West Virginia Travel Guide

Plan your trip to West Virginia with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover top attractions, outdoor adventures, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, accommodations, and more.


West Virginia Travel Guide

West Virginia is a state located in the South of the United States of America. From fascinating museums to breathtaking nature, this state is home to a variety of attractions that appeal to different interests. If you’re planning a trip to West Virginia, this comprehensive travel guide will help you make the most of your visit.

List of Places to Visit in West Virginia

West Virginia has a wide array of attractions to offer. Here are some of the must-visit places in the state:

  • New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
  • Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
  • Seneca Rocks
  • Cass Scenic Railroad State Park
  • The Greenbrier
  • Berkeley Springs State Park
  • West Virginia State Museum
  • Huntington Museum of Art
  • Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park
  • Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

West Virginia is rich in history and has several museums and historical places that showcase its past. Here are some of the top cultural attractions to explore:

  • West Virginia State Museum: It is the largest museum in the state and features exhibits and artifacts related to the cultural and natural history of West Virginia.
  • Harpers Ferry National Historical Park: This historical park in West Virginia is a significant location in American history. It was the site of John Brown’s Raid and the place where the Civil War began.
  • Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park: This is a restored mansion with gardens that offer a glimpse into the lifestyle of the early 1800s.
  • Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum: This historic asylum is now a tourist attraction and offers tours for visitors to learn more about the history of mental health treatment.

Natural Attractions of West Virginia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

West Virginia’s stunning natural beauty is a primary attraction for visitors. The state has many outdoor activities and scenic viewpoints to offer for those interested in nature exploration. Here are some of them:

  • New River Gorge National Park and Preserve: This national park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can hike along the gorge’s edge, raft down the river, or rock climb.
  • Seneca Rocks: This picturesque location is a top spot for rock climbing and hiking in the state.
  • Blackwater Falls State Park: This park features a 62-foot waterfall, hiking trails, and fishing opportunities.
  • Monongahela National Forest: This forest offers plenty of outdoor adventures, including hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing.
  • The Greenbrier: This resort offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including horseback riding and fly fishing.
  • Cass Scenic Railroad State Park: The park takes visitors on scenic steam engine train rides through the state’s beautiful landscapes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of West Virginia

West Virginia has many hiking and biking routes for enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Appalachian Trail: The Appalachian Trail runs through West Virginia for over 41 miles, offering a challenging hike with stunning views.
  • Greenbrier River Trail: This trail stretches for 78 miles and is suitable for biking and hiking.
  • Coopers Rock State Forest: This forest has over 50 miles of hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails.
  • Kanawha State Forest: This park has 25 miles of hiking trails, including one leading to the spectacular Black Bear Rock.
  • Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area: This park features a range of trails, including the Red Creek Trail and the Huckleberry Trail.

Best Things to Do in West Virginia: Activities and Tours

Apart from outdoor activities, West Virginia also has many other things to offer. Here are some of the best things to do in the state:

  • Take a scenic drive: West Virginia is home to some of the most beautiful scenic routes in the country, such as the Highland Scenic Highway and the Midland Trail.
  • Visit a winery: The state has several vineyards and wineries where visitors can taste the local wine.
  • Go skiing: West Virginia has many ski resorts offering winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding.
  • Visit the Wheeling Island Racetrack and Gaming Center: This gaming center has a range of games, including slot machines and table games.
  • Take a ghost tour: West Virginia has many places with haunted histories, and several companies offer ghost tours.
  • Go whitewater rafting: The state has many rivers suitable for rafting, such as the New River.

Week-Long Itinerary for West Virginia

Here is a week-long itinerary that covers some of the best places to visit in West Virginia:

Day 1-2: Start your trip by exploring the picturesque towns of Harpers Ferry and Charles Town.

Day 3-4: Visit the stunning New River Gorge National Park and Preserve and go hiking, whitewater rafting, or rock climbing.

Day 5-6: Explore the Monongahela National Forest and Seneca Rocks. Take a scenic drive on the Highland Scenic Highway.

Day 7: End your trip with a visit to the Greenbrier Resort and take part in outdoor activities such as horseback riding and archery.

Food and Drink Scene of West Virginia

West Virginia has a unique food culture that is influenced by its Appalachian roots. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pepperoni rolls: This is a type of bread roll stuffed with pepperoni and cheese.
  • Ramps: A type of wild onion which you can find in West Virginia
  • Biscuits and gravy: A southern-style breakfast dish consists of fluffy biscuits and rich gravy made from sausage.
  • Buckwheat pancakes: Buckwheat pancakes are a staple breakfast food in West Virginia and are often served with maple syrup.

Local Beverages

  • Moonshine: West Virginia is known for its moonshine, an alcoholic drink made from fermented corn.
  • West Virginia craft beer: Try a local brew such as the Almost Heaven Amber Ale or the Halleck Pale Ale.
  • Pepperoni roll beer: Yes, it’s a thing. Try the pepperoni roll-inspired beer, brewed with actual pepperoni rolls.

Where to Stay in West Virginia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

West Virginia offers a variety of accommodations for visitors to choose from. Here are some of the top options:

  • Glamping: West Virginia has several glamping options such as the luxurious Treehouse Cabin in Fayetteville.
  • The Greenbrier: This resort offers a luxury experience with elegant guest rooms, a golf course, and a spa.
  • Hostels: For a budget-friendly option, check out local hostels such as the Mountaineer Hostel in Harpers Ferry.
  • Cabins: West Virginia has many rustic cabin options, including the Smoke Hole Caverns Log Cabin Resort in Cabins, WV.
  • Chain hotels: If you prefer chain hotels, options include Marriott, Hilton, and Best Western.

What to Buy in West Virginia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

West Virginia has several souvenirs and local products that are worth bringing back home. Here are some of our top recommendations:

  • Mountain State Art and Craft Fair: This annual fair showcases handmade crafts and local art, which are perfect souvenirs.
  • Blenko Glass: Blenko Glass is a company that makes handblown glass products such as vases and bowls.
  • Appalachian Jam and Jelly: Pick up a jar of locally made jam or jelly, such as apple butter or peach jam.
  • Coal memorabilia: West Virginia is known for its coal mining history, and you can find coal-themed souvenirs such as keychains and home décor items.

Local Culture and Customs of West Virginia

West Virginians are known for their hospitality and friendliness. It is common to strike up a conversation with strangers, and people are generally receptive.

Best Time to Visit West Virginia

The best time to visit West Virginia is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is mild, and the foliage is beautiful. Summer can be hot and humid, and winter can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of West Virginia

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine, such as pepperoni rolls and buckwheat pancakes.
  • Take in the stunning natural beauty of the state.

Don’t:

  • Litter.
  • Ignore safety precautions when participating in outdoor activities.
  • Be rude or disrespectful to locals or fellow visitors.

Safety and Health

Safety in West Virginia

West Virginia is generally a safe state for visitors. However, it is essential to exercise caution when participating in outdoor activities, such as hiking and rafting. Always follow safety guidelines and instructions given by guides.

Health in West Virginia

West Virginia has several hospitals and medical centers throughout the state.

Getting to West Virginia: Transportation Options and Logistics

West Virginia is accessible by road, air, and train. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near West Virginia

  • Yeager Airport, Charleston, WV
  • Greenbrier Valley Airport, Lewisburg, WV
  • Tri-State Airport, Huntington, WV

Bus Stations Near West Virginia

  • Greyhound Bus Station, Charleston, WV
  • Megabus Stop, Morgantown, WV

Other Options

  • Amtrak Station, Charleston, WV: The Cardinal line runs from West Virginia to Chicago and New York City.
  • Car rental: Rent a car from the airport or a local car rental agency for your transportation needs within the state.

How to Get Around in West Virginia

West Virginia has several transportation options for visitors. Here are some of the most popular:

  • Car rental: Renting a car is an excellent option for visitors who want to explore the state independently.
  • Public transportation: Cities such as Charleston and Huntington have public transportation options such as buses and trolleys.
  • Taxis and ride-sharing: Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are available in some cities.

Where to Go Next from West Virginia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

West Virginia is located in the heart of the United States and close to several other destinations worth visiting. Here are some options:

  • Virginia: West Virginia shares a border with Virginia, and places such as Richmond, Williamsburg, and Virginia Beach are all within driving distance.
  • Washington, D.C.: The capital city is a three-hour drive from Charleston, WV.
  • Pittsburgh: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a two-hour drive from Morgantown, WV.
  • Ohio: Ohio has several attractions such as Cincinnati and Columbus that are within driving distance from West Virginia.

Conclusion

In conclusion, West Virginia is a state that has so much to offer, from historic sites to stunning natural beauty. We hope that this travel guide has provided you with enough information to plan your trip and make the most of your visit to this beautiful state.

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    Metro Valley
    Mountains and Lakes Country
    New River and Greenbrier Valleys
    Ohio Valley
    Potomac Highlands