Attractions in West Virginia offer something for every traveler, from stunning natural landscapes and historic landmarks to family-friendly adventures and vibrant cultural sites. Visitors can marvel at iconic destinations like the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, explore the rich history of Harpers Ferry, or enjoy the scenic beauty of Blackwater Falls and Seneca Rocks. Charming mountain towns, local museums, unique shops, and lively festivals add to the state’s welcoming atmosphere. Outdoor enthusiasts will find endless opportunities for hiking, rafting, rock climbing, and wildlife watching. With its blend of outdoor fun, heritage, and small-town charm, attractions in West Virginia make every trip unforgettable, showcasing the best of Appalachian adventure and hospitality. Be sure to visit our Attractions Travel Guide for more information about attractions in West Virginia.
GLEN JEAN, W.Va. — According to National Park Service officials, a forest fire that has swept over more than 2,000 acres in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in southern West Virginia is now at 70 percent containment. Known as the Steep Valley Fire, it continued to burn in the War Ridge and … Read more
HARMAN, W.Va. — A West Virginia-grown Christmas tree harvested in the Monongahela National Forest will adorn the west lawn of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., in 2023 — the third time a West Virginia tree has appeared on the grounds that look across the National Mall toward the Lincoln Memorial.The first and second occasions … Read more
ELKINS, W.Va. — Most of the Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia is open year-round, closing only when access roads are snow-covered, though some developed campgrounds, picnic areas, and visitor centers routinely close from late fall through mid-spring.According to forest service media contact Kelly Bridges, officials have posted the following seasonal closures for winter 2023-2024. … Read more
ELKINS, W.Va. — Staff at the Monongahela National Forest in eastern West Virginia plan to conduct prescribed burns and pile burns in Greenbrier, Pocahontas, Grant, and Pendleton counties this fall and winter, weather permitting.According to Kelly Bridges, a spokesperson for the service, the burns help re-establish fire’s natural role in the forest ecosystem, improve forest … Read more
GLEN JEAN, W.Va. — Nine popular fishing spots along the New and Gauley rivers in southern West Virginia now have receptacles for anglers to dispose of fishing lines, courtesy of the Friends of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.The receptacles are mounted on signs and fence posts in convenient locations that are visible and … Read more
LOGAN, W.Va. — Tickets for guided tours of southern West Virginia’s elk management area are available and expected to sell out quickly, according to state officials.The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and West Virginia State Parks announce the much-anticipated return of Elk Management Tours, which allow nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers to witness the … Read more
SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Restaurants at state parks across West Virginia will begin sourcing local ingredients and refreshing their menus with native flair, thanks to the enlistment of a groundbreaking chef known for his exploration of native cuisine.Known widely as the “Vagabond Chef” and frequently seen on a motorcycle as he travels the state in … Read more
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The National Park Service’s 2022 report on visitor spending has found that the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in southern West Virginia generated $96.1 million in economic output and supported 1,044 jobs.More than 1.5 million park visitors spent an estimated $79.3 million in local gateway regions in 2022 while visiting … Read more
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — Western West Virginia’s new children’s museum is expected to contribute to revitalizing Huntington’s West End and benefit families in an area where such advantages were traditionally few. Tosha Pelfrey, president of the board of the Huntington Children’s Museum, says she wanted to establish the museum where it could provide opportunities that otherwise might … Read more
MANNINGTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources has entered into a long-term agreement with Mannington, West Virginia, to allow public hunting, fishing, and trapping on nearly 114 acres in Marion County.The property has been incorporated into the existing 1,259-acre Dents Run Wildlife Management Area. The 10-acre Mannington Lake is also included in … Read more
