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.
Visitors are usually surprised when they walk through the door of Maggie’s Pub in Fayetteville, West Virginia. Only a stone’s throw from the New River Gorge, they may expect an outdoorsy theme to match that of this outdoorsy town — the annual destination for thousands of hikers, bikers, paddlers, and rock climbers. Instead, they’re met … Read more
The National Park Service will host a meeting on rules and regulations for climbing activities at New River Gorge National Park and Preserve and Gauley River National Recreation Area on March 16 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Canyon Rim Visitor Center near Fayetteville, West Virginia. The meeting follows a successful climbing listening session and community … Read more
Fire managers for the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in West Virginia are preparing for four prescribed fires between February 25 and May 31, weather permitting. Plans include burning four separate units ranging from five to 45 acre, according to Julena Campbell, public affairs officer for the National Park Service in southern West … Read more
Of more than 400 artifacts collected in this museum of the paranormal in West Virginia’s “city of the dead,” one is attracting more attention than all others, though curators are at a loss to explain why. “You can see why the lost execution-cap from the penitentiary’s electric chair is popular,” says Steve Hummel, referring to … Read more
Expecting an increased demand for campsites in 2018, staff at West Virginia state parks and forests will begin processing site reservations on Feb. 15, in advance of camping season this spring. State park campgrounds begin opening between mid-March and April, depending upon the park and weather, according to parks district administrator Matt Yeager. “We’ve been … Read more
MIDDLEBOURNE, W.Va. — Long before I’d seen it, I’d become fascinated by the idea of visiting “The Jug” on Middle Island Creek, one of the more peculiar geographic features in northern West Virginia. Near Middlebourne, nearly halfway along its course, Middle Island Creek meanders almost four miles southward through a jug-shaped bend before returning to … Read more
I believe West Virginia was made for romance, and I can think of no better Valentine’s Day weekend adventure than one spent dining after a drive through the breath-taking West Virginia countryside. For a romantic like myself, it’s a wonderful weekend to dine out, when you can secure reservations. Here are four romantic venues I’ve … Read more
UPDATE Jan. 23, 2018: Following the enactment of the continuing resolution, staff at New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, Bluestone National Scenic River, and Gauley River National Recreation Area have resumed regular park operations. All roads, trails, campgrounds, and river access points are open and accessible, 24 hours a day, weather permitting, according to Julena … Read more
Visitors to Chief Logan State Park’s museum near Logan, West Virginia, will enjoy enhanced services and expanded hours when renovations to the popular attraction are completed, according to superintendent Bruce Collinsworth. Closing Jan. 6, the the museum will reopen Memorial Day Weekend, Collinsworth said, and the updated facility will operate as a visitor’s center with … Read more
On January 1, 1853, the first train arrived in Wheeling, West Virginia, (then Virginia) on the newly completed Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, the first rail line linking the Atlantic seaboard with the Ohio River. The event was groundbreaking—not only for what would become northern West Virginia, but for the nation. For more than a quarter … Read more
