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.
ELKINS, W.Va. — The U.S. Capitol is going wild and wonderful this Christmas as West Virginia comes to the fore as the nation’s forest and outdoor recreation wonderland. In addition to providing the 70- to 80-foot tree that will be displayed on the west lawn of the U.S. Capitol this holiday season, smaller trees are … Read more
THURMOND, W.Va. — One of the best-known historic structures in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in southern West Virginia has undergone repairs just in time for the 2023 tourist season. The historic Thurmond Depot, a seasonal visitor center and active flag stop on the Amtrak Cardinal line through the gorge, is ready … Read more
ELKINS, W.Va. — In light of dramatic increases in visitation in the Monongahela National Forest in eastern West Virginia, officials are advising guests to plan ahead when arranging to visit the forest, which protects more than 921,000 acres, including vast uninhabited regions. Forest Supervisor Shawn Cochran says the visitors may now find parking areas full … Read more
DUNLOW, W.Va. — The small, unincorporated community of Dunlow on WV-152 in southern Wayne County typically does not stir interest among passersby. Drive too fast, and you’ll miss its one significant landmark—a near-perfectly preserved train station sitting alone in an empty field. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in April, the Dunlow Norfolk … Read more
HARPER’S FERRY, W.Va. — Harpers Ferry National Historical Park in the eastern panhandle of West Virginia has instituted a three-month pilot program to collect cashless entrance fees for vehicles. Park officials anticipate that moving to a cashless system for the summer will allow the park to be a better steward of visitor dollars, according to … Read more
GLEN JEAN, W.Va. — The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in West Virginia has been ranked best in the nation for its scenic views and available activities, and officials at the nation’s newest national park are happy to accept the accolades. If there are two things the New River Gorge has plenty of, … Read more
BRUCETON MILLS, W.Va. — West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice has announced several new construction projects at one of the state’s most visited forests—Coopers Rock State Forest. The construction projects begin as system-wide state park visitation continues to soar, with first-quarter revenues outpacing pre-pandemic levels by more than 200 percent, Justice said. The over $10 million … Read more
Even before it was part of a national park, the New River Gorge in southern West Virginia was a popular destination for visitors who sought outdoor adventure. Now that more than 1.6 million people visit the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve annually, several popular trails are suffering from heavy traffic, and park patrons … Read more
Weather permitting, officials at the Monongahela National Forest plan to conduct prescribed burns on 1,251 acres in Pocahontas, Greenbrier, and Pendleton counties from March through June. According to Kelly Bridges, a spokesperson for the forest service, the treatments aim to re-establish fire’s natural role in the forest ecosystem, improve forest health and wildlife habitat, and … Read more
Officials with the U.S. Forest Service have unveiled a new logo designed to commemorate the 2023 Capitol Christmas Tree, which will be harvested from the Monongahela National Forest in eastern West Virginia. Amy Albright, project manager for the Christmas tree project, unveiled the design, which draws on the mountain beauty of the Monongahela. “All of … Read more
