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Travel in West Virginia offers countless benefits, especially as the remote-work revolution draws new residents from big U.S. cities seeking adventure, relaxation, and a slower pace of life. Known for its stunning mountain scenery, outdoor recreation, and welcoming small towns, West Virginia provides the perfect escape for travelers looking to unwind and explore nature without venturing too far from home. Visitors can hike scenic trails, discover hidden waterfalls, enjoy cozy cabin stays, and experience local culture through charming shops, Appalachian cuisine, and vibrant festivals. As more remote workers settle in the Mountain State, travel within West Virginia becomes even more rewarding, with easy access to breathtaking parks, peaceful retreats, and friendly communities that make every trip feel like a refreshing getaway.

Just a few hours from Washington, D.C., West Virginia's high country offers cool summer evenings that have drawn Mid-Atlantic travelers for generations. (WVExplorer Image)

As the eastern U.S. bakes, West Virginia’s mountains offer a cooler escape

BECKLEY, W.Va. — By late afternoon in Washington, D.C., summer settles over the city like a heavy blanket. Heat radiates from sidewalks and office buildings. The marble monuments along the National Mall shimmer in the haze, while commuters hurry between air-conditioned offices, Metro stations, and cars. Even after sunset, the pavement continues releasing the warmth … Read more

A West Virginia Division of Natural Resources police officer talks with a recreational boater during a routine safety check. Officers across the state increase boating safety patrols during the busy Fourth of July holiday, reminding visitors that alcohol and drugs can impair judgment, balance and reaction time on the water.

Drinking is dangerous even if you’re not driving the boat this Fourth of July

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — As thousands of boaters head to West Virginia’s lakes and rivers for the Independence Day holiday, state natural resources police are reminding visitors that alcohol can be dangerous long before anyone takes the helm. Read more: Best swimming holes in West Virginia While many people associate boating under the influence with an … Read more

adventure tourism have become increasingly important drivers of the state's visitor economy. (Photo: David Sibray)

New outdoor expo to highlight West Virginia’s growing adventure tourism industry

ELKINS, W.Va. — A new outdoor recreation expo planned for August in Elkins aims to showcase the businesses, destinations, and experiences that have helped make West Virginia one of the fastest-growing outdoor tourism destinations in the eastern United States. The inaugural West Virginia Outdoor Expo is scheduled for Aug. 8-9 at The Railyard Event & … Read more

A family overlooks the New River Gorge Bridge from Long Point Trail in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve near Fayetteville. The overlook is among West Virginia's most popular destinations for travelers exploring the Mountain State by road trip. (Photo: David Sibray)

Why more Americans are choosing West Virginia for summer road trips

FAYETTEVILLE, W.Va. — As the summer travel season reaches its peak, more travelers are turning to West Virginia for road trips that combine mountain scenery, outdoor recreation, small-town culture, and relatively short driving distances from major East Coast cities. The Mountain State has become increasingly visible to travelers since the designation of the New River … Read more

The Middle Fork River at Audra State Park is among the most popular natural swimming holes in West Virginia, attracting visitors throughout the summer. (Photo courtesy Sebastian Chambers)

The 12 best swimming holes in West Virginia for ideal summer escapes

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Whether you’re chasing cool, crystal-clear waters or hidden natural pools tucked into lush forest valleys, these publicly accessible swimming holes in West Virginia offer the perfect summer escape. Keep in mind that there are hundreds across the Mountain State, many of which are sourced from clear mountain streams. Explore the best natural … Read more

Research supports the idea that destinations benefit when businesses remain open during peak visitor periods.

West Virginia experts say tourist towns lose money when businesses close on Sundays

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — As West Virginia communities increasingly invest in tourism and outdoor recreation, industry leaders say many destinations are missing opportunities to capture visitor spending when businesses close during weekends, particularly on Sundays. Tourism professionals across the state say travelers are more likely to spend money in communities where shops, restaurants, and attractions remain … Read more