Attractions

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.

Berkeley Springs Castle in West Virginia

Romance, Riches & Ghosts: Inside West Virginia’s most enigmatic castle

BERKELEY SPRINGS, W.Va. — Something about a castle evokes thoughts of murder, mayhem, and mystery. Perhaps it’s the architecture—the stonework and castellated towers. Secrets seem to surround these structures. Berkeley Castle in West Virginia is no exception.Overlooking the historic spa town of Berkeley Springs, “The Castle,” as locals call it, boasts a history as twisted … Read more

The one-mile trail around Little Beaver Lake is among the most popular recreational trails near Beckley, West Virginia.

West Virginia unveils daily one-mile trail program in 32 state parks

BEAVER, W.Va. — To encourage West Virginians to walk at least one mile daily, state officials are designating one-mile hiking trails in 32 parks as “Mountaineer Mile” challenge trails.Governor Patrick Morrisey gathered with other state officials to announce the initiative at Little Beaver State Park, which boasts a mile-long walking trail encircling Little Beaver Lake.“If the … Read more

Martin MB-2 in flight with a pursuit aircraft practicing an attack. (U.S. Air Force photo)

Wrecked aircraft deployed in Mine Wars may remain in mountains

SUMMERSVILLE, W.Va. — Historians in central West Virginia are preparing to commemorate the mysterious site of the crash of a remarkable military aircraft — a wood-winged bi-plane sent to bomb striking miners during the infamous Battle of Blair Mountain in 1921.The plane about which relatively little was publicly known was coincidentally the first U.S. aircraft … Read more

Dave Sibray surveys the curious cone on Elk Mountain, a roadside attraction along U.S. 219 in Pocahontas County.

W.Va. roadside curiosity captures imaginations in Pocahontas County

EDRAY, W.Va. — Famous for its breathtaking mountain scenery, Pocahontas County offers travelers plenty to admire. Yet, one small landmark sparks more curiosity than most—a charming, cone-shaped structure reminiscent of a gnome’s hat. While the county may best be known for its ski areas, observatory, and scenic railroads, one roadside curiosity often steals the spotlight. … Read more

Capitol Market In Charleston West Virginia

W.Va. celebrates record number of National Register nominations

CHARLESTON. W.Va. — Two-thousand-twenty-four has proven record-breaking for historic preservation in West Virginia. Twenty sites, buildings, and districts were nominated to the National Register of Historic Places—the highest number in 18 years.The listings cover a wide range of historic resources in the state—from farms and cemeteries to monuments and African American sites.According to data from … Read more

New River Gorge Bridge, Fayetteville, West Virginia, New River Gorge Region

Park ranger lists the four must-see attractions in the New River Gorge

THURMOND, W.Va.—Visiting America’s newest national park? There are countless trails to walk, rocks to climb, and streams to paddle, but there are four places every visitor should see in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in southern West Virginia.According to park ranger Jodi French-Burr, the following four must-see destinations are worth visiting whether … Read more