Huntington Travel Guide

Explore the best places to visit, things to do, and food and drink scene in Huntington with our comprehensive travel guide featuring hiking and biking routes, cultural and natural attractions, and more.


Introduction to Huntington

Nestled in the heart of Metro Valley in West Virginia, Huntington is a charming city that boasts a unique blend of urban and natural attractions backed by a rich cultural heritage. The city is known for its historical landmarks, picturesque landscapes, and mouth-watering cuisine. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a tour of the best places to visit, things to do, and eat in Huntington.

List of Places to Visit in Huntington

Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Huntington has something to offer for everyone. Here’s a list of must-visit destinations in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Huntington Museum of Art
  • Heritage Farm Museum and Village
  • The Marshall University Museum
  • Ritter Park Rose Garden
  • Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center

Natural Attractions of Huntington: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Beech Fork State Park
  • Camden Park
  • Harris Riverfront Park
  • Guyandotte River

Hiking/Biking Routes of Huntington

For adventure enthusiasts, Huntington offers a plethora of hiking and biking options. Here are some of the top trails you can explore:

  • The Huntington Greenway Trail
  • The Guyandotte Trail
  • The Ritter Park Trails
  • The Beech Fork Lake Trails

Best Things to Do in Huntington: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re on a solo trip or visiting with your family, Huntington has plenty of activities and tours to keep you entertained. Here are some of the best things to do in the city:

  • Take a historic walking tour of downtown Huntington
  • Go fishing at Beech Fork Lake
  • Visit the Huntington Museum of Art
  • Attend a concert at the Pullman Square
  • Explore the Heritage Farm Museum and Village
  • Take a bike tour of the city

Week-Long Itinerary for Huntington

If you’re planning to spend a week in Huntington, here’s a suggested itinerary that you can follow:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Huntington Museum of Art and Ritter Park Rose Garden
2 Explore the Heritage Farm Museum and Village
3 Go hiking in Beech Fork State Park
4 Take a bike tour of the city
5 Visit the Marshall University Museum and Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center
6 Go fishing at Guyandotte River
7 Relax at Camden Park and Harris Riverfront Park

Food and Drink Scene of Huntington

No trip to Huntington is complete without trying out the local cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages in the city:

Must-Try Dishes

  • The famous hot-dog topped with spicy meat sauce at Stewart’s Original Hot Dogs
  • The wood-fired pizza at Black Sheep Burrito and Brews
  • West Virginia-style pulled pork sandwich at Hillbilly Hot Dogs
  • The home-style fried chicken at Tudor’s Biscuit World

Local Beverages

  • Craft beers from the Huntington Tri-State Ale Trail
  • Moonshine and other spirits at Smooth Ambler
  • Freshly brewed coffee at Appalachian Coffee Company
  • Apple cider and donuts at Camden Park

Where to Stay in Huntington: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of options for accommodation in Huntington, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some places that you can consider:

  • The Pullman Plaza Hotel
  • Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Huntington-Civic Arena
  • Cabell House Bed & Breakfast
  • KOA Campground

What to Buy in Huntington: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking to bring back a piece of Huntington with you, here are some of the local products you can consider:

  • Apple Butter from Camden Park
  • Handcrafted pottery from the Huntington Museum of Art Shop
  • Handmade soap and skincare items from Appalachian Alchemy
  • Souvenirs from the Heritage Farm Museum and Village

Local Culture and Customs of Huntington

Huntington is a welcoming and diverse community with a rich cultural heritage. Some of the customs and traditions that are popular in the city include:

  • The annual Heritage Farm Fall Festival
  • Outdoor concerts and festivals at Pullman Square
  • Museums and historical landmarks honoring local history
  • The Tri-State Arts Association street art murals

Best Time to Visit Huntington

Huntington is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the summer months between June and August when the weather is warm and sunny. Fall is also a great time to visit when the leaves begin to change colors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Huntington

To make the most of your trip to Huntington, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Try out the local cuisine
  • Explore the outdoors and natural attractions
  • Interact with the friendly locals
  • Attend a concert or festival

Don’t:

  • Litter or harm the natural environment
  • Ignore the rich cultural heritage of the city

Safety and Health

Huntington is a safe city to visit, but it’s always important to exercise caution. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Huntington

  • Be aware of your surroundings
  • Keep your valuables safe
  • Stay in well-lit areas at night
  • Be cautious while driving

Health in Huntington

  • Stay hydrated
  • Use sunscreen while outdoors
  • Be aware of ticks and other insects
  • Carry medications and first-aid supplies

Getting to Huntington: Transportation Options and Logistics

Huntington is easily accessible by air, bus, or car. Here are some transportation options to help you get to the city:

Airports Near Huntington

  • Tri-State Airport (HTS)
  • Yeager Airport (CRW)

Bus Stations Near Huntington

  • Huntington Greyhound Station
  • Tri-State Transit Authority Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • Amtrak Train Station in Charleston, WV
  • Rental Cars

How to Get Around in Huntington

While walking and biking are popular ways to explore the city, Huntington also has public transportation options such as buses and taxis. Renting a car is also a popular option for those who want to explore the outskirts of the city.

Where to Go Next from Huntington: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time in West Virginia, here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you can explore:

  • The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
  • The city of Charleston
  • Seneca Rocks
  • The West Virginia State Capitol in Charleston

Conclusion

Huntington is an underrated gem that’s full of surprises. From the rich cultural heritage to the natural beauty of its landscapes, the city offers an unforgettable experience for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With this comprehensive tour guide, we hope that you’re equipped to explore the best of Huntington and create memories that will last a lifetime.