaurants, shopping, seasonal events and the historic (and supposedly haunted) Lowe Hotel.

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

World's Largest Teapot: Chester

If you're road-tripping through West Virginia, consider making a stop at this quirky attraction, which measures 12 feet high and 44 feet wide. Before achieving fame, the "World's Largest Teapot" was created as a giant keg for Hires Root Beer and then installed as a snack stand at a mini-golf course in Pennsylvania. In 1938, a man named William "Babe" Devon brought it to Chester, West Virginia. He added a spout, lid and handle so he could use the newly revamped structure to promote the region's then-booming pottery industry, selling teapots and other souvenirs from its window. The teapot went out of business around 1980, was restored by the Chester City Council in 1990, and has sat at the junction of U.S. Route 30 and State Route 2 ever since.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

West Virginia Penitentiary: Moundsville

During its 100-plus years in operation, the West Virginia Penitentiary saw riots, homicides and executions including public hangings. So it's no surprise that when the storied prison decommissioned in 1995, former prison guards began offering tours to the public. Current tour options include a Public Ghost Hunt and Private Paranormal Investigations, as the prison is said to be haunted by former inmates. You can even try your hand at an escape room game. Previous visitors confirm the prison tours are all at once creepy, informative and enjoyable. The West Virginia Penitentiary is so spooky that it's been featured in Netflix's "Mindhunter" (along with the town of Moundsville) and Hulu's "Castle Rock," among other TV shows and movies.

Address: 818 Jefferson Ave., Moundsville, WV 26041

Read: Hauntingly Abandoned Places You Can Still Visit

West Virginia State Museum: Charleston

Located in the charming state capital of Charleston, the West Virginia State Museum features informative and interactive exhibits that pay homage to the culture and history of the Mountain State. Notable artifacts on display include a pair of Billy the Kid's leather chaps and the telescope George Washington used to survey the state's lands. Previous visitors say this Charleston museum is truly impressive, with some advising you'll need a few hours to see everything it has to offer. Bonus: As a state-operated attraction, the museum is free to enter. The West Virginia State Museum also manages a few historic sites throughout the state, including West Virginia Independence Hall and Camp Washington-Carver.

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

Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine: Beckley

Courtesy of Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine

A small, family-operated coal mine and camp from roughly 1890 to 1910 that later became a commercial endeavor until it closed in 1953, the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine is now a highly rated attraction in West Virginia. Previous visitors say both kids and adults enjoy exploring the former coal mines with veteran miners, who lead guided tours in authentic "man trips," the cars used in mining operations. When you emerge from the tunnels, explore the Coal Camp, with restored original buildings including the Pemberton Coal Camp Church and the Helen Coal Camp School, then stop by the Youth Museum of Southern West Virginia, which features a planetarium and a recreated homestead from the late 19th century. Admission includes the tour and access to the camp and museum. The Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine is open from April to November, but bring a light jacket no matter when you visit as the mines can get chilly.

Address: 513 Ewart Ave., Beckley, WV 25801

Twin Falls Resort State Park: Mullens

Escape to Twin Falls Resort State Park, a destination resort with more than 25 miles of hiking and biking trails (where you can see the park's namesake waterfalls), an indoor swimming pool, an 18-hole golf course and a restaurant. Overnight lodging options include camping (tents or RVs), cabins and hotel rooms. The park also features a reconstructed pioneer homestead, where guests can learn about frontier life at the attraction's working farm and gardens. Recent guests have left positive reviews of the resort, commenting that it's both beautiful and clean.

Monongahela National Forest

Another nationally protected region in West Virginia, the Monongahela National Forest spans more than 919,000 acres in 10 counties over elevations that range from 1,000 to nearly 5,000 feet above sea level. Areas of interest include Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area, which features the highest peak in West Virginia, and the Dolly Sods Wilderness, notably the Bear Rocks trail. Both areas offer some of the best views in the state. Throughout the vast national forest there are ample hiking and biking trails, scenic driving routes, and places to stop for a picnic lunch. You can also go swimming, boating, fishing, horseback riding and, if you'd like to stay a few days, camping in tents, RVs or on-site cabins. A visit in the winter affords opportunities for snowmobiling, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

NROCKS Outdoor Adventures

With so much rugged mountain landscape, it's no surprise that West Virginia has a Via Ferrata (a mountain route with permanently installed steel rungs and cables). Located near the Monongahela National Forest, NROCKS Outdoor Adventures offers guided rock-climbing tours of the Via Ferrata. Participants aged 13 and up gain 1,085 feet in elevation, cross a suspension bridge that is 150 feet high and 200 feet long, and reach exposed heights of 280 feet during the roughly 1-mile trek, which takes about 3.5 hours. Recent tourgoers say the experience is thrilling, though not for the faint of heart. For the ultimate adrenaline rush, nighttime tours are offered on select dates throughout the year.

Address: 141 County Route 28/5, Circleville, WV 26804

Cass Scenic Railroad State Park: Cass

A remote destination in Pocahontas County, Cass was once a company town for loggers, who transported lumber via what's now known as the Cass Scenic Railroad. Climb aboard a historic steam-driven locomotive (operated by the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad) for a scenic ride to Bald Knob, the third-highest point in West Virginia. The train ride , which affords panoramic views of the Appalachians, lasts about 4.5 hours round trip and includes lunch. For those visiting Cass Scenic Railroad State Park with kids, previous visitors recommend the two-hour round trip to Whittaker Station, a former logging camp. Some travelers also suggest a visit in the fall to enjoy the colorful foliage . Within Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, visitors can explore the former lumbering town as well as a gift shop, restaurant, museum and theater. Overnight cabin accommodations are also available.

Address: 12363 Cass Road, Cass, WV 24927

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in West Virginia
• The Top Things to Do in Virginia
• The Most Romantic Getaways in Virginia
• The Top Things to Do in Ohio

Tags: Travel , US Vacations , Mid-Atlantic Vacations

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19 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in West Virginia

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Apr 25, 2022

With some of the East Coast's most beautiful and rugged scenery, West Virginia is filled with year-round outdoor adventure opportunities. Its wild mountain country, densely-forested wilderness areas, and fast-running rivers are playgrounds for hiking, camping, caving, rock climbing, white water rafting, boating, and fishing. In the winter, ski resorts offer a range of snow sports .

Active travelers will never run out of things to do here. While many tourists come to the state for these outdoor activities and scenic landscapes, West Virginia offers much more in the way of tourist attractions, from the historic sights of Harpers Ferry and the elegant Greenbrier and its legendary golf courses to some very unusual attractions, including a penitentiary to tour.

You'll find plenty of vacation ideas with our list of the top tourist attractions in West Virginia.

1. Blackwater Falls State Park

2. monongahela national forest and seneca rocks, 3. the greenbrier, 4. ski & play at snowshoe, 5. berkeley springs, 6. new river gorge national river, 7. white water rafting, 8. harpers ferry, 9. west virginia penitentiary, 10. mothman museum and festival, 11. cass scenic railroad state park, 12. west virginia state museum at the culture center, 13. explore seneca caverns, 14. huntington museum of art & ritter park, 15. beckley exhibition coal mine, 16. grave creek burial mounds, 17. cathedral falls, 18. west virginia state capitol, 19. trans-allegheny lunatic asylum.

Named for the dark waters of the Blackwater River, colored by tannic acid from fallen hemlock and red spruce needles, Blackwater Falls drops 60 feet over sandstone ledges before the river continues to rush through an eight-mile-long gorge. Steps and viewing platforms make the falls accessible year-round.

Also popular places to visit in the park are Elakala Falls , which cascade down the wall of the canyon and can be reached by a short trail, and Pendleton Falls , easily seen from a roadside pull-off.

The view into the Blackwater Canyon from Lindy Point, one of the most beautiful places in West Virginia, is another park highlight, as is Pendleton Point Overlook, at the canyon's deepest point. The park has a boating lake, as well as swimming, fishing, and camping.

Address: 1584 Blackwater Lodge Road, Davis, West Virginia

Official site: http://www.blackwaterfalls.com/

With elevations ranging from around 1,000 feet to 4,863 feet above sea level, the Monongahela National Forest offers beautiful views, wildlife, and the highest point in the state. The variety of terrain and rainfall across its more than 900,000 acres gives it one of the most diverse forest ecosystems in the country, supporting more than 225 bird species; 75 species of trees; and 70 fish species, both game and non-game.

About 100,000 acres of the park are designated as the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area , offering some of the best traditional multi-pitch technical climbing on the east coast. Seneca Rocks is a distinctive 250-foot-deep formation of white and gray quartzite that stands almost 900 feet above the North Fork River. Some routes are moderate, but experts are challenged by the exposed summit pinnacle.

You don't need to be a climber to enjoy the park. Non-climbers can visit the Seneca Rocks Discovery Center, stay in the campgrounds at Seneca Shadows and Big Bend, go fishing, or hike and spot birds in the park's thousands of acres of wildlands.

Address: 200 Sycamore Street, Elkins, West Virginia

Official site: http://www.fs.usda.gov/mnf

The Greenbrier has earned its designation as a National Historic Landmark several times over. Located at White Sulphur Springs, which have been in use as a natural spa since the 1700s, the grand hotel has hosted 26 presidents, foreign dignitaries, and royalty, including Prince Rainier and Princess Grace of Monaco and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor.

But however grand and luxurious it is as a resort, it has played other historic roles, too. Early in World War II, it was used as a detention center for German and Japanese diplomats who were in the United States when war was declared. Later in the war, it was commandeered by the U.S. Army to use as a hospital, where nearly 25,000 patients were treated.

During the Cold War, an underground shelter was built to house the entire U.S. Congress in case of nuclear attack. This shelter, given the code name "Project Greek Island," was decommissioned in 1992 and is open to the public for tours, as is the Presidents' Cottage Museum, with exhibits about presidential visits and the history of the resort.

More than 50 different activities are available in the resort and in the 5,100-acre Greenbrier State Forest . Along with horseback riding, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, adventure courses, and a 40,000-square-foot spa, the resort has multiple golf courses (even an indoor one for winter) and a distinguished golf history as the venue for numerous championships.

Greenbrier State Forest offers cabins and campsites, swimming, fishing, bike trails and hiking - the 78-mile-long Greenbrier River Trail is a multi-purpose rail trail that is also used for cross-country skiing in the winter. A getaway in one of the centuries-old Legacy Cottages is one of the most romantic things to do in West Virginia.

Address: 300 W. Main Street, White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia

This year-round resort is best known for its skiing, with three separate areas to choose from, all with 100 percent snowmaking. With an 800-foot vertical drop, Snowshoe Basin's 38 trails cover all experience levels, served by seven lifts, including a high-speed detachable quad. Of Silver Creek 's 18 trails, 12 are open for night skiing.

The Western Territory Area's steep, rugged terrain has 1,500 feet of vertical drop, the most advanced terrain in the region. Steeps on Cupp Run, designed by legendary Olympian Jean-Claude Killy, and Shay's Revenge reach 52 percent pitch.

In other seasons, activities include mountain biking, scenic chairlift rides, geocaching, horseback riding, Segway tours, ziplining, trampolining, climbing, pedal boats, paddle boarding, canoeing, hiking, fishing, and golf at the Raven Golf Club. Not far away, in Greenbank, is the National Radio Astronomy Observatory .

Address: 10 Snowshoe Drive, Snowshoe, West Virginia

Official site: http://www.snowshoemtn.com

Read More: Best Ski Resorts in West Virginia

The bathhouse at Berkeley Springs State Park , in the center of Berkeley Springs, first opened in 1930, but long before that bathing in the warm and effervescent mineral waters was popular. George Washington was a regular visitor and even earlier, the springs' restorative and therapeutic properties brought Native Americans here from as far away as southern Canada.

Baths and treatments take advantage of the five main springs and several smaller ones, flowing at a rate of 2,000 gallons of clear, sparkling water per minute at a constant 74.3 degrees Fahrenheit.

Located in the center of the small town of Berkeley Springs, the state park facilities include the old-fashioned private bathing tubs, saunas, and massages at the Old Roman Bath Building and Main Bath House; elsewhere in town are more luxurious private spas with a range of health and beauty options.

Contrary to its name, New River is actually one of the oldest rivers on the continent. As it flows into West Virginia, it cuts through the Appalachian Plateau, forming the New River Gorge and plenty of white water for tubing, rafting, and canoeing. Other recreational opportunities are all around it: hiking, ziplining, hunting, fishing, bird-watching, camping, biking, and rock climbing.

One of the state's most photographed sights is the soaring New River Bridge , the longest steel span in the hemisphere and the nation's third highest, 876 feet above the canyon floor. The National Park Service maintains 70,000 acres of park lands along the river, and at Hawk's Nest State Park, you can ride an aerial tramway into the bottom of the New River Gorge, a prime spot for white water rafting.

South of New River Gorge National River at Bluestone State Park there is hiking, fishing, camping, and boating on the large lake behind the Bluestone Dam.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/neri/index.htm

It's no secret that West Virginia is one of the best places to go white water rafting. Several rivers offer world-class rapids for experts, and others are well-suited to less experienced and learning rafters. The most famous waters are in the Gauley River , between Summersville and Fayetteville, in the Gauley River National Recreation Area. Both the Gauley and New rivers are easily accessed from a base in nearby Babcock or Hawks Nest state parks .

Here, the 25-mile river flows at high speed through gorges and valleys, providing the thrill of a lifetime to experienced rafters; it's no wonder the Class V rapids are nicknamed the "Beast of the East."

Fall is the time to find the most challenging flow, but at any time it's a good idea to hire an experienced guide who knows the river and its quirks and can help you find the places that are best suited to your own experience level. Although it's known for its Class V rapids the Gauley has some stretches of Class III that are suitable for intermediate levels.

For those with less experience, the Tygart River, Cheat River, and Potomac River are good options, as is the Upper New River, which has good stretches for beginners. Lower New River has Class IV rapids that offer runs past the New River Gorge Bridge.

• Read More: Best White Water Rafting Rivers in West Virginia

The Shenandoah River meets the Potomac River at this small West Virginia town, which was the site of abolitionist John Brown's raid on the United States arsenal in 1859, an event that hastened the onset of the Civil War.

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park has museums, historical exhibits, and programs, plus about 20 miles of hiking trails. You can explore the rocks where the rivers meet and walk up to St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church and the old cemetery on the hill behind it.

Also in Harpers Ferry is the Appalachian Trail Visitors Center , from which you can take a hike on the Appalachian Trail for views of the town and rivers. Local outfitters offer tubing excursions in the river.

One of the most unlikely places to visit in any state, the West Virginia Penitentiary welcomes guests from April through November to tour the grim prison that sometimes held more than 1,000 prisoners at a time. The forbidding Gothic fortress opened in 1876, and the last prisoner left in 1995. Between those dates it was the scene of fires, escapes, prison riots, and almost 100 executions.

Visitors can tour the building and its claustrophobia-inducing five-foot by seven-foot cells during the day, or explore the reportedly haunted location at night. The penitentiary is a popular place for paranormal researchers looking for evidence of spectral phenomena.

Address: 818 Jefferson Ave, Moundsville, West Virginia

Official site: http://www.wvpentours.com

In 1966, reports of lights in the sky and a strange flying figure began circulating in Point Pleasant, West Virginia. The figure was variously described, but most reported a winged human figure dressed in black, with red eyes. From there arose the local legend of Mothman.

Pop culture took up the myth as the story spread (there's even an exhibit on Mothman at the International Cryptozoology Museum in Portland, Maine) and the town turned the legend into a museum, a statue, and a Mothman Festival . The popular free event is held on the third weekend in September and features costumes, activities, and vendors selling souvenirs depicting a bat-like cartoon Mothman.

Address: 400 Main Street, Point Pleasant, West Virginia

Official site: www.mothmanmuseum.com

At the Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, you can relive the Golden Age of Steam on a line built in 1901 to haul lumber from the forest to the mill, riding in refurbished logging flat-cars pulled by an original Shay steam locomotive. The full 4.5-hour trip includes switchbacks that allow the train to climb grades as high as 11 percent to reach Bald Knob. At an altitude of 4,700 feet, this is West Virginia's third highest point , overlooking spectacular views.

At Whittaker Station, a 1940s logging camp has been recreated, with the living quarters and the equipment. At the base, you can tour a museum and the depot and see restored company houses that can be rented for overnight stays. On the train ride, be prepared for noise, black smoke, and chilly temperatures at Bald Knob.

Official site: www.cassrailroad.com

Among the free things to do in West Virginia is touring the West Virginia State Museum in Charleston to learn about the state's culture, history, art, paleontology, archaeology, and geology. One of the most popular of its 60,000 artifacts is a pair of dressed fleas from a 19th-century flea circus .

Well-designed exhibits of a more serious nature literally follow a path through the state's history, beginning with stone and dirt and ending in a paved highway. As visitors progress from room to room through the centuries, audio features augment exhibits and films.

Artifacts include everyday implements and items such as a telescope that George Washington used to survey land in West Virginia. In one section, you'll learn more about John Brown's raid at Harpers Ferry, and elsewhere is an original settler's cabin reconstructed in the museum.

Address: 1900 Kanawha Blvd E, Charleston, West Virginia

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Charleston, West Virginia

The formation of Seneca Caverns began 460 million years ago, when the cavern's limestone bed first formed. The native Seneca people are thought to have used the caves for shelter beginning in the early 1400s.

The caverns were later found by a local farmer, Laven Teter, while looking for water for his livestock, and the largest chamber, rising to 60 feet in places, is named Teter Hall in his memory.

You can visit these on one-hour guided tours that descend to 165 feet below the entrance. Pathways are well-lit, and cement steps with handrails help visitors navigate deeper into the caverns. The separate Stratosphere Cave is on the same property.

Address: 3328 Germany Valley Road, Riverton, West Virginia

Official site: http://www.senecacaverns.com

In addition to its 10 exhibition spaces, the Huntington Museum of Art maintains an interactive education gallery, a 287-seat auditorium, a conservatory for tropical and subtropical plants, a coral reef aquarium, two outdoor sculpture gardens, and two miles of hiking and nature trails. A quarter-mile paved accessible Sensory Trail is designed for the visually impaired.

Outstanding in its permanent collections of more than 16,000 objects are 4,000 pieces of glassware and the Touma Near Eastern Gallery, encompassing art from the Middle East, Ottoman Turkey, Central Asia, the Indian sub-continent, North Africa, and Moorish Spain.

Highlighting the Ritter Park Historic District is a 75-acre park with a walking, jogging, and biking trail and a garden of more than 3,000 roses that is considered one of the best rose gardens in America .

Address: 2033 McCoy Road, Huntington, West Virginia

Official site: https://www.hmoa.org

Coal mining is central to both the history and economy of West Virginia, especially in the region around Beckley. You can tour one of these mines, going deep underground in a cart that once carried the miners to work daily. Guided by a miner who tells about the work here, the tour gives you a feel for the lives of those who spent their daylight hours in these dark passages.

A recreated coal camp with the Coal Company House, superintendent's house, a church, and the school depict an early 20 th -century coal camp. The adjacent Mountain Homestead recreates a 19 th -century Appalachian frontier settlement, with a log home, barn, blacksmith shop, one-room schoolhouse, and general store. A Youth Museum has changing interactive exhibits.

Address: Ewart Ave., Beckley, West Virginia

Official site: https://beckley.org/coal-mine/

One of the free things to do in West Virginia, and one of its secret places, is also one of the most intriguing, a glimpse into a culture that thrived here 2,000 years ago. Grave Creek Archaeological Complex , near Wheeling, centers on the largest known burial mounds of the Adena people, built about 250-150 BC.

These mounds, as high as 62 feet and nearly 250 feet at the base, required moving more than 60,000 tons of earth, creating the largest conical type structure of any of the mound-building cultures.

The Delf Norona Museum on the site displays some of the nearly 450,000 artifacts found in the multi-level burial site and elsewhere in the area. The exhibits illuminate the lives of these prehistoric people and the construction of the mounds.

Address: 801 Jefferson Avenue, Moundsville, West Virginia

Cane Brook joins New River a short distance east of Gauley Bridge, but before it does, the stream drops more than 100 feet from the mountains above. The lower 60 feet of its plunge are visible from a roadside stop on Route 60.

The water cascades down a canyon it has cut through the forested mountainside, dropping in a long series, splashing into a veil of foam at each successive level as it falls over the sandstone ledges. The waterfall, with its setting amid overhanging foliage, is a favorite for photographers, especially in the fall when the hardwoods are in their autumn colors.

Along with being one of the most beautiful waterfalls in West Virginia , Cathedral Falls is also the most accessible, with a roadside viewing area.

Location: Route 60, Gauley Bridge, West Virginia

Five feet higher than the dome of the US Capitol Building in Washington, D.C., the 293-foot golden dome at the State Capitol in Charleston reflects Greek and Roman architectural influences. It was designed by Cass Gilbert, who also designed the Woolworth Building in New York City, the world's tallest building when it was constructed.

During the building process, from 1924 to 1932, more than 700 train carloads of Indiana limestone were used. White marble from Vermont and Italian travertine sheath much of its interior, which you can tour daily.

As unconventional a tourist attraction as the West Virginia Penitentiary, the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum is a landmark in the history of treatment for the mentally ill. Constructed between 1858 and 1881, the asylum is the largest hand-cut stone masonry building in the hemisphere, and in the world it is exceeded only by the Kremlin in Moscow.

It was designed by the architect Richard Andrews, who arranged the long rambling wings in a staggered formation, so that each of the connecting structures received as much therapeutic sunlight and fresh air as possible.

Tours highlight a number of historical themes, including architecture, Civil War raids, treatment of the mentally ill, even the facility's agricultural history and place in the local community. Like the West Virginia Penitentiary, the asylum has also been a research location for paranormal investigators .

Official site: http://trans-alleghenylunaticasylum.com

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More on West Virginia: For a luxurious and relaxing vacation, consider staying at one of the top resorts in West Virginia or enjoying some of the state's many outdoor attractions . If you have time to tack on one more stop during your trip, consider visiting the attractions of Charleston, West Virginia .

Where to Go Next: Bordering West Virginia on the east and south, the historic state of Virginia is scattered with charming small towns and other places for relaxing weekend getaways .

More on West Virginia

The 25 Best Things to Do in West Virginia

West Virginia is a scenic state in all seasons – where country roads, densely-forested wilderness areas, and charming small towns offer the perfect blend of sublime scenery and centuries-old Appalachian history. It’s truly one of the most underrated states in the US, embodying the “Almost Heaven” John Denver described in his American classic “Take Me Home, Country Roads.”

Not only is West Virginia home to America’s newest national park, but adventure can be found around every corner of the Mountain State. It’s a playground for outdoor adventures, from adrenaline-filled whitewater rafting excursions to scenic hiking trails and world-class ski slopes. 

It’s the only state situated entirely in the Appalachian Mountain region, which means you’ll find plenty of reasons to get outside. But it’s also home to fascinating sites like The Greenbrier, a luxury hotel that’s hosted US presidents, as well as former battlefields at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.  

There are so many things to see and do in the Mountain State, whether you’re an outdoor lover, culture seeker, or history buff. To help narrow down your vacation itinerary, we’ve compiled a list of the best things to do in West Virginia for all types of travelers. 

Our West Virginia bucket list includes the best nature spots, family-friendly attractions, charming towns, and hiking trails so that you can make the most of your visit to this wild, wonderful state! 

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 25 Best Things to Do in West Virginia

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

25 Fun and Unique Things to Do in West Virginia

1. take a bridge walk tour at new river gorge national park & preserve.

Boasting over 70,000 acres of land, New River Gorge National Park & Preserve is a must on your West Virginia bucket list if you’re a fan of nature and epic views. It’s the country’s newest national park (established in 2021), and it encompasses the mighty New River, which carves through the Appalachian Plateau to create a striking gorge. 

One of the park’s most notable features is the large bridge that cuts right through the dense forest. It’s the Western Hemisphere’s longest steel arch, and if you’re feeling brave, you can cross it on one of the park’s guided tours. 

It’s an adventure you won’t soon forget as you walk across the towering landmark and take in the panoramic vantage point at 876 feet over the river. Thrill seekers will love the park’s other adrenaline-filled activities on offer, which include zip lining, rock climbing, and whitewater rafting. Adventures on the Gorge is an award-winning adventure and outfitter resort offering half and multi-day excursions. 

Alternatively, you can opt for a more leisurely experience at New River Gorge. Bring your rod and reel and lure in a variety of fish, or keep your eyes peeled for a variety of birdlife among the foliage. Sandstone Falls is worth the trek, cascading 15 to 25 feet around a series of islands. A fully accessible boardwalk leads to the observation decks. 

2. Explore the Charming Town of Harpers Ferry

Set within Harpers Ferry National Historical Park , Harpers Ferry is one of the top travel destinations in West Virginia. The charming town is small, but it played a big role in the Civil War, while must-see sites here include where the Shenandoah River meets the Potomac. 

Outdoor activities like hiking and biking are popular within the park, while the historic town is dotted with top West Virginia attractions like fascinating museums and battlefields. If you want to learn more about the picturesque 19th-century town, take a guided tour of the Battle of Bolivar Heights and make sure to visit John Brown’s Fort , which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 

If you’re the adventure type, Harpers Ferry is home to the Appalachian Trail Visitors Center . Take a hike along the renowned trail for photogenic views of the rivers and town, then visit a local outfitter to join tubing excursions on the river. 

Some of the best views can be found along the five-mile Maryland Heights Loop, while the Loudoun Heights Trail also offers spectacular city and river views and leads to Split Rock. Add the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park to your itinerary for a chance to bike along the towpath.

3. Enjoy Canyon Overlooks at Coopers Rock State Forest

Coopers Rock State Forest is an outdoor lover’s dream, as this top-rated recreation hub near Morgantown offers a long list of activities. You can try mountain biking, rock climbing, or hiking along the popular Raven Rock Trail, then get up close to one of West Virginia’s most spectacular gorges. 

It’s one of the best places to go in West Virginia for scenic views, with the Cheat Canyon overlook being one of the biggest highlights. You can even drive up to the viewpoint to take in the scenery, which includes views of the Cheat River and Morgantown in the distance. 

Founded in 1936, this historic park also boasts more than 50 miles of hiking and biking trails. You can catch a glimpse of some of the unique natural features, like sandstone cliffs and large boulders, or try your hand at cross-country skiing in the winter. 

In the summer, locals flock to Coopers Rock State Forest to enjoy its central lake for fishing, swimming, rafting, and other water sports. There are also picnic shelters for day trips and camping sites for overnight adventures available. 

4. Hike to Waterfalls at Blackwater Falls State Park

Blackwater Falls State Park is one of the coolest things to do in West Virginia if you love nature, as this unique park is home to a powerful waterfall with “black” waters. It’s one of the most photographed wonders in the state for a reason, while scenic hiking trails offer a full day of adventure. 

The park is named after the pristine falls that plunge into the Blackwater River. Its amber-colored waters fall five stories over cliffs from the Canaan Valley into Blackwater Canyon. What makes it unique is the naturally dark water, which is caused by tannic acid from fallen hemlock and red spruce needles.

To get the perfect photo souvenir, follow the park’s Blackwater Falls Boardwalk Trail and come face-to-face with this spectacular wonder. The best time to see the falls is from spring to fall, as it’s often frozen in winter. 

The park is also home to multiple hiking trails and a boating lake, as well as camping. Other popular sites in the park include Lindy Point Overlook, Elakala Falls, Pendleton Point Overlook, and the on-site nature center that offers more insight into the park’s natural history. 

5. Paddle Summersville Lake

Dubbed the “Little Bahamas of the East,” Summerville Lake is loved for its bright turquoise waters and dramatic sandstone formations. It’s the largest clear water lake in West Virginia, with 2,700 acres of water and over 60 miles of shoreline. 

The quiet town offers endless summer watersports activities, and it’s the perfect spot for fishing, boating, snorkeling, and scuba diving, while the undeveloped lake surrounded by miles of cliff line is also a prime location for lake kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. In the fall, thrill-seekers from across the globe travel to West Virginia to raft the Gauley River. 

You can spend an afternoon swimming at Battle Run, a sandy beach where you can soak up the sun, or get out on the water and explore the coves and inlets that make this natural wonder so unique. You can even paddle under the waterfall that plunges into Pirate’s Cove for a mountain water shower! 

Scuba diving is also popular due to the lake’s incredible visibility, with Sarge’s Dive Shop the top place to rent or buy equipment. If you prefer to stay dry, tackle the rock climbing at Orange Oswald or follow the Long Point Trail, which leads to a scenic overlook of the lake.

6. Try Whitewater Rafting on the Gauley River

For the ultimate outdoor adventure, test your limits on a whitewater rafting excursion on the Gauley River. It’s one of the best things to do in West Virginia if you love high-octane activities, with its Class V rapids nicknamed the “Beast of the East.”

While there are several rivers that offer world-class rapids in the state, the Gauley River is the most famous. Located between Summerville and Fayetteville, the 25-mile river carves through striking gorges and valleys at high speeds.

In fact, it’s one of the top-ranked rivers in the world, praised for its technical rapids and scenic beauty. Dropping more than 650 feet, it features over 100 rapids and includes two distinct 12-mile sections (the Upper Gauley and Lower Gauley) with peak rafting flows after Labor Day.

However, it’s best to hire an experienced guide (like the folks at River Expeditions , New and Gauley River Adventures , and Adventures on the Gorge ) who know the river and can find the best places to suit your experience level. For less experienced rafters, the Tygart River, Cheat River, and Potomac River are good options, as well as the Upper New River, which is suitable for families and first-timers. 

7. Ride Vintage Locomotives on Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad

Calling all train enthusiasts! Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad is one of the must-do things in West Virginia for all ages. Along with incredible scenery, you’ll get to ride in historic steam-driven locomotives and vintage diesel-powered passenger trains at this popular attraction. 

A remote destination in Pocahontas County, it offers you a glimpse of some of the most untouched natural areas in the Mountain State. You can kick back and cruise past the Monongahela National Forest and along the picturesque banks of the Greenbrier and Tygart Valley and Shaver’s Fork rivers. 

There are a number of train journeys to pick from, including the steam-driven locomotive that takes you to Bald Knob, the third-highest point in West Virginia. Savor the panoramic Appalachian vistas on this 4.5-hour round-trip excursion, or opt for the shorter two-hour route to Whittaker Station, a former logging camp, if you’re traveling with the kids. 

The Durbin Rocket is another family favorite, where you can ride in authentic 1920s-era coaches and vintage wooden cabooses to the free-flowing Greenbrier River. However, if you’re a super train fan, you’ll love the four-hour New Tygart Flyer, which offers climate-controlled passenger coaches and unspoiled mountain views as you climb along the cascading Shavers Fork of the Cheat River to the High Falls of Cheat.

8. See the Stars at Green Bank Observatory

West Virginia’s Green Bank Observatory is one of the few places in the world that can research wavelengths throughout outer space. It’s set in Eastern West Virginia, which is home to the largest “quiet zone” in the United States.

Thanks to the state’s low inferences and pollution, it’s the ideal location for observation and research, making this observatory an internationally recognized leader in education. While it’s known for having the ability to pick up radio transmissions from outer space, it’s also a fun spot for both adults and kids to discover more about astronomy and radio telescopes. 

You can take a guided tour of the observatory grounds and facilities for a chance to see some of the restricted areas and some of the most technologically advanced telescopes up close. They also offer educational overnight trips called “Radio Astronomer for a Day,” where science lovers can learn how to use the telescopes. 

Public tours are also available, while it’s free to take an outdoor self-guided tour of the site. The Green Bank Science Center is open year-round and contains hands-on displays in its Catching the Wave Exhibit Hall, a 150-seat auditorium, a gift shop, and an on-site cafe.

9. Join a Special Bunker Tour of the Historic Greenbrier Hotel

If you’re looking for things to do in West Virginia, The Greenbrier is one of the most iconic hotels in the United States. Built in 1778, the lavish hotel is a National Historic Landmark set on a mineral spring, offering a special bunker tour where you can explore a declassified Cold War fallout shelter built into the mountainside. 

It’s a must-see experience that takes you behind the scenes through the resort’s history, where you can re-live American history that was once a top-secret US government relation facility for Congress. You can also learn more about this landmark, which once served as a hospital for wounded soldiers during the Civil War and World War II. 

Known as “America’s Resort,” it’s hosted the likes of US presidents, royalty, and celebrities. With this, the 5-star hotel offers a wealth of amenities. Splurge for a stay overnight to take advantage of endless luxury perks, including fine dining, a posh spa, a casino, and outdoor activities like archery, swimming, tennis, golf, and horseback riding. 

10. Travel Underground at Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine

The Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine is one of the coolest things to do in West Virginia with the kids, as you’ll have the chance to travel underground into what was once an operating coal mine. Located in the small town of Beckley, the unique attraction is open from April to November and offers a fascinating insight into West Virginia’s rich history. 

Veteran miners take the lead and guide you through the history of mining in the Mountain State at this former coal mine, which dates back to 1890. Fun for the whole family, you’ll hear captivating first-hand stories and ride underground in a comfortable vintage mine train as you travel deep underground on this interactive journey. 

After exploring the tunnels and getting a glimpse of daily life for miners in the coal mine’s dark passages, you can visit the on-site Coal Camp above ground to see the collection of restored original buildings, including the Coal Company House, Superintendent’s Home, and the Helen Coal Camp School. 

If you’ve got extra time, you can add the Youth Museum of Southern Virginia to your itinerary. It features a family-friendly planetarium and recreated Appalachian frontier settlement from the late 19th century that features trained interpreters. 

11. Hit the Slopes at Snowshoe Mountain

Fans of winter sports will love Snowshoe Mountain , as this action-packed ski resort has everything you need for a cold-weather getaway. Along with cozy lodges, it features 60 slopes that cater to a wide range of skill levels that are perfect for skiing and snowboarding. In fact, Snowshoe is your safest bet for the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast’s best ski conditions!

It’s no surprise that this scenic state is a popular destination for wintertime fun, and Snowshoe Mountain is worth the addition to your West Virginia bucket list. Set in the Allegheny Mountains, the resort at the top of the mountain offers a winter wonderland setting for five terrain parks, night skiing, snowmobiling, and tubing.

While winter typically gets all the love, Snowshoe Mountain is also a great place to visit in the warmer months. In the summer, it’s equally as picturesque and offers mountain biking, stand-up paddleboarding at the lake, ATV excursions, and other all-terrain mountain adventures. 

If you want to stay overnight, you’ll be treated to luxury on-site amenities like a mountaintop restaurant and a lavish spa. There’s also a Gary Player-designed golf course and a variety of retail shops in its European-style mountaintop village. 

12. Marvel at Dinosaur Bones in the West Virginia State Museum

History buffs can’t miss a trip to the West Virginia State Museum , as this exhibit-filled attraction highlights every aspect of the state’s history, culture, and art – representing the people, land, and industries. Get up close to dinosaur bones and explore natural history exhibits related to early cultures, then admire paintings, sculptures, crafts, and jewelry. 

Located in Charleston, there are enough fascinating artifacts in this museum to cater to all interests, with the family-friendly destination covering everything from technology to paleontology. Some of the most notable pieces of its 60,000 artifacts include a pair of Billy the Kid’s leather chaps, a pair of dressed cleats from a 19th-century flea circus, and George Washington’s former telescope. 

It will take you a few hours to browse the impressive state-operated museum (which is free to enter!). As you travel from room to room through the centuries, you’ll discover audio features, illustrations, and descriptions that enhance your overall experience. 

13. See a Wonderland of Stalactites at Lost World Caverns

Go off the beaten path and descend 120 feet below the Earth’s surface at Lost World Caverns . It’s a world of remarkable stalactites and stalagmites at this top-rated family attraction, where you can get up close to unique formations that stand up to 80 feet tall. 

Discovered in 1942, this magical place offers self-guided tours so you can explore the underground trail on your own. Information signs provide more details about the different formations found along the half-mile loop. Afterward, you can visit the gift shop to pick up geodes, minerals, replica fossils, and other geologic souvenirs. 

For an immersive look at the deepest, darkest corners of the cave, sign up for the Wild Cave Tour. You’ll crawl, climb, and traverse through the muddy chambers and passageways on the guided four-hour adventure. 

If you’re interested in visiting more caverns, the Seneca Caverns in Riverton are also worth a visit. Used for hundreds of years by the Seneca Indians for tribal ceremonies, it features a cave full of stalactites and stalagmites, and gemstone mining is also available!

14. Soak in the Natural Springs at Berkeley Springs State Park

Offering the ultimate in relaxation, Berkeley Springs State Park boasts natural hot springs nestled in the West Virginia mountains. Set in the quaint town of Berkeley Springs, the mineral spa is a popular wellness destination that dates back to colonial times, now attracting visitors from across the globe.

Located only 90 minutes west of the Washington/Baltimore metro area, it offers a tranquil escape from the bustle of city life. It was once a health hotspot for Native Americans and European settlers in 1730, while George Washington is said to have visited the springs regularly due to their therapeutic healing properties. 

There are five main springs and several smaller ones, with the warm spring water flowing at a constant 74.3 degrees. You can get pampered at the park’s Old Roman and Main bathhouses, which offer a wide selection of rejuvenating spa services. Choose from massages, saunas, and private bathing tubs.

15. Follow Scenic Hiking Trails in Monongahela National Forest

The Monongahela National Forest is bursting with stunning scenery, as this nationally protected region in West Virginia spans more than 919,000 acres. With elevations that range from 1,000 to nearly 5,000 feet above sea level, there is a variety of terrain where you can get out and explore on foot. 

Two of the most notable areas of the national forest include Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area , which boasts the highest peak in West Virginia and spans about 100,000 acres of the park. The Dolly Sods Wilderness area is also popular, particularly the Bear Rocks Trail. Both of these hiking destinations offer some of the best views in the state.

With over 800 miles of trails, it’s one of the coolest things to do in West Virginia if you love nature. The remote landscape can also be seen at Cranberry Glades Botanical Area , where a half-mile accessible boardwalk offers a glimpse of local wildlife, while the Williams River is one of the best trout fishing streams in the state and features rustic campsites near the water. 

Adventure is around every corner in the Monongahela National Forest, and you’ll find a long list of hiking and biking trails, scenic driving routes, and destinations for wildlife watching, swimming, boating, fishing, and horseback riding. And if you’re visiting in the winter, you can try snowmobiling, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing!

16. Climb Famous Formations at Seneca Rocks

Located in the Monongahela National Forest, Seneca Rocks is one of the most famous natural West Virginia attractions. Rising nearly 900 feet above the North Fork River, it’s a hotspot for rock climbers and hikers who want to take in the gorgeous views of the valley below. 

On the bucket list for many rock climbers, the unique rock formation offers 375 climbing routes that range in difficulty, all with rewarding views at the top. Non-climbers can enjoy a wealth of other outdoor activities here, too, as river and stream fishing, observing wildlife, and camping are also popular. 

Nature enthusiasts can head to the Seneca Rocks Discovery Center at the base of Seneca Rocks to browse the range of artifacts and exhibits that highlight the history of the natural wonder. The center is the start of the three-mile interpretive trail, which leads to parts of the rock and scenic views. 

17. Tour Historic Cells at West Virginia Penitentiary

It might not be the first activity you think of to add to your “things to do in West Virginia” list, but the West Virginia Penitentiary is a popular historic site. An operating prison from 1876 to 1995, it now offers public ghost tours as one of the most haunted places in the state!

This eerie prison in Moundsville has a storied history of riots, homicides, and executions, including public hangings. In 1995, former prison guards began offering tours for a chance to see its spooky interior that is said to be haunted by former inmates. 

The 90-minute guided tours walk you through the prison’s Gothic-style structure, and the route focuses on the main level of the facility. You’ll get to see the recreation yards, visitation rooms, and cafeteria, as well as “The Alamo” cell blocks that housed the most dangerous and violent inmates. 

If you’re feeling brave, you can also visit the prison overnight on the Public Ghost Hunt Tour, which allows you to roam the halls, cells, and haunted hotspots like the psych ward on your own. The West Virginia Penitentiary also offers escape games and an annual paranormal convention called Para-Con in August.

18. Visit the Huntington Museum of Art & Ritter Park

If you want to appreciate art, the Huntington Museum of Art is the largest art museum in the state of West Virginia. The nationally accredited art museum in the Park Hills neighborhood above Ritter Park in Huntington occupies over 60,000 square feet.

Come to appreciate the museum’s collection within its 10 exhibition spaces, which features more than 16,000 objects that span American and European paintings, sculptures, prints, and drawings, as well as glass pieces, American folk art, and Chinese and Japanese decorative objects. The museum also hosts traveling exhibitions with rotating displays. 

You won’t get bored here, as the museum is also home to an interactive education gallery, an auditorium, a conservatory for tropical and subtropical plants, a coral reef aquarium, and two outdoor sculpture gardens. There are even two miles of hiking and nature trails for those who prefer to explore outside, with a quarter-mile paved accessible Sensory Trail for the visually impaired. 

After exploring the museum, head to Ritter Park to stop and smell the roses. Its rose garden has been voted the country’s best rose garden numerous times and features thousands of roses in its award-winning space. For the best viewing, full bloom status is typically from late May to mid-June.

19. See the Aurora Borealis at Calhoun County Park

Calhoun County Park is considered one of the darkest places in West Virginia, offering stargazers the chance to catch a glimpse of the famous Northern Lights. This secluded scenic gem is nestled away from the city lights, making it a perfect spot for marveling at the night skies. If you’re looking for West Virginia bucket list activities, this should be at the top of your list!

Located 1.5 miles south of Grantsville, the park’s dark night skies are a favorite location for astronomers and photographers. It boasts 200 acres of land for public recreation, and there are a number of daytime activities available, including a walking/biking trail, a ball field, volleyball and basketball courts, playgrounds, picnic shelters, and ponds. 

However, this dark sky site is famous for its Milky Way views, as it’s one of the few places east of the Mississippi you can see it. Due to this, the park’s calendar is packed with annual Dark Skies Parties, and amateur stargazers venture into the park to set up telescopes beneath the sky. 

The park even has campsites available so you can stay overnight. On a clear evening, you might catch an impressive view of the constellation of stars and a colorful, ever-changing view of the Northern Lights phenomenon. 

20. Go Off-Roading on the Hatfield McCoy Trail System

The Hatfield McCoy Trail System boasts some of the best ATV, UTV, and dirt bike trail riding in the world, featuring miles of winding and twisted roads in West Virginia’s backwoods. It’s been dubbed the “best motorized trail system in the United States,” where you can enjoy adrenaline-filled adventures among stunning untamed landscapes. 

Get a trail permit, then choose a trail that accommodates your riding style. There’s a trail for every skill level, from novices to pros, with plenty of distance between trails among the hundreds of miles the trails span across Southern West Virginia. 

Bear Wallow is known for its single track and is one of the most difficult trails, located near the ATV-friendly town of Logan, while the Buffalo Mountain Trail System is popular with dirt bike enthusiasts. On the Cabwaylingo Trail System, ATV, UTV, ORV (such as Jeeps), and dirt bike riders will find nearly 100 miles of new trails to explore.

Located near Ashland, the Indian Ridge Trail System offers a nice variety of trails of all difficulty levels, but the Ivy Branch Trail System is located just 20 minutes from Charleston and offers real adventure for riders of full-sized, off-road vehicles like Jeeps and Land Cruisers along with ATVs, UTVs and dirt bikes. 

Lastly, the Rockhouse Trail System is popular with riders who are looking for an “extreme” riding experience.

21. Go Snow Tubing at Canaan Valley Resort

Canaan Valley Resort is a hub for winter sports, where you can get your shred on along its 47 trails that accommodate all ages and experience levels. While skiing and snowboarding are popular, it’s the tubing park that will get the kids excited!

At 1,200 feet long, the multi-lane tube park is one of the longest in the Mid-Atlantic. You won’t even have to worry about getting too tired to climb back up, as a magic carpet lift will whisk you back to the top for another ride. 

Sessions are two hours long, but if you need a break, the on-site Bald Knob Haus offers a relaxing ambiance to recharge. In addition to an outdoor fire ring, you can come inside and warm up by the crackling fireplace. 

If you want to master your figure eights, rent skates and head to the ice rink behind the main lodge. Covered and next to an outdoor fireplace, it boasts stunning views of the Canaan Valley and Allegheny Mountains. Those looking for a lengthier adventure can try cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, as this winter wonderland offers over 20 miles of marked and ungroomed trails. 

22. Spend Time in The Capital City

West Virginia’s capital city of Charleston is the perfect destination for history buffs, home to fascinating museums and historical sites as well as leafy parks to enjoy the city’s beautiful scenery. Nicknamed “Charlie West,” this scenic riverside city has plenty to explore, nestled in the Allegheny range of the Appalachian mountains at the junction of the Elk River and Kanawha River.  

Learn about the city’s history at the West Virginia Museum , a free attraction with a collection of interesting artifacts, or get a glimpse of the state’s politics and history at the West Virginia State Capitol. Packing a punch, the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences of West Virginia is a hub for arts, culture, and science with three museums in one. 

If you’re a fan of architecture, visit the East End neighborhood to see at least a dozen examples of architectural styles (it’s also listed on the National Register of Historic Places). You can also enjoy the outdoors at Kanawha State Forest, a popular spot for nature lovers with its well-kept trails that are just a few minutes away from the city’s main streets. 

Take a stroll along Capitol Street to browse the quaint cafes, galleries, bookstores, and boutique shops. Located in a renovated 19th-century freight station, the year-round Capitol Market offers some of the best shopping in Charleston with fresh produce, locally made products, flowers, seafood, and more. 

23. See West Virginia University in Morgantown

Morgantown is one of West Virginia’s most charming small towns, most notably home to West Virginia University. It’s also a favorite with outdoor lovers, as the university town and its natural surroundings run parallel to the Monongahela River, or “The Mon.” 

You’ll see the state’s Appalachian culture embraced with school pride throughout the town, as the state colors of gold and blue can be seen on flags, storefronts, and banners. Immerse yourself by attending a football game at Mountaineer Field in Milan Puskar Stadium, where touchdowns are celebrated with a cheer of John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads.” Basketball games are also popular in the WVU Coliseum! 

For a quieter experience, head to the West Virginia Botanical Garden to stroll among the brightly colored gardens and trails. Some of the best views can be found at the overlook at Coopers Rock, a hiker’s paradise only 20 minutes from downtown. 

Snap a selfie next to the famous Don Knotts statue downtown, then step inside the Art Museum of WVU to see paintings, sculptures, and ceramics or learn about Indigenous Monongahela at Morgantown History Museum . After a day of sightseeing, the Morgantown Brewing Company is a delightful spot for a cold beer. 

24. Photograph the Cascading Waters at Cathedral Falls

Not only is Cathedral Falls one of the most beautiful waterfalls (and tallest) in the Mountain State, but it’s also one of the most accessible. Featuring a roadside viewing area, this nature spot is worth a pit stop on Route 60, just one mile east of the town of Gauley Bridge. 

Cane Brook joins New River, but before that, the water cascades more than 100 feet from the mountain above. You can see the lower 60 feet of the waterfall’s plunge from a designated roadside stop, which features a small parking lot with a short, easy trail leading up to the base of the falls. 

It’s a photogenic natural wonder, where the water cascades down the canyon and cuts through the forested mountainside. The result is a long series of falls that splash at each level, creating a powerful water flow that spills over the sandstone edges. 

It’s a popular destination for photographers, particularly in fall when the area is at its peak autumn colors, with the surrounding foliage bursting with reds, oranges, and yellows. For more waterfall viewing, Kanawha Falls, Mill Creek Falls, and Laurel Creek are all just a short drive away. 

25. See the Glade Creek Grist Mill at Babcock State Park

Located about 20 miles southeast of New River Gorge Bridge, a visit to Babcock State Park is one of the most fun things to do in West Virginia. Offering over 4,000 acres of rugged scenery, the park’s star attraction is the Glade Creek Crest Mill, which is a fully functional replica of Cooper’s Mill, the original mill that once stood on its grounds. 

While Babcock State Park is popular with photographers and artists who want to get the perfect shot of the mill, it also has plenty of outdoor recreation, with hiking, fishing, and mountain biking all popular activities. Some of the most incredible trails in the park include the Island in the Sky Trail, which takes you through large boulders, or the Skyline Trail, which offers scenic valley views. 

Make the most out of your visit and stay overnight, as Babcock State Park features tent and trailer campsites as well as log cabins nestled near Glade Creek. Some cabins are so close to the mill that you can almost hear its wood frame churn, while all cabins have Wi-Fi and modern appliances. A few are pet-friendly if you want to bring your furry friend along! 

There you have it! The 25 best things to do in West Virginia. What’s your favorite thing to do in the Mountain State?

Planning a trip to West Virginia? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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About the Author:

Born and raised in Florida, Charity moved to London after college and caught the travel bug. She then traveled full-time as a digital nomad for over a decade, living in the UK, New Zealand, China, and Thailand. With around 60-ish travel stamps in her passport, her favorite memories include skydiving in Switzerland, eating sushi in Japan, island hopping in the Philippines, and camping overnight in the Sahara Desert. She’s now a freelance writer living in Portugal with her husband and son.

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45 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In West Virginia

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: June 21, 2021  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

With so many wonderful things to do in West Virginia, the task of narrowing down a travel itinerary may seem daunting.

However, no matter which of the nearly 50 attractions listed herein you choose to visit, there are no wrong choices.

To begin with, West Virginia is rich in history, culture, and loads of recreation.

Whether you prefer a camping trip with family or a girls’/guys’ weekend with your friends, there is something to do for everyone.

From scenic nature trails to astounding caverns and art museums to dinner theatres, West Virginia is fraught with vacation destinations.

If you find yourself asking the question of what to do in West Virginia, you’ve come to the right place.

Below, you’ll find a comprehensive list of scenic places, famous places, points of interest, and things to see all within the confines of the 35th state.

If you’ve never had the pleasure of traveling to West Virginia, strap in and get ready for an exciting ride.

Table of Contents

1. New River Gorge National Park

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If you’re unsure of what to do in WV, New River Gorge National Park is a wonderful option with loads of outdoor possibilities.

Notably, New River is one of the continent’s oldest rivers and it’s surrounded by more than 70,000 acres of forestry and park.

The craggy, whitewater river flows through pitted canyons and is the scene of plenty of seasonal fun.

Like New River, the park itself provides limitless opportunities for scenic adventures.

If you’re interested in a more leisurely experience, you might consider camping, a scenic drive, fishing, or bicycling.

If you’re looking for more action-packed excitement, visitors are welcome to climb, hike, hunt, and even whitewater raft.

But no matter how you plan to spend your time here, the focal point for all visitors is always the New River Gorge Bridge, a structural masterpiece that is the most photographed site in all of West Virginia.

So, if you’re wondering what to do in WV, wonder no more; plan to spend some time in this magnificent park.

Address: Glen Jean, WV 25846, United States

2. Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and Youth Museum

henskechristine / flickr

One of many unique things to do in WV is the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and Youth Museum .

During your coal mine tour, you will see the underground mine and visit an old coal camp.

This interactive and historical tour will give you a feel for life as a coal miner.

Riding the dark passageways of the old coal mine is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Notably, the tours are guided by veteran coal miners who share firsthand stories of their experiences and responsibilities as miners.

After your mine tour, you’ll also enjoy visiting the Youth Museum, which features interactive exhibits for children.

With exhibits on the solar system, the Appalachian frontier, and reconstructed historical buildings, your little one will love learning all about West Virginia history.

Knowledgeable tour guides excitedly share the significance of each building in an engaging and informative way.

What’s more, the property is situated upon a meticulously kept landscape; verdant lawns, colorful flowers, and picnic areas are the backdrop to your tour of the property.

Finally, there is also a wonderful gift shop on premises that sells souvenirs, West Virginia novelties, and homemade fudge.

Be sure to check out this top sightseeing attraction in WV.

Address: 513 Ewart Ave, Beckley, WV 25801, United States

3. Carnegie Hall

Carnegie Hall

Without a doubt, one of the coolest places to visit in West Virginia is Carnegie Hall where the arts come to life.

This esteemed venue hosts theatrical, musical, and dance performances on their main stage.

No matter the time of year, you can be sure Carnegie Hall is hosting some highly entertaining live performance.

In addition to the theatre arts, Carnegie Hall is also home to art and history exhibits.

Three galleries display artwork from local artists on a rotating basis.

One of the gallery rooms is even a board room wherein educational programming frequently takes place.

So maybe you’ll take an art class during your visit.

Additionally, Carnegie Hall also houses a dance and performance studio where children and adults alike can hope to participate in enriching classes.

Finally, the hall’s Ivy Terrace is the lawn space where the venue hosts free concerts and other live performances.

In a nutshell, Carnegie Hall is your one-stop shop for everything relating to the arts.

Whether visiting today or this weekend, Carnegie Hall is sure to wow you!

Address: 611 Church St, Lewisburg, WV 24901, United States

4. Appalachian Glass

Appalachian Glass

Home to three generations of talented glassmakers, Appalachian Glass is a fun place to visit in West Virginia.

Matt, Chip, and Todd Turner are the artists behind the beautiful glass pieces you’ll encounter during your visit.

This family of glassblowers has worked together, oftentimes learning from each other, to craft both beautiful and functional glass with more than 75 years of combined industry experience.

Because West Virginia is rich in the natural resources necessary to make glass, these fellows were lucky to find their calling where they did.

Of note, Appalachian Glass provides daily glass blowing demonstrations; if you’ve never seen this done in person, it’s a sight to behold!

The process roughly includes blowing air into a glob of molten glass while rolling it to the desired shape; this process is repeated until the final product is achieved and then it’s placed in a kiln for it to set.

The process is intricate, delicate, and requires the type of finesse that only many years of experience produces.

This West Virginia hot spot (pun intended) is a must see; you won’t be disappointed.

Address: 499 US-33, Weston, WV 26452, United States

5. Snowshoe Mountain

Andriy Blokhin / Shutterstock

Whether you’re looking for places to go when visiting West Virginia in the winter or summer months, be sure to visit Snowshoe Mountain .

This mountain resort couples action-packed snow adventures with posh comfort and luxury.

At Snowshoe Mountain visitors can ski, snowboard, snowmobile, and/or learn it all at ski school.

When the weather warms up, Snowshoe switches gears to all-terrain mountain adventures.

Visitors can mountain bike, hike, canoe/kayak on the lake, stand-up paddleboard, do Segway tours, golf, and more.

Thankfully, no matter the time of year, Snowshoe Mountain is ready to deliver big thrills.

Furthermore, when you’re ready to wind down for the day or night, the resort is ready for you.

With world-class dining options like a mountain-top restaurant and lakeside snack bar, you’ll be satisfied after every meal.

Moreover, Snowshoe’s nearby village is home to some of the most popular restaurants and shopping you can imagine.

This top vacation spot, no matter the season, is one of the top 10 things to do in West Virginia, so be sure to book your reservations now.

Address: 10 Snowshoe Dr, Snowshoe, WV 26209, United States

6. Cranberry Mountain Nature Center

Cranberry Mountain Nature Center

This destination is part of the Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia and is one of the state’s top vacation spots .

The Cranberry Mountain Nature Center is home to an exhibit hall that features many hands-on displays.

Appealing to children and adults alike, the exhibits are fun, entertaining, and best of all educational.

The center’s auditorium shows engaging films on topics like Smokey the Bear, wildflowers, and more.

The center also hosts many-faceted events throughout the year like kids’ nights, live snake shows, wildlife demonstrations, and beyond.

What’s more, Cranberry Mountain Nature Center also delivers programs on topics important to the state like the differences between poisonous and nonpoisonous snakes and tours of the Cranberry Glades.

Finally, another of the center’s favored attractions is the nature store where visitors can purchase nature guides, folklore books, cookbooks, clothing, postcards, and more.

West Virginia, not short on places to see, is home to this must see nature center.

Address: Intersection of Rt 39/55 and, WV-150, Hillsboro, WV 24946, United States

7. Governor’s Mansion

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One of the most beautiful places in the USA , the West Virginia Governor’s Mansion is a wonderful sightseeing destination.

This landmark is situated in the state’s capitol and has been home to West Virginia governors since 1925.

Beyond housing the state’s most esteemed official, the mansion has also welcomed foreign and domestic dignitaries alike.

But beyond the high-profile mansion residents and guests is the architecture, decor, and landscape of the mansion; these are the real draws for visitors.

Some notable design features include a marble checkerboard foyer floor, drawing-room walls painted in a unique optical illusion, and incredible landscaping.

Touring the West Virginia Governor’s Mansion is an excellent attraction for both history and architecture enthusiasts.

The well-cared-for property and history-rich design features make the mansion one of the coolest places to see in the state.

Although tours are free, they do require a reservation as tours are only given on Thursdays and Fridays.

Address: 1716 Kanawha Blvd E, Charleston, WV 25305, United States

Planning a trip to Charleston? Why not check out some of the things to do in Charleston, WV ?

8. West Virginia Mine Wars Museum

West Virginia Mine Wars Museum

Home to a slice of unsettling American History, the West Virginia Mine Wars Museum preserves artifacts surrounding one of the largest civil uprisings since The Civil War, the Mine Wars.

Essentially, the Mine Wars were turf wars between unionized miners and coal mines.

The purpose of the museum is to uphold the voices of those involved, those who made the ultimate sacrifice, and the triumphant.

Inside the museum is the country’s largest collection of Mine Wars memorabilia.

Visitors are given guided tours of things like life in coal camps, local coal strikes, and coal miners’ tools and lifestyles.

Notably, through these artifacts, the West Virginia Mine Wars Museum celebrates a frightening yet triumphant time in American history.

Once you’ve completed this interesting tour, be sure to check out the museum’s gift shop which sells apparel and nifty souvenirs.

Finally, if you’re traveling with history buffs, they’ll certainly enjoy this interesting West Virginia attraction.

Address: 401 Mate St, Matewan, WV 25678, United States

9. The Museum of American Glass

Jimmy Emerson, DVM / flickr

As noted earlier, glass is one of West Virginia’s richest resources.

As such, The Museum of American Glass celebrates the region’s rich glass heritage.

Established in 1933, the museum aims to share glass pieces and artist stories specific to West Virginia.

In addition to seeing an assortment of unique early period pieces, kitchen glass, lamps, novelties, and hundreds more, the vast museum collections are astounding.

The museum also hosts ever-changing traveling exhibits that are sure to wow you.

Furthermore, the museum frequently hosts special programming like glass collecting clubs and specialty glass shows.

Be sure to check out the museum’s calendar of events to see if anything special is happening during your visit.

Following your tour of this comprehensive homage to the West Virginia glass heritage, the museum gift shop welcomes you to peruse monographs, catalogs, and collectibles.

If you’re looking for unique places to go in West Virginia this weekend, be sure to give The Museum of American Glass a gander.

Address: 230 Main Ave, Weston, WV 26452, United States

10. Mothman Museum

Harry Steele / Shutterstock

Probably one of the creepiest things to do in WV, the Mothman Museum pays tribute to a series of strange events that afflicted the small town of Point Pleasant.

With the commencement of strange sightings like disturbing lights in the sky, peculiar “men in black,” and a red-eyed life form now known as Mothman, residents of the small town were mystified.

The museum pays homage to these strange occurrences.

Notably, the museum shares expertly displayed cases of news articles, photographs, recordings, and more surrounding the incidents.

Additionally, the museum houses Mothman art, comics, costumes, replicas, and a wide array of artifacts.

Whether you’re familiar with the strange story of Mothman or you’re just fascinated by oddities, you’re sure to love your visit to Mothman Museum.

Best of all, the museum’s gift shop has the world’s largest and most eclectic collection of Mothman souvenirs and memorabilia.

Lastly, there are still so many questions surrounding who or what Mothman is/was, but there’s no question that you’ll love visiting this strange West Virginia attraction.

Address: 400 Main St, Point Pleasant, WV 25550, United States

11. Charleston Capitol Market

Established more than 20 years ago, Charleston Capitol Market is a West Virginia institution.

A once modest farmer’s market, today the market is an indoor and outdoor shopping and social scene.

Now one of many premier tourist attractions, Charleston Capitol Market is home to indoor merchants specializing in such things as cheese/wine, fine chocolates, sushi, Italian delectables, coffee specialties, and so much more.

You’ll find purveyors of farm goods, botanicals, landscaping, and produce galore in the outdoor market.

Beyond all of the wonderfully delightful merchants and goods you’ll encounter, the market frequently hosts special events like Market Mixers, cook-offs, and more.

Best of all, the market is open year-round selling seasonal goods to locals and visitors alike.

Finally, seasonal events like Christmas tree and pumpkin picking, garden planning, and picnic shopping are other lovely market features.

If you’re looking for amusing things to see in West Virginia, make sure to stop by Charleston Capitol Market.

Address: 800 Smith St, Charleston, WV 25301, United States

12. Mountain Rail Adventures

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If you’re looking to enjoy the best of scenic West Virginia and the historic lore and charm of classic trains, this top attraction is for you.

Things to do in West Virginia aren’t hard to come by, but this top experience is one of the best.

Upon the Cass Scenic Railroad, visitors ride old-timey steam locomotives.

During their ride on the Shay Locomotive, passengers delight in the increasing speed of the engines against the backdrop of scenic and remote expanses of West Virginia.

Notably, passengers will choose from one of two awesome rail rides.

During the Bald Knob tour, guests will basque in the 4-hour ride to Bald Knob, the second highest peak in WV.

The Whittaker Station tour is only a 2-hour ride, though equally picturesque to the latter tour.

No matter the tour you choose, both are thrilling and unforgettable.

One of the coolest West Virginia attractions, a ride with Mountain Rail Adventures is a truly memorable experience that you’ll never forget.

Address: 315 Railroad Ave, Elkins, WV 26241, United States

13. West Virginia State Museum

West Virginia State Museum

Located within the West Virginia Cultural Center, the West Virginia State Museum retraces and shares the unique history of the state as a whole.

Housing such artifacts as antique hats to a telescope used by an American president, this unique look at the 35th state is one of the best places to visit in West Virginia.

Of note, the chronological layout of the museum’s exhibits allows visitors to conceptualize the state’s evolution.

Essentially, the special exhibits recreate the state’s history through narration, sounds, illustrations, descriptions, and most importantly significant artifacts.

Furthermore, through the thought-provoking displays visitors will have a better understanding of West Virginia’s cultural, industrial, and natural histories.

West Virginia State Museum is a unique lens through which to experience the state.

Best of all, tours are free to the public and one of many cool places to visit with friends and family.

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

14. Grandview State Park

T D Finch / Shutterstock

If you’re unsure of where to visit when in West Virginia, be sure to spend some time in Grandview State Park .

One of the most beautiful places to visit in the state, the park is the perfect setting for sightseeing, leisure, and outdoor activities.

One of the park’s most popular places of interest is a scenic overlook that looks upon the outstanding sights of New River, an active railway, and the verdant landscape of the park.

To reach the overlook, hikers will traverse through gorgeous rhododendrons and other colorful plant life.

In addition to the beautiful views at Grandview State Park, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun.

For instance, the park has five hiking trails which may be followed alone or with a ranger-led guide.

In the summer, the park hosts outdoor theatre productions.

Finally, any time of year is a good time to picnic or visit the park’s playgrounds.

With so many outdoor attractions in one place, Grandview State Park is a great place to visit during your stay in West Virginia.

Address: Grandview Rd, Beaver, WV 25813, United States

15. Green Bank Observatory

Zack Frank / Shutterstock

Located in a national quiet zone, the Green Bank Observatory provides access to cutting-edge telescopes and facilities for the astronomical community.

Notably, the observatory is an internationally recognized leader in research and education.

When astronomers come to Green Bank Observatory, they listen to the “remote whispers of the universe.”

Green Bank Observatory provides them with the facility and technology to successfully do so.

The observatory is open to the public for special private tours but reservations and screenings are required.

If you successfully pass the site’s screening protocol, you will have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to tour the facility’s private laboratories, see the most technologically advanced telescopes, and check out fabrication spaces.

The observatory also hosts public tours of the facility wherein you can check out the popular Catching the Wave Exhibit Hall or catch an educational flick in the auditorium.

Finish your day off with a bite to eat in the Starlight Cafe and some light shopping in the gift shop.

This must do experience is a fascinating West Virginia activity for the whole family.

Address: 155 Observatory Rd, Green Bank, WV 24944, United States

16. Lost World Caverns

Lost World Caverns

Situated 120-feel beneath the earth’s surface is the Lost World Caverns in West Virginia.

Probably one of the most magical places to visit in West Virginia, the caverns are home to astounding rock formations.

Visitors are welcome to explore the formations in self-guided tours that lead tourists through a half-mile circle.

Throughout the tour, you’ll come face to face with some of the world’s largest and most magnificent stalactites and other crystal formations.

One of this attraction’s most popular features is the “Bridal Veil” which is a 28-foot stalagmite that you have to see in person to believe.

Thankfully, photography is permitted in the caverns because there are many amazing photo opportunities.

In total, the tour lasts about 45 minutes, but the memories will certainly last a lifetime.

In addition to the cavern tour, you may also peruse the property’s natural history museum to learn about interesting prehistoric cave-dwellers.

Lost World Caverns also hosts gem mining tours where you’ll have the opportunity to find and keep semi-precious gemstones, arrowheads, ancient fossils, and other unique treasures.

The sights at this West Virginia attraction make it a place you’ve got to see during your trip.

Address: 907 Lost World Rd, Lewisburg, WV 24901, United States

17. West Virginia Botanic Garden

West Virginia Botanic Garden

One of many scenic things to do in West Virginia, this garden is an amazing sight to behold.

Situated on the picturesque Tibbs Run Preserve, West Virginia Botanic Garden is home to verdant and bright vegetation and botanicals by the mile.

The beautiful plant life surrounds and reflects off the property’s glassy pond around which trails of flowering meadows entwine.

Weaving in and out of the woodland and around streams, visitors love to stroll, observe, and contemplate.

The more than 80-acre reserve is still developing which means as time goes on, the already gorgeous landscape of West Virginia Botanic Garden will only get better.

Although visitors are welcome to tour the grounds individually, group-guided tours are available upon request.

In addition to the botanicals you’ll see during your tour, the garden also has other lovely features like a fairy garden, a wetlands boardwalk, a rock outcropping, and a dam.

Finally, West Virginia attractions like this one are a must do for visitors to the state.

Address: 1061 Tyrone Rd, Morgantown, WV 26508, United States

18. The Greenbrier

If you’re looking for top-notch vacation ideas in West Virginia, look no further.

This magnificent resort is one of the most beautiful to visit in West Virginia.

Situated on a verdant and beautifully landscaped expanse of property that encompasses activities and luxury for days, The Greenbrier is home to marvelous accommodations like cottages and historical suites.

Included in your stay are world-class amenities like overflowing welcome baskets, in-room hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, and more.

Essentially, you’re given the royal treatment as a guest of the resort.

In addition to the luxurious accommodations, the resort has tons of fun activities.

Within the hotel is an epic spa, dining options for every palette, bowling, an arcade, an indoor pool, an escape room, and so much more.

Outside, there are even more exciting activities like a beautiful pool, golf, an adventure course, bike rentals, canopy tours, geocaching, and the list goes on.

The Greenbriar is truly a religious experience and one of the many wonderful sites to see in West Virginia.

Address: 101 W Main St, White Sulphur Springs, WV 24986, United States

19. Heritage Farm Museum and Village

Heritage Farm Museum and Village

If you’re interested in fun stuff to do in West Virginia, Heritage Farm Museum and Village has something for everyone.

Situated upon the property are 15 log structures, one of which is an event space, while the others are log cabin inns, seven outstanding museums, an artisan center, and other attractions.

Although lodgings are reminiscent of pioneer life in early Appalachia, they are equipped with all the bells and whistles.

Whether staying on property or not, visitors have so many options concerning things to see and what to do.

Some of the property’s most beloved attractions include visiting unique places like maker spaces, a blacksmith shop, a log church, an interactive animal habitat, a nature center, many adventure experiences, and more.

Moreover, the seven museums recount the history of Appalachia through interestingly themed displays.

Finally, vacations can be hard to plan, but Heritage Farm Museum and Village is a no-brainer with so much to do in one space.

Address: 3300 Harvey Rd, Huntington, WV 25704, United States

20. Harpers Ferry

Jon Bilous / Shutterstock

The quaint town of Harpers Ferry is situated amid the national park of the same name.

This historic West Virginia village is a step back in time.

The picturesque streets of the village sit along a stretch of water where the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers meet, providing views of Maryland and Virginia .

Whether visiting today or this weekend, Harpers Ferry has something for everyone; the town is home to tourist attractions galore.

For instance, the village is home to interesting exhibits, museums, historic battlefields, and more.

Furthermore, there are many fun activities for children, hiking trails (trails range from easy to difficult), camping areas, rock climbing, and other fun outdoor adventures.

Additionally, there are many cool historical sights to see like Jefferson Rock, a church built in the 1800s, John Brown’s Fort, and a historic tavern built in the 1800s.

With so much beautiful scenery and awesome tourist attractions in one place, you won’t be disappointed in your visit to Harpers Ferry.

Address: WV 25425, United States

21. Blackwater Falls State Park

West Virginia is not short on tourist attractions with splendid scenery.

One of the best places to visit in West Virginia, Blackwater Falls State Park is situated in the Allegheny Mountains and is a fun sight to see.

The falls themselves are so-named for the 57-foot cascade of stunning amber waters.

Along with some other epic sights within the park, the falls are one of the most photographed points of interest in West Virginia.

The falls can be visited all year long by hiking to scenic overlooks or viewing platforms scattered throughout the park.

In addition to the magnificent scenery, Blackwater Falls State Park has over 20 miles of hiking trails, an awesome sledding trail accessible in winter weather, and even a cozy lodge to relax in after a long day of adventure.

Finally, the park also has camping areas that include log cabins, as well as many other fun outdoor adventures.

Of outdoor West Virginia attractions, Blackwater Falls State Park is a must-see place.

Address: 1584 Blackwater Lodge Rd, Davis, WV 26260, United States

22. West Virginia Penitentiary

Tom Mc Nemar / Shutterstock

One of the most interesting places to visit in West Virginia, the state’s penitentiary is sure to leave you chilled to the bone.

Situated on a 10-acre expanse of land, the cold and gothic building, which was erected in the late 1800s, was home to thousands of prisoners more than a hundred of which were executed on the premises.

Architecturally speaking, West Virginia Penitentiary is a gothic stone building bedecked with turrets and battlements.

Themed tours are available to the public throughout the year.

Visitors may opt for the historical day tour, a 90-minute tour that shares the penitentiary’s history, lore, art, and insight into the criminal justice system.

Moreover, the Mystery Monday tours are a little more action-packed with climbing and exploring features.

Finally, the attraction also hosts ghost hunts, spooky night tours, and an escape from the prison tour that’s like an escape room but on a larger scale.

One of the most unique points of interest in WV, this attraction is highly recommended.

Address: 818 Jefferson Ave, Moundsville, WV 26041, United States

23. Greenbrier State Forest

Greenbrier State Forest

The Greenbrier State Forest is one of the most stunning West Virginia attractions.

Situated on more than 5,000 acres of undeveloped forestry, it’s a wonderful place to visit with family, friends, or even alone.

With miles upon miles of secluded natural beauty lined with hiking trails, biking trails, and more, the forest permits loads of other recreational attractions like fishing and swimming.

Best of all, you could spend a night or a few days at the forest’s campgrounds.

This forest system is most popular for its hiking trails.

Most notably, the trails run between Lewisburg and White Sulphur Springs, a distance of more than five miles.

Besides covering a vast distance, the trails will weave you in and out of some of the most beautiful landscapes West Virginia has to offer.

Address: 1541 Harts Run Rd, Caldwell, WV 24925, United States

24. ACE Adventure Resort

PPstock / Shutterstock

If you’re heading to West Virginia in search of high-octane adventure, then be sure to book an appointment with ACE Adventure Resort .

This adventure resort has all the excitement you need in one central location.

The resort’s property has wonderful accommodations like cliffside chalets, log cabins, and tent and RV sites for rental.

The resort is home to five restaurants, three retail locations, and even fun nightlife.

But best of all, the resort has tons of adventurous attractions for visitors to partake in.

Notably, the resort’s biggest attraction is whitewater rafting.

They offer full-day, half-day, and even overnight trips along different stretches of the Gauley River.

Beyond rafting though, the resort also has an awesome waterpark, ziplining, an aerial park, a mud obstacle course, ATV tours, and more.

In the water, you can canoe, kayak, swim, fish, and more.

Undoubtedly, ACE Adventure Resort is a one-stop shop for all the excitement and adventure you’re looking for.

Address: 1 Concho road, Oak Hill, WV 25901, United States

25. Seneca Rocks

Steve Heap / Shutterstock

Seneca Rocks , one of many awesome West Virginia attractions, is one of the state’s most popular natural landmarks.

Of note, the rocks are a scenic locale that is popular with locals and travelers alike.

Beyond the beautiful backdrop for photo opportunities, the rocks set the stage for thrill-seekers too.

Each year, hundreds of rock climbing enthusiasts travel to Seneca Rocks to try their luck at this unique and challenging rock formation.

Astoundingly, the rocks climb 900 feet above the picturesque North Fork River, another beautiful sight to see.

Besides rock climbing, Seneca Rocks is also a destination with lots of other wonderful things to do.

Visitors can river or stream fish, hike, observe nature/wildlife, learn about the area at the discovery center, and enjoy an alfresco lunch at the picnic area.

Seneca Rocks is one of West Virginia’s beautiful natural gems; be sure to check it out during your stay in the state.

Address: WV 26884, United States

26. Seneca Caverns

Karen M Miller / Shutterstock

If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind things to do in West Virginia, look no further.

Seneca Caverns provides a unique hands-on cavern experience.

Remarkably, this 450 million-year-old cavern is full of jaw-dropping features like stalagmites, stalactites, flowstone, rimstone pools, and more.

The sights you’ll see during a tour of the cavern are like nothing you’ll ever see on land.

Cave tours are guided, stunning, and provide wonderful photo opportunities.

Beyond simply touring the cave visitors can also participate in gemstone mining.

You’ll have so much fun sifting through mud, dirt, and sand to discover cool minerals and gems.

Best of all, you can keep what you find.

This is an awesome activity for adults and children alike.

Finally, Seneca Caverns has a cool gift shop, picnic areas, and an awesome restaurant too.

Seneca Falls is a great experience for all; be sure to give it a top spot on your itinerary.

Address: 3328 Germany Valley Rd, Riverton, WV 26814, United States

27. Lake Shawnee Amusement Park

Wendy van Overstreet / Shutterstock

If you’re in the market for something a bit off the beaten path, be sure to visit Lake Shawnee Amusement Park.

This abandoned attraction is spooky and unsettling but an altogether fun sight to see.

Local legend asserts that the park is haunted by unnatural spirits, yet visitors come from near and far nonetheless.

Situated on a Native American burial ground and the site of all too many violent deaths, there may be something to the idea that it’s haunted.

Abandoned though it is, visitors can arrange private tours with ghost hunters to decide for themselves.

If you’re into creepy, paranormal, and the altogether inexplicable, you’ll love this attraction.

In addition to merely touring the property, the park also hosts fun seasonal events.

If you happen to be in WV in October, you won’t want to miss the “Dark Carnival,” when you can hear park legends, hang by a creepy bonfire, play with freaky clowns, and more.

You can even camp out in the park if you’re brave enough.

Address: 470 Matoaka Rd, Rock, WV 24747, United States

28. Prabhupada’s Palace of Gold

Jon Dawson / flickr

This magnificent church is one of the most beautiful in the country.

Named for a famous and revered Hindu scholar and teacher, Prabhupada’s Palace of Gold was erected in the early 1970s as a place for him to write, worship, and preach.

Built of marble, precious metals, teak, and other lavish materials, the palace was a labor of devotees’ love for Srila Prabhupada.

During guided tours of the palace, visitors are treated to the decadently gilded interior and captivating and glimmering exterior as well as the history of its patron.

Included in your tour of the palace is a look at the award-winning Rose Garden whose bright colors and aromatic flowers draw you to its center.

Astoundingly, the garden is home to more than 3,000 bushes and 150 varieties of roses.

The spectacular and vibrant colors of the roses offset the shimmer and gleam of the palace in the background.

This highly recommended attraction should be on the top of your list.

Address: 3759 McCreary’s Ridge Rd, Moundsville, WV 26041, United States

29. Kruger Street Toy and Train Museum

Kruger Street Toy and Train Museum

Housed in the building of an old elementary school, the Kruger Street Toy and Train Museum , built in 1906, is situated on a historic site.

One of the museum’s quirky but affable features is the resident cat, Loo, who saunters about in costume as if he owns the place.

The museum’s biggest collection and draw though is the astonishing toy collection housed therein.

Remarkably, toy exhibits are arranged thematically as follows: transportation toys, miniatures, dolls, and games.

Enjoy this step back in time with the nostalgic toys of your youth.

Train-wise, the museum’s most popular attraction is a restored caboose that once belonged on the B & O Railroad.

Moreover, the museum houses a train exhibit that boasts Lionel, American Flyer, and even Lawrence Liner trains.

For added fun, the museum’s lobby doubles as a small arcade.

Be sure to hit up the gift shop on your way for fun novelties and souvenirs.

Address: 144 Kruger St, Wheeling, WV 26003, United States

30. Dolly Sods Wilderness Area

anthony heflin / Shutterstock

Sprawling across more than 17,000 acres of forestry, the Dolly Sods Wilderness is an epic natural preservation that draws visitors from far and wide.

Located across two West Virginia counties, it has a blended eco-type, elevations of nearly 5,000 feet, and best of all many wonderful natural features that serve as a backdrop of loads of fun recreation.

Notably, Dolly Sods is home to almost 50 hiking trails suitable for all experience levels.

Some of the trails run adjacent to old railroads and logging roads making for an even more scenic hike.

In addition to loads of hiking trails, visitors to Dolly Sods Wilderness Area can also fish, swim, hunt, and horseback ride.

Throughout the year, you can even plan a few days and nights at the available camping grounds.

In the winter months, visitors may also partake in cross country skiing and/or snowshoeing on the many trails.

No matter the time of year, Dolly Sods Wilderness Area is an excellent West Virginia attraction.

Address: WV, United States

31. Coopers Rock State Forest

Don Bilski / Shutterstock

Founded in 1936 this astonishing park boasts some of the most glorious sights in all of West Virginia.

Serenely situated amid the aptly named town of Almost Heaven, Coopers Rock State Forest is a favorite of locals.

Some of the park’s many stunning features include canyon overlooks, historical areas, and more than 50 miles of hiking and biking trails.

Other natural features include sandstone cliffs and epic boulders for rock climbing, terrain suitable for cross country skiing, and more.

In addition to these land features, there’s also a central lake that visitors love to use for fishing, swimming, rafting, and other water sports.

Other outdoor adventures at Coopers Rock State Forest include golfing, hunting, and geocaching.

While visiting the park, visitors love to enjoy alfresco meals in the lovely picnic pavilions.

Finally, if you prefer to stay in the park for an extended period, there are camping accommodations as well as convenient pre-set canvas tent sites.

Address: 61 County Line Dr, Bruceton Mills, WV 26525, United States

32. Appalachian National Scenic Trail

anokarina / flickr

This famous American trail is a rite of passage for outdoor enthusiasts, so if you’re planning a trip to West Virginia be sure to bookmark time to check it out.

The Appalachian National Scenic Trail consists of more than 2,000 miles of footpath.

The trail is scenic, serene, pastoral, and altogether amazing.

Built by private citizens and opened in 1937, the trail has been a national attraction since.

Notably, the trail runs through 14 US states, beginning in Georgia (depending on where you begin), passing through West Virginia, and ending in Maine .

Although the WV leg of the trail is short, it is the most popular.

Along the WV leg of the trail, hikers pass through Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, the campus of Storer College, and other historic landmarks.

Significantly, the WV portion of the trail is considered its halfway point, and it’s also where you’ll find the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, a popular resting point.

Address: Harpers Ferry, WV 25425, United States

33. Archive of the Afterlife

This “National Museum of the Paranormal” is a great spot to check out if you’re into frightful and brain-tickling sights.

The Archive of the Afterlife , established in 2011, houses many vexing artifacts.

For instance, during a tour of the museum, you’ll see such things as haunting photographs, spooky dolls, frightening weapons, and inexplicable objects.

The collection of artifacts has come from all over the world; the museum will even take “haunted” items off your hands if you’d like.

Guests of the Archive of the Afterlife may book private tours that allow them sole access to the museum for an entire day, brief public tours, and even bone-chilling ghost hunts.

Remarkably, the museum has been featured on many syndicated television shows.

Finally, the goal of Archive of the Afterlife is to share and research paranormal activity.

This West Virginia attraction is a unique but amusing place to visit during your stay in the state.

Address: 86 Railroad St, Cameron, WV 26033, United States

34. Wonderment Puppet Theatre

Wonderment Puppet Theatre

The Wonderment Puppet Theatre is a wonderful attraction for children and kids at heart.

Essentially, the theatre provides a unique and interactive outlet for both performers and patrons.

Throughout the year, the theatre runs six different and wildly entertaining shows that audiences rave about.

Before and after performances, guests can enjoy creating their own unique shows with the hands-on puppets.

Other fun features at the Wonderment Puppet Theatre include balloons for every child, a photo booth, an art gallery, and more.

The theatre’s proprietor is uber accommodating and will host performances on off-days if you’re not available to see a regularly scheduled show; if you’re running late to your performance, give a call and he’ll hold the show.

Also, be sure to bring your appetite to the theatre’s snack bar.

The theatre is truly one-of-a-kind and worth a visit especially if you’re in town with children.

Address: 412 W King St, Martinsburg, WV 25401, United States

35. Ken Sinsel’s Metal Sculptures

Ken Sinsel, Sculpter & Artist

California native Ken Sinsel has turned his West Virginia yard into a sculpture park, open to the public, of his edgy artwork.

Remarkably, Sinsel owns two adjacent properties, both of which serve as galleries for this artwork.

Essentially, his yards are a gallery for the wildly eclectic artwork crafted of scrap metal.

Significantly, Sinsel’s penchant for sculpting unique animal pieces is ever-present in his exhibits.

However, other muses take shape in his yard as well.

Sculptures like a life-sized bull, a Black Beauty-esque horse, and a dragon guarding a minion all take shape here.

From afar, the sculptures seem fairly unassuming, but when you take a closer look and note the medium with which they are crafted, you begin to see the genius of Sinsel.

Materials like shovels, knife blades, car parts, a bevy of tools, hubcaps, and more can all be spotted in his sculptures if you look closely enough.

Ken Sinsel’s Metal Sculptures are a highly recommended, free sight to see.

Address: 1110 Ridge Avenue, New Cumberland, WV 26047, United States

36. Arthurdale Historic District

Arthurdale Historic District

Established in 1933 through President Roosevelt’s New Deal Legislation, the community of Arthurdale provided a fresh start to WV residents who suffered during The Great Depression.

Historically, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt was the town’s benefactress and the town became colloquially known as “Eleanor’s Little Village.”

Today, the same charm that existed nearly 90 years ago remains.

The town remains virtually untouched by modernity while remaining open for historic tours.

During a tour of the area, visitors can learn about the town’s rich heritage, view photo galleries, hear local stories, visit shops, and more.

The district’s central feature is the New Deal Homestead Museum which is filled with artifacts from the town’s early beginnings.

One of the museum’s most popular exhibits is the Craft Shop which displays and sells crafts made by local artists.

If you’ve got space on your itinerary, be sure to schedule a tour of this history-rich West Virginia locale.

Address: 13272 N Mountaineer Hwy, Reedsville, WV 26547, United States

37. Mountwood Park

Mountwood Park

This amazing park is a beautiful site for all things outdoors including epic camping.

At Mountwood Park , guests can rent lakeside campsites, a lake house, and cabins each of which is equipped with many convenient amenities.

Although the beautiful park backdrop of the campsites is a wonderful draw for guests, the bigger draw is all of the awesome recreation opportunities.

Situated on a 50-acre lake and surrounded by more than 50 miles of hiking trails, the opportunities for action-packed fun are endless.

Of note, the park is home to gorgeous wooded picnic areas, an archery range, birdwatching, disc golf, a dog park, fishing and boating, and beyond.

Additionally, the park is home to a legendary ATV park where visitors rip around the 600 acres of trails on dirtbikes and quads.

Moreover, a park museum sits at the center of the park housing historical artifacts associated with the park.

Address: 1014 Volcano Rd, Waverly, WV 26184, United States

38. Tygart Lake State Park

Tara Ballard / Shutterstock

Tygart Lake State Park may be one of the most stunning tracts in all of West Virginia.

Beautifully, the park sits upon the 10-mile long and 1,750-acre breathtaking lake which visitors ogle at.

Notably, the park has camping accommodations as well as the ever-popular 20-room lodge.

The lodge sits upon an elevated peninsula overlooking the shimmering lake.

The lodge has a delicious full-service restaurant, a marina, and a nature center.

The extraordinary lake serves as the template for tons of adventurous recreation.

Upon the park’s property, recreational activities include geocaching, swimming, boating, hiking, and fishing.

The aforementioned lodge provides kayak and canoe rentals for guests.

Off property, just a stone’s throw away, visitors can bike, golf, and hunt.

Finally, the lake’s epic inflatable lake park is an exciting way to spend the day for both children and adults.

No matter the season during which you’ll visit, Tygart Lake State Park is a great time waiting to be had.

Address: 1240 Paul E Malone Rd, Grafton, WV 26354, United States

39. Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum

This national historic site is both mysterious and interesting.

Formerly known as the Weston State Hospital, the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum began serving the mentally ill in the mid-1800s.

However, more than that, the asylum has been the site of many historical events like a Civil War raid and a gold robbery.

Today the asylum hosts both historical tours and paranormal tours.

The asylum’s Heritage Tours explore pioneering methods in the humane treatment of the mentally ill, a peek at patient wards, the medical suite, and a geriatric building.

If you’re looking for something a little more thrilling, the asylum’s Ghost Tours are an interesting attraction.

Some believe the decommissioned asylum is haunted; are you brave enough to decide for yourself?

Visitors have reported strange sightings, spooky noises, and altogether creepy occurrences.

During an asylum Ghost Tour visitors step back in time to see how patients lived and died (and may continue to live on in spirit).

By the end of a ghost tour, you’ll have to decide for yourself if the property is truly haunted.

Address: 50 S River Ave, Weston, WV 26452, United States

40. Gandy Dancer Dinner Theatre

Gandy Dancer Dinner Theatre

This awesome theatre is just the touch of ebullient entertainment you’re looking for on your trip to WV.

As its name suggests, along with a show, visitors can enjoy a lovely dinner with options like Chicken Cordon Bleu, steak, and more.

If you’d rather skip dinner, you can also just opt for the show.

Notably, Gandy Dancer Dinner Theatre features highly talented professional performers including musicians, singers, and dancers.

Woven into the theatre’s shows are touches of humor, but best of all: passion!

Throughout the year the theatre provides amazing premier shows, tribute shows, and specialty shows.

No matter the show, the fine craftsmanship of the performers will have you looking forward to your next Gandy show.

The glitzy costumes are beautifully made and eye-catching.

The high-energy performances entice audiences to get to their feet and cut a rug with the dancers which is highly encouraged behavior.

The shows are high-energy, crazily entertaining, and best of all, fun for the whole family.

Address: 359 Beverly Pike, Elkins, WV 26241, United States

41. Oglebay Resort

This awesome West Virginia resort is home to luxury, relaxation, and excellent recreational activities.

Oglebay Resort , located in Wheeling, WV, is a picturesque backdrop to a verdant golf course, horseback riding, hiking, a gorgeous lake, an aerial obstacle course, and more.

Also housed at the resort is the extraordinary Wheeling Park which has an Olympic-sized pool, tennis courts, a waterpark, and even an ice skating rink.

In addition to all of the recreational opportunities at Oglebay Resort, there are many relaxing features too.

The West Spa provides luxurious spa services in the 5,000 square foot facility.

Moreover, there are 10 on-site restaurants specializing in an array of cuisines.

On top of all of this, the resort is also home to the Good Zoo which cares for more than 50 species of animals like hogs, bobcats, pandas, cheetahs, leopards, and more.

Remarkably, the Oglebay Resort is a one-stop vacation destination that has tons to do in one central location.

Address: 465 Lodge Dr, Wheeling, WV 26003, United States

42. Mountaineer Field

1022 Project / Shutterstock

West Virginia University’s Mountaineer Field at Milan Puskar Stadium is the high-energy home of the Mountaineers football team.

Once football season gets underway in the fall, Mountaineer Field is the place to be.

Before fans enter the stadium, the tailgate game is like none other.

But as fans enter the stadium, which can seat 60,000 fans, it erupts with excitement when the team takes the field.

Cheerleaders get the crowd going with world-class routines and the electricity that travels through the stands is palpable.

At kickoff, the real enthusiasm kicks into high gear and doesn’t relent until the final whistle.

In addition to the action of the awesome games, the stadium is also rich in history.

As visitors stroll through the corridors they are treated to a history of players, games, and stories of yesteryear.

Whether you’re a college football fan or not, the good times and history are worth a visit to Mountaineer Field.

Address: 1 Ira Errett Rodgers Dr, Morgantown, WV 26505, United States

43. Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences

Analogue Kid at English Wikipedia , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences was established in 2003 as a forerunning arts center.

The nearly 250,000 square foot center is home to performing arts productions, visual arts exhibits and education, and science programs.

The center’s vision is to advance and inspire creativity, discovery, and learning through arts and science.

Situated in the WV capital of Charleston, the center houses a discovery museum, an art museum, and a performance theatre.

The Juliet Art Museum accommodates traveling exhibits from all over the country as well as art from an astounding permanent collection.

Avampato Discovery Museum is three floors of hands-on activities suitable for inquisitive children.

The Caperton Planetarium and Theatre hosts daily intergalactic showings, while the theatre hosts concerts and theatrical performances.

Most notably, however, the center is the home base for the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra.

Finally, this is a superb attraction to visit if you happen to be in the state’s illustrious capital.

Address: 1 Clay Square, Charleston, WV 25301, United States

44. Forks of Cheat Winery

Forks of Cheat Winery

Tucked snugly in the heart of West Virginia’s Appalachian Mountains sits the lovely Forks of Cheat Winery .

Producers of award-winning wines, the winery has been a premium vintner for nearly 20 years.

Remarkably, Forks of Cheat Winery produces over 20,000 gallons of wine each year.

If you’ve ever wanted to tour an exceptional winery without having to travel to the west coast or out of the country, this winery comes highly recommended.

In addition to fine wines, Forks of Cheat Winery is also a purveyor of exceptional moonshine.

Visitors to the winery can enjoy a leisurely tour of the property, dine in the world-class restaurant, or simply enjoy wine tastings with friends and family.

Following your well-spent time at the winery, be sure to purchase a few fine varietals for home.

Whether visiting with friends or family, this lovely winery is sure to please your palette.

Address: 2811 Stewartstown Rd, Morgantown, WV 26508, United States

45. John Brown Wax Museum

William Silver / Shutterstock

Located in the heart of Harpers Ferry sits the John Brown Wax Museum .

Housed in a building at the center of the historical John Brown raid of 1859, the museum is a neat place to visit.

Notably, the wax pieces on exhibit at the museum replicate Civil War-era scenes and people.

The craftsmanship of the wax figures is remarkable and the scenes and poses are extraordinary.

Visiting the museum is a new lens through which you’ll learn about the history of Harpers Ferry and John Brown.

Moreover, the museum tells the story of John Brown’s historical raid through the use of graphics, animatronics, and voice narration that enhances the overall experience.

The museum houses more than 80 life-size figures that leave visitors gobsmacked.

If you’re traveling with history enthusiasts, this exceptional museum is a must-see attraction.

It’s highly educational with a flair for the arts.

Address: 168 High St, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To West Virginia

If you are planning a trip to the Mountain State, you can rest assured that there are plenty of things to do in West Virginia.

With an extraordinary abundance of beautiful, natural, outdoor attractions like hiking trails, mountain climbing, and more, the nature lovers in your group will adore this trip.

If, however, you prefer a more relaxed vacation, there are many resorts, theaters, museums, and more that will suit those desires too.

Essentially, no matter your vacation speed, West Virginia has you covered.

There is so much to do against the backdrop of one of the most scenic and beautiful states in the country that you can be certain your trip will be incredibly memorable.

If you only have the opportunity to visit a handful of the suggestions listed above, you will certainly not be disappointed.

West Virginia delivers on all fronts so plan wisely.

Happy travels.

PRESENTED BY WEST VIRGINIA TOURISM

The essential guide to visiting West Virginia

Here’s everything you need to know about the mountain state’s rushing rivers, Appalachian hikes, and historic cities.

Why you should visit West Virginia  

Towering mountains . Rushing rivers ideal for white-water rafting   (one of National Geographic’s top 20 Best of the World travel adventures for 2024 ). America’s newest national park . Appalachian cuisine   and folk music .

Best time to visit West Virginia

Spring : Late April through May, yellow trout lily, purple larkspur, and other wildflowers frame hiking paths such as the Blackwater River Trail in Canaan Valley Resort State Park , the Stone Cliff Trail in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve , or the Central Trail loop in   Cacapon Resort State Park .   It’s also ramps season , when the foraged wild onions headline on restaurant menus, at the Ramps and Rail Festival in Elkins, and even in allium-forward wine .

Summer : With the highest average elevation east of the Mississippi River, West Virginia often has pleasantly cool summer temperatures. In steamier weather, visitors chill out by white-water rafting on the Lower Gauley or Cheat Rivers or by tubing in the Shenandoah or Potomac Rivers . The West Virginia Waterfall Trail   spotlights cascades in places including Babcock State Park   and   Monongahela National Forest .

July festivals include the Sternwheel Regatta with boat races along the Kanawha River in Charleston and the Contemporary American Theater Festival of new plays in Shepherdstown.

Autumn:   Gauley Season opens 25 miles of the legendary river to rafters   in September and October—arrange a trip with   ACE Adventure Resort   or Adventures on the Gorge . Also thrilling: watching BASE jumpers hurl themselves off of the 3,030-foot long, 876-foot-high New River Gorge Bridge during the Bridge Day festival in Fayetteville.

See September and October’s peak fall foliage on scenic drives, hiking trails, or by riding restored trains, the Potomac Eagle and the New Tygart Flyer .

Winter:   In the eastern part of West Virginia, mountainous terrain (40 peaks above 4,000 feet!) and high average snowfalls attract skiers, sledders, and tubers. Downhill schussers and snowboarders head to Timberline Mountain   and Canaan Valley Ski Resort . Nearby, Blackwater Falls State Park appeals to families with a quarter-mile-long sled run and cabins with wood-burning fireplaces.  

Lay of the land

Cities and towns:   West Virginia is within a day’s drive of nearly two-thirds of the U.S. population. In its eastern panhandle, mountain-framed Berkeley Springs has been a spa town since colonial times and Shepherdstown has Civil War history, restaurants, and shops in rehabbed vintage buildings.  

Along the Monongahela River   in the northern part of the state,   Morgantown is home to scenic covered bridges, museums, and green spaces such as the West Virginia Botanic Garden .

The state capital, Charleston , at the confluence of the Kanawha and Elk Rivers in the southwestern part of the state, has waterside trails, street murals, and the Capitol Market ,   a   food and crafts bazaar in a vintage train station.

Southeast of Charleston in the Appalachian foothills, Beckley has been a coal mining hub since the late 19th century. Visitors can take mine tours or browse for local crafts at the Tamarack cultural center.

In the south central part of the state, Fayetteville ’s breweries, restaurants, and gear shops appeal to adventurers headed to New River Gorge National Park and Preserve next door.  

Parks:   New River Gorge National Park and Preserve opened in 2020 on 72,000 acres of wooded hills, deep ravines, and Appalachian plateau. The 63rd U.S. national park is popular with hikers, rafters, and mountain bikers.  

At the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers in West Virginia’s easternmost corner, Harpers Ferry National Historical Park recreates and preserves the 19th-century railroad town where John Brown staged the 1859 rebellion that sparked the Civil War. The Appalachian National Scenic Trail   crosses through town.

Nearly 80 percent of West Virginia is forested with 27 different tree species. In the state’s north central highlands, the Monongahela National Forest (including the pristine Dolly Sods Wilderness ) covers nearly a million acres ideal for horseback riding, hiking, fishing, rock climbing, and cross-country skiing.

There are 35 state parks and nine state forests, including Coopers Rock State Forest   with its sandstone cliffs ,   and Blackwater Falls State Park with a 57-foot-high waterfall and hiking trails.

Getting around West Virginia

By car:   West Virginia is easily accessible by six interstates. You’ll need a car to explore its scenic highways and backroads. EV charging stations are available in most cities, many towns, and several state parks. Mountain areas may require AWD, 4WD, or chains during snowy weather.

By bus : Megabus has a station in Morgantown; there are Greyhound stations in Charleston, Huntington, Beckley, Bluefield, Morgantown, Fairmont, and Bridgeport.

By train: Amtrak’s   Capitol Limited   train   operates   daily to Harpers Ferry and Martinsburg; the Amtrak Cardinal   runs weekly to White Sulphur Springs, Alderson, Hinton, Prince, Thurmond, Montgomery, Charleston, and Huntington.

In town:   Larger cities and towns have bus service and bike share or rental programs, including the Kanawha Valley Regional Transportation Authority in Charleston, the Tri-State Transit Authority   in Huntington, and Morgantown’s Mountain Line Transit Authority .

Know before you go

Cultural History: West Virginia’s human history begins with nomadic Paleo-Indians who inhabited the area as early as 11,000 B.C. The historic peoples most associated with the region include the Cherokee , Delaware , Shawnee, and Iroquoian-speaking   peoples. Enslaved Africans   were forced to work in areas that include Greenbrier, Monongahela, and Kanawha in the 18th and 19th centuries.

West Virginia is the only state formed as a result of the Civil War , carved out of western Virginia and added to the union by Abraham Lincoln in 1863. The Emancipation Proclamation ended slavery here on February 3, 1865.  

LGBTQ+: Same-sex marriage wasn’t recognized in West Virginia until 2014. The state ranks 31st on Out Leadership’s annual State LGBTQ+ Business Climate Index for 2023. Cities such as Charleston, Morgantown, Huntington, and Harpers Ferry host Pride festivals .

How to visit West Virginia sustainably  

Help preserve habitat by sticking to designated trails and roads and leaving no trace. When visiting public lands , properly extinguish campfires. Eat at locavore restaurants and try foraged foods such as ginseng and ramps.

What to read and watch  

Another Appalachia by Neema Avashia. A queer Asian American teacher and writer hysterically and poignantly details her triumphs and struggles living in West Virginia.

Born in a Ballroom , directed by Clara Lehmann. This documentary introduces viewers to The Hütte —a Swiss restaurants and cultural icon in the remote mountain town of Helvetia—and its spitfire founder, the late Eleanor Mailloux.

Feast of the Seven Fishes directed by Robert Tinnell. Set in a mining town in the 1980s, this 2018 holiday film depicts Italian-American family life.

The Grand Design: A Novel of Dorothy Draper   by Joy Callaway. A historical novel—set at White Sulphur Spring s ’ extravagantly decorated Greenbrier —imagines the life and love story of Draper, the mid-20th-century interior designer who decked out the resort.

Rocket Boys   by Homer Hickam. This memoir set in 1950s Coalwood traces Hickam’s early obsession with Sputnik, which led him to a NASA career. (This also inspired the movie October Sky .)

Related Topics

• NATIONAL PARKS
• HISTORIC SITES

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These 17 Unique Day Trips In West Virginia Are A Must-Do

Rachel Price

A West Virginia girl. A fiancée. A writer. A mother to one. A daughter. A sister to four. A book worm.

More by this Author

One of the best parts about living in West Virginia is the opportunity for adventure. From outdoor attractions to bustling city life, small-town communities, quirky roadside attractions, and historic sites, there’s just no shortage of unique ways to experience the Mountain State. The next time you’re inspired to search for the “best day trips near me in West Virginia,” we hope this list provides some ideas. From beautiful overlooks to iconic landmarks, this list of fun things to do in West Virginia has a little something for every kind of adventurer. Ready to get started? Let’s take a look at some West Virginia day trips!

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The next time you’re searching for West Virginia day trips we hope this list provides some inspiration! What are some of your favorite West Virginia adventures? Be sure to share them with us in the comments below.

For more fun things to do in West Virginia, check out our list of unforgettable West Virginia day trips — there’s one for each month of the year!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Day trips near me in west virginia.

What should I put on my West Virginia bucket list?

A few things to add to your West Virginia bucket list include outdoor adventures, bridge tours, water parks, river tubing, and fall train rides. As you've learned from the article above highlighting some epic day trips in West Virginia, the Mountain State is one that offers endless adventures. When putting together your West Virginia bucket list, be sure to include a variety of activities and attractions. In fact, we've got a few recommendations to help you get started:

• Snowshoe Village in Pocahontas County
• Autumn Breeze Stables at Slaty Fork
• ACE Adventure Resort in Oak Hill,
• Covered Bridge Tour
• Tubing on the Shenandoah River
• Water Ways in Julian
• Audra State Park in Buckhannon
• Byrnside Branch Farm in Union
• Autumn Colors Express Train in Huntington

Learn more about these unforgettable West Virginia adventures !

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Explore West Virginia

Must-see attractions in West Virginia

Seneca Rocks

West Virginia

A striking rock formation rising 900ft above a fork of the Potomac River, Seneca Rocks is one of the most recognizable natural features in the state. Rock…

Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum

Halloween is the busy season at this former mental hospital, when ghost tours of the massive facility will scare the living daylights out of you. The…

New River Gorge Bridge

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

Completed in 1977, the New River Gorge Bridge is the third-highest bridge in the US and the longest single-arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere. Made…

Dolly Sods Wilderness

Red spruce trees, windswept boulders, valley views and boggy forests set a striking scene in the northern reaches of this remote but popular wilderness…

Harpers Ferry National Historic Park

Harpers Ferry

Historic buildings and museums are accessible to those with passes, which can be found, along with parking and shuttles, north of town at the Harpers…

Coopers Rock State Forest

One of the most photogenic spots in all of West Virginia is the main overlook at Coopers Rock. Picture a stone-and-log fence wrapped around a sandstone…

Beartown State Park

A wooden boardwalk drops, climbs and twists for a half-mile through a wonderland of moss-covered boulders in a leafy forest. On the slopes of Droop…

Green Bank Observatory

The enormous Green Bank Telescope is a radio telescope, so you won't be looking at the stars through any lenses here. But you can learn about radio…

Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine

This mine in Beckley, 22 miles south of Fayetteville, is a museum about the region's coal heritage. Visitors can ride a train 1500ft into a former coal…

Hawks Nest State Park

There are hiking trails, a nature center and an aerial tram, which runs from the lodge down to the river's edge for jet boat tours of the river and views…

Blackwater Falls State Park

The falls tumble into an 8-mile gorge lined by red spruce, hickory and hemlock trees. With more than 24 miles of trails, there are loads of hiking options…

Hawks Nest Overlook

An 80yd paved trail leads to a lofty view of the New River. The photogenic rock wall surrounding the overlook was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps…

West Virginia State Museum

The voice of billionaire governor Jim Justice welcomes guests to this engaging museum, where a path winds past exhibit areas spotlighting key moments and…

At the southern end of Potomac St, just a few steps from the lower town, take in a view of three states – Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia – from the…

John Brown Museum

Across from Arsenal Sq and one of the park's museums, this three-room gallery gives a fine overview (through videos and period relics) of the events…

Droop Mountain Battlefield

During the morning hours of November 6, 1863, a small force of Confederate soldiers on the upper slopes of Droop Mountain held off Federal troops…

John Brown Wax Museum

Not to be confused with the National Park–run museum, this private wax museum is a kitschy (and rather overpriced) attraction that pays tribute to the man…

Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge

The 0.4-mile one-way Freedland Boardwalk Trail meanders through wetlands, a shrubland, a beaver pond and a limestone spring. Views of Canaan Valley,…

Cass Scenic Railroad State Park

A lumber mill town in the early 1900s, Cass today is best known as the launch point for the Cass Scenic Railroad (www.mountainrailwv.com). On the popular…

Core Arboretum

Three miles of trails roll through a mix of old growth and planted forest on a hillside that rolls onto the Monongahela River floodplain. if you're in…

State Capitol Building

The 293ft-tall dome of the state capitol building is coated in 23.5-karat gold leaf – and it sure does sparkle on a sunny day. Completed in 1932, the…

Cranberry Mountain Nature Center

The scat exhibit hanging on the wall is quite eye-catching, as are the live snakes inhabiting several terrarriums at this nature center in the southern…

African American History Museum

Part of the national park, this worthwhile, interactive exhibit has narrated stories of hardships and hard-won victories by African Americans from the…

Jefferson Rock

A slab of rock marks the spot where the woods open up to a fine river vista. Known as Jefferson Rock, the formation is named for President Thomas…

The chamber of commerce visitor center sits inside the most striking building in the region: a small house made out of 65 tons of black bituminous coal…

Storer College Campus

Founded immediately after the Civil War, Storer College grew from a one-room schoolhouse for freed slaves to a respected college open to all races and…

Carnegie Hall

Industrialist Andrew Carnegie helped fund this 1902 Colonial Revival performance hall, one of only four Carnegie music halls still in continuous use. Stop…

Matewan Replica Depot Museum & Visitor Center

Inside a replica of the town's original depot, exhibits here cover the Mine Wars, the Matewan Massacre and the Hatfield & McCoy feud. The Paw Paw Massacre…

Babcock State Park

Babcock State Park has hiking, canoeing, horseback riding, and camping and cabin accommodations. The park's highlight is its photogenic Glade Creek Grist…

Master Armorer’s House

Among the free sites in the historic district, this 1858 house explains how rifle technology developed here went on to revolutionize the firearms industry…

Mystery Hole

See gravity and the known limits of tackiness defied at the Mystery Hole, one of the great attractions of roadside America. Everything inside this…

Hatfield & McCoy Country Museum

Spotlights the history of the decades-long feud between the Hatfield and McCoy families, which began soon after the Civil War and raged along the Tug…

Storer College & Niagara Movement

Part of the national park, this small exhibit gives an overview of the groundbreaking educational center at Storer College and the Niagara movement that…

Creel Mound

This 35ft-tall burial mound is one of fifty prehistoric mounds – the Kanawha Valley Mounds – that once stretched along the Kanawha River near present day…

More destinations you need to see

95 Awesome Things to Do in West Virginia

By: Author Melody Pittman

Posted on September 30, 2023

Beyond its lush landscapes and outdoor pursuits, West Virginia boasts an impressive roster of accomplished individuals, such as astronauts, movie stars, Olympic medalists, inventors, musicians, authors, and Pulitzer Prize winners. It may be an underappreciated state, but it exudes beauty, offers world-class outdoor activities, and is home to warm and welcoming people. Discover the state’s wonders with this curated list of 95 awesome things to do in West Virginia, shedding light on why visitors and locals alike adore the Mountain State.

A word from the author: West Virginia, my home state of “Almost Heaven,” holds a special place in my heart after 42 years of residency. Despite often being the target of jokes and negative portrayals, West Virginia is a hidden gem that deserves recognition. It provided my family with a safe haven, ample opportunities, and a vibrant cultural experience. It will always be home.

Table of Contents

1.  Tour the Mystery Hole

The  Mystery Hole  in Ansted on US Route 60 is a unique phenomenon where Earth’s gravity defies convention. Water even flows uphill in this peculiar attraction. The tour offers an enjoyable and distinctive experience, complemented by the scenic drive leading to it. 

It is an opportune moment to capture countless zany photographs! Mystery Hole operates from April to October.

2.  Indulge in Secret Sandwich Society

Fayetteville’s Secret Sandwich Society is a renowned establishment with a captivating ambiance adorned by stunning artwork. It attracts patrons nationwide in search of gourmet sandwiches and live music. Offering a diverse menu inspired by esteemed US Presidents, each item showcases unique and unconventional ingredient pairings.

Indulge in the delectable Pimento Cheese Fries—a sheer delight.

3.  Visit Green Bank’s Observatory

Green Bank’s Observatory  (National Radio Astronomy), located in the NRQZ (National Radio Quiet Zone), is home to the world’s largest 17-million-pound astronomical telescope. This extraordinary scientific marvel is truly awe-inspiring. In addition to the main telescope, the campus also houses several other powerful telescopes. Please note that wireless devices are strictly prohibited on the premises.

Visitors can explore the wonders of the observatory by visiting the accessible Science Center or joining a guided, one-hour bus tour of the campus for a nominal fee of $10 per person.

4.  Go Whitewater Rafting

West Virginia is a premier global river destination, celebrated for its unmatched technicality and stunning scenery, including towering cliffs. It comes as no surprise that countless adventurers journey here to conquer the class 5 and 6 rapids.

Those new to paddling will find solace on the Lower Gauley River, while thrill-seekers will embrace the relentless challenges of the Upper Gauley. These interconnected rivers cascade a remarkable 650 feet within a mere 24 miles. Prepare for an exhilarating ride!

5.  See the Hatfield’s  Cemetery and Devil Anse’s Gravesite

The Hatfields, renowned for their involvement in the infamous Hatfield-McCoy feud, find their final resting place in Sarah Ann of Logan County, West Virginia. The Hatfield family cemetery is a significant historic site that preserves the memory of “Devil Anse.” While accessing the cemetery requires ascending a hillside, wearing suitable footwear and ensuring proper hydration is advisable.

This enduring feud held a special place in the hearts of locals. It was shared worldwide through Kevin Costner’s portrayal of the historical drama, captivating millions of viewers nationwide. For those who wish to delve deeper into the Hatfield-Mccoy legacy, numerous attractions across the state await exploration and immersion.

6. See the Almost Heaven Swings

The “Almost Heaven” swings, popular in picturesque West Virginia locations like state parks, provide opportunities for captivating Instagram photos. With a selfie shelf and clear instructions on capturing the perfect shot, these swings cater to solo travelers and groups alike.

Some of the Almost Heaven swing locations include Babcock State Park, Hatfield-McCoy Trails, Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park, and Philippi Covered Bridge. This tourism initiative embraces our beloved tagline, making it undeniably appealing.

7.  Eat A Decadent Italian Meal at Muriale’s

When seeking a local’s recommendation for Italian cuisine, the favored restaurant is almost always Muriale’s in Fairmont. This iconic eatery showcases a tastefully adorned dining room and bar area, complemented by the friendly services of attentive servers.

While all dishes are noteworthy, I cannot resist the Spicy Sausage Rigatoni or the Manicotti. Muriale’s salad, featuring a blend of onions, cheese, olives, pepperoni, tomatoes, and roasted red peppers, unequivocally steals the spotlight. Such culinary delights make the trip to Fairmont a worthy endeavor.

8.  Play the Dunbar Bingo

The Dunbar Bingo establishment offers high stakes, delightful homemade food, and the opportunity to win amazing prizes. With jackpots of $500 or $1K, this entertaining evening, costing less than $30 for an evening of fun, also supports local school groups.

Join on Saturday nights for the chance to win big while benefiting the community!

9.  Shop the Greenbrier’s Holiday Store

The Christmas Shop  at the Depot, located near the prestigious Greenbrier Resort train station, offers stunning year-round decorations. It is loved for its exquisite ornaments, holiday and seasonal retail items, and beautiful Christmas trees. The Greenbrier Resort in West Virginia has attracted numerous US Presidents and elite guests seeking an exceptional experience.

10.  See a Majestic Waterfall

Kanawha Falls is an awe-inspiring waterfall cascading over sandstone rocks, framed by a brick building on the shore at Glen Farris. Its undeniable beauty makes me take dozens of photos every time I visit. The juxtaposition of the short shelf falls extending across the entire Kanawha River and shimmering behind an aging power plant is truly remarkable.

This location holds the distinction of being one of the most frequently captured scenes in the Mountain State. Situated along the West Virginia Waterfall Trail , it offers an opportunity for travelers to veer off the conventional path and reconnect with nature.

11.  Attend FestivALL’s Jazz & Wine Festival

The University of Charleston, situated along the Kanawha River, hosts the vibrant Wine & Jazz Music Festival during FestiVALL in mid-June. Boaters gather around the school to enjoy renowned jazz musicians, while guests sample wine, beer, and food. With a lively social atmosphere, attendees bring blankets and lawn chairs.

Tickets range from $35 to $45, benefiting the Fund for the Arts.

12. Eat at a Nostalgic Roadside Diner

Burger Carte , situated on I-60 in Smithers, is a distinctive and nostalgic retro eatery renowned for its exceptional burgers, fries, malts, and milkshakes. With limited indoor and ample outdoor seating, it offers a delightful dining experience. Take advantage of a creamy, delicious soft-serve in chocolate, vanilla, or swirl. 

Additionally, Burger Carte’s fish sandwiches are highly enjoyable. Their specialty is the Carte Wheel.

13.  Tube or Kayak the Greenbrier River

Enjoy a serene day on the Greenbrier River with a range of recreational options. Floating in an intertube provides a relaxing experience accessible to all. Canoeing and kayaking are also enjoyable alternatives. Enhance your experience by securing your beer cooler.

Need to rent an intertube? Visit Jack Horner’s Corner in Seebert. We like to get in the water at Stomper’s Creek.

14.  Catch a Thundering Herd Game

Marshall University’s football team is a significant attraction in Huntington, where 40,000 people gather at Joan C. Edwards Stadium to cheer on the  Thundering Herd . Noteworthy football players like Randy Moss and Chad Pennington hail from Marshall. The stadium is the only one in the country bearing a woman’s name.

15.  Go Gambling at Mardi Gras Casino

Mardi Gras Casino & Resort in West Virginia offers premier gambling facilities, including greyhound dog racing, slots, renowned restaurants, live music, a state-of-the-art sportsbook, and a 150-room hotel. Spanning over 60,000 square feet, the casino features over 700 slot machines and 35 table games utilizing the TITO method.

The captivating theme of the establishment is Mardi Gras.

16. Dig into Tasty German Eats at Bahnhof

Get ready to indulge your taste buds at Bahnhof WVrsthaus & Biergarten on 7th Avenue in Huntington. With an incredible selection of 33 beers on tap and a diverse menu, there’s something for everyone. And don’t miss the exquisite homemade cream puffs, available in daily-changing flavors.

No visit to Bahnhof is complete without trying the Barley-Malt Pretzel served with Bavarian mustard, raspberry-wildflower honey butter, and tasty Bacon Deviled Eggs. Come hungry!

17.  Visit West Virginia’s Beautiful State Capitol

West Virginia boasts the most stunning state capital, characterized by its intricate architecture and overshadowed by the 293 ft. gold dome. The state capitol building, adorned with imported marble of 9 different kinds, offers free guided tours daily. It stands as the tallest building in the state.

The West Virginia State Capitol Complex grounds lie adjacent to the picturesque Kanawha River, with the Governor’s Mansion situated nearby.

18.  Tour the Blenko Glass Company

Blenko , a renowned brand of hand-blown glass, has been crafting exquisite pieces in West Virginia since 1893. With a global presence, they offer exceptional factory tours for individuals aged 14 and above, priced at $20 per person. Hour-long tours are available at 9:30 AM, 11:30 AM, and 1:00 PM. Please consult the online calendar for operational dates. Closed-toed shoes are mandatory for entry.

During the tour, experience the mesmerizing craftsmanship of live artisans and explore an array of breathtaking glassware. Additionally, the second floor houses a museum showcasing Blenko’s rich history.

19. Go on a Zipline Adventure

Experience the thrill of navigating the hemlock forest in the New River Gorge with  ACE Adventure Resort’s  exclusive gorge-side zipline tour. Enjoy unparalleled views as you harness up, clip in, and soar through the breathtaking landscape. Night tours offer yet another type of adventure. However, the beginner zipline tour is the most popular for ages eight and up, lasting three to four hours.

Additionally, ACE offers rock climbing, mountain biking, paintball, and hiking trails for those seeking more outdoor activities. Discover the New River Gorge Zipline Tours, perfect for seasoned zipliners and beginners.

20.  Attend a Mountain Stage Concert

Join award-winning country music star host Kathy Mattea at the WV Cultural Center for an exceptional concert recording. “ Mountain Stage ,” West Virginia Public Radio’s acclaimed nationally syndicated show, has thrived in the Kanawha Valley for over 40 years.

The intimate venue showcases four to six artists across alternative, world music, country, indie rock, blues, and folk genres. This highly anticipated live show attracts both locals and visitors alike. Upcoming artists include Joan Osborne, Judy Collins, James McMurtry, and many more.

21. Taste the Brews and Breakfast at Stone Tower Brews

Enjoy a delicious all-day breakfast bowl, such as the DIY Scrambled Egg Bowl with eggs, cheese, turkey sausage, potatoes, and avocado) from Stone Tower Brews in Buchannon. Their offerings include coffee, tea, pastries (from Dough Re Mi), and even craft beer. Do yourself a favor and try the pure perfection Orange creamsicle matcha.

Lunch and dinner are also on the menu. There are two other Stone Tower Brews around the state, in Bridgeport and Morgantown.

22.  Spend the Weekend at Stonewall Resort

Located in the rolling hills of West Virginia, the  Stonewall Resort  is a scenic destination offering a wealth of outdoor activities. With an Arnold Palmer Golf course, patios, lush greens, a fire pit, and stunning scenery, this “Adirondack-style” resort provides a delightful atmosphere complemented by exceptional service. 

Guests can take advantage of the stellar kids program, three on-site restaurants offering chef-inspired dishes, swimming facilities, and a spa. Additionally, the resort’s marina allows renting a boat for added enjoyment.

23.  Shop the Bridge Road Shops

You’ll find the upscale  Bridge Road Shops , formerly the South Hills shops in my former neighborhood. Don’t miss Yarid’s fabulous shoes, Sarah’s Bakery for delectable sweets, Geranium’s for women’s clothing and accessories, and Bridge Road Bistro or 1010 Bridge for exceptional dining. 

These locally owned shops enjoy strong community support.

24.  Picnic and Play at Kanawha State Forest

Kanawha State Forest , a mere seven miles from Charleston, presents an idyllic setting suitable for family picnics, gatherings, and celebrations. Spanning a vast 9300-acre area, it offers playgrounds, hiking trails, mountain biking opportunities, birding, and covered shelters for picnics and parties.

Additionally, KSF’s Spotted Salamander Trail features a pioneering wheelchair-accessible playground and trail, complete with interpretive nature signs and guide ropes. Pets are also welcome to enjoy this exceptional natural haven in West Virginia.

25. Take the Kids to a Top-Notch Children’s Museum

Parkersburg’s newest mind-blowing offering, Discovery World on Market , is an aesthetically pleasing attraction with interactive displays and captivating exhibits covering history, science, and adventure. It aims to be the leading regional STEAM destination in the Mid-Ohio Valley.

With a ball factory, design studio, and impressive interactive local animal habitat transitioning seamlessly from morning to night, this museum truly leaves an unforgettable impression.

26.  See the Mothman Statue

Mothman, the creature with the glowing red eyes, singlehandedly terrorized the town of Point Pleasant, plus a movie ( The Mothman Prophecies ) was made about it. You can explore the Mothman Museum and photograph the legendary cryptid sculpture minutes off the highway. 

27.   Explore the Rich and the Famous at Blennerhassett

Embark on a picturesque voyage aboard the Island Belle Sternwheeler to the historic  Blennerhassett Island State Park  in Parkersburg. Once steeped in opulence, this site drew visits from renowned figures like Henry Clay, Walt Whitman, Aaron Burr, and Daniel Boone. 

Explore the grand mansion, traverse the property on foot, or opt for a guided tour via horse-drawn wagons or your own bicycle. Adult wagon rides are priced at $9, while mansion tours cost $5, with bundle options available for savings. Kindly note that tickets are purchasable at 137 Juliana Street.

28. Take a Train Ride in a Parlor Car

Experience the vintage diesel-powered Tygart Flyer of the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad in Elkins. Embark on a four-hour adventure to the stunning High Falls of Cheat River. Indulge in a parlor car for impeccable service, beverages, souvenirs, and a delightful lunch.

The scenic train journey offers breathtaking mountain vistas, captivating “S” curves, and enjoyable moments for the entire family. I recommend making reservations; tickets range from $75 to $92 per adult.

29. Dine Al Freso in White Sulphur Springs

Indulge in a delightful experience dining al fresco at  50 East Restaurant and Tavern  in White Sulphur Springs. The streetscape view is fantastic and the perfect spot to bring your dog. 

I savored a delicious garlic linguine with grilled shrimp, while my husband opted for the pecan-crusted chicken. Both dishes were delicious, and we were provided excellent service. The salad, with shaved carrots and homemade dressings, was also noteworthy. Kudos to the 50 East Restaurant for their attention to detail and culinary excellence.

30. Check Out Hovatter’s Wildlife Zoo

When you visit Hovatter’s Wildlife Zoo in Preston County, prepare for an extraordinary experience. With 30 years of operation, from April to October, the admission fee of $12.99 per adult and $10.99 for children is unmatched compared to other zoos I have visited.

Hovatter’s well-marked and manicured grounds showcase a diverse range of animals, including leopards, baboons, buffalos, camels, ring-tailed lemurs, monkeys, giraffes, grizzly bears, lions, and more.

Pro Tip : Get animal feed bags from the gift shop and adhere to the signs at each animal enclosure indicating permissible food options. Feed the animals only what is recommended.

31.  Bike the Greenbrier River Trail

This reclaimed railroad track turned bike trail starts at White Sulfur Springs and ends 80 miles later at Cass Scenic Railroad. The  Greenbrier River Bike Trail  is perfect for walking, riding bikes or horses, and enjoying nature. It also offers designated spots to stop, rest, or jump in the river for a quick cool down.

32.  Visit the Pearl S. Buck Birthplace

Visit the Pearl S. Buck Birthplace Museum in Hillsboro, a historic home turned museum. Buck, a distinguished author born in 1892, holds the honor of being the first American woman to win both the Pulitzer Prize and the Nobel Prize for Literature.

Located in the scenic Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia, this charming location offers a blend of country charm and stunning mountain views. The museum is part of the Quilt Trail of Pocahontas County. It is open for visits every Friday and Saturday from Mother’s Day through the end of October.

33.  Hear Music and Drink Beer at Purple Fiddle

Located in Thomas, WV, The  Purple Fiddle  is one of West Virginia’s top live music venues. This smoke-free facility has gained popularity since its opening in 2002, contributing to the increased interest in the small coal town. 

Indulge in the impressive craft beer selection and savor the Wild Turkey Wrap or Avocado Toast. Please note that they are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

34. Attend a Free Riverfront Concert in Charleston

Enjoy live outdoor concerts at Live on the Levee in Charleston every Friday evening from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Set against the serene Kanawha River at Haddad Riverfront Park, this family-friendly event offers free entertainment. Indulge in street food and beverage options, or arrive by boat for a more exclusive experience.

Proceeds from the event benefit Manna Meal, YWCA, Covenant House, and other charities.

35. Go Caving and Gemstone Mining

Explore the 4.5 million-year-old  Seneca Caverns , 165 feet deep, to witness remarkable geological formations such as stalagmites, stalactites, and flowstone. Tours are available on weekends, from 10 AM to 5 PM, at this captivating attraction established in 1928. Tickets are priced at $15 for ages 13 and above and $10 for ages 5 to 12.

West Virginia’s most famous caving system also provides gemstone mining.

36.  Walk a Famous  Civil War Battlefield

Explore the historic  Droop Mountain Battlefield , the last major American Civil War conflict site. Located in Pocahontas County at an elevation of 3104 feet, this atmospheric destination offers unique roads and awe-inspiring scenery. 

Droop Mountain Battlefield hosts reenactments in October. It provides amenities such as hiking trails, picnic shelters, and play areas year-round and is part of The Civil War Discovery Trail.

Fun Fact : Droop Mountain was West Virginia’s first state park.

37. Enjoy An Old-School Italian Meal at Chirico’s

Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at Chirico’s Ristorante in Logan, WV. A cherished family-owned establishment since the 1980s, this renowned restaurant offers authentic, generously portioned, and flawlessly prepared Italian dishes.

Indulge in delectable chicken parm, lasagna, pizza baked spaghetti, and chicken broccoli Alfredo, but leave space for their heavenly signature dessert, the Original Brickle.

38.  Check Out Cool Murals

Downtown Charleston boasts captivating murals, including the white elk in the newer Elk City on Charleston’s West side. Other notable artworks include the West Side Wonder, Greetings from Charleston community postcard, San Francisco mural, and the many pillars under the I-64 underpass.

39.  Drive Through Festival of “Christmas” Lights

One of America’s  top-rated Christmas  light displays is Oglebay Park’s Winter Festival of Lights in Wheeling. The popular event has been going strong since 1985. This six-mile drive, featuring 300 acres of lights and displays, was voted one of the ten best Christmas light displays in the US by AOL Travel.

40. Take the Iconic Drive to Hawks Nest State Park

Hawks Nest State Park  offers captivating views, wildlife, an aerial tram, hiking, and a jet boat adventure. Affordable rooms are available, along with a commendable restaurant. Enjoy the Midland Trail Route I-60 journey from Charleston, where you’ll encounter breathtaking views, waterfalls, and iconic attractions. 

Be ready to capture the essence of this extraordinary road trip adventure.

41.  Explore Historic Harpers Ferry

John Brown’s Fort, located at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park , served as a stronghold during the notorious raid that ignited the American Civil War. The stunning vistas captivate nearly one million annual visitors.

Plan an entire day to immerse in the experience. Opt for parking at the Visitor Center and utilize the shuttle service to avoid parking hassles. Ghost tours are also offered.

42.  Drive Across a World-Famous Bridge

Once the world’s longest single-span arch bridge, it is now the third, but still a beauty to behold. The New River Gorge Bridge is part of the National Parks Services (a second one in West Virginia), so be sure to get your passport stamped. 

If you are keying in an address, enter the Canyon Rim Visitor’s Center, or you could end up somewhere else in the 72K acres.

43.  Play at a Retro Amusement Park

Camden Park, the sign of the happy clown, is a cheesy but enjoyable small amusement park established in 1902. Crowd favorite rides include the Big Dipper, Paratrooper, and Rattler. Long-time visitors will remember pronto pups (which you can still buy today) and the roller rink.

44.  Stroll Through A World-Class Arts Center

Tamarack is a huge artisan center full of quality West Virginia handicrafts and artwork in Beckley, conveniently located off the WV Turnpike. You’ll find locally-made gourmet foods, toys, craft beer, and much more in the impressive selection, as well as thousands of upscale arts and crafts.

The onsite cafeteria offering delicious food and drinks. Try the fried green tomatoes or signature peach bread pudding.

45.  Eat a Life-Changing Biscuit From Tudor’s

Tudor’s  is practically a state institution, with a tasty breakfast menu and down-home lunch and dinner favorites. My picks are the Ron on toast (egg, cheese, sausage) and Peppy (pepperoni and melted cheese), but the new breakfast burritos and long-time favorite pancakes should not be ignored. 

FYI : The real name is Biscuit World, but the locals only know it as Tudor’s. 

46.  Indulge in a Healing Spa

Berkeley Springs offers private walk-in tubs with 102° mineral waters, renowned as one of the nation’s oldest healing spas, frequented by George Washington himself. I indulged in the rejuvenating Old Roman baths, meticulously updated while preserving centuries-old traditions.

A worthwhile investment in self-care, this experience epitomizes luxury and relaxation.

47.  Tour the JQ Dickinson Salt Works

JQ Dickinson is a highly sought-after salt brand produced by a seven-generation family of salt-makers. Harvested from the ancient Iapetus Ocean beneath the Appalachian Mountains, this rare small-batch finishing salt is renowned for its unique mineral composition. Available in upscale stores nationwide, the 200-year-old business has successfully revived itself with this exquisite product.

For an immersive experience, visitors can tour the facility located in Malden, West Virginia, and indulge in their decadent caramel sauce and salts.

48.  See a Concert at Clay Center

The Clay Center,  Charleston’s premier performance hall , hosts diverse big-name entertainment, concerts, Broadway shows, and comedy acts. The calendar features an array of events that cater to all tastes. Notable performances have included Jason Mraz, Blondie, and Peter Frampton, with upcoming shows such as Jesus Christ Superstar, Whose Live Anyway, Ashley McBryde, and the West Virginia Symphony.

Furthermore, the  Clay Center  accommodates a children’s museum, art gallery, and planetarium and serves as a music venue.

49.  Tour Historic Homes of Bramwell

Once the wealthiest neighborhood in West Virginia, Bramwell is a delight to explore. About ten historical homes open their doors to the public once a year in spring for this popular event in the super cute and friendly town.

Be sure to see the Millionaire Row on Main Street.

50.  Take a Tour of the Palace of Gold

Experience the grandeur of  Prabhupada’s Palace of Gold , adorned with shimmering 24-carat gold temples crafted by the Hare Krishna community—the opulent interior features over 50 types of marble and onyx, stained glass windows and mirrored ceilings. The surrounding grounds exude the charm of an Indian Kingdom, boasting lush gardens and picturesque waterfalls. 

Don’t miss the captivating lotus pond!

The Palace of Gold is open from March to December, offering daily tours every 30 minutes from the main Palace lobby entrance. Please note that photography is not permitted during the tour. Ticket prices are $12 for adults and $7 for children aged 6 to 12.

51.  Eat the WV State Food

Pepperoni rolls are tasty  hand-held treats  invented in Fairmont, West Virginia, in the 1940s by a man from Italy who came to work in the coal mines. The pepperoni is wrapped in billowy bread and is the official state food of West Virginia. 

Once you try one, you’re hooked.

52. Feast on a West Virginia Hot Dog

Indulge in a traditional West Virginia hot dog at  Dave’s Famous T&L Hot Dogs , with seven locations across the state. Experience a nostalgic ambiance while savoring delectable hot dogs, hand-cut fries, homemade slaw, hand-scooped ice cream, and thick shakes. T&L offers affordability, and the food is quite magnificent.

53.  Tour a Famed Mental Hospital

The Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum , a historic stone psychiatric hospital, operated for 130 years and surpassed all others in lobotomies conducted. Now designated as a National Historic Landmark, it offers intriguing tours renowned for its haunted reputation.

Popular TV shows like “Ghost Adventures” on the Travel Channel and “Ghost Hunters” on Syfy have tried, but failed, to explain the multitude of witnessed hauntings. Tours, including night-time sessions and Civil War-themed explorations, are available. Choose from multiple types of heritage, history, or ghost tours from April 4th to November 12th.

54. Try West Virginia Chocolates

You will thoroughly enjoy visiting the renowned  Holl’s Swiss Chocolates  in Vienna or the Capitol Market in Charleston, WV. These exquisite hand-crafted Swiss chocolates are perfect for any occasion and come in various gift boxes. 

Among my favorites are the Mountaineer Maple Truffle and the passion fruit. They offer a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience! Holl’s also offers premium coffee, chocolate-dipped strawberries, and a selection of wines to complement your chocolate preferences. Additionally, there are sugar-free options available.

55. Ride Through an Exhibition Coal Mine

West Virginia thrived on coal for many years. At this attraction, guests ride through a vintage mine in an actual coal car. Although the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine ceased operation in 1953, tours commenced nine years later. The site now features a museum and historic coal camp buildings, including a church, school, superintendent house, and company house. 

It is common for folks my age to have visited the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine on school field trips. Great memories. 

56.  Check Out the Quilt Trail

Visit Monroe County and drive the Quilt Trail to see iconic quilt patterns on the sides of barns. A few of the examples of the designs are a wedding, log cabin, shoo-fly, and Dresden plate. There are more than 60 along the drive.

57. Spend a Day at a Water Park

Water Ways  is an 88-mile water park in Boone County and a major tourist attraction. Bring the whole family for plenty of fun with water slides, a lazy river, an Olympic-sized pool, miniature golf, and picnic facilities. Coolers are even allowed.

58. Feast at The Oak at Pipestem

The Oak, a beautiful restaurant in Pipestem, WV, provides stunning lake and farm views. Every detail at The Oak exudes sophistication, from the elegant tableware to the homemade dinner rolls and culinary specials. The owners cherish the venue, as it holds sentimental value – it’s where they exchanged vows nearly 30 years ago under a majestic oak tree.

Meal suggestions include the baked Brie with a medley of berries, and the Pork Medallions served with apple slaw and the daily vegetable. The Surf & Turf looked excellent, too, and is a popular choice. Save room for the signature peppermint ice cream.

59.   Honor John Henry’s Legend

John Henry, an American folk hero and African-American freedman, is renowned as a “steel-driving man” who hammered steel drills into rock for railroad tunnel construction. His legendary duel against a drilling machine inspired a classic blues folk song. This iconic tale has been immortalized in various versions and in stories, plays, books, and novels.

Explore the park dedicated to this WV hero in Talcott and discover the spirit of John Henry.

60. Eat the Tallest Ice Cream Ever

Enjoy delectable ice cream treats at Dairy Creme Corner in Fairmont. This popular establishment offers an extensive menu featuring a variety of dessert and ice cream combinations. They even have the nostalgic crunch coat from the 70s, which is as delightful as ever.

With the most enormous cones in town, their creations are yummy and impressive in size. Eat with caution; they melt quickly.

61.  Climb the State’s Most Famous Rocks

Situated in Grant County, Seneca Rocks boasts imposing rock “fins” that soar over 300 feet from a hillside, making it a haven for accomplished climbers. Additionally, the climbing school, which has been operating for four decades, further solidifies Seneca Rocks’ status as a destination for serious climbers.

62.  Eat Great Pizza at Pies and Pints

Pies and Pints  is my preferred pizza joint due to its delectable offerings and unique ability to split a large pizza into two combinations, perfect for sharing. Moreover, Pies & Pints boasts an excellent happy hour (M- F, 3-6 PM) and an extensive selection of draft beers. Don’t miss their impressive appetizers, such as the Pork & Pepper Nachos.

Looking for pizza recommendations? You can’t go wrong with the Steak and Mushroom or the heavenly Grape and Gorgonzola options. Visit the original Pies and Pints in Fayetteville or explore one of their many franchised locations nationwide.

63. Tour the State Pen

The  West Virginia Penitentiary  in Moundsville, known for its 100-year run as one of the nation’s most dangerous facilities, is a place visitors love exploring. As I toured the premises, I couldn’t help but feel heartbroken witnessing the living conditions and hearing about the madness within those walls. 

However, it wasn’t just the inmates who suffered; the underpaid employees also faced immense challenges and often had to take matters into their own hands. The facility’s haunting history, with 998 inmates losing their lives to violence, abuse, or suicide, further added to the sense of unease. It’s no wonder that this site has been featured in numerous movies and TV shows.

For those who dare, spending a night in complete darkness with the guidance of two tour guides nearby offers a unique and chilling experience.

64. Step Back into Frontier Life at Twin Falls State Park

Twin Falls Resort State Park , located in Wyoming County’s rugged mountains, is a hidden gem amongst state parks. Explore the stunning natural beauty or indulge in a stay at the property. Take advantage of the opportunity to visit the Pioneer Farm House for an authentic glimpse into frontier life, complete with livestock and a bountiful vegetable garden. 

The park boasts 25 miles of scenic trails, an 18-hole golf course, and an exceptional restaurant.

65. Browse a Great Art Museum

The Huntington Museum of Art offers a diverse collection showcasing various art forms. From monumental Dale Chihuly glass sculptures to renowned paintings by Picasso, Lichtenstein, and Rauschenberg, the gallery presents a captivating array of artistic expressions.

Additionally, the museum boasts the remarkable Herman P. Dean Firearms Collection and a splendid Botanical Garden featuring a global assortment of plants. Prepare to be enthralled by the museum’s rich and exquisite offerings.

66. Do Some Rural Farmhouse Shopping

While driving through the countryside, one may unexpectedly stumble upon a charming farmhouse amidst green fields, cattle, and endless blue skies. A glance at the professionally crafted signs, patriotic embellishments, and welcoming porch instantly hints at the delightful experience that awaits.

Inside Farmhouse Studio lies an exquisitely curated collection. It stands as a premier shopping destination, housing an abundant selection of gourmet foods, diverse t-shirts, fine jewelry, captivating books, exquisite wines, tasteful home decor, and much more.

Visit their website for in-person events, such as wine tastings and book signings. It is also worth mentioning that the sweet owner will undoubtedly win your heart.

67. Eat All the Pastries

Nu-Era Bakery is a formidable presence in downtown Logan. With 83 years of establishment, it offers an array of delectable pastries, cookies, pies, muffins, doughnuts, and pepperoni rolls. The freshly baked cakes, selling out daily, are kept in a separate cooler.

Drawing from my own nostalgic experience of indulging in these homemade delights, I highly recommend making a detour right to their front door.

68. Visit the WV State Museum

On the WV Capitol Complex Grounds is the  WV State Museum  (or Culture Center if you are a local), a treasure trove of exciting exhibits about the history of the Mountain State, famous industries, people, art, customs, cultures, and glassware. It is a really well-done museum with lots of information; it is perfect for the whole family. And it’s free! 

69.  Stroll Historic Downtown Lewisburg

Lewisburg, nestled in Greenbrier County , embodies the spirit of a quaint countryside town, distinguishing itself with a unique hipster charm. Its main street showcases award-winning galleries, upscale shops, boutiques, and delectable dining establishments. Here, you can explore a variety of offerings, such as gourmet foods, women’s apparel, outdoor gear, books, wine, antiques, and more.

Noteworthy features include a pristine park, Carnegie Hall, a historic Civil War cemetery, and beautifully adorned flower arrangements.

If you visit in April, don’t miss the Annual Chocolate Festival .

70.  Go To WV’s Highest Point : Spruce Knob

Spruce Knob is the highest point in West Virginia, reaching 4863 feet. The panoramic views are exceptional, particularly if the fog is absent. The drive to the site is awe-inspiring, yet not recommended for the faint-hearted. For an even more remarkable experience, venture to the Observation Tower to witness breathtaking 360-degree views.

71. Browse a Local Bookstore

Bibliophiles gather at Cicada Books , an intriguing and vibrant bookstore in Huntington’s Central City Antiques District. This charming shop showcases thousands of handpicked new and many secondhand books, accompanied by a delightful coffee and sweet shop.

Additionally, Cicada Books hosts various community events, including board game nights, film screenings, and book signings. Note: Cicada Books is closed on Mondays.

72.  Shop the Capitol Market

Charleston’s premier fresh-food destination, located in a turn-of-the-century train station, captivates visitors with its exposed brick and trendy decor. The main attractions at Capitol Market are the outdoor vendor stalls (weather permitting), onsite restaurants, coffee shop, and local merchants. Additionally, seasonal items, like Christmas trees and pumpkins, are available.

The WV Marketplace offers an array of local items, while the Wine & Cheese Shop provides the best party necessities. The Purple Onion offers gourmet foods and grab-and-go options, while Soho’s Italian Restaurant offers a delicious lunch or dinner. For a perfect coffee experience, visit Mea Cuppa and try their Velvet Elvis.

Capitol Market hosts a variety of events, including mixers, fairs, cooking demonstrations, cook-offs, and holiday celebrations.

73.  See Living History

Huntington’s Heritage Farm Museum & Village showcases Appalachian life, culture, and the contributions of West Virginia’s industries. The property features authentic period structures, including a log church, blacksmith shop, Maker Space, plus the Discovery Zone Playground for kids.

Recently recognized as West Virginia’s first Smithsonian Affiliate Institution, the property includes museums on progress, transportation, education, heritage, and Bowes doll and carriage. Regular operating hours are May-October: Thursdays-Saturdays, with a Christmas Village on the first two weekends of December.

Admission is $17 for adults and $10-$12 for children over 4.

74.  Shop for Discounted Fiestaware

The Flatwoods outlet mall houses a Homer Laughlin China Co. Fiestaware shop offering substantial discounts on this renowned West Virginia pottery. Discover a vast selection of Fiestware dishes, including retired pieces and new additions.

Keep an eye out for the popular tent sale that attracts visitors and U-Hauls from around the nation. Were you aware of West Virginia’s role in producing these cherished dishes?

75.  Drool Over Dessert 

Morgantown’s  Terra Cafe  features drool-worthy, Instagram-worthy, and get-in-my-belly pastries of all types: cupcakes, cookies, pies, cake, and more. Then, they also have excellent coffee, tea, and espresso to pair them with. You’ll love the spacious dining area connected to their main eatery with an outdoor patio. 

76.  Escape to the Mountains for the Weekend

The Morning Glory Inn , located near Snowshoe Mountain, Green Bank Observatory, and the Greenbrier River Trail, offers a charming mountain retreat with excellent amenities. Enjoy a serene getaway in the Appalachian mountains at this remarkable property.

Amenities include weekend breakfast service, snacks, Wi-Fi, coffee, streaming services, a biker-friendly wash station, secure storage, and pet-friendly facilities. The 13-acre property is nestled in the tranquil Appalachian mountains.

77.  Explore Cranberry Glades

Cranberry Glades, a geologic and botanic anomaly, houses plants typically found hundreds of miles north. A boardwalk provides a stroll through the glades, where wild cranberries, pitcher plants, and orchids captivate visitors.

Don’t miss the interesting and well-appointed Cranberry Mountain Nature Center nearby.

78. See Madonna on the Trail

Familiar with Madonna on the Trail monuments? These sculptures by August Leimbach form a 12-monument series from Maryland to California, honoring the spirit of U.S. pioneer women. The West Virginia monument is a National Historic Landmark commissioned by the NSDAR. It can be found on the National Road in Wheeling.

79. Dive Into a Magnificent Dinner at 1010 Bridge

Charleston’s hotspot,  1010 Bridge Restaurant , offers farm-to-table local cuisine and chef-inspired creations. Begin with the creamy White Pimento Cheddar Cheese and Bacon Wrapped Dates. No matter which entrée you choose, it will be sensational, but save room for the palate-pleasing desserts. 

Reservations are recommended.

Fun Fact: Chef Paul Smith was a 2023 James Beard Award finalist.

80.  Indulge in a Luxury Stay

The beautiful and historic (circa 1925)  Hotel Morgan  in Morgantown, WV, is a memorable experience. With its elegant lobby and stunning chandeliers, you’ll be captivated when you step inside. The sophisticated rooms offer style and functionality, providing an exceptional user experience. 

Anvil + Ax is the onsite coffee and cocktail bar.

81. Pay Homage to the Iconic Big Boy

Charleston’s West Side features a tribute to the iconic Big Boy of Shoney’s restaurant fame. In 1947, on this very spot, the Parkette Drive-In and Bowling Alley was established by Alex and Betty Schoenbaum, notable philanthropists of the state.

Soon after, they acquired the Southeastern U.S. franchise rights for the Big Boy hamburger chain, which marked the beginning of their remarkable run in the restaurant business. At its peak, Shoney’s boasted 1,300 locations across 34 states.

82.  See the Historic Grist Mill

Babcock State Park , one of West Virginia’s premier destinations, encompasses over 4000 acres of picturesque beauty. The park is home to the iconic Glade Creek Grist Mill, a favorite among photographers. With abundant opportunities for fishing and hiking, it offers an excellent escape into nature.

Additionally, Babcock State Park features 28 vacation rental cabins.

83.  See an Outdoor Drama

Experience a live show at Theatre West Virginia , located in the serene outdoor setting of Grandview. Enjoy the captivating performance of “Honey in the Rock,” a long-running production that showcases the rich history of West Virginia since 1955. Don’t miss upcoming shows like Hatfields and McCoys and Rocket Boys: The Musical, as well as summer concerts.

With a picturesque view of the New River Gorge and a meticulously crafted amphitheater, thousands have been enchanted by these thrilling outdoor dramas.

84. Get a Taste of Hinton

Located in downtown Hinton, WV, Lucky Rivers Cafe offers a unique dining experience. This vegan and vegetarian-friendly eatery features locally sourced, conscious cuisine with Appalachian influence. The Bohemian-style atmosphere exudes an eclectic charm.

Lucky Rivers Cafe’s menu reflects its commitment to providing health-conscious options while embracing new flavors and cultures. A popular choice is the Buddha Belly Bowl, but the Sunshine Salad, with goat cheese, roasted sweet potatoes, and candied pecans, is also highly recommended.

85. Tour a Famous Mansion

The Oglebay Mansion, located within the  Oglebay Resort  property, welcomes visitors for a nominal fee of $10 or $15, including the Glass Museum. Explore 13-period rooms tracing Wheeling’s history from its early settlement to the opulent Edwardian era. Additionally, encounter the Wymer General Store and Sinclair Pharmacy collections, alongside displays of American furniture, china, silver, glass, and toys. 

Oglebay Mansion Museum holds the distinction of being WV’s first accredited museum by the American Association of Museums. It once served as the elegant estate of Earl W. Oglebay, an industrialist from Cleveland.

86. Get Out on the Water With Inflatables

West Virginia State Park’s newest trend is the addition of entertaining inflatables, enhancing the excitement of their lake settings. Pipestem Resort State Park, the premier destination in Pipestem, WV, appeals to both those seeking serenity and, now more so, families looking for a fun getaway.

For a reasonable price, visitors can enjoy the  Adventure Lake and Splash Park  all-day pass, priced at $19 per person from mid-May through early September. This pass provides access to a range of activities, including climbing giant inflatable mountains, slides, trampolines, and a jumping pillow in the lake. 

Paddleboat rentals and beach areas are also available. Adults are welcome to join the fun.

87.   Shop at a Five and Dime

Step back in time and experience the nostalgia of  Berdine’s Five and Dime  in Cairo, WV. This classic five-and-dime store will wow you with a vast assortment of toys, gifts, souvenirs, books, and penny candy. I can guarantee you will fall into this treasure trove’s rabbit hole. 

88. Stay in a Retro Roadside Motel

The  Koolwink Motel  in Romney, WV, is a charming, retro roadside attraction. The authentic furnishings provide a trendy and cool atmosphere. The spacious rooms are affordable, and the hospitality is fast and friendly. The inside features shag carpet, clown wall hangings, vintage coffee tables, and other antiques, while the outdoor chairs complement the natural setting, ideal for outdoor picnics. 

Since 1936, the Koolwink has been a family-owned establishment. It’s simply adorable!

89. Learn about WV’s Amazing Glass Industry

West Virginia’s captivating glass heritage is showcased at the  Museum of American Glass  in Weston. This free museum offers an enjoyable opportunity to explore various local, national, and international glasswares. Visitors can easily navigate the countless exhibits with its well-organized displays and labels.

90. Dine in a Historic Bank Building

The Vault on Main has transformed the downtown Summersville streets, blending culinary excellence with architectural beauty. Chef Libby Nolle’s tantalizing menu showcases the high-end farm-to-table concept, while live music and a hidden speakeasy downstairs create an unforgettable dining experience.

90. Find This Hidden Gem

Chestnut Ridge Artist Colony, nestled on pristine land in Spencer, WV, boasts the renowned Chestnut Ridge Winery. A haven for wine enthusiasts, this exquisite locale offers tastings, live music, and meet-ups with friends. The area houses world-renowned artists, while a nondescript sculpture park along the scenic route adds to its unique charm.

The mountain’s elevated vantage point showcases breathtaking city views, with numerous remarkable metal artworks for visitors to appreciate – all free.

92. Stroll Around Downtown Shepherdstown

Explore Shepherdstown’s German Street for locally-owned boutiques, independent restaurants, and unique entertainment. Chain stores are absent in this historic area, creating an opportunity to discover charming spots like Four Seasons Books, Rock Hill Creamery, Lost Dog Coffee, Creative Procrastinations, Mountaineer Popcorn, and the Press Room. You can spend hours delving into this colorful area.

93. Splash Around in Raleigh County

Lake Stephens  in Raleigh County offers tons of fun, weather permitting. The 272-acre pristine mountain lake provides a swimming area. At the same time, the bold and colorful children’s Sprinkler Splash Pad adds excitement to this popular property. 

Enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, and boating, with amenities such as a marina, concession stand, beach, and Aqua Water Park. RV spaces, tent camping, and cabin rentals are available.

94. Attend America’s Favorite Pastime

Join a  Charleston Dirty Birds  game at the stunning GoMart Ballpark in downtown Charleston. With a seating capacity of 4,500, this state-of-the-art facility was built at a cost of $25 million. 

Enjoy interactive activities, entertainment, and the Power Fun Zone during the games. Please be aware that this is a cashless venue. GoMart Ballpark also offers exciting promotions, such as sunrise and after-game yoga, furry friend Fridays, and fireworks after every Saturday game.

95. Hit the Country’s Best ATV Trails

The  Hatfield-McCoy Trails  system in West Virginia is renowned as one of the finest in the nation. People come from far and wide (literally all over the country and world) to visit rural WV to experience these exceptional outdoor adventures. 

With 11 already established trails in the historically coal-producing areas of the state, there is no shortage of thrilling rides. The trails are meticulously maintained, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Exciting plans are underway to expand the trail system further due to high demand.

I’ve been on the Bearwallow (Logan) and Indian Ridge (Ashland) Trails and can attest to how incredible they are. I even saw a bear!

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I only listed 95 reasons but I can give you Why you should visit… – West Virginia

Sunday 10th of December 2017

[…] I only listed 95 reasons but I can give you more…. Why you should visit West Virginia, the Mountain State. Click here for original. […]

brett Mattson

Monday 10th of October 2016

My family and I are looking at transferring from Florida to West Virginia. After reading this article, I can say it definitely helps me make my decision to move to WV. Now to find a good city to live in that is centrally located so I can enjoy all of these things. Sounds Awesome.

MelodyPittman

Friday 14th of October 2016

Awesome! It was definitely a great place to live and bring our daughters up. There is so much beauty and outdoor adventures to see and do. Good luck! I hope it all works out for you.

Saturday 24th of September 2016

Don't forget about the hatfield mccoy trails and Chief Logan state park along with Cabwaylingo state park.

Monday 26th of September 2016

Yes, great suggestions. ;)

Jamie Italiane

Tuesday 14th of June 2016

Who knew? I love caves, so I must now add this state to places that I want to visit!

So many great things to see and do! I hope you make it!

Renne Simpson

Friday 11th of March 2016

The caves and the state park would probably be my faves...oh and all the food places you mentioned, yum!

Saturday 12th of March 2016

Thanks! Lots of fun things to see and do. ;)

Top Things to Do in West Virginia, United States - West Virginia Must-See Attractions

Things to do in west virginia, explore popular experiences, popular cities in west virginia.

Ways to tour West Virginia

National Park Whitewater Rafting in New River Gorge WV

New River Gorge Zip Lining

New River Gorge ATV Adventure Tour

New River Gorge, WV Adventure Waterpark - Full Day

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Charleston Let’s Roam Treasure Hunt:West Virginia’s Cultural Crown!

Lower New River Whitewater Rafting Trip

Half Day New River Gorge Whitewater Rafting

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Lower Gauley River Whitewater Rafting Trip

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What travellers are saying

The Weekend Getaway Guide to West Virginia

You’ve probably heard John Denver’s timeless classic “Take Me Home, Country Roads” a million times, but have you ever actually visited West Virginia? The state has a lot to offer, including the nation’s newest National Park! It’s also an adventure-lover’s paradise, which is really what attracted me to visit. West Virginia is known for its outdoor activities such as whitewater rafting, 1,000 miles of off-road ATV trails, rock climbing, caving, mountain biking, and loads more. And since I love adventure travel, I just had to see it all for myself! Whether you want to fly in or plan a quick road trip from a nearby state, here are my tips for a quick West Virginia getaway!

Disclaimer: This post is in partnership with the West Virginia Department of Tourism and contains affiliate links. Thanks for supporting Ready Set Jet Set!

Table of Contents

Getting to West Virginia

Since I was coming from Austin, I ended up flying in and out of Charleston, WV, which was an easy enough spot to start and end from. For example, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is only a little over an hour’s drive from Charleston. We rented a car from there and then we were off.

Visiting New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

New River Gorge National Park is definitely worth being a part of any West Virginia itinerary. Even if you only have time for a quick visit, try to fit in one of their scenic hikes like the Endless Wall Trail or Long Point Overlook, which is probably the best view of the bridge that you’ll get. Near the visitor center, you can also take the boardwalk steps down for a more up-close view of the New River Gorge Bridge. Bonus – this National Park is actually free! While I didn’t get to do this, if you have the time, I recommend going whitewater rafting here as West Virginia is known for having the greatest density of whitewater in the U.S.

Hiking Endless Wall Trail

This is a great hike with a nice payoff view for most levels of hikers. I recommend hiking to Diamond Point and using that as a turnaround spot instead of completing the full trail. Out-and-back to Diamond Point is only around 2 miles total, with only a couple hundred feet of elevation change. When you get to Diamond Point, you’ll have amazing views over the river and gorge, the bridge looking back one way, and the cliffs that give it the name “Endless Wall”. It’s also very likely you’ll spot climbers along the cliffs as this is a popular rock climbing spot!

Hiking Long Point Overlook

I’m really glad we made the time to do this hike since it’s arguably the most iconic viewpoint in the entire park. In total, the hike is about 3 miles round-trip, with 321 ft elevation gain according to AllTrails. Most of the trail is flat near the end, where you descend a steeper hill to arrive at the viewpoint. Long Point Overlook is an incredible spot to take in New River Gorge Bridge from and definitely worth the 1-2 hours you’ll likely spend on this hike. While I’d say this hike is slightly more difficult than Endless Wall, it’s still suitable for most levels of hikers (for example, I saw people walk it in sandals, though I’d never recommend that).

Other Stops to Make Nearby

Cathedral falls.

With a height of over 60 feet, Cathedral Falls is one of West Virginia’s tallest and most scenic waterfalls. It’s conveniently located right off of US 60 about 40 minutes from Charleston, so no hiking is required to enjoy the base of the falls. I really recommend this as a quick stop as you drive from Charleston to New River Gorge National Park. The whole drive is very scenic as well!

Summersville Lake

A fun way to spend the day in this area of West Virginia is to hit the largest lake in the state – Summersville Lake! We got out on the water by renting kayaks from Sarge’s Dive Shop . If you’re looking for a little more adventure though, this is the #1 place to go scuba diving in West Virginia. In fact, it has the nickname “The Little Bahamas of the East” because of how clear the water is for divers. So if you’re into scuba diving, Summersville Lake is not to be missed.

Staying at Carnifex Ferry Cabins

Carnifex Ferry Cabins are located in Summersville, WV, just a few minutes away from Summersville Lake and 20 minutes from Fayetteville. They have 12 cabins to choose from, including their 1840’s McKinley log cabin. You can also easily explore Carnifex Ferry State Park from here, which is right next door. The cabins were a great base for exploring everything nearby, including New River Gorge National Park. I especially appreciated enjoying our cabin’s private hot tub after a day of hiking!

Staying at Stonewall Resort

The next stop on our itinerary was Stonewall Resort , an Adirondack-style lodge which is a 90 minutes drive from either New River Gorge National Park or Charleston, depending on where you’re coming from. I loved my stay at Stonewall Resort! The resort itself is actually located within a state park, which is not something you see every day. They have a lake to explore (you can rent a boat or watersports equipment, which I’ll talk more about below), miles of trails to hike, a Palmer golf course, an indoor/outdoor heated pool, and more. Each morning, seeing the stillness of the lake, the beauty as golden hour hit the mist rising off the water, brought me such serenity. You can book your own stay here .

Rent a Pontoon Boat

From the Stonewall Resort Marina, you can rent a pontoon for either a few hours up to the whole day! If you have the time, you can zoom your pontoon up the West Fork River a bit, or park in a more secluded cove for a little lake swim. Plenty of guests were also out on the water on paddleboards and kayaks. If you have a larger group, there’s even a double-decker pontoon boat you can rent with a slide attached! Also, don’t miss out on feeding the fish and ducks at the marina. They’ll likely give you fish food to throw out when you return your rental. The amount of fish that hang by the dock waiting is nuts.

Clay Shooting

I’ve never been clay shooting before, but I did do camp riflery, so it wasn’t my first time shooting… just my first time shooting a moving target! Whether you’re into hunting or not (it’s not my cup of tea), clay shooting is a blast for everyone. I took my friend who had never shot before and she had a blast. We managed to hit around 50% of the targets, which very much impressed the staff of Stonewall Sporting Clays . Their clay shooting course features 16 stations, and you can even book a guide to accompany you if you’d like. During the summer, you can also check out their Shoot & Dine events on Thursdays where you get a BBQ dinner after you shoot!

Lambert’s Vintage Wine

Located in Weston, WV, Lambert’s Vintage Wine has a beautiful winery you can visit for a tour and tastings. They even have a rental cabin if you want to sleep on the property and enjoy their beautiful grounds for longer. It’s no wonder Lambert’s is a popular local wedding venue! Personally, I have a sweet tooth, so I loved their sweeter wines, like the Niagara and Icebreaker blend.

If you’re looking for more tips on planning your own West Virginia getaway, make sure to check out all the resources here . Which activity sounds like the most fun to do?

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Welcome to Ready Set Jet Set.  Haley is the blogger behind Ready Set Jet Set, a travel blog based out of Austin, Texas featuring all the best in solo female travel, adventure travel, weekend getaways, and so much more. She’ll go wherever the winds take her!

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17 Fun Things to Do in West Virginia with Kids — Best Family Friendly Attractions!

Looking at West Virginia as your next family stopover? 

That’s a fantastic choice. 

Trust me, I’ve been there.

Here’s what I’ll tell you: it’s a sanctuary of mountain magic and cozy small-town charm. 

But the wealth of possibilities can be overwhelming, too, especially if you have kids in tow.

I’ve also been there and done that. 

So, let’s take the guesswork out of your planning, shall we? 

I’ve been fortunate enough to experience the wonders of West Virginia firsthand with my little ones, so I’ve got a golden list ready just for you.

Ready to dive in? 

Let’s uncover the fun things to do in West Virginia with kids in this article.

Fun Things To Do In West Virginia With Kids Compared 

These top picks are not your everyday, run-of-the-mill adventures. 

Stick around, and let’s make your West Virginia trip unforgettable.

Editor’s Choice

New River Gorge UTV Tour – Glen Jean

The New River Gorge UTV Tour is one of the most engaging experiences in West Virginia. 

• Age Compatibility: Teenagers (13-17 years)
• Educational Value: 3/5
• Fun Factor: 4/5
• Accessibility: 3/5
• Affordability: 3/5

#2nd Best Choice

Lower New River Whitewater Rafting Trip – Glen Jean

Amidst this grandeur, the Lower New River Whitewater Rafting Trip stands out as an immersive experience. 

• Educational Value: 2/5
• Fun Factor: 5/5
• Accessibility: 2/5

#3rd Best Choice

New River Gorge Zip Lining – Glen Jean

If you’re looking for a thrilling and scenic adventure, try the New River Gorge Zip Lining. 

• Educational Value: 1/5

Here are 17 fun, family-friendly attractions in West Virginia.

1. New River Gorge UTV Tour – Glen Jean (Editor’s Choice)

1631 Mountain Top Rd Minden, WV 25879 (304) 461-6961 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Adventurous experience: Kids will enjoy the thrill of off-roading while exploring the beautiful natural scenery of West Virginia.
• Educational opportunity: This tour is an opportunity for kids to learn about the local flora, fauna, and geological formations in the New River Gorge. 
• Safety concerns: The tour can be physically demanding and involve some level of risk. 
• Limited accessibility: Not all children can participate in the UTV tour due to age, height, or health restrictions.

What You’ll Experience

Unlike a typical tour, you’re not just seeing; you’re doing. 

Instead of passively wandering around, you’re actively exploring, guided by the rumble of your UTV beneath you. 

It’s muddy, rough, and real, a far cry from the sanitized fun at the local amusement park. 

It immerses you in the wild on a vehicle that can tackle most terrain with your favorite people by your side. 

If you ask me, it’s one of the best ways to experience the rugged beauty of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve​​.

Recommended Ages

Perfect for families, kids ages 12 and up can go on the UTV Tour. 

Unless you’re toting around toddlers, this is an adventure that nearly every family member can enjoy​.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn New River

2. Lower New River Whitewater Rafting Trip – Glen Jean

219 Chestnutburg Road Lansing, WV 25862 (304) 461-6570 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Thrilling adventure: Whitewater rafting is an exhilarating experience for kids as they feel the adrenaline rush of navigating through rapids.
• Teamwork and cooperation: Kids can learn to communicate, coordinate, and work with their peers and guides, fostering important social skills.
• Safety considerations: Whitewater rafting involves inherent risks, and parents should assess their children’s swimming abilities and comfort level in water before participating. 
• Physical demands: Rafting can be physically demanding, especially for younger children or those with limited strength or endurance.

Words can barely capture the magic of Lower New River. 

You’ll navigate a delightful mix of whitewater rapids and calm river stretches. 

The roaring whitewater rapids deliver a thrilling challenge.

On the contrary, the peaceful stretches of the river offer tranquil moments to take in the captivating scenery. 

The journey is enriched by stories of the region’s scenic wonders and the remnants of its coal mining towns. 

Plus, you can indulge in a picnic lunch by the river and have free time to swim, float, or take that adrenaline-fueled leap off the rocks​.

Anyone aged 12 and above is welcome to participate in the tour.

It’s the perfect tour for families with older kids, groups of friends, or solo adventurers seeking an unforgettable river journey.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Quality Inn New River Gorge

Related: Best Things to Do in West Virginia

3. New River Gorge Zip Lining – Glen Jean

• Thrilling experience: Zip lining provides an exciting and adrenaline-pumping adventure for kids. 
• Scenic beauty: Kids can appreciate the picturesque landscapes and learn about the local ecosystem while enjoying the ride.
• Age and weight restrictions: Parents should check these requirements beforehand to ensure their children meet the criteria.
• Fear of heights: Some kids may fear heights, making zip lining a challenging or distressing experience.

Soar above the trees and across the canyon, enjoying breathtaking views of the river and the mountains. 

Feel the adrenaline rush as you zip from platform to platform, reaching speeds up to 40 mph. 

You’ll also experience a free fall drop that will make your heart skip a beat. 

It’s a great way to explore the beauty and diversity of the New River Gorge National Park, one of America’s newest national parks.

The New River Gorge Zip Lining is suitable for anyone who loves excitement and nature. 

The minimum age is 8, and the maximum weight is 250 lbs.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Tru By Hilton Beckley, WV

4. Cass Scenic Railroad State Park — Elkins

242 Main St Cass, WV 24927 (304) 456-4300 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Jump on a vintage steam locomotive for a ride through the West Virginia hills.

Think of this as a museum on wheels, taking you from one tourist hotspot to another.

One ride takes you to the top of Bald Knob for gorgeous mountain vistas and the other is a shorter trip to secluded Whittaker Station where you and your crew can enjoy an afternoon picnic.

There are no age restrictions to ride the train, and this trip is a sure fire way to entertain the whole family.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Expedition Station

5. Audra State Park — Buckhannon

8397 Audra Park Rd Buckhannon, WV 26201 (304) 457-1162 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

As a landlocked state, the best family beaches in West Virginia are hard to come by.

But take it from us, splashing around in the Middle Fork River running through Audra State Park is every bit as fun as a trip to the beach.

This heavily wooded nature area is perfect for family picnics and one of our most highly recommended West Virginia attractions for families.

Not only can you take a swim, but there’s also a host of free kids activities all around.

A lovely day in Audra State Park is perfectly suitable for families with children of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Bridgeport/Clarksburg

6. Spark! Imagination & Science Center — Morgantown

5000 Greenbag Rd Morgantown, WV 26501 (304) 292-4646 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you’re looking for fun places for kids then Spark! is just what you need.

This children’s museum offers tons of fun and educational exhibits that moms and dads can enjoy, too.

It’s one of our favorite things to do with kids when it’s raining.

So, watch your younger tykes ignite their imagination with puppet shows and a dress-up booth, while their older siblings exercise their problem solving skills with fun hands-on activities and experiments.

This center offers adventure for children from 6 months to 10 years of age.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Scholar Hotel Morgantown

Related: Best Things to Do in Morgantown, WV

Related: Places to Eat in Morgantown

Related: Weekend Getaways in West Virginia

7. Summersville Lake — Summersville

Summersville Lake Summersville, WV 26651 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Vacationers flock to Summersville Lake for its pristine waters and excellent recreation opportunities.

The cliff shoreline isn’t great for beachgoers, but rent a boat and enjoy swimming, skiing, or even SCUBA diving all day long.

Kids of all ages are welcome to splash around in this amazing lake, just be sure to bring a floaty.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sleep Inn Summersville

8. Lost World Caverns — Lewisburg

907 Lost World Rd Lewisburg, West Virginia 24901 (304) 645-6677 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Journey to the depths of the Earth in these West Virginia caves.

We recommend the self-guided tour so that you and your kiddos can go at your own pace.

Along the way, you’ll see spectacular stalagmites, stalactites and various other rock formations.

Informative signs do an excellent job of enlightening visitors on the unique geology of these caves.

Believe it or not, there are no age restrictions!

In fact, the younger ones love this amazing adventure.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Lewisburg

9. Heritage Farms Museum & Village — Huntington

3300 Harvey Rd Huntington, WV 25704 (304) 522-1244 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Experience early pioneer life at this one-of-a-kind destination.

The sprawling museum includes 15 log structures, 7 award-winning museums, and 5 log cabin inns for guests who want to spend the night.

The owners are passionate about preserving and celebrating Appalachian heritage, making this one of the most special family-friendly places to visit in West Virginia.

There’s plenty here for children of all ages, and it happens to be one of the funnest things to do in West Virginia with toddlers.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Lewisburg

10. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park — Harpers Ferry

171 Shoreline Dr Harpers Ferry, WV 25425 (304) 535-6029 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Here’s another spot that gives tourists a peek into the past.

Harpers Ferry is a historical community situated at the fork of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers.

This quaint village hosts a number of exhibits, quaint shops and various activities for children big and small.

Visitors are invited to come and explore for just a day or to spend a leisurely week-long vacation.

Harpers Ferry is a terrific vacation spot for families with children of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Clarion Inn Conference Center Harpers Ferry

11. New River Gorge — Glen Jean

New River Gorge National Park & Preserve Glen Jean, WV 25846 (304) 465-0508 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Funny enough, the New River is one of the oldest rivers on the continent.

This explains the breathtaking canyons that it winds through.

The New River Gorge National River Park covers over 70,000 acres of gorgeous wilderness.

Visitors come to enjoy an abundance of recreational opportunities, from whitewater rafting to simply lazing away at a cozy campsite.

And ask the park rangers about all the excellent activities that are provided specially for children.

The New River might be old but it’s a great place for youngsters and their youthful parentals.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Quality Inn Beckley

12. Dark Skies Park — Grantsville

380 Park Pl Grantsville, WV 2614 (304) 354-6398 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

With so many fun things to do in West Virginia with kids, it’s easy to miss the hidden treasures.

At Calhoun County Park, families can stay late for some excellent stargazing far from the city.

There aren’t many places East of the Mississippi where stargazers can still admire the beauty of the Milky Way with the naked eye.

So swing by Calhoun County for a rare opportunity to see the night sky in all its glory.

Although it might be past their bed-time, this experience is suitable for children of all ages.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Sutton Flatwoods

13. Clay Center

1 Clay Square Charleston, WV 25301 (304) 561-3570 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you’re looking for entertaining things to do with kids, West Virginia has got you covered with the Clay Center.

It’s a multi-purpose venue featuring museums, exhibit spaces, and interactive zones.

The Avampato Discovery Center is a wonderland with a multi-story climbing structure that’s like a jungle gym on steroids.

Then there’s WaterWorks, where kids can splash around and learn about water dynamics.

In My Town, they can pretend to be anything from a vet to the governor.

Health-conscious families will love the Healthy Me! exhibit, where kids can learn about exercise and nutrition.

And for the musically inclined, the Maier Foundation Music Studio is a hit.

With all these fantastic features, this museum easily earns a spot on our roundup of kid friendly things to do in West Virginia.

This center is ideal for kids aged 3 to 12.

It offers a variety of activities that cater to different age groups.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Embassy Suites Charleston

14. Oglebay Good Zoo

345 Zoo Cir Wheeling, WV 26003 (304) 243-4100 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you’re around Wheeling for a family trip and searching for “fun things to do with kids near me”, visit this zoo.

Oglebay Good Zoo is West Virginia’s only AZA-accredited zoo, home to diverse animals in naturalistic enclosures.

The enclosures are designed to blend with the natural surroundings, making your visit feel like a nature walk.

You can feed goats, meet wallabies, and even opt for special encounters with exotic animals like red pandas.

The train ride is a hit with kids, offering a closer look at animals like zebras.

Educational talks and seasonal events keep the experience fresh.

The zoo is great for all ages, but kids between 4 to 14 will especially enjoy the interactive exhibits and animal encounters.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Wheeling

15. Coopers Rock State Forest

61 County Line Dr Bruceton Mills, WV 26525 (304) 594-1561 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Looking for fun things to do in West Virginia for kids?

Coopers Rock State Forest is a natural haven just outside Morgantown.

Whether you’re an adventure junkie or a nature lover, Coopers Rock has something for you.

Hiking trails lead you to awe-inspiring views and unique rock formations.

Kids will love discovering trees growing out of boulders and other natural wonders.

Don’t miss the Cheat River overlook for a family photo op.

Camping and rafting options are available, too.

This state park is best for kids aged 6 and up.

The forest has trails and activities suitable for various age groups, including challenging hikes for older kids and teens.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Morgantown-University Area, an IHG Hotel

16. Green Bank Observatory

155 Observatory Rd Green Bank, WV 24915 (304) 456-2011 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

When it comes to educational indoor kids activities, West Virginia has this famous observatory for you to explore.

Located in Green Bank, Green Bank Observatory should be on your family’s list of must-try West Virginia kids activities.

Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope is the star of the show.

Tours offer a close-up look at this engineering marvel and include interactive science demos that kids will love.

This is perfect for kids aged 8 and above who have an interest in science and astronomy.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Mountain Quest Inn

17. Snowshoe Mountain Resort

10 Snowshoe Dr Snowshoe, WV 26209 (877) 441-4386 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you’re on the hunt for exciting things to do with kids, West Virginia has this gem for you.

Snowshoe Mountain Resort boasts the state’s highest elevation drop and the longest slopes in the eastern U.S. south of New England.

But skiing here is just the tip of the iceberg.

The resort offers a range of winter activities like snow tubing and even spa options for the parents.

With multiple lodging and dining options, it’s a one-stop winter wonderland.

And if you’re looking for local flavor, check out Winterplace Ski Resort nearby.

This ski resort is ideal for families with kids aged 5 and up.

Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there’s a slope for you.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Allegheny Springs

Activity Guide 

Comparing attractions: which one is right for you.

West Virginia’s Glen Jean is the ultimate treasure chest of family fun.

I hopped onto a UTV at New River Gorge and felt like a modern-day explorer. 

My kids squealed with delight as we splashed through mud puddles. 

The enchanting forest and majestic mountains took my breath away. 

The kids asked for more, and more we did.

 The next day, we plunged into the roaring waves of the Lower New River on a whitewater rafting trip. 

My heart raced like a roller coaster. 

My son’s eyes widened as he paddled furiously.

The teamwork and bonding we experienced were unparalleled.

But wait, there’s more. 

The zip lining at New River Gorge is the stuff of legends. 

My kids couldn’t stop talking about how cool it was to fly.

All three attractions were well worth it, and I would recommend them to anyone who loves adventure. 

They were also very different from each other, so you can choose the one that suits your mood and preference.

How I Picked The Activities

Residing in West Virginia and being a lover of adventure, I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing these family-friendly destinations firsthand. 

My research has not been confined to personal experiences.

I’ve spent countless hours poring over travel blogs, reviews, and local insights and even chatted with fellow travelers. 

Through this extensive research, I’ve identified a few gems that strike the perfect balance between fun and feasibility. 

Keep in mind that each attraction has its unique strengths and weaknesses. 

What’s most important is how they align with your family’s preferences.

Our Rating Method 

I rate these activities based on the following criteria: 

• Age Compatibility: I use this criterion to assess the ideal age range for each attraction. Is this activity suitable for toddlers, preschoolers, or young children? Will teenagers and tweens enjoy this attraction? I ask myself these questions whenever I assess age compatibility. 
• Educational Value: This is used to evaluate the educational benefits that the activity offers. Does the activity provide learning opportunities to children? Does it teach them lessons in science and history? I ask myself these important questions when rating the activity’s educational value. 
• Fun Factor: This measures the level of excitement, engagement, and enjoyment that the activity offers. Is it engaging and enjoyable for kids? Will it create memorable and positive experiences for families? These questions are important whenever I rate the activity’s fun factor. 
• Accessibility: This measures how accessible the activity is for families. Is it wheelchair accessible? Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Does it have ample parking space? I consider these factors when evaluating the accessibility of every activity. 
• Affordability: This assesses the value of money provided by the activity. Are the admission fees reasonable? Does it offer deals or discounts for families? I use these questions to evaluate the affordability of every attraction. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is west virginia family-friendly.

West Virginia is generally considered to be a family-friendly destination. With its natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and numerous family-oriented attractions like amusement parks and museums, the state offers a range of activities that cater to families of all ages and interests.

What Is West Virginia Best Known For?

West Virginia is best known for its stunning natural beauty, particularly the Appalachian Mountains and the scenic landscapes of the New River Gorge. The state is also famous for its coal mining heritage, which has played a significant role in its history and economy.

Are There Any Festivals Or Events Suitable For Kids In West Virginia?

Yes, West Virginia hosts various family-friendly festivals and events throughout the year. The West Virginia State Fair, FestivALL Charleston, and the West Virginia Pumpkin Festival are a few examples.

Conclusion 

A world of fun awaits families like you in West Virginia.

Each adventure offers a unique thrill, from the mountainous thrill of the New River Gorge UTV Tour to the water dance of rafting to the bird’s eye beauty of ziplining. 

However, when it comes to fun things to do in West Virginia with kids, my top choice is the New River Gorge UTV Tour. 

It stands out with its unique blend of adrenaline, educational value, and immersive connection with the state’s rugged beauty. 

Both you and your kids will enjoy driving your foul-wheeler through the scenic trails of the national park.

Don’t worry, a guide will be with you to point out the wildlife and history along the way. 

It’s a great way to explore the region’s natural beauty, and kids will love it too.

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The Moscow Metro Museum of Art: 10 Must-See Stations

There are few times one can claim having been on the subway all afternoon and loving it, but the Moscow Metro provides just that opportunity.  While many cities boast famous public transport systems—New York’s subway, London’s underground, San Salvador’s chicken buses—few warrant hours of exploration.  Moscow is different: Take one ride on the Metro, and you’ll find out that this network of railways can be so much more than point A to B drudgery.

The Metro began operating in 1935 with just thirteen stations, covering less than seven miles, but it has since grown into the world’s third busiest transit system ( Tokyo is first ), spanning about 200 miles and offering over 180 stops along the way.  The construction of the Metro began under Joseph Stalin’s command, and being one of the USSR’s most ambitious building projects, the iron-fisted leader instructed designers to create a place full of svet (radiance) and svetloe budushchee (a radiant future), a palace for the people and a tribute to the Mother nation.

Consequently, the Metro is among the most memorable attractions in Moscow.  The stations provide a unique collection of public art, comparable to anything the city’s galleries have to offer and providing a sense of the Soviet era, which is absent from the State National History Museum.  Even better, touring the Metro delivers palpable, experiential moments, which many of us don’t get standing in front of painting or a case of coins.

Though tours are available , discovering the Moscow Metro on your own provides a much more comprehensive, truer experience, something much less sterile than following a guide.  What better place is there to see the “real” Moscow than on mass transit: A few hours will expose you to characters and caricatures you’ll be hard-pressed to find dining near the Bolshoi Theater.  You become part of the attraction, hear it in the screech of the train, feel it as hurried commuters brush by: The Metro sucks you beneath the city and churns you into the mix.

With the recommendations of our born-and-bred Muscovite students, my wife Emma and I have just taken a self-guided tour of what some locals consider the top ten stations of the Moscow Metro. What most satisfied me about our Metro tour was the sense of adventure .  I loved following our route on the maps of the wagon walls as we circled the city, plotting out the course to the subsequent stops; having the weird sensation of being underground for nearly four hours; and discovering the next cavern of treasures, playing Indiana Jones for the afternoon, piecing together fragments of Russia’s mysterious history.  It’s the ultimate interactive museum.

Top Ten Stations (In order of appearance)

Kievskaya station.

Kievskaya Station went public in March of 1937, the rails between it and Park Kultury Station being the first to cross the Moscow River.  Kievskaya is full of mosaics depicting aristocratic scenes of Russian life, with great cameo appearances by Lenin, Trotsky, and Stalin.  Each work has a Cyrillic title/explanation etched in the marble beneath it; however, if your Russian is rusty, you can just appreciate seeing familiar revolutionary dates like 1905 ( the Russian Revolution ) and 1917 ( the October Revolution ).

Mayakovskaya Station

Mayakovskaya Station ranks in my top three most notable Metro stations. Mayakovskaya just feels right, done Art Deco but no sense of gaudiness or pretention.  The arches are adorned with rounded chrome piping and create feeling of being in a jukebox, but the roof’s expansive mosaics of the sky are the real showstopper.  Subjects cleverly range from looking up at a high jumper, workers atop a building, spires of Orthodox cathedrals, to nimble aircraft humming by, a fleet of prop planes spelling out CCCP in the bluest of skies.

Novoslobodskaya Station

Novoslobodskaya is the Metro’s unique stained glass station.  Each column has its own distinctive panels of colorful glass, most of them with a floral theme, some of them capturing the odd sailor, musician, artist, gardener, or stenographer in action.  The glass is framed in Art Deco metalwork, and there is the lovely aspect of discovering panels in the less frequented haunches of the hall (on the trackside, between the incoming staircases).  Novosblod is, I’ve been told, the favorite amongst out-of-town visitors.

Komsomolskaya Station

Komsomolskaya Station is one of palatial grandeur.  It seems both magnificent and obligatory, like the presidential palace of a colonial city.  The yellow ceiling has leafy, white concrete garland and a series of golden military mosaics accenting the tile mosaics of glorified Russian life.  Switching lines here, the hallway has an Alice-in-Wonderland feel, impossibly long with decorative tile walls, culminating in a very old station left in a remarkable state of disrepair, offering a really tangible glimpse behind the palace walls.

Dostoevskaya Station

Dostoevskaya is a tribute to the late, great hero of Russian literature .  The station at first glance seems bare and unimpressive, a stark marble platform without a whiff of reassembled chips of tile.  However, two columns have eerie stone inlay collages of scenes from Dostoevsky’s work, including The Idiot , The Brothers Karamazov , and Crime and Punishment.   Then, standing at the center of the platform, the marble creates a kaleidoscope of reflections.  At the entrance, there is a large, inlay portrait of the author.

Chkalovskaya Station

Chkalovskaya does space Art Deco style (yet again).  Chrome borders all.  Passageways with curvy overhangs create the illusion of walking through the belly of a chic, new-age spacecraft.  There are two (kos)mosaics, one at each end, with planetary subjects.  Transferring here brings you above ground, where some rather elaborate metalwork is on display.  By name similarity only, I’d expected Komsolskaya Station to deliver some kosmonaut décor; instead, it was Chkalovskaya that took us up to the space station.

Elektrozavodskaya Station

Elektrozavodskaya is full of marble reliefs of workers, men and women, laboring through the different stages of industry.  The superhuman figures are round with muscles, Hollywood fit, and seemingly undeterred by each Herculean task they respectively perform.  The station is chocked with brass, from hammer and sickle light fixtures to beautiful, angular framework up the innards of the columns.  The station’s art pieces are less clever or extravagant than others, but identifying the different stages of industry is entertaining.

Baumanskaya Statio

Baumanskaya Station is the only stop that wasn’t suggested by the students.  Pulling in, the network of statues was just too enticing: Out of half-circle depressions in the platform’s columns, the USSR’s proud and powerful labor force again flaunts its success.  Pilots, blacksmiths, politicians, and artists have all congregated, posing amongst more Art Deco framing.  At the far end, a massive Soviet flag dons the face of Lenin and banners for ’05, ’17, and ‘45.  Standing in front of the flag, you can play with the echoing roof.

Ploshchad Revolutsii Station

Novokuznetskaya Station

Novokuznetskaya Station finishes off this tour, more or less, where it started: beautiful mosaics.  This station recalls the skyward-facing pieces from Mayakovskaya (Station #2), only with a little larger pictures in a more cramped, very trafficked area.  Due to a line of street lamps in the center of the platform, it has the atmosphere of a bustling market.  The more inventive sky scenes include a man on a ladder, women picking fruit, and a tank-dozer being craned in.  The station’s also has a handsome black-and-white stone mural.

Here is a map and a brief description of our route:

Start at (1)Kievskaya on the “ring line” (look for the squares at the bottom of the platform signs to help you navigate—the ring line is #5, brown line) and go north to Belorusskaya, make a quick switch to the Dark Green/#2 line, and go south one stop to (2)Mayakovskaya.  Backtrack to the ring line—Brown/#5—and continue north, getting off at (3)Novosblodskaya and (4)Komsolskaya.  At Komsolskaya Station, transfer to the Red/#1 line, go south for two stops to Chistye Prudy, and get on the Light Green/#10 line going north.  Take a look at (5)Dostoevskaya Station on the northern segment of Light Green/#10 line then change directions and head south to (6)Chkalovskaya, which offers a transfer to the Dark Blue/#3 line, going west, away from the city center.  Have a look (7)Elektroskaya Station before backtracking into the center of Moscow, stopping off at (8)Baumskaya, getting off the Dark Blue/#3 line at (9)Ploschad Revolyutsii.  Change to the Dark Green/#2 line and go south one stop to see (10)Novokuznetskaya Station.

Check out our new Moscow Indie Travel Guide , book a flight to Moscow and read 10 Bars with Views Worth Blowing the Budget For

Jonathon Engels, formerly a patron saint of misadventure, has been stumbling his way across cultural borders since 2005 and is currently volunteering in the mountains outside of Antigua, Guatemala.  For more of his work, visit his website and blog .

Photo credits:   SergeyRod , all others courtesy of the author and may not be used without permission

Watch CBS News

Earthquake maps show where seismic activity shook the Northeast today

By Lucia Suarez Sang

Updated on: April 5, 2024 / 7:51 PM EDT / CBS News

Residents across the Northeast were rattled by a  4.8 magnitude earthquake that shook  the densely populated New York City metropolitan area and much of the surrounding region on Friday morning. The U.S. Geological Survey was quick to release maps showing the spot where the quake was centered, in New Jersey, and the area where it was felt.

The USGS reported the quake occurred about 7 miles north of Whitehouse Station, New Jersey. It indicated that the quake might have been felt by more than 42 million people. There were several aftershocks later in the day, including one with a magnitude of 4.0.

People in Baltimore , Philadelphia , New Jersey, Connecticut, Boston and other areas of the Northeast reported shaking. Tremors lasting for several seconds were felt over 200 miles away near the Massachusetts-New Hampshire border.

The map below shows the seismic intensity of the earthquake. The map, which is mostly a lighter shade of blue, shows that the intensity was light to weak, depending on the distance from the epicenter. 

Another map released by the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre on X, formerly Twitter, highlights the eyewitness reports of shaking and possible damage levels during the seismic event. 

#Earthquake 18 mi W of #Plainfield (New Jersey) 23 min ago (local time 10:23:20). Updated map - Colored dots represent local shaking & damage level reported by eyewitnesses. Share your experience via: 📱 https://t.co/IbUfG7TFOL 🌐 https://t.co/wErQf69jIn pic.twitter.com/jBjVw1ngAD — EMSC (@LastQuake) April 5, 2024

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Eric Adams have been briefed on the quake. 

"We're taking this extremely seriously and here's why: There's always the possibility of aftershocks. We have not felt a magnitude of this earthquake since about 2011," Hochul said. 

People across the region were startled by the rumbling of the quake. One New York City resident told CBS New York's Elijah Westbrook, "I was laying in my bed, and my whole apartment building started shaking. I started freaking out," 

It's not the first time the East Coast and New York City have been hit by an earthquake. 

A 5.0 quake was measured in New York City in 1884. 

The shaking stirred memories of the Aug. 23, 2011, earthquake that jolted tens of millions of people from Georgia to Canada. Registering magnitude 5.8, it was the strongest quake to hit the East Coast since World War II. The epicenter was in Virginia.

That earthquake left cracks in the Washington Monument, spurred the evacuation of the White House and Capitol and rattled New Yorkers three weeks before the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terror attacks.

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More from CBS News

How are earthquakes measured? How today's event stacks up to past quakes

What causes earthquakes? The science behind why they happen

Earthquake snarls air and train travel in the New York City area

NYC, New Jersey earthquake witnesses share first-hand accounts

Warby Parker has begun its eclipse glasses giveaway: Here's how to find a store near you

Warby parker is giving away free solar eclipse glasses at its stores in the united states through april 8. here's how to see if a store is near you:.

The race is on for skygazers to get their hands on a pair of solar eclipse glasses before the big day on April 8 , and many people may be turning to Warby Parker .

The glasses retailer based in New York City has previously announced that beginning Monday April 1, it will be giving away free certified solar eclipse glasses at its stores in the United States. Not a bad offer for those worried that shipping and delivery times may make online orders a risk so close to the upcoming total solar eclipse itself.

And because Warby Parker has more than 240 retail locations across the country, there's a good chance would-be eclipse spectators will have a store close by if they're willing to make the trip.

Here's what to know about where Warby Parker stores are located and how to find one nearby before the first North American total solar eclipse since 2017 blankets much of the U.S. in uncharacteristic darkness.

What to know about eclipse glasses: Solar eclipse glasses are needed for safety, but they sure are confusing

Where are Warby Parker stores located?

Warby Parker began handing out the free glasses today at its stores across the country and will continue to do so until April 8, when the moon will pass between the Earth and sun and appear large enough to block the sun's disc.

To limit the chance of supplies running out, each family may receive up to two eclipse glasses, which are manufactured by American Paper Optics .

In the United States, the path of totality will begin in southwestern Texas at 1:27 p.m. CT and will end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. ET.

There are 13 states directly on the April 8 total solar eclipse's path of totality, all of which have Warby Parker stores with the exception of New Hampshire, Maine and Vermont. Here's where you can find them:

• Rogers : 2203 Promenade Blvd., Suite 8165 
• Chicago : 851 W. Randolph St.; 1611 N. Damen Ave.; 1123 N. State St.; 851 W. Armitage Ave.; 3432 N. Southport Ave.; 5219 N. Clark St.
• Naperville : 140 W. Jefferson Ave.
• Oak Brook : 62 Oakbrook Center
• Schaumburg : 5 Woodfield Mall
• Skokie : 4999 Old Orchard Center
• Carmel : 14405 Clay Terrace Blvd.
• Indianapolis : 8702 Keystone Crossing, Space 146C
• Lexington : 111 Summit at Fritz Farm, Suit 120
• Louisville : 7900 Shelbyville Road, Suite B15
• Kansas City : 307 Nichols Road
• Springfield: 2825 S. Glenstone Ave., Suit H08J
• St. Louis : 1224 Town & Country Cross Dr.; 30 Plaza Frontenac St.; 304 N. Euclid Ave.
• Albany : 1475 Western Ave.
• Brooklyn : 124 N. 6th St.; 55 Bergen St.; 208 Flatbush Ave.
• East Hampton : 48 Main St.
• Garden City : 630 Old Country Road, #2097A
• Huntington Station : 160 Walt Whiteman Road
• Lake Grove : 464 Smith Haven Hall, #DO6A
• Long Island City : 25-30 Jackson Ave., first floor
• Manhasset : 1950 Northern Blvd.
• New York City : 2875 Broadway; 424 Columbus Ave.; 185 Columbus Ave.; 1209 Lexington Ave.; 1258 Avenue of the Americas; 105 E. 42nd St., Suite MC-26; 819 Washington St.; 73 Fifth Ave.; 233 Spring St., sixth floor; 121 Greene St.; 2655 Richmond Ave., Suite 2472
• Victor : 281 Eastview Mall, #F1
• White Plains : 125 Westchester Ave.
• Beachwood : 255 Park Ave., Bldg. #16, Suite 2020
• Columbus : 4049 The Strand E.
• Cincinnati : 7875 Montgomery Road, Space 2213; 1419 Vine St.
• Westlake : 156 Main St.
• Oklahoma City : 5840 N. Classen Blvd., Space C03B
• Tulsa : 3516 S. Peoria Ave.

Pennsylvania

• Ardmore : 66 Coulter Ave.
• Dresher : 209 Dryden Road
• King of Prussia : 160 N. Gulph Road, Space 2350
• Philadelphia : 1523 Walnut St.
• Pittsburgh : 6016 Penn Ave.; 1000 Ross Park Mall Dr., Suite A07A; 301 S. Hills Village, #1325C
• Whitehall : 933 Lehigh Valley Mall
• Addison : 5290 Belt Line Road, Suite 102B
• Allen : 858 Watters Creek Blvd., #C600
• Austin : 11700 Domain Blvd., Suite 114; 4001 N. Lamar Blvd., Suit 315; 2901 Capital of Texas Highway, #A03A; 1317 S. Congress Ave.
• Corpus Christi : 5488 S. Padre Island Dr., #1224
• Dallas : 3010 N. Henderson Ave., Space 100; 8687 N. Central Expy, #1816
• Fort Worth : 1653 River Run, Suite 101
• Friendswood : 700 Baybrook Mall, Suite B111
• Houston : 800 Town and Country Blvd., Suit 110; 4078 Westheimer Road; 645 Heights Blvd., Suite 2A; 2518 University Blvd.
• Katy : 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd., Suite A130
• Plano : 7701 Windrose Ave., Suite F140
• San Antonio : 15900 La Cantera Parkway, Suite 11120
• Southlake : 215 Grand Ave.
• The Woodlands : 9595 Six Pines Dr., Space 870

Warby Parker store locator map

Even those who live on states not located on the exact path of totality still have a good chance of seeing the eclipse in some form.

If that's the boat you're in, you still may be interested in hunting down some specs from Warby Parker. The company's online store locator allows people to search for retail sites near their home and also includes a map of locations.

Check it out here:

If a store runs out of glasses, the company will provide a free eclipse pinhole projector. For those who don't live near a store, a do-it-yourself pinhole projector is available on  the company's website .

Why eclipse glasses are recommended

Compared to regular sunglasses, proper eclipse glasses are 100,000 times darker to block nearly all visible, infrared and ultraviolet light and protect our sensitive retinas when looking upward near the sun.

That's why experts widely recommend them for  those who will be watching  as the upcoming solar eclipse crosses North America.

Plenty of fakes and scams are out there, so the American Astronomical Society has taken on the responsibility of guiding American consumers to the safest glasses .

The organization maintains  a curated list of approved vendors  of solar eclipse glasses and its been updated to give priority to North American manufacturers for the upcoming astral event. Products you purchase that are listed on that site are guaranteed to be  in compliance with  the highest international safety standards.

Those standards are set by the International Organization for Standardization, which only vouches for solar eclipse glasses that are dark and strong enough to filter out a certain amount of the sun's harmful light.

What else to know about the April 8 total solar eclipse

A  total solar eclipse  offers the unique opportunity for skygazers to  witness the spectacular astral display  with the naked eye – but only when the time is right.

Eclipse glasses are still very much needed for most of the show, so make sure to come prepared,  according to NASA .

But when the moon moves completely in front of the sun and blocks its light, you'll know it's safe to fully take in the dazzling display. That moment is what is called "totality," whereby uncharacteristic darkness falls and all but the sun's outermost layer known as its corona makes a rare appearance to us here on Earth.

Hundreds of cities in  13 states are on the path of totality  for this year's total solar eclipse, which will pass from southwest to northeast across North America. You won't want to miss it, as this is the last such eclipse in North American  until 2044 .

And as you make your eclipse-viewing plans,  these interactive maps  should help you chart the time and duration for when totality would occur in cities along the path.

Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at [email protected]

We occasionally recommend interesting products and services. If you make a purchase by clicking one of the links, we may earn an affiliate fee. USA TODAY Network newsrooms operate independently, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.

• Solar Eclipse 2024

See the 2024 Solar Eclipse’s Path of Totality

A total solar eclipse is expected to pass through the United States on April 8, 2024, giving stargazers across the country the opportunity to view the celestial phenomenon in which the sun is completely covered by the moon.

The eclipse will enter the U.S. in Texas and exit in Maine. It is the last time a total solar eclipse will be visible in the contiguous United States until 2044.

Here's what to know about the path of the eclipse and where you can see it.

Read More : How Animals and Nature React to an Eclipse

Where can you see the total solar eclipse?

The eclipse will cross through North America, passing over parts of Mexico, the United States, and Canada. 

The eclipse will enter the United States in Texas, and travel through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse.

Much of the eclipse's visibility depends on the weather. A cloudy day could prevent visitors from seeing the spectacle altogether.

When does the solar eclipse start and end?

The solar eclipse will begin in Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT. It will exit continental North America on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NDT.

The longest duration of totality—which is when the moon completely covers the sun — will be 4 minutes, 28 seconds, near Torreón, Mexico. Most places along the path of totality will see a totality duration between 3.5 and 4 minutes.

Read More : The Eclipse Could Bring $1.5 Billion Into States on the Path of Totality

Where’s the best place to see the total solar eclipse?

The best place to witness the event is along the path of totality. Thirteen states will be along the path of totality, and many towns across the country are preparing for the deluge of visitors— planning eclipse watch parties and events in the days leading up to totality.

In Rochester, NY, the Rochester Museum and Science Center is hosting a multi-day festival that includes a range of events and activities. Russellville, Arkansas will host an event with activities including live music, science presentations, tethered hot-air balloon rides, and telescope viewings.

More Must-Reads From TIME

• Jane Fonda Champions Climate Action for Every Generation
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Write to Simmone Shah at [email protected]

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Total solar eclipse April 8, 2024 facts: Path, time and the best places to view

In the U.S., 31 million people already live inside the path of totality.

Scroll down to see the list of U.S. cities where the April 8 total solar eclipse will be visible, the duration of the eclipse in those locations and what time totality will begin, according to GreatAmericanEclipse.com .

"Eclipse Across America," will air live Monday, April 8, beginning at 2 p.m. ET on ABC, ABC News Live, National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Disney+ and Hulu as well as network social media platforms.

On April 8, 2024, a historic total solar eclipse will cast a shadow over parts of the United States, prompting a mass travel event to the path of totality -- from Texas to Maine and several states and cities in between.

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth and, for a short time, completely blocks the face of the sun, according to NASA .

The track of the moon's shadow across Earth's surface is called the path of totality, and to witness the April 8 total solar eclipse, viewers must be within the 115-mile-wide path. To discover when to see the solar eclipse in totality or the partial eclipse in locations across the U.S. outside of the path, check out NASA's Eclipse Explorer tool .

Eclipse travel

In the U.S., 31 million people already live inside the path of totality, bringing the celestial phenomenon to their doorsteps, Michael Zeiler, expert solar eclipse cartographer at GreatAmericanEclipse.com told ABC News.

MORE: Eclipse glasses: What to know to keep your eyes safe

But for individuals outside of the path, investing time and money are needed to experience the event in totality.

Eclipse chasers, or umbraphiles, are individuals who will do almost anything, and travel almost anywhere, to see totality, according to the American Astronomical Society .

"There's a very active community of solar eclipse chasers and we will go to any reasonable lengths to see solar eclipses anywhere in the world," Zeiler said. "All of us are united in pursuing the unimaginable beauty of a total solar eclipse."

MORE: The surprising reason why a Texas county issued a disaster declaration ahead of April total solar eclipse

Bringing together both eclipse experts and novice sky watchers, the total solar eclipse on April 8 is projected to be the U.S.'s largest mass travel event in 2024, according to Zeiler, who likened it to "50 simultaneous Super Bowls across the nation."

"When you look at the number of people expected to come to the path of totality for the solar eclipse, we estimate those numbers are roughly the equivalent of 50 simultaneous Super Bowls across the nation, from Texas to Maine," he said.

Eclipse map, path of totality

In the U.S., the path of totality begins in Texas and will travel through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse, according to NASA.

Best times, places to view eclipse

Below is a list of some American cities where the April 8 total solar eclipse will be most visible -- pending weather forecasts -- the duration of the eclipse in those locations and what time totality will begin, according to GreatAmericanEclipse.com.

• Eagle Pass, Texas, 1:27 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 23 seconds
• Uvalde, Texas, 1:29 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 16 seconds
• Kerrville, Texas, 1:32 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 23 seconds
• Austin, Texas, 1:36 p.m. CDT: 1 minute, 53 seconds
• Killeen, Texas, 1:36 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 17 seconds
• Fort Worth, Texas, 1:40 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 34 seconds
• Dallas, Texas, 1:40 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 47 seconds
• Little Rock, Arkansas, 1:51 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 33 seconds
• Jonesboro, Arkansas, 1:55 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 24 seconds
• Poplar Bluff, Arkansas, 1:56 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 8 seconds
• Cape Girardeau, Missouri, 1:58 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 6 seconds
• Carbondale, Illinois, 1:59 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 8 seconds
• Mount Vernon, Illinois, 2:00 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 40 seconds
• Evansville, Indiana, 2:02 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 2 seconds
• Terre Haute, Indiana, 3:04 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 57 seconds
• Indianapolis, Indiana, 3:06 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 46 seconds
• Dayton, Ohio, 3:09 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 46 seconds
• Wapakoneta, Ohio, 3:09 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 55 seconds
• Toledo, Ohio, 3:12 p.m. EDT: 1 minute, 54 seconds
• Cleveland, Ohio, 3:13 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 50 seconds

Pennsylvania

• Erie, Pennsylvania, 3:16 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 43 seconds
• Buffalo, New York, 3:18 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 45 seconds
• Rochester, New York, 3:20 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 40 seconds
• Syracuse, New York, 3:23 p.m. EDT: 1 minute, 26 seconds
• Burlington, Vermont, 3:26 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 14 seconds
• Island Falls, Maine, 3:31 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 20 seconds
• Presque Island, Maine, 3:32 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 47 seconds

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Total solar eclipse weather forecast on April 8

• Apr 5, 3:38 PM

Why April’s total solar eclipse will be historic

• Apr 4, 10:23 AM

How to view the 2024 solar eclipse safely

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How to photograph April 8's solar eclipse

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Where to get free eclipse glasses

• Apr 5, 8:56 AM

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