Princeton Travel Guide

Discover the top attractions, activities, and local culture of Princeton, West Virginia with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Princeton

Located in the New River and Greenbrier Valleys, in the southern region of West Virginia, Princeton is a charming town that offers a perfect mix of historic landmarks, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the local Appalachian culture, enjoy scenic views, go on thrilling outdoor adventures, and explore unique cultural attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Princeton

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mercer County War Museum: This unique museum houses a vast collection of exhibits and artifacts that highlight the sacrifices of the brave men and women who served in the armed forces during various wars and conflicts.
  • Chuck Mathena Center: This state-of-the-art performing arts center hosts a diverse array of cultural events, including musicals, plays, and concerts.
  • Princeton Railroad Museum: Train enthusiasts will love this museum that depicts the rich railroad history of the town and showcases a wide collection of vintage trains, model railroads, and other railroad related exhibits.

Natural Attractions of Princeton: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pinnacle Rock State Park: This park offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and is a great spot for hiking, picnicking, and camping.
  • Pipestem Resort State Park: With over 4,000 acres of natural beauty, this park offers visitors various outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and horseback riding.
  • Bluestone National Scenic River: This river runs through the heart of Princeton and provides opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and scenic boat tours.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Princeton

  • Greenbrier River Trail: This scenic trail offers 77 miles of hiking and biking opportunities along the scenic Greenbrier River.
  • Princeton Railroad Trail: This 5-mile trail follows the old Norfolk Southern railroad line and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
  • Pipestem Peaks Trail: A challenging and scenic 7.5-mile loop trail that takes you through the rugged Appalachian Mountains.

Best Things to Do in Princeton: Activities and Tours

  • New River Gorge Bridge Walk: Walk across the impressive New River Gorge Bridge, the longest steel arch bridge in the country.
  • Southern West Virginia Wine Tours: Take a wine tour and sample some of the local wines while enjoying the scenic beauty of the region.
  • Hatfield-McCoy ATV Adventure: Explore the rugged mountains of southern West Virginia on an ATV for an adrenaline-packed adventure.

Week-Long Itinerary for Princeton

Day Activity
1 Visit Chuck Mathena Center and enjoy a cultural show.
2 Hike the Greenbrier River Trail and enjoy a picnic at one of the scenic overlooks.
3 Visit Pinnacle Rock State Park and enjoy a day of hiking and camping.
4 Take a wine tour of the local vineyards and enjoy some great wine.
5 Explore the historic sites and museums of Princeton.
6 Go on an exciting Hatfield-McCoy ATV Adventure.
7 Spend a day at Pipestem Resort State Park, hiking and enjoying outdoor activities.

Food and Drink Scene of Princeton

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pepperoni Rolls: A local specialty, these rolls are filled with savory pepperoni and make for a great snack or meal.
  • Ramp Recipes: Ramps, a type of wild onion, are a local delicacy and can be found in various dishes, such as ramp pesto, ramp biscuits, and ramp and bacon quiche.
  • Homemade Apple Pie: West Virginia is known for its apples, and the homemade apple pie is a must-try.

Local Beverages

  • Moonshine: A local favorite, the moonshine is available in various flavors and is a great after-dinner drink.
  • Craft Beer: Numerous breweries in the area produce delicious craft beers, such as the Bridge Brew Works and Weathered Ground Brewery.

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

  • The Resort at Glade Springs: A luxurious resort that offers all the amenities, including a spa, golf course, and multiple dining options.
  • Sleep Inn and Suites: A budget-friendly option that is conveniently located near major attractions.
  • Chesterfield Inn Bed and Breakfast: A cozy and charming bed and breakfast that offers comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast.

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

  • Handmade Quilts: The area is known for its unique handmade quilts, which make for a great souvenir or a gift.
  • Traditional Crafts and Artwork: Visit the local galleries and shops to find unique crafts and artworks that are locally made.
  • Local Wine and Moonshine: Take a bottle of the locally produced wine or moonshine as a memento of your visit to Princeton.

Local Culture and Customs of Princeton

Princeton is steeped in the local Appalachian culture, which is reflected in the local food, music, and traditions. The friendly locals are proud of their heritage, and visitors can experience this authentic culture by attending one of the local festivals, such as the Ramp Festival or the Mountain Heritage Festival.

Best Time to Visit Princeton

The best time to visit Princeton is during the fall, when the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange, red, and yellow, and the weather is mild and pleasant. The spring and summer are also great times to visit, as the area offers numerous outdoor activities and cultural events.

Do’s and Don’ts of Princeton

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take part in the local events and festivals.
  • Explore the local nature and outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Be disrespectful to the locals.
  • Disturb the local wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Princeton

Princeton is a safe town, and violent crime is rare. However, visitors should take basic safety precautions, such as locking their cars and not leaving valuables in plain sight.

Health in Princeton

West Virginia is known for its high obesity and smoking rates, so visitors should be conscious of their health and exercise regularly. The town has several clinics and hospitals in case of medical emergencies.

Getting to Princeton: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Princeton

  • Greenbrier Valley Airport
  • Tri-State Airport
  • Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport

Bus Stations Near Princeton

  • Greyhound Bus Lines
  • Mountaineer Transit Authority

Other Options

  • Rental Cars
  • Taxis

How to Get Around in Princeton

The best way to get around Princeton is by car, as there is no public transportation system in the town. Rental cars are available, and taxis can be found at major tourist attractions.

Where to Go Next from Princeton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Fayetteville: Known for the beautiful New River Gorge Bridge and outdoor activities such as whitewater rafting and rock climbing.
  • Lewisburg: A charming historic town that offers cultural attractions, shopping, and dining options.
  • Snowshoe Mountain Resort: A popular ski resort that offers winter sports and outdoor activities throughout the year.

Conclusion

Princeton is a hidden gem in West Virginia that offers visitors a unique blend of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and local heritage. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can plan their trip to Princeton with ease and ensure an enjoyable and memorable experience.

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