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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.

West Virginia Water Trail — Campbell Falls
Travel / Transportation

West Virginia Waterfall Trail surpasses an unexpected 125,000 check-ins

by David Sibray

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

Waterparks in West Virginia
Travel / Transportation

Splash into Fun: The Six Best Waterparks in West Virginia (2025 Guide)

by Clyde Craig

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

The Guyandotte River hosts a lone kayaker.
Travel / Transportation

The Guyandotte River rediscovered as a destination for angling, paddling

by David Sibray

GUYANDOTTE, W.Va. — Rivers in West Virginia have gained enormous popularity as travel destinations, thanks to cleaner water and better highway access. Yet the Guyandotte River, winding through the state’s southwestern mountains, has remained largely unknown, and that’s precisely what many anglers and paddlers love about it. From its headwaters to its mouth, the Guyandotte … Read more

Governor Morrisey announces the expansion of Breeze Airways at Charleston airport.
Travel / Transportation

Breeze Airways expands service in West Virginia with new Charleston route

by David Sibray

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Breeze Airways is soaring to new heights in central West Virginia, unveiling plans to open five new non-stop flights through Charleston, West Virginia, over the next two years. The fast-growing, low-cost carrier will expand operations at West Virginia International Yeager Airport (CRW) in the capital city, prioritizing service to Las Vegas and … Read more

David Sibray strolls at trail at Saint Marys, West Virginia, which has invested in its Ohio River heritage to attract tourists.
Travel / Transportation

Historic Towns, museums and heritage sites are driving West Virginia tourism growth

by Clyde Craig

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia is poised to outpace other U.S. states in lucrative heritage tourism, which is now the largest sector of the U.S. travel market, says David Sibray, historian and publisher of West Virginia Explorer. Focused on travel to museums, historic sites, and local festivals, the heritage tourism industry—which he says is driven … Read more

The "Almost Heaven" swing at Cedar Lakes adds yet another photo-up to West Virginia swings trail.
Travel / Transportation

More scenic stops for summer as W.Va. adds to “Almost Heaven” Swing Trail

by David Sibray

SPENCER, W.Va. — Travelers exploring West Virginia this summer will have even more opportunities to capture picture-perfect moments, as the number of “Almost Heaven” photo-ops across the state has grown to 43. The W.Va. Department of Tourism announced the expansion of the swing trail, encouraging visitors to snap photos and share them on social media … Read more