West Virginia, known as the Mountain State, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, vibrant culture, and outdoor adventure. This detailed itinerary is divided into eight sections: landmarks, food, entertainment, culture, outdoor activities, shopping, history, and wellness. Each section highlights must-visit spots and activities to ensure your visit to West Virginia is both memorable and enriching.
Landmarks
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is one of West Virginia’s crown jewels. This recently designated national park is known for its stunning canyon and the iconic New River Gorge Bridge. The bridge, which spans 3,030 feet, is the longest steel span in the Western Hemisphere and the third-highest in the United States. Visitors can take part in the annual Bridge Day, where thrill-seekers BASE jump and rappel from the bridge. The park offers numerous hiking trails, white-water rafting opportunities, and breathtaking overlooks, making it a must-visit destination.
Seneca Rocks
Seneca Rocks, located in the Monongahela National Forest, is a dramatic formation of sheer rock cliffs that rise nearly 900 feet above the North Fork River. It is a popular destination for rock climbing and offers routes for both beginners and experienced climbers. For those who prefer a less strenuous activity, a hike to the Seneca Rocks Observation Platform provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The nearby Seneca Rocks Discovery Center offers educational exhibits about the geology, history, and wildlife of the area.
The Greenbrier
The Greenbrier, located in White Sulphur Springs, is a world-famous luxury resort known for its rich history and opulent accommodations. The resort has hosted numerous U.S. presidents and celebrities since it opened in 1778. Visitors can explore the resort’s extensive grounds, which include golf courses, a casino, a spa, and numerous dining options. The Greenbrier also offers historical tours, including the Bunker Tour, which reveals a once-secret Cold War-era fallout shelter built for the U.S. Congress.
Food and Cuisine
Tudor’s Biscuit World
No trip to West Virginia is complete without a visit to Tudor’s Biscuit World. This beloved regional chain is famous for its hearty, homemade biscuits and breakfast sandwiches. Try the “Mountaineer,” a biscuit sandwich with sausage, egg, and cheese, or the “Thundering Herd,” featuring country ham and egg. Tudor’s also offers a variety of lunch options, including fried chicken, country-fried steak, and a range of sides like macaroni and cheese and collard greens.
Pies & Pints
Pies & Pints, located in Fayetteville and several other locations across the state, is a popular pizzeria known for its creative toppings and extensive craft beer selection. The restaurant’s specialty pizzas include unique combinations like the “Grape & Gorgonzola” and the “Chicken Gouda.” The relaxed atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring. Pair your pizza with one of the many local and regional craft beers on tap for a true taste of West Virginia.
Hillbilly Hot Dogs
For a quirky and fun dining experience, visit Hillbilly Hot Dogs in Lesage. This roadside eatery is known for its outrageous hot dog creations and eclectic decor. The menu features a wide variety of hot dogs, from the classic “West Virginia Dog” topped with chili, coleslaw, mustard, and onions to the massive “Homewrecker,” a one-pound hot dog loaded with 15 toppings. The restaurant’s whimsical atmosphere, complete with old school buses and quirky memorabilia, makes it a unique and memorable stop.
Entertainment
Appalachian Power Park
Appalachian Power Park in Charleston is home to the West Virginia Power, a minor league baseball team. The ballpark offers a family-friendly atmosphere with affordable tickets, exciting games, and various promotions and events throughout the season. Whether you’re a die-hard baseball fan or just looking for a fun night out, a game at Appalachian Power Park is a great way to experience local sports culture.
Theatre West Virginia
Theatre West Virginia, located in Grandview Park near Beckley, offers a range of outdoor theatrical productions during the summer months. The theatre’s picturesque setting in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains provides a stunning backdrop for its performances, which include classic dramas, musicals, and original plays that highlight the region’s history and culture. Notable productions include “Hatfields & McCoys” and “Honey in the Rock.” The theatre also hosts educational programs and workshops for aspiring actors and playwrights.
Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences
The Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences in Charleston is a premier cultural venue that hosts a variety of entertainment options, including live music, theater performances, and visual arts exhibitions. The Avampato Discovery Museum, located within the Clay Center, features interactive science exhibits and an art gallery. The Caperton Planetarium and Theater offers captivating shows and films about astronomy and natural history. With its diverse offerings, the Clay Center is a great place for families and individuals to enjoy a day of cultural enrichment and entertainment.
Culture
Appalachian Folklife Center
The Appalachian Folklife Center, located in Pipestem, is dedicated to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of the Appalachian region. The center offers workshops, festivals, and events that showcase traditional crafts, music, and storytelling. Visitors can participate in activities such as blacksmithing, pottery, and weaving, and learn about the history and customs of the Appalachian people. The annual Appalachian String Band Music Festival, held in August, attracts musicians and enthusiasts from all over the country for a weekend of music, dance, and camaraderie.
Tamarack: The Best of West Virginia
Tamarack, located in Beckley, is a cultural and artisan center that showcases the best of West Virginia’s arts, crafts, and cuisine. The center features a retail gallery with handmade items such as pottery, jewelry, textiles, and woodwork, created by local artisans. Visitors can watch live demonstrations, attend workshops, and enjoy performances by local musicians and dancers. Tamarack also has a restaurant that serves traditional West Virginia dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
West Virginia Symphony Orchestra
The West Virginia Symphony Orchestra, based in Charleston, is the state’s premier professional orchestra. The orchestra performs a diverse repertoire, including classical symphonies, contemporary works, and pops concerts. The season includes performances by renowned guest artists and collaborations with local choirs and dance companies. Attending a concert by the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra is a wonderful way to experience the rich cultural life of the state and enjoy world-class music in a beautiful setting.
Outdoor Activities
Blackwater Falls State Park
Blackwater Falls State Park, located in Davis, is one of West Virginia’s most scenic destinations. The park is named for the 57-foot Blackwater Falls, where the tannin-rich water plunges into the Blackwater River Gorge. Visitors can view the falls from several overlooks or hike the park’s extensive trail system, which offers varying levels of difficulty. The park is also popular for camping, fishing, and birdwatching. In the winter, Blackwater Falls State Park offers cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding.
Dolly Sods Wilderness
Dolly Sods Wilderness, located in the Monongahela National Forest, is a unique and rugged area known for its high-altitude plateau, wind-swept boulder fields, and diverse ecosystems. The wilderness offers over 47 miles of trails, making it a popular destination for hiking, backpacking, and camping. The trails range from easy day hikes to challenging multi-day treks. The area is also known for its stunning vistas, wildflowers, and wildlife, including black bears, deer, and a variety of bird species. Dolly Sods is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and solitude.
Summersville Lake
Summersville Lake, the largest lake in West Virginia, is a hub for water-based recreation. The crystal-clear waters and scenic cliffs make it a popular destination for boating, swimming, and scuba diving. The lake’s 60 miles of shoreline offer numerous coves and inlets to explore, as well as sandy beaches for sunbathing. Fishing is also a favorite activity, with abundant populations of bass, walleye, and catfish. The surrounding area offers hiking and rock climbing opportunities, making Summersville Lake a versatile destination for outdoor fun.
Shopping
Capitol Market
Capitol Market, located in Charleston, is a vibrant indoor-outdoor market that offers a wide variety of fresh produce, local products, and specialty items. The market is housed in a historic train depot and features vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to meats, cheeses, and baked goods. Visitors can also find unique gifts, flowers, and West Virginia-made crafts. The market’s on-site restaurants and cafes provide delicious options for a meal or snack. Capitol Market is a great place to experience the local food scene and support regional farmers and artisans.
Shepherdstown
Shepherdstown, located along the Potomac River, is a charming historic town known for its eclectic shops and boutiques. The town’s main street is lined with stores offering a range of items, including antiques, books, art, and clothing. Highlights include the Four Seasons Books, an independent bookstore with a wide selection of titles, and Dickinson & Wait Craft Gallery, which showcases the work of local artists. Shepherdstown’s walkable downtown area and friendly atmosphere make it a delightful place to spend a leisurely day shopping and exploring.
MountainMade
MountainMade, located in Thomas, is a gallery and retail shop dedicated to promoting the work of West Virginia artisans. The store features a wide variety of handmade items, including pottery, glass, jewelry, textiles, and woodwork. Visitors can find unique gifts and souvenirs that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the Appalachian region. MountainMade also hosts workshops and events that provide opportunities to meet the artists and learn about their craft. The store’s commitment to supporting local artisans and preserving traditional skills makes it a special place to shop.
History
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, located at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, is a site of immense historical significance. The park preserves the town of Harpers Ferry, which played a crucial role in the Civil War and the abolitionist movement. Visitors can explore historic buildings, museums, and exhibits that tell the story of John Brown’s raid, the Civil War, and the town’s industrial heritage. The park also offers hiking trails, including sections of the Appalachian Trail, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
West Virginia State Museum
The West Virginia State Museum, located in the Culture Center at the State Capitol Complex in Charleston, offers a comprehensive overview of the state’s history and culture. The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from prehistoric times to the present day, including the state’s natural resources, industrial development, and cultural heritage. Interactive displays, artifacts, and multimedia presentations make the museum an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and special events throughout the year.
Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park
Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park, located on an island in the Ohio River, offers a glimpse into the life of Harman and Margaret Blennerhassett, who built a grand mansion on the island in the early 19th century. Visitors can take a sternwheeler riverboat ride to the island and tour the reconstructed Blennerhassett Mansion, which features period furnishings and exhibits about the family’s history. The island also offers walking trails, picnic areas, and a museum with artifacts and exhibits about the island’s history. Blennerhassett Island is a unique and picturesque destination that combines history and natural beauty.
Wellness
Oglebay Resort
Oglebay Resort, located in Wheeling, is a premier destination for relaxation and wellness. The resort’s 1,700-acre property includes a golf course, spa, gardens, and a variety of recreational facilities. The West Spa at Oglebay offers a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body treatments, designed to promote relaxation and rejuvenation. The resort also features a fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, and hiking trails. Oglebay’s serene setting and comprehensive wellness offerings make it an ideal place to unwind and recharge.
Berkeley Springs State Park
Berkeley Springs State Park, located in the town of Berkeley Springs, is known for its natural mineral springs that have attracted visitors for centuries. The park’s historic Roman Bathhouse offers a variety of spa services, including mineral baths, massages, and saunas. The warm, mineral-rich waters are believed to have therapeutic properties that promote relaxation and healing. The park also features a swimming pool, picnic areas, and walking trails. Berkeley Springs’ charming downtown area, with its shops, restaurants, and art galleries, adds to the appeal of this wellness destination.
The Salt Cave and Spa
The Salt Cave and Spa, located in White Sulphur Springs, offers a unique wellness experience centered around the therapeutic benefits of salt. The spa features a man-made salt cave, where visitors can relax and breathe in the salt-infused air, which is believed to improve respiratory health and promote relaxation. The spa also offers a range of treatments, including salt scrubs, massages, and facials. The peaceful ambiance and holistic approach to wellness make The Salt Cave and Spa a rejuvenating retreat.
West Virginia offers a diverse array of experiences, from its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage to its outdoor adventures and wellness retreats. This itinerary provides a comprehensive guide to exploring the best of what the Mountain State has to offer, ensuring that visitors can fully immerse themselves in the beauty, history, and charm of West Virginia. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, West Virginia has something to offer every traveler.