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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.

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

Memorial Day weekend travel in West Virginia

Memorial Day weekend travel in West Virginia expected to surge as summer begins

BECKLEY, W.Va. — Memorial Day weekend this year is expected to bring record travel across the U.S., and West Virginia officials, tourism businesses, and travelers are preparing for crowded highways, full campgrounds, and busy outdoor destinations. The American Automobile Association (AAA) projects that 45 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home during … Read more

West Virginia Travel Safety: The Mountain remains a generally safe place to visit, particularly given its low violent crime rate. But safe travel here depends on understanding terrain, distances, and conditions that differ sharply from those in more urban states.

West Virginia Travel Safety: What it means for residents and visitors in 2026

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Travel safety in West Virginia is shaped less by headline-grabbing crime and more by geography, weather, and the realities of rural travel. For West Virginians and the growing number of tourists drawn by the state’s mountains, rivers, and small towns, that distinction matters. Recent tourism data show steady growth in outdoor recreation, … Read more