Attractions

See our Attractions Travel Guide

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.

The White Hollow Trail descends through Kanawha State Forest near Charleston, West Virginia.

Six West Virginia parks to offer guided autumn hikes

Autumn is an ideal season for woodland walks and, to celebrate, six West Virginia state parks and forests are offering guided hikes with park naturalists in October 2019. Participants will receive a special West Virginia State Parks hiking patch and are encouraged to stay overnight in parks where lodging is available, according to parks chief … Read more

An elk bellows in a glade in the Tomblin Wildlife Management Area.

Guided tours lead hikers through elk management area

How fares the Mountain State’s new herd of free-range elk? Hikers will have an opportunity to find out in September and October during a series of guided tours of the reintroduction site. The four-hour tours start at the Chief Logan State Park lodge and range over two miles or more of rugged terrain, according to … Read more

West Virginia is offering discounts on all lodge rooms, cabins, and campsites to those seeking shelter from Hurricane Dorian.

W.Va. opens parks to travelers who seek shelter from Dorian

West Virginia has opened its state parks to travelers seeking shelter from Hurricane Dorian, offering a 50 percent discount on park cabins, campsites, and lodge rooms. West Virginia Governor Jim Justice emphasized the welcoming nature of state residents while making the announcement Wednesday morning. “West Virginia stands ready to welcome anyone who may be in … Read more

A park ranger demonstrates fire-pit cooking at North Bend State Park near Cairo, West Virginia

North Bend State Park hosts 52nd annual Nature Wonder Weekend

North Bend State Park’s Nature Wonder Weekend—North America’s premier and longest-running wild foods event—will celebrate its 52nd year Sept. 20-22. “Participants this year will learn how to bring their favorite wild edibles into their own backyards,” said Emily Fleming, deputy director for the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. “Also, as in past events, participants … Read more

The Allstadt House and Ordinary has been added to Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.

Allstadt’s Corner donated to Harpers Ferry National Historical Park

Nearly 160 years after John Brown raided the federal arsenal at Harpers Ferry, the National Park Service is welcoming the gift of another 13 acres that help tell Brown’s story. The American Battlefield Trust purchased property known as Allstadt’s Corner, which includes Allstadt’s Ordinary, and transferred it to Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. The donation … Read more

A student stands in the doorway of the control room for the 40-foot Telescope at the Green Bank Observatory.

Observatory in remote West Virginia mountains to remain open

The National Science Foundation has announced plans to leave open the remote Green Bank Observatory high in the Allegheny Mountains in eastern West Virginia. Formerly the National Radio Astronomy Observatory, the facility includes the world’s largest fully steerable radio telescope, though it may best be known for its remote location—among mountains that block radio interference … Read more