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.
A recent study of the Preservation Alliance of West Virginia’s AmeriCorps program suggests its heritage tourism programming is an important economic engine for West Virginia, according to Danielle Parker, executive director for the alliance. The study found that more than half of travelers who visit the program’s heritage sites traveled from more than 50 miles … Read more
Lushly forested West Virginia is a ideally suited to the production of rich, golden honey, and North Bend State Park is fostering the industry this year by hosting a free beekeeping program February 28. Master Beekeeper Janet Clayton will host a free program at 6:30 p.m. at the park lodge during which she will discuss … Read more
The eighth annual Winterfest celebration at Coopers Rock State Forest Feb. 9 provides guests free hikes, introductory courses in snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, and wintry competitions, including a new Men’s Snowball Showdown. Near Morgantown, West Virginia, the forest famously overlooks the canyon of the Cheat River from the summit of the Chestnut Ridge and is a … Read more
Governor Jim Justice today announced an $11-million investment package for Pipestem Resort State Park that will include new outdoor-adventure infrastructure and updated park accommodations. Beginning this spring, visitors to Pipestem, in southern West Virginia, will be able to enjoy a new splash park, lake adventures, guided trout-fishing trips, stand-up paddleboard tours, rock climbing and rappelling … Read more
There’s often no time to waste when rescuing a historic landmark, which is why West Virginia’s Preservation Alliance is expanding its endangered-properties program to accept nominations and provide assistance year-round. The alliance will continue to publish its anticipated list of endangered properties annually, but staff will now provide assistance as soon as submissions are approved, … Read more
The habits of West Virginia’s butterfly population, including the state butterfly, the monarch, will be the theme of North Bend State Park’s annual Winter Wonder Weekend scheduled for Jan. 18-20. The winter weekend also will feature other favorite park activities, including hiking, sleigh riding, crafts demonstrations, and performances by local musicians. “During Winter Wonder Weekend, … Read more
It’s time to make New Year’s resolutions, and seven West Virginia state parks and forests are inviting people to join a First Day Hike on Tuesday, Jan. 1, and adopt healthier lifestyles by spending more time outside in 2019. “Hiking is a year-round activity and the experience is different each time, depending upon the season … Read more
The Cabell-Huntington Convention and Visitors Bureau is requesting proposals from qualified restaurateurs to take over approximately 1,604 square feet of restaurant space in the visitors center at Heritage Station, according to bureau director Tyson Compton. A chief anchor for tourism in downtown Huntington, West Virginia, the center and station attract daytime and evening traffic from … Read more
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park will increase its entrance fees in 2019 and 2020 as part of the National Park Service’s efforts to address infrastructure needs and enhance visitor experiences. Effective January 1, the park’s per-vehicle fee will increase to $15, and its per-person fee will increase to $7, according to Autumn Cook, a park spokesperson. … Read more
The ultimate gift for a West Virginia state park fanatic, park system gift-cards for 2019 include eight bonus coupons for park amenities if purchased before Dec. 14, according to system spokeswoman Miranda Cope. Extras include — A buy-one, get-one-free admission to the fort at Pricketts Fort State Park. Free admission to the wildlife exhibit at Chief Logan … Read more
