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 such as the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, explore Harpers Ferry’s rich history, 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, West Virginia’s attractions 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.
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 … 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 … 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 … 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 … 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 … 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 … 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 … 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 … 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 … Read more
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — On the north shore of Summersville Lake, West Virginia will soon open its 36th state park. Boaters explore Pirate’s Cove at Summersville Lake State Park. (Photo courtesy W.Va. Dept. of Commerce)[/caption] A bill that will officially designate the land as a state park was sent to the West Virginia Legislature on August … Read more
