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.
Early settlers in Pocahontas County called it “The Devil’s Backbone” as most believed such an unnatural thing could only be the work of evil. While geologists now understand the forces that created this dramatic arch, the explanation may be even harder to believe than the superstition. When Jacob Marlin and Stephen Sewell arrived in the … Read more
The parking lot for the Kaymoor and Butcher Branch trailheads in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve near Fayetteville, West Virginia, will close during resurfacing on July 11-14.The trailheads, located at what’s known as Kaymoor Top, will remain open with parking available at the nearby Arrowhead trailhead parking lot, according to acting park … Read more
Gov. Jim Justice has announced the newest scenic route of the Mountain Rides program—Capitol Circle, a scenic loop that will route motorists through the southern state.The circle is the second route of the West Virginia Mountain Rides program, a collaborative partnership between the W.Va. Department of Transportation and the W.Va. Department of Tourism to designate … Read more
Residents of the Teays Valley in western West Virginia have been taking advantage of Valley Park at Hurricane since it opened in 1978, but now the park off Interstate 64 is attracting more visitors from out of town, thanks in part to renovations and new sports fields.Long known for its wave pool, the park between … Read more
One of the state’s most evocative historic landmarks, the pavilion at Blue Sulphur Springs could be restored to its original appearance by 2023 and could be open to visitors soon, according to a spokesperson for the Greenbrier Historical Society, which has spearheaded its restoration.“Within three years, we hope,” Margaret Hambrick said of the restoration, which … Read more
The National Park Service has received approximately $9.8 million in funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to plug, remediate, and reclaim abandoned oil and gas well sites in national parks, including the Gauley River National Recreation Area.Overall, bureaus within the U.S. departments of the interior and agriculture will address 277 high-priority wells that pose threats … Read more
The Monongahela National Forest has received $6 million in funding from the 2020 Great American Outdoors Act to support seven projects across the Forest in 2022. These projects are part of $503 million in Great American Outdoors Act investments across USDA-managed lands to address deferred maintenance, improve infrastructure, increase user access, and support rural economies … Read more
Adventure lakes at Pipestem Resort and Tygart Lake state parks are set to open on May 20, and officials are encouraging travelers to book accommodations and order tickets online in advance.Featuring waterslides, obstacles, inflatables, and beach areas, the lakes are designed as water parks and beach trips all in one, according to state parks chief … Read more
Could West Virginia residents lose control of their state parks? Some state officials are warning voters about what could be a threat to the park system, which has been nationally recognized for its beauty and accessibility. According to an article published in the Wyoming County Report and shared with permission here, every few years, the … Read more
The West Virginia Legislature this week is considering the privatization of the state’s park system. Mark Wylie, retired parks district administrator and long-time superintendent at Babcock and Watoga state parks is warning West Virginians that the bills have dire implications.“The recent legislative introduction of Senate Bill 485 and its companion, House Bill 4408, means that … Read more
