Weston Travel Guide

Discover the natural and cultural attractions of Weston, West Virginia. Experience the outdoors, local cuisine, and nearby destinations with this ultimate travel guide.


Introduction to Weston

Nestled in the Mountains and Lakes Country of West Virginia, Weston is a charming small town rich in history, culture, and outdoor beauty. The town is known for its natural attractions, scenic drives, and cultural landmarks, including historical sites and museums. Weston is also home to warm and welcoming locals and a thriving food and drink scene, with plenty of local restaurants and bars to choose from. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or a quiet weekend getaway, Weston has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Weston

From historical sites to natural wonders, Weston’s attractions offer a diverse array of activities for visitors to explore. Here are some of the top places to visit in Weston:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum: This gothic-style building is one of the most popular sites in Weston. Built in the mid-19th century, it was once home to the mentally ill and now offers tours and events.
  • West Virginia Museum of American Glass: This museum showcases the history of glassmaking in the United States and features glass exhibits and a gift shop.
  • Jackson’s Mill State 4-H Camp: This historic site was once home to Stonewall Jackson, a Confederate Civil War general, and now offers camping and outdoor activities.

Natural Attractions of Weston: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Stonewall Jackson Lake: This beautiful lake is perfect for boating, fishing, and hiking, with surrounding mountains ideal for relaxing picnics and scenic drives.
  • Stonewall Resort State Park: This state park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities like hiking, golfing, and camping. Nature lovers can also enjoy spotting wild animals and taking guided forest walks.
  • Audra State Park: Located nearby, this park is known for its crystal-clear waters, picturesque rapids, and hiking trails, making it a scenic escape from the town.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Weston

Weston is a great place to get outdoors and explore nature. With numerous trails available, hiking and biking enthusiasts will be in their element. Here are some popular hiking/biking routes of Weston:

  • Weston-to-Rock-Cave Rail Trail: This 6-mile trail offers a scenic escape into nature, with ample opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
  • Stonewall Jackson Lake State Park: With over 20 miles of hiking trails, visitors can take in the natural beauty of the area, spot local wildlife, and enjoy the breathtaking views.
  • Railroad Ford Trail: This 3-mile hike in nearby Audra State Park offers nature lovers beautiful views of the park’s creek and stunning waterfalls.

Best Things to Do in Weston: Activities and Tours

Weston offers a diverse range of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor adventure, there is no shortage of things to do in Weston.

  • Asylum Tour: Visitors can take a guided tour of the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum and learn about its dark past and supernatural legends.
  • Ghost Tours: For those looking for a spooky adventure, Weston’s ghost tours offer a unique perspective on the town’s history and legends.
  • Weston Food Tour: This tour showcases the town’s culinary scene, offering tastings at popular restaurants and bars.
  • Weston Wine Festival: Every year, Weston hosts a wine festival, featuring local wineries and live music.
  • Wilderness Survival Camp: Visitors can learn essential survival skills and get hands-on experience with wilderness survival techniques.
  • Historical Walks and Tours: Weston’s history buffs can take historical walks and tours to view and learn about the town’s landmarks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Weston

To get the best of what Weston has to offer, here is a recommended week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Take a tour of the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum and learn about its history.
Day 2 Explore the trails at Stonewall Jackson Lake State Park.
Day 3 Sample the local cuisine with the Weston Food Tour.
Day 4 Go fishing or boating on Stonewall Jackson Lake.
Day 5 Spend the day at Audra State Park and hike the Railroad Ford Trail.
Day 6 Take a ghost tour of Weston and experience the supernatural legends.
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the town at a local bar or restaurant.

Food and Drink Scene of Weston

Weston’s food and drink scene is a reflection of the town’s local culture, rooted in the surrounding farmlands and Appalachian mountains. Visitors can expect a delicious mix of traditional and modern cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pepperoni Rolls: This traditional Italian dish is a staple in West Virginia and consists of a baked roll with pepperoni and cheese inside.
  • Fried Green Tomatoes: This delicacy is a Southern favorite, featuring crisp green tomatoes deep-fried in cornmeal batter.
  • Wilderness Casserole: A typical dish served at Stonewall Resort’s restaurant, featuring locally sourced and seasonal ingredients such as wild boar, mushrooms, and root vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • West Virginia Moonshine: This homemade liquor is a legal specialty in West Virginia and can be found at local bars and restaurants.
  • Wine: Weston is home to several local wineries, including Lambert’s Winery and Daniel Vineyards.
  • Mountain Dew: This popular soda was invented in nearby Tennessee and is a staple in West Virginia.

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

No matter your preference or budget, Weston has a range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the most popular options:

  • Stonewall Resort: This resort is situated on Stonewall Jackson Lake and offers plenty of activities, such as golf and spa services.
  • Holiday Inn Express: This hotel offers comfortable and clean rooms for a reasonable price, located in the heart of Weston near historical sites.
  • Express Inn: This budget-friendly option offers basic amenities for an affordable price.
  • The Robinson Grand Performing Arts Center: This historic theater has been restored and transformed into a luxury hotel with spacious rooms and suites.

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

From handmade crafts to local goodies, Weston has plenty of souvenirs and local products to bring home. Here are some of the best:

  • Glass Art: The West Virginia Museum of American Glass gift shop offers handmade glass art and jewelry made by local artisans.
  • Pepperoni Rolls: These delicious rolls can be found at local bakeries and grocery stores.
  • Handmade Crafts: The Weston Gallery features locally sourced and handcrafted items such as pottery and quilts.

Local Culture and Customs of Weston

Weston’s culture is rooted in the Appalachian Mountains, and residents are known for their hospitality and kindness. Visitors should also be aware of cultural customs, such as:

  • Respect for the Outdoors: Weston locals take great pride in their natural surroundings and ask that visitors follow Leave No Trace principles when hiking and exploring.
  • Friendliness: Don’t be surprised if locals go out of their way to strike up a conversation or offer assistance. Weston is known for its friendly and welcoming community.

Best Time to Visit Weston

Weston’s climate offers four distinct seasons, each with its charm. For those looking to enjoy outdoor activities, late spring to early fall is the best time to visit. Winter months can be harsh and snowy, but offer opportunities for skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts.

Do’s and Don’ts of Weston

Here are some general do’s and don’ts for visitors to Weston:

Do:

  • Do take in the natural beauty and explore the many outdoor activities and destinations available.
  • Do visit local landmarks and museums to learn about the town’s rich history and culture.
  • Do try the local cuisine, including pepperoni rolls and other Appalachian specialties.
  • Do be friendly, respectful, and open-minded when interacting with locals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or harm the natural environment while exploring the town’s many outdoor destinations and hiking trails.
  • Don’t trespass or enter private property without permission.
  • Don’t expect city amenities - Weston is a small town with limited resources and services.

Safety and Health

Safety in Weston

Weston is a relatively safe town, and its residents are welcoming and accommodating. However, visitors should follow general safety practices, such as keeping valuables safe and locking doors at night.

Health in Weston

Weston’s medical care facilities are limited, and visitors should plan accordingly. It’s essential to have medical insurance and carry any necessary prescription medications. Additionally, visitors should take precautions against ticks, which can carry Lyme disease.

Getting to Weston: Transportation Options and Logistics

Weston is accessible by car, bus, and plane. Here are some options for getting to Weston:

  • Airports Near Weston: The closest airport is the North Central West Virginia Airport, located about 37 miles away. Alternatively, Pittsburgh International Airport is just over one hour’s drive.
  • Bus Stations Near Weston: The Greyhound Bus Station is located in Clarksburg, about 25 miles away.
  • Other Options: Visitors can also drive to Weston, with Interstate 79 running right to the town’s gates.

How to Get Around in Weston

Weston is a small town, and many of its attractions and landmarks are easily accessible by walking or biking. Bikes can be rented at local shops, and taxis are also available for navigating longer distances.

Where to Go Next from Weston: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Weston’s location makes it a perfect jump-off point for visiting nearby destinations and excursions. Here are some top suggestions:

  • Charleston, West Virginia: The state capital is just over an hour’s drive from Weston and offers a range of cultural and historical attractions.
  • Blackwater Falls State Park: Located about two hours from Weston, Blackwater Falls is known for its stunning scenery and hiking trails.
  • Fayetteville, West Virginia: Fayetteville is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with a range of outdoor adventures and adrenaline-pumping activities such as rock climbing and whitewater rafting.

Conclusion

Weston is a destination rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. With plenty of outdoor adventures, cultural landmarks, and local cuisine, visitors will find plenty to explore and enjoy in this charming Appalachian town. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, Weston offers a warm welcome to all visitors.

Main Avenue Main Avenue Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, later known as Weston State Hospital, now a museum Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, later known as Weston State Hospital, now a museum