Williamson Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Williamson, West Virginia with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, eat, and stay. Get insider tips on the culture and customs of Williamson, and learn how to get there and get around.


Introduction to Williamson

Located in the heart of Metro Valley, West Virginia, Williamson is a charming small town nestled between the Tug Fork River and the beautiful Appalachian Mountains. Founded in 1892 as a coal mining town, Williamson has a rich history and plenty of attractions for visitors to explore. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of city life, Williamson has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Williamson

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Williamson Historic District: Take a stroll through Williamson’s historic district and admire the well-preserved 19th and 20th-century architecture.
  • Tug Valley Country Club: Visit the country club and learn about the town’s unique culture and history.
  • R.C. Byrd Locks and Dam: Marvel at the engineering feat of the R.C. Byrd Locks and Dam on the Tug Fork River.

Natural Attractions of Williamson: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hatfield-McCoy Trails: Explore the Hatfield-McCoy Trails, a network of over 600 miles of ATV and dirt bike routes.
  • Country Music Highway Scenic Byway: Drive the Country Music Highway Scenic Byway and take in stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains.
  • Chief Logan State Park: Visit Chief Logan State Park and go hiking, fishing, or horseback riding through the park’s 4,000 acres.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Williamson

  • Hatfield-McCoy Trails: As mentioned earlier, the Hatfield-McCoy Trails offer over 600 miles of hiking and biking routes.
  • Laurel Lake Trail: Take a hike along the Laurel Lake Trail and enjoy the scenic views of the lake and surrounding forests.
  • Chief Logan State Park Trails: Chief Logan State Park has plenty of trails for hikers of all levels, including the scenic Overlook Trail and the challenging Connector Trail.

Best Things to Do in Williamson: Activities and Tours

  • The Coal House: Visit the Coal House, a unique attraction made entirely out of coal. Learn about the town’s coal mining heritage and see the large murals depicting the history of the industry.
  • Williamson Farmers Market: Check out the Williamson Farmers Market and shop for fresh produce and locally made crafts.
  • Hatfield-McCoy ATV Tours: Take a guided ATV tour through the Hatfield-McCoy Trails and experience the thrill of off-road adventure.

Week-Long Itinerary for Williamson

Day Activity
1 Visit the Coal House and learn about Williamson’s coal mining history.
2 Explore Tug Valley Country Club and the Williamson Historic District.
3 Go hiking or horseback riding in Chief Logan State Park.
4 Take an ATV tour through the Hatfield-McCoy Trails.
5 Drive the Country Music Highway Scenic Byway and stop at scenic overlooks.
6 Shop at the Williamson Farmers Market and enjoy local cuisine.
7 Visit R.C. Byrd Locks and Dam and take in the stunning views of the Tug Fork River.

Food and Drink Scene of Williamson

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pepperoni Rolls: A West Virginia favorite, pepperoni rolls are a delicious snack made with pepperoni baked into a soft roll.
  • Burgoo: This hearty stew is made with a variety of meats and vegetables and is a popular dish in Williamson.
  • Apple Butter: Try some sweet and earthy apple butter, a spread made by cooking down apples with sugar and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Moonshine: West Virginia is famous for its homemade moonshine, which you can sample at local bars and distilleries.
  • Craft Beer: The region has several breweries offering locally made craft beer.
  • Apple Cider: Sip on some refreshing apple cider made with locally grown apples.

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

  • Inn At The Barn: A charming bed and breakfast located in a renovated barn and only minutes from Chief Logan State Park.
  • Williamson Motel: A budget-friendly option with clean rooms and a convenient location.
  • Holiday Inn Express: A modern and comfortable hotel located near downtown Williamson.

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

  • Coal Jewelry: Take home a unique piece of jewelry made with coal from the region.
  • Handmade Crafts: Browse the local crafts at Williamson Farmers Market, including handmade pottery and quilts.
  • West Virginia Moonshine: Bring home a bottle of homemade moonshine as a souvenir of your visit to Williamson.

Local Culture and Customs of Williamson

Williamson is a friendly and welcoming town, and visitors are encouraged to experience the local culture and traditions. The town has a rich history in coal mining, and visitors should respect this legacy as they explore the area. Taking part in local festivals and events is a great way to get a taste of the region’s culture.

Best Time to Visit Williamson

The best time to visit Williamson is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the trees are in full bloom or changing colors. Summer can be hot and humid, and winter can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Williamson

Do:

  • Explore the natural beauty of the region, including the Appalachian Mountains and the Tug Fork River.
  • Learn about the area’s coal mining history by visiting local museums and attractions.
  • Try the local cuisine, including pepperoni rolls, burgoo, and apple butter.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the town’s coal mining legacy by littering or damaging historic sites.
  • Ignore local customs and traditions.
  • Underestimate the rugged terrain and weather conditions when participating in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Williamson

Williamson is a safe town with low crime rates. However, visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions when traveling alone or at night. When participating in outdoor activities, make sure to follow safety guidelines and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Health in Williamson

There are several medical facilities in Williamson, including Williamson Memorial Hospital and Tug Valley ARH Regional Medical Center. Visitors should also take precautions against ticks and mosquitoes when spending time outdoors.

Getting to Williamson: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Williamson

The nearest major airport to Williamson is Charleston Yeager Airport, located approximately 70 miles away. Other regional airports include Tri-State Airport in Huntington, West Virginia, and Bluegrass Airport in Lexington, Kentucky.

Bus Stations Near Williamson

Greyhound bus service is available at the Williamson Transportation Center located in downtown Williamson.

Other Options

Renting a car is a great option for those who want to explore the region’s natural beauty and attractions at their own pace. Taxis and rideshare services are also available in downtown Williamson.

How to Get Around in Williamson

The best way to get around Williamson is by car, as public transportation options are limited. Biking and walking are also great options for exploring the town’s downtown area and nearby trails.

Where to Go Next from Williamson: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Huntington, West Virginia: Explore the city of Huntington and its many attractions, including the Marshall University campus and the Huntington Museum of Art.
  • Ashland, Kentucky: Visit Ashland, a charming small town located on the Ohio River, and enjoy its many shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks.
  • Eastern Kentucky: Take a road trip through Eastern Kentucky and explore the region’s natural beauty, including Daniel Boone National Forest and the Red River Gorge.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Williamson, West Virginia, is a hidden gem in the heart of Metro Valley. Boasting a rich history, natural beauty, and friendly locals, Williamson is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the unique culture and traditions of this region of the United States. With plenty of attractions, activities, and adventures to choose from, Williamson offers something for everyone. Plan your trip today and start exploring this beautiful small town.

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