Table of Contents
West Virginia County Map
Introduction
West Virginia is a state in the Appalachian region of the United States. Known for its rugged terrain and outdoor activities, West Virginia offers a unique travel experience for those seeking adventure and natural beauty.
Top Attractions
West Virginia is home to a variety of top attractions, including the New River Gorge Bridge, Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, and the Seneca Rocks. The New River Gorge Bridge is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts, as it offers hiking, rock climbing, and whitewater rafting opportunities. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is a great place to learn about the Civil War and the abolitionist movement, while the Seneca Rocks offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Hidden Gems
For those looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, West Virginia has plenty of hidden gems to discover. One such gem is the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area, which is home to a variety of unique plants and animals. Another hidden gem is the Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, which offers scenic train rides through the mountains.
Food Scene
West Virginia is known for its hearty, home-cooked meals, such as country fried steak and biscuits and gravy. One popular restaurant is the Tudor’s Biscuit World, which serves up delicious breakfast sandwiches and biscuits. For those looking for something a little more upscale, the Bridge Road Bistro in Charleston offers contemporary American cuisine.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? West Virginia has plenty of budget-friendly options, such as camping in one of the state parks or hiking in the mountains. For those looking for affordable lodging, the Motel 6 chain has several locations throughout the state. And for a cheap and tasty meal, try one of the many roadside diners that are scattered throughout West Virginia.
Outdoor Adventures
West Virginia is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, whitewater rafting, and more. The Appalachian Trail passes through the state, offering some of the most stunning views in the country. The Gauley River is also a popular spot for whitewater rafting, with Class V rapids that will get your heart pumping.
Historical Landmarks
West Virginia is steeped in history, and there are plenty of historical landmarks to explore. The West Virginia State Capitol in Charleston is a beautiful building with a rich history, while the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum in Weston is a haunting reminder of the state’s past. The Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park is another interesting spot, with a mansion and gardens that date back to the early 1800s.
Family-Friendly Activities
West Virginia is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that both kids and adults will enjoy. The Adventure Park at Harpers Ferry is a popular spot, with zip lines, aerial courses, and a climbing tower. The Greenbrier River Trail is a great place for a family bike ride, while the West Virginia State Wildlife Center offers a chance to see native animals up close.
Natural Wonders
West Virginia is home to several natural wonders, including the Blackwater Falls State Park, the Canaan Valley Resort State Park, and the Dolly Sods Wilderness Area. Blackwater Falls is a stunning waterfall that drops 62 feet into the Blackwater River, while Canaan Valley offers some of the best skiing in the state. The Dolly Sods Wilderness Area is a unique ecosystem that is home to a variety of rare plants and animals.
Vibrant Nightlife
For those looking for a night out on the town, West Virginia has plenty of options. Charleston has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars and clubs that cater to all tastes. The Huntington Ale Trail is a great way to explore the local craft beer scene, while the Morgantown Bar Crawl takes you through some of the city’s best bars.
Local Markets
West Virginia is home to several local markets that offer a chance to sample some of the state’s best food and crafts. The Capitol Market in Charleston is a great place to find fresh produce and artisanal cheeses, while the Morgantown Farmers Market offers a variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables. The Tamarack in Beckley is a one-stop-shop for West Virginia souvenirs and handmade crafts.
Beaches and Mountains
West Virginia may not have any beaches, but it does have some of the most stunning mountain scenery in the country. The Monongahela National Forest is a great place to explore the mountains, with plenty of hiking trails and scenic vistas. The Cheat River is also a popular spot for kayaking and tubing.
Cultural Immersion
West Virginia has a rich cultural heritage, with a variety of festivals and events that celebrate the state’s history and traditions. The West Virginia Italian Heritage Festival in Clarksburg is one such event, with plenty of food, music, and dancing. The Vandalia Gathering in Charleston is another popular event, with traditional music, crafts, and storytelling.
Art and Music Scene
West Virginia has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries, theaters, and music venues to explore. The Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences in Charleston is a great place to catch a show or see some local art, while the Mountain Stage radio show is a must-see for music lovers. The Tamarack also hosts a variety of art exhibits and live performances throughout the year.
Walking Tours
For those looking to explore the cities on foot, West Virginia has plenty of walking tours to choose from. The Charleston Historic District Walking Tour takes you through some of the city’s most historic neighborhoods, while the Harpers Ferry Walking Tour offers a chance to learn about the town’s role in the Civil War. The Lewisburg Historic District Walking Tour is another interesting option, with plenty of beautiful architecture to admire.
Architectural Marvels
West Virginia is home to several architectural marvels, including the West Virginia State Capitol, the Palace of Gold in Moundsville, and the Wheeling Suspension Bridge. The Palace of Gold is a stunning temple that was built by the Hare Krishna movement, while the Wheeling Suspension Bridge is a historic engineering feat that spans the Ohio River.
Historical Sites
West Virginia is home to several important historical sites, including the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, the West Virginia Independence Hall in Wheeling, and the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum in Weston. These sites offer a chance to learn about West Virginia’s past and its role in shaping the country.
Biking Routes
West Virginia is a great destination for cyclists, with plenty of scenic routes to explore. The Greenbrier River Trail is a popular spot, with 78 miles of beautiful scenery and gentle grades. The Monongahela National Forest also offers several great biking trails, including the Blackwater Canyon Trail and the North Bend Rail Trail.
Wellness Retreats
For those looking to relax and rejuvenate, West Virginia has several wellness retreats to choose from. The Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs offers a variety of spa treatments and fitness classes, while the Oglebay Resort in Wheeling has a full-service spa and wellness center. The New River Gorge also offers several yoga retreats and wellness workshops throughout the year.
Adventure Sports
West Virginia is a paradise for adventure sports enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for rock climbing, whitewater rafting, and more. The New River Gorge is a popular spot for rock climbing, with over 1,400 established routes. The Gauley River is also a must-visit for whitewater rafting, with some of the most challenging rapids in the country.
In conclusion, West Virginia has something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to cultural immersion to wellness retreats. Whether you’re a history buff, an adrenaline junkie, or a foodie, West Virginia is a destination that should be on your travel list.