50 Of The Best Places To Go In West Virginia On A Family Vacation
Looking for the best things to do in West Virginia? We’ve got you covered! These places to visit in West Virginia will provide the backdrop to one of your best family vacations yet.
The country roads of West Virginia may have been made famous by John Denver. And the mountains that provide the ground for those roads certainly are song-worthy.
But it turns out, the state has more to offer than picturesque, winding roads.
Not surprisingly, West Virginia is an outdoorsmen’s playground, with opportunities to hike, bike, fish, and more around every corner. These characteristics of the state are what earned it the motto “almost heaven”.
Yet, many things to do in West Virginia might be a bit less predictable.
It turns out the 35th state has a rich history, thriving art scene, epic resorts, and unique travel experiences.
As a born and bred multi-generational West Virginian, my family and I have tried out all the state has to offer. And we think you’ll find there’s a little something for everyone here.
So don some blue and gold. And let me introduce you to 50 of the best places to visit in my home state of West Virginia.
Things to do in West Virginia In The Eastern Panhandle:
The town of Harpers Ferry.
Explore Harpers Ferry.
Where the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers meet, you’ll find one of the best places to visit in West Virginia. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is part quaint town, part history museum, and part beautiful landscape. See the site of John Brown’s pivotal 1859 raid. Visit reconstructed 19th century stores, pubs, and homes. And hike Civil War battlefields and scenic paths.
2. Visit the Appalachian Trail Conservancy Visitors Center.
A four-mile stretch of one of the world’s most famous footpaths travels through Harpers Ferry. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy Visitors Center offers a chance for hikers to rest and replenish. And others can learn more about the trail. It’s a great place to go whether you’re a devout hiker or just hoping to see a short part of the trail.
3. Catch a show at the Contemporary American Theater Festival.
Every summer, Shepherd University hosts what the New York Times called one of 50 essential summer festivals. The festival features new plays by American playwrights. To date it has hosted over 130 new plays.
4. Go to the country’s first spa.
George Washington was one of the first people to find the natural spring water at Berkeley Springs to be beneficial. And since then, this little town has hosted many who hope to “take in the waters”. Berkeley Springs is a great place to visit in West Virginia thanks to its small town feel, spas, and natural beauty.
5. Visit Shepherdstown.
At under an hour and half from Washington, D.C., the charming town of Shepherdstown makes a perfect place for a weekend getaway. Shop at small stores (like O’Hurley’s General Store) take a ghost tour, and check out quaint restaurants (like Bistro 112). Stay in the German themed Bavarian Inn, with breathtaking views of the Potomac River, or the historic Thomas Shepherd Inn.
Things to do in West Virginia In The Hatfield-McCoy Mountains:
ATV riding on the Hatfield McCoy Trails.
6. Ride an ATV or UTV on the Hatfield and McCoy Trail.
Historians may disagree about what sparked the infamous feud between the Hatfield and McCoy families. But, ATV riders agree the 1000 miles of trails named after it are some of the best in the country. Bring your own ATV or rent one. Several ATV-friendly small towns provide access to the trails.
7. Kayak the Tug River.
The river that separates West Virginia from neighboring Kentucky and Virginia serves as a great spot for recreation. Floating, fishing or taking an airboat trip are ways to spend time on the Tug.
8. Stay in a cabin in Logan.
With a population of around 1,700, Logan is a perfect place to go in West Virginia to get away from it all. Rustic cabin rentals often access to trails, water activities, and space to roam.
Things to do in West Virginia In The Capital City:
Visiting the WV State Capitol building.
9. Tour the State Capitol Building.
Boasting a gold dome and standing taller than the U.S. Capitol Building, the WV Capitol is a must see. Guided tours enable visitors to learn about not only the architectural gem, but also the state’s government. Middle school students can even apply to be a page at the WV State Legislature. It’s a great way to learn civics and be a part of West Virginia’s history.
10. Visit the West Virginia State Museum.
The West Virginia State Museum is one of my favorite choices for best things to do in West Virginia. Travel through time at this really well done (and free) museum in Charleston. See how the state has grown and changed from the time of prehistoric Indians to present day.
11. see the home of the governor.
This grand home sits within walking distance to the state capitol building and West Virginia State Museum. While tours are not available at this time, that’s subject to change. Check the West State Museum’s Education site to see if tours are open during your visit to Charleston. In the meantime, the exterior of the home can be viewed while at the Capitol Complex.
12. Explore theater, music, art and science under one roof at the Clay Center for Arts and Sciences.
This 240,000-square-foot facility houses an art museum, planetarium, discovery museum, and performance theater. The plethora of activities alone makes it a great place to visit in West Virginia. But, you can also see what special events are going on by visiting the Clay Center for Arts and Sciences’s site HERE.
13. Shop for WV-made gifts at the Capitol Market.
Located in a turn-of-the-century train station, the indoor-outdoor Capitol Market features a variety of items. From fresh produce to locally sourced goods, you’re sure to find something to take home. The venue also hosts events around cooking and celebrating the flavors of the state.
Things to do in West Virginia In The Metro Valley, Outside of Charleston:
Cheering on the Thundering Herd at Marshall University.
14. Mountain bike the Kanawha State Forest.
Located only seven miles from Charleston, these 9,300 acres offer over 60 miles of trails. Visitors can also camp, hike, enjoy playgrounds, geocache, fish, hunt, or shoot on a shooting range.
15. Tour the campus of Marshall University.
Marshall University is the home of the Thundering Herd and the site of the second largest school in the state. The school was also the inspiration for the 2006 movie “We Are Marshall” starring Matthew McConaughey and Matthew Fox. The film was based on the tragic plane crash that killed 75 people associated with the school’s football team.
16. Camp at Beechfork State Park.
Campers looking for a place to visit in West Virginia with beautiful lakeside camping sites will want to check out Beechfork. About 275 campsites are located here, 111 of them lakefront. Laundry, bathroom facilities, and free wifi are also offered.
17. See what it was like to live in an Appalachian village at Heritage Farm Museum in Wayne County.
Guests can step back in time at Heritage Farm Museum and Village. Log cabins house seven distinct museums highlighting what life was like in Appalachia in the 1850s through the early 1950s. Multiple other buildings, including the actual set for a Hatfield McCoys History Channel documentary, help tell the story. An on-site adventure park offers zip lines, an aerial adventure, guided UTV rides, a rock wall, and a mountain bike trail.
18. Attend the Mothman Festival.
Point Pleasant offers one of the most unique takes on the festivals that are much loved by West Virginians. The Mothman Festival is held every third weekend in September on the town’s Main Street. It features hayrides, guest speakers, live entertainment, bus tours, a 5K, museum tours, children’s activities and more. All events pay homage to the red-eyed winged legend.
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Things to do in West Virginia In The Mid-Ohio Valley:
Kayaking in the waters of West Virginia.
19. Learn about Aaron Burr’s plan to overthrow the government at Blennerhasset Island Historical State Park.
Looking for the sequel to the Hamilton craze? You just might find it at Blennerhassett Island State Park. Visitors can learn all about what Aaron Burr was up to after the infamous duel that killed Alexander Hamilton. You’ll be transported to another era the minute you step on the sternwheeler that takes you to the island. Once there, guests can also tour the mansion, bike the grounds, or take a horse drawn carriage ride.
20. Canoe Mill Creek Water Trail.
Small towns, and scenic, forested farmland provide the backdrop for a leisurely float in this place to visit in West Virginia. Over 20 miles of stream in five different segments allow for different length trips.
21. Stay in a cottage at Cedar Lakes Conference Center.
Cottage style lodging, in addition to a motel, are available at this Jackson County site. Ball fields, a pool, tennis courts, fishing, hiking, miniature golf, and canoeing are offered. Guests can also attend the WV Mountain State Art & Craft Fair. Bring out their inner artist at a Folk Art at The Lakes artisan workshop. Or attend one of the many other events hosted at Cedar Lakes.
Things to do in West Virginia In The Mountain Lakes:
Kayaking in Summersville Lake.
22. Explore the state’s largest lake at Summersville Lake.
Over 60 miles of shoreline and 2,800 acres of water provide an ideal setting for many water activities at Summerville Lake. Boating, water skiing, fishing, swimming, and even scuba diving are offered. While on land, guests can picnic, bike, and rock climb. West Virginia’s only lighthouse is even located nearby. Lodging options at the lake range from RV and tent camping to deluxe cabin rentals.
23. Rent a houseboat at Sutton Lake.
Public land flanks this southern West Virginia lake, which offers 44 miles of shoreline and is known for bass fishing. So when you rent a house boat, you’ll sleep, stay, and play with nothing but nature surrounding you.
24. Float the Elk River Water Trail.
At 180 miles long, this river is the longest river located entirely within the state of West Virginia. Visitors can float for a few hours or multiple days, with stays at the small towns along the trail.
Things to do in West Virginia In Mountaineer Country:
Game day at WVU, the largest university in the state.
25. Cheer on the Mountaineers at a WVU football game.
As a WVU alumni, I admittedly may be a little biased. But, I still regard Mountaineer fans as some of the best football fans in the country. One of the best things to do in West Virginia is to grab some pepperoni rolls, the popular Mountaineer tailgating food. Wear your blue and gold. And root on the ‘Eers at a Mountaineer football game.
26. See some of the best fall foliage in the country at Coopers Rock.
There’s no shortage of great places to go in West Virginia to see the autumn leaves. But the overlook at Coopers Rock State Forest is definitely one of the best. It offers 360 degree views and is located just outside of Morgantown.
27. Attend the West Virginia Italian Heritage Festival.
What began as a small local festival has grown into an event now known throughout the state. Hosted every Labor Day weekend, the festival is entering its 45th year. The WV Italian Heritage Festival pays tribute to the area’s Italian roots through food, music, and entertainment. In past years, it’s featured Tony Danza, Kathy Mattea, Jo Dee Messina, Frankie Avalon and more.
28. Experience the recreated homestead of Watters Smith Memorial State Park.
Come glimpse what it was like to live in West Virginia from 1796 to the early 1900s. The 532-acre Watter Smith Historical Park, located in Harrison County, features log cabins, period-accurate buildings and a museum.
29. Visit the living history museum of Pricket’s Fork State Park.
North of Fairmont, visitors can learn the fascinating history of Pricket’s Fort State Park where early settlers would gather for safety. Costumed interpreters demonstrate a variety of colonial skills and historic arts workshops are offered as well.
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Things to do in West Virginia In The New River-Greenbrier Valley, Near Lewisburg:
The immaculate grounds of The Greenbrier Resort.
30. Visit the country’s newest national park at New River Gorge National Park and Reserve.
This place to visit in West Virginia encompasses 70,000 acres and features a steel arch bridge that was once the longest in the world. It also allows access to activities like whitewater rafting on the world’s second oldest river. And it’s the site of Bridge Day, an annual event when daredevils parachute 800 feet from the bridge to the river. Lodging nearby includes cabins, campsites, and even glamping at WV Glamping Domes.
31. Stay at the Greenbrier Resort.
The crown jewel of the state is a luxury, historic inn. Since 1778, the Greenbrier has been one of the best places to visit in West Virginia. Its past guests include a slew of presidents and dignitaries (as well as us plain folk). Along with a fabled lobby and shopping area, it offers impeccable service. It also has elegant dining, a spa, a golf course, carriage rides, ice skating, a casino, and more.
32. Visit the declassified bunker at the The Greenbrier Resort.
There are no shortage of activities at The Greenbrier, but my favorite is touring the declassified bunker. The “hidden in plain sight” Cold War fallout shelter was earmarked to be used for Congress. It was ready at a moment’s notice with everything from pens on the desks to a surgical operating room. Bunker tours (and even a escape room experience) reveal the details of this fascinating piece of history.
33. Explore a cave in Lewisburg.
Lost World Caverns is one of the few caves in the country visitors can explore without a guide. And it’s the top rated cavern in the state. Located 120 feet below the Earth’s surface, it features stalactites and stalagmites. The self-guided tour takes approximately 45 minutes.
34. Attend the State Fair of West Virginia.
Held annually in mid-August, the Lewisburg-based State Fair of WV features carnival rides, food vendors, corn mazes, livestock experiences and more. No event is more popular though than the many concerts featuring a variety of genres. Rappers like Nelly and Ludicrous and country singers like Whiskey Myers and Lainey Wilson performed at the 2023 fair.
Things to do in West Virginia In The New River-Greenbrier Valley, Near Beckley:
Exploring deep below the ground at the Exhibition Coal Mine.
35. Experience small town charm in Bramwell.
West Virginia has a plethora of small towns to explore. But I don’t think any do a better job at representing the essence of the state than Bramwell. This tiny town, is my in-laws hometown. It features a 50s style diner, white-picket-fence filled streets, and access to nearby ATV trails. And it’s the spot that taught me you don’t always have to travel to the most popular tourist attractions to have the best family vacations. Wonderfully friendly people and the beautiful scenery in small towns are travel-worthy all on their own.
36. Visit the Exhibition Coal Mine.
Nothing is as synonymous with the state of West Virginia as coal. Visitors learn what it’s like to work underground as a miner on this tour aboard a reimagined man trip vehicle. The Exhibition Coal Mine also includes a restored coal camp house, miner’s shanty, church, and school.
37. Ski at Winterplace Ski Resort.
As a top small ski resort, Winterplace is in the town of Ghent. It offers 27 trails, 9 lifts, and the biggest snow tubing park in the state. It’s conveniently located close to other things to do in West Virginia, making it a great day trip.
38. Whitewater raft world class rapids on the Gauley or New Rivers.
Some of the best white water rafting opportunities are located in the mountain state. First-timers will want to head to the New River April through October. The Gauley is generally better for experienced rafters. It’s traversable throughout the summer but has the highest water in the fall.
39. Explore Pipestem Resort State Park.
Pipestem’s plethora of lodging makes it a fantastic place to visit in West Virginia to explore nature. It encompasses two lodges, 26 cabins, 82 campsites, as well as four restaurants. It also has two golf courses, mini, fling and foot golf, an aerial tram, pools, riding stables, and game courts.
40. Shop for West Virginia made souvenirs at the Tamarack.
Located in Beckley, the Tamarack houses thousands of things made in West Virginia. Find items that will represent your visit to the state, like hand blown glass, furniture, art, and food.
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Things to do in West Virginia In The Northern Panhandle:
West Virginia-made glass can be found at the Fostoria Glass Museum as well as the Tamarack.
41. See the Winter Festival of Lights at Oglebay Resort.
For almost 40 years, from November to January, Oglebay’ s Festival of Lights has been providing holiday entertainment to many. It’s now one of the top light displays in the country, attracting more than one million visitors each year. It features three hundred acres of lights over a six-mile drive.
42. Take a guided tour through the West Virginia Penitentiary.
It doesn’t need to be Halloween for this spooky gothic-style architecture in Moundsville. (Although Halloween certainly is a popular time to visit.) Tours at the West Virginia Penitentiary range from 45 minutes to several hours. They explore the history of the prison, which was operational for 129 years.
43. Visit the Fostoria Glass Museum.
Elegant Fostoria glass is on display in this Moundsville based museum. Visitors can learn about the history of the glass as well as buy pieces in the Fostoria Glass Museum gift shop.
Things to do in West Virginia In The Potomac Highlands:
The falls at Blackwater Falls State Park.
44. Visit Blackwater Falls State Park.
Located in the Allegheny Mountains of Tucker County, Blackwater Falls is one of the most photographed sites in the state. The highlight of a trip here is the 62-foot waterfall for which the park is named.
45. Ski Snowshoe Mountain.
Did you know the biggest ski resort in the southern United States is located in the hills of West Virginia? Snowshoe Mountain has over 60 trails for skiing, snowboarding and snowmobiling. Winter guests can also tube, explore the snowy village, and enjoy backcountry adventures. It’s a great place to visit in West Virginia in the summer as well. In warmer weather, guests can hike, mountain bike, golf, horseback ride, or shoot sporting clays.
46. Explore Canaan Valley Resort State Park.
Tucked in the beautiful Allegheny Mountains, Canaan Valley Resort has been offering year-round entertainment for over 70 years. In the summertime, enjoy pools, sports courts, playgrounds, mini golf, wagon rides and more. In the winter, enjoy skiing, snow tubing, and ice skating.
47. Gaze at Spruce Knob, the tallest peak in the state, located in Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area.
An observation deck and tower offer easy access from a trail to view the valley below Spruce Knob. Off road adventures are available as are rock climbing opportunities for seasoned climbers.
48. See unique foliage at Dolly Sods Wilderness.
Over 17,000 acres make up this huge span of wilderness, which is part of the Monongahela National Forest. The area gives visitors an opportunity to see fauna usually only found much farther north. It’s high plateaus have been called some of the most unique and scenic hiking areas on the East Coast.
49. Ride the rails at Cass Scenic Railroad.
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Appalachian Mountains on a two or four-hour train ride in a historic locomotive. The railroad is just part of the Cass Scenic Railroad State Park. The park also houses an authentic company town, store, theater and museum.
50. See what it’s like to live in the Quiet Zone in Green Bank.
Head to Greenbank, WW to see where the world's largest fully steerable radio telescope is located. To allow scientists to better study space, residents in the town where Greenbank Observatory is housed live with no cell service. And they have access to very little other electromagnetic energy output. So this tiny town creates a refreshing technology free environment. It also might be providing the clues we need to determine if aliens really exist. Test your theories on the matter at the museum located next to the satellite.
