Communities in West Virginia offer residents a welcoming atmosphere, affordable cost of living, and a strong sense of connection to nature and neighbors alike. From charming small towns to vibrant cities like Charleston and Morgantown, West Virginia communities provide friendly neighborhoods, excellent schools, and access to outdoor recreation right at your doorstep. Residents enjoy a slower pace of life, surrounded by the state’s beautiful mountains, rivers, and forests, as well as rich local culture, historic sites, and community events that bring people together.
With safe streets, local businesses, and a true spirit of Appalachian hospitality, living in West Virginia communities means enjoying a high quality of life and a supportive, tight-knit environment where everyone feels at home. Be sure to visit our Communities Travel Guide for information about communities in West Virginia.
SUMMERSVILLE, W.Va. — Devoted fans of scenic Summersville Lake in central West Virginia are being invited to volunteer for a litter clean-up there in late August. The Plateau Action Network will host a community clean-up at Summersville Lake on Saturday, Aug. 30, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Volunteers will gather at the Salmon Run … Read more
MERCER HEALING SPRINGS, W.Va. — International Relaxation Day is observed August 15 across the world, and West Virginia celebrates it for a good reason. West Virginia is a relaxing place. Over time, thanks to the rise of social media, Relaxation Day has grown to a global scale, and West Virginia’s been at the forefront. The … Read more
SUTTON, W.Va. — One night in 1984, the Reverend Bernard Coffindaffer experienced an epiphany. God called him, he said, to erect sets of three crosses across the U.S. to recall Christ’s crucifixion at Calvary. He would raise them wherever he could, and he would start nearby—in the foothills west of the Allegheny Mountains in central … Read more
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia Waterfall Trail has surpassed 125,000 check-ins since its launch in 2022, according to officials at the West Virginia Department of Tourism. To date, more than 14,000 prizes have been awarded to participants for their waterfall explorations, according to state Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby. “To have had travelers from all … Read more
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia cities and towns vary in size from the state capital at Charleston, the largest, to the tiny town of Thurmond, with five permanent residents. Which are the 10 largest cities? And which are not far behind? Below, we present a ranked overview of ten of its most populous West Virginia … Read more
BUFFALO, W.Va. — An array of five giant “solar flowers” is capturing the attention of motorists travelling scenic Charleston Road along the Kanawha River. What are they? The curiosities are not only capturing interest—they might be hallmarks of a new, more environmentally friendly West Virginia. Turning toward the sun like real sunflowers, the SmartFlowers are … Read more
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Thirty-three West Virginia companies that export goods and services have been recognized for expanding into new international markets, according to officials at the West Virginia Department of Commerce. Seven of the businesses honored with the “Governor’s Export Award” were first-time recipients of the award, which is presented to companies that made their … Read more
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — There’s a reason West Virginia is called “almost heaven.” In the wild heart of Appalachia, its natural beauty is both raw and refined. A landscape of country roads, it seems untouched by time yet alive with the hum of adventure. From sweeping vistas to charming small towns, its scenery tells a story … Read more
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia’s natural beauty is world-famous, but when summer heat hits, the state’s waterparks become top destinations for families and thrill-seekers looking to cool off with some splashing fun. Whether you want a giant inflatable obstacle course or a classic wave pool, the Mountain State offers some truly memorable aquatic escapes. Here’s … Read more
MOUNT ZION, W.Va. — If you’re searching for the best places to stargaze on the East Coast, West Virginia should be at the top of your list. With some of the darkest skies in the eastern United States, the Mountain State is fast becoming a haven for amateur astronomers and curious skywatchers alike. Visitors and … Read more
