Beckley Travel Guide

This comprehensive tour guide for Beckley covers everything you need to know about the city, including places to visit, hiking and biking routes, things to do, local food and drink, where to stay, and more. Read on to plan your perfect trip to Beckley!


Beckley is a charming city located in the New River and Greenbrier Valleys of West Virginia, in the southern part of the United States of America. Known for its beautiful outdoor scenery, rich cultural history, and welcoming hospitality, Beckley is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a relaxing yet exciting vacation.

In this comprehensive tour guide for Beckley, we will introduce you to everything you need to know about the city, including places to visit, hiking and biking routes, things to do, local food and drink, where to stay, and more. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the heart of Beckley!

Introduction to Beckley

Beckley is a historic town that has a lot to offer to tourists. The city is home to some of the country’s most beautiful outdoor attractions. Some of the popular attractions include the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, Tamarack, and the New River Gorge National River. It’s also home to a thriving arts and culture scene and a wide array of local restaurants and shops.

List of Places to Visit in Beckley

Below are some of the must-visit places in Beckley that you shouldn’t miss during your trip:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine: This museum takes visitors underground to get a sense of what it was like to mine coal in the early 1900s.
  • Youth Museum of Southern West Virginia: This interactive museum is perfect for kids and adults alike, with exhibits on science, history, and the arts.
  • Raleigh County Veterans Museum: A great way to learn more about the country’s military history, this museum features a collection of military memorabilia, artifacts, and displays.
  • Raleigh County Courthouse: A historic courthouse with beautiful architecture that has been renovated to accommodate a visitors’ center and art gallery.

Natural Attractions of Beckley: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • New River Gorge National River: With its stunning views, hiking trails, and waterways, the New River Gorge is a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Grandview State Park: This state park has breathtaking overlooks and hiking trails that offer some of the most beautiful views in Beckley.
  • Little Beaver State Park: A scenic park with a lake, fishing, and boating opportunities.
  • Sandstone Falls: One of West Virginia’s most beautiful waterfalls, this destination is perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Beckley

Beckley has a plethora of hiking and biking routes for visitors to explore. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  • Glade Creek Trail: This 5-mile trail will take you through the beautiful forested scenery of the New River Gorge.
  • Grandview Rim Trail: A two-mile hike that offers stunning views of the New River Gorge.
  • Kaymoor Miners Trail: This trail is great for history buffs and hikers alike. It follows an old mining route and offers dramatic views of the New River Gorge.
  • Cranberry Glades Botanical Area: A 1,000-acre wilderness that is home to rare plants and wildlife, the Cranberry Glades is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

Best Things to Do in Beckley: Activities and Tours

Beckley offers a variety of activities for tourists to enjoy. Some of the best things to do in Beckley include:

  • Whitewater Rafting: Raft down the rapids of the New River for an unforgettable experience.
  • Zip Lining: Soar above the trees for a bird’s eye view of the city.
  • Horseback Riding: Take a scenic trail ride through the beautiful countryside around Beckley.
  • Historic Walking Tour: Get to know the history and architecture of Beckley on a guided walking tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Beckley

Here is a suggested itinerary for a one-week trip to Beckley:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and Youth Museum of Southern West Virginia
2 Explore the New River Gorge National River and go on a guided whitewater rafting trip
3 Take a scenic drive through the countryside of Beckley and stop at Sandstone Falls
4 Visit Raleigh County Veterans Museum and Raleigh County Courthouse
5 Go horseback riding in the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area
6 Take a zipline tour and a historic walking tour of Beckley
7 Relax and shop in Beckley’s downtown area and visit local restaurants and bars

Food and Drink Scene of Beckley

Beckley is home to a variety of local food and drink options. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pepperoni Rolls: A West Virginia specialty, these rolls are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
  • Rainbow Trout: Freshly-caught trout is a must-try for seafood lovers visiting Beckley.
  • Beans and Cornbread: A classic Southern dish that will keep you warm and satisfied during your trip.

Local Beverages

  • West Virginia Wine: Try some local wine at Daniel Vineyards or Tamarack.
  • WV Craft Beer: Sample some of the local craft beer at Appalachian Brewing Company.
  • Sweet Tea: A Southern staple, sweet tea is a refreshing drink to enjoy during your trip.

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

Beckley offers a wide array of lodging options, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some of the best places to stay in Beckley include:

  • The Resort at Glade Springs: A luxury resort with a spa and golf course.
  • Sleep Inn: A budget-friendly option that offers comfortable rooms and easy access to the city.
  • Courtyard by Marriott: A great mid-range option with a pool and fitness center.

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

Here are some souvenirs and local products that you should consider bringing home from Beckley:

  • Handcrafted Pottery: Visit Tamarack to find unique and beautiful pottery from local artisans.
  • Coal Mining Memorabilia: The Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine gift shop offers souvenirs that celebrate West Virginia’s coal mining heritage.
  • West Virginia Maple Syrup: Take home a bottle of locally-made maple syrup as a sweet treat for yourself or friends.

Local Culture and Customs of Beckley

Beckley is a friendly, welcoming community with a strong sense of regional pride. Some local customs and traditions include:

  • Tipping: In the United States, it is customary to tip servers at restaurants, usually around 15-20% depending on the service.
  • Being Polite: Beckley residents are known for their southern hospitality, friends, and family is highly valued.
  • Waving: It is common for drivers to wave to each other as a polite gesture while driving on back roads around the area.

Best Time to Visit Beckley

The best time to visit Beckley is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the leaves are changing. Summer is also a popular time to visit thanks to the variety of outdoor activities available. If you are looking for affordable lodging or fewer crowds, consider visiting in the winter months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Beckley

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Beckley:

Do:

  • Take time to explore the beautiful outdoor scenery around Beckley.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages, including West Virginia wine and craft beer.
  • Embrace the friendly and welcoming hospitality of the Beckley community.

Don’t:

  • Litter or harm the environment while exploring the natural attractions around Beckley.
  • Be rude or disrespectful of locals or cultural traditions.
  • Leave valuable items in your car while visiting popular tourist destinations.

Safety and Health

Beckley is a safe and healthy destination. However, visitors should take standard safety precautions while exploring the outdoor areas. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Safety in Beckley

  • Always wear appropriate clothing and gear while hiking or participating in outdoor activities.
  • Follow all safety guidelines and instructions when participating in activities like whitewater rafting or ziplining.
  • Stay in well-lit areas at night and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas.

Health in Beckley

  • Visitors to Beckley should ensure they have the appropriate health insurance to cover any medical emergencies.
  • Always carry sun protection when exploring the outdoors, as well as insect repellent to protect against ticks and mosquitoes.
  • If you have any medical concerns or issues, seek medical attention promptly.

Getting to Beckley: Transportation Options and Logistics

Beckley is well-connected to the rest of West Virginia and the East Coast of the United States. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Beckley

  • Beckley/ Raleigh County Airport is a regional airport offering flights to Charlotte and connections to other major airports.

Bus Stations Near Beckley

  • Greyhound and Megabus both operate in Beckley, connecting the city to other destinations in West Virginia and the East Coast.

Other Options

  • Rental cars and taxis are also available for visitors to get around the city.

How to Get Around in Beckley

Beckley is a small town that you can easily explore on foot. However, rental cars and taxis are also available for visitors who prefer to travel around the city more quickly or need to travel to destinations outside of the town center.

Where to Go Next from Beckley: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to explore more of West Virginia, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Charleston, West Virginia: The state capital, Charleston is a charming small city with plenty of history and culture to explore.
  • New River Gorge Bridge: One of the most iconic landmarks in West Virginia, the New River Gorge Bridge features spectacular views and a visitors’ center.
  • Snowshoe Mountain Resort: This resort is perfect for winter sports, including skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling.

Conclusion

Beckley is a charming and welcoming city that offers visitors a mix of natural beauty, history, and culture. With so much to see and do in the area, it’s easy to see why Beckley is becoming an increasingly popular vacation destination. We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your perfect trip to Beckley, West Virginia!

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