bigtravelbuzzWest Virginia is a state in the eastern United States that is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including the Appalachian Mountains, rolling hills, and dense forests. Here is some information about places to visit, the best time to go, getting around, and more.
Places to Visit in West Virginia
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve: This stunning park features a 1,000-foot-deep canyon, numerous hiking trails, and a variety of outdoor activities like whitewater rafting, rock climbing, and zip-lining.
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park: This park is the site of John Brown’s raid on the federal arsenal in 1859 and features a historic town with museums, shops, and hiking trails.
Snowshoe Mountain Resort: This popular ski resort offers a variety of winter sports and activities, as well as summer activities like mountain biking and golfing.
Blackwater Falls State Park: This park features stunning waterfalls, hiking trails, and camping and picnicking areas.
The Greenbrier: This historic resort features luxurious accommodations, a casino, golf courses, and a spa.
Best Time To Visit West Virginia
The best time to visit West Virginia depends on the activities you plan to do and the weather conditions you prefer. Here is a breakdown of the seasons in West Virginia:
Spring (March – May): Spring is a great time to visit West Virginia if you enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. The weather is mild with temperatures ranging from the 40s to the 70s, and the wildflowers are in bloom. However, spring is also the wettest season in West Virginia, so be prepared for rain.
Summer (June – August): Summer is the most popular time to visit West Virginia. The weather is warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from the 60s to the 80s. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities like whitewater rafting, kayaking, and swimming in the state’s many rivers and lakes.
Fall (September – November): Fall is a beautiful time to visit West Virginia. The leaves change colors, and the weather is mild with temperatures ranging from the 50s to the 70s. This is a great time to go hiking or visit some of the state’s scenic drives.
Winter (December – February): Winter in West Virginia can be cold and snowy, with temperatures ranging from the 20s to the 40s. However, this is a great time to visit if you enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. The state has several ski resorts that offer a variety of winter activities.
Overall, the best time to visit West Virginia is during the spring or fall if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy mild weather. However, if you want to enjoy the state’s many outdoor activities, summer is the best time to visit.
Things to Do in West Virginia
West Virginia offers a wide range of activities for visitors. Here are some things to do in West Virginia:
Outdoor Activities: West Virginia is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking, mountain biking, camping, fishing, and skiing.
State and National Parks: West Virginia is home to several state parks, including Blackwater Falls State Park, Pipestem Resort State Park, and Cass Scenic Railroad State Park. The state is also home to the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve and Harpers Ferry National Historical Park.
Scenic Drives: West Virginia offers many scenic drives, including the Highland Scenic Highway, the Coal Heritage Trail, and the Midland Trail. These drives offer breathtaking views of the state’s natural beauty.
Cultural and Historical Sites: West Virginia has a rich history and offers visitors a chance to explore its cultural and historical sites. Some popular sites include the Greenbrier Resort, the West Virginia State Museum, and the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum.
Festivals and Events: West Virginia hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Mountain State Forest Festival, the West Virginia Wine and Jazz Festival, and the West Virginia Hot Dog Festival.
Food and Drink: West Virginia is known for its delicious cuisine, including pepperoni rolls, biscuits and gravy, and ramp dishes. Visitors can also explore the state’s craft beer scene, wineries, and distilleries.
Overall, West Virginia offers something for everyone, whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie.
How to get around in West Virginia
Getting around West Virginia depends on where you are and what you want to see. Here are some transportation options for getting around West Virginia:
Car: Having a car is the most convenient way to explore West Virginia, as many attractions are spread out across the state. Car rentals are available at airports and major cities.
Bus: Greyhound offers bus service throughout West Virginia and to neighboring states. Some cities, such as Charleston and Morgantown, have local bus service as well.
Train: Amtrak’s Cardinal line stops in West Virginia at the stations of Huntington and White Sulphur Springs. The train travels from New York City to Chicago and offers scenic views of the state’s mountain ranges.
Air: West Virginia has several airports, including Yeager Airport in Charleston, Morgantown Municipal Airport, and Greenbrier Valley Airport in Lewisburg. Flights are available from major cities and regional airports.
Taxis and ride-sharing services: Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are available in some cities.
Keep in mind that some parts of West Virginia, especially in rural areas, may have limited transportation options, so it’s best to plan ahead and check availability before your trip.
Where to eat in West Virginia
West Virginia offers a range of dining options, from casual diners to upscale restaurants. Here are some recommendations for where to eat in West Virginia:
Tudor’s Biscuit World: This local chain serves up delicious, fresh biscuits in a variety of flavors, including bacon, egg, and cheese, sausage, and gravy.
Pies & Pints: This restaurant specializes in gourmet pizza and craft beer, with several locations throughout West Virginia.
The Greenbrier: This historic resort features several dining options, including the upscale Prime 44 West steakhouse and the more casual Draper’s.
Hillbilly Hot Dogs: This quirky hot dog stand in Lesage serves up creative hot dog creations, such as the Homewrecker, a foot-long hot dog topped with chili, cheese, onions, jalapenos, and habanero sauce.
DiCarlo’s Pizza: This pizza joint, with locations in Wheeling and Moundsville, serves up unique, square-shaped pizzas with cold toppings added after the pizza is cooked.
Secret Sandwich Society: This gourmet sandwich shop in Fayetteville serves up delicious sandwiches made with locally sourced ingredients.
Cathedral Cafe: This cafe in Fayetteville serves up delicious coffee and pastries, as well as breakfast and lunch options, in a historic building.
Overall, West Virginia offers a range of dining options, from classic comfort food to upscale dining experiences.
Famous street stalls in West Virginia
West Virginia is not particularly known for its street food scene, but there are some popular food stands and markets that offer delicious local fare. Here are a few examples:
Capitol Market (Charleston): This indoor market features a variety of vendors selling everything from fresh produce to prepared foods. You’ll find West Virginia specialties like pepperoni rolls, homemade jams and jellies, and fresh-baked breads.
Tastee Diner (Charleston): This classic diner serves up traditional diner fare like burgers, hot dogs, and milkshakes. It’s been a local favorite since the 1940s.
The Donut Shop (Buckhannon): This family-owned shop has been serving up freshly baked donuts since 1976. You’ll find classic flavors like glazed and chocolate, as well as more creative options like apple pie and maple bacon.
Hillbilly Hot Dogs (Lesage): This quirky hot dog stand serves up creative hot dog creations, like the Homewrecker, a foot-long hot dog topped with chili, cheese, onions, jalapenos, and habanero sauce.
Route 60 Soda Fountain (Huntington): This vintage-style soda fountain serves up ice cream, milkshakes, and old-fashioned sodas in classic glass bottles.
While street food may not be a major attraction in West Virginia, these local spots offer delicious food and a unique experience that’s worth seeking out.
Where to stay in West Virginia
Luxury accommodation
West Virginia has several options for luxury accommodations, from historic hotels to mountain resorts. Here are a few examples:
The Greenbrier (White Sulphur Springs): This iconic resort has been welcoming guests since 1778 and offers luxurious rooms, suites, and cottages. The property also features a world-class spa, multiple restaurants, and a casino.
Stonewall Resort (Roanoke): This lakeside resort offers a variety of accommodations, including lodge rooms, cottages, and cabins. Guests can enjoy golfing, hiking, fishing, and boating, as well as a full-service spa and multiple dining options.
The Omni Homestead Resort (Hot Springs): This historic resort dates back to 1766 and offers luxurious rooms and suites, as well as a variety of outdoor activities like golfing, skiing, and horseback riding. The property also features a hot springs spa and multiple restaurants.
The Resort at Glade Springs (Daniels): This mountain resort offers luxurious rooms and suites, as well as vacation homes and villas. Guests can enjoy golfing, skiing, horseback riding, and a variety of other outdoor activities. The property also features multiple restaurants and a spa.
Adventures on the Gorge (Lansing): This adventure resort offers luxury cabins and treehouses, as well as glamping tents and traditional campsites. Guests can enjoy outdoor activities like whitewater rafting, ziplining, and rock climbing, as well as multiple dining options.
These luxury accommodations in West Virginia offer a range of amenities and activities for guests looking to indulge in a luxurious getaway.
Where to stay in West Virginia
Budget accommodation
West Virginia offers a variety of budget-friendly accommodations for travelers, including affordable hotels, motels, hostels, and camping options. Here are a few examples:
Motel 6 (various locations): This national chain offers clean, comfortable rooms at affordable rates. There are multiple locations throughout West Virginia, including Charleston, Beckley, and Huntington.
Super 8 by Wyndham (various locations): Another national chain that offers affordable accommodations throughout West Virginia. Amenities include free breakfast and Wi-Fi.
Hostelling International Harpers Ferry Hostel (Harpers Ferry): This hostel is located in the heart of historic Harpers Ferry and offers dormitory-style rooms and private rooms at budget-friendly rates. The property also features a shared kitchen, common areas, and outdoor space.
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson (various locations): This hotel chain offers affordable accommodations with a variety of amenities, including free breakfast and Wi-Fi. There are multiple locations throughout West Virginia, including Beckley, Charleston, and Morgantown.
Camping (various locations): West Virginia offers many opportunities for camping, from state parks to private campgrounds. Camping can be a budget-friendly option for travelers who enjoy the outdoors and want to save money on lodging.
These are just a few examples of the many budget-friendly accommodations available in West Virginia. Travelers can find affordable options throughout the state, whether they prefer hotels, hostels, or camping.
Travel Tips West Virginia
Here are some travel tips for visiting West Virginia:
Explore the great outdoors: West Virginia is known for its natural beauty, and there are many opportunities to explore the state’s mountains, forests, and rivers. Consider hiking, biking, or kayaking in one of the state’s many parks and recreation areas.
Visit historic sites: West Virginia has a rich history, and there are many museums and historic sites to explore. Some popular destinations include Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, the West Virginia State Museum, and the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum.
Try the local cuisine: West Virginia has a unique culinary scene, with dishes like pepperoni rolls, biscuits and gravy, and ramp-based dishes. Be sure to try some of the local specialties while you’re in the state.
Attend a festival: West Virginia hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, from the West Virginia State Fair to the Mountain State Forest Festival. Attending a festival can be a great way to experience local culture and traditions.
Be prepared for outdoor activities: If you plan on spending time outdoors in West Virginia, be sure to pack appropriate clothing and gear. The weather can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to bring layers and rain gear. Additionally, make sure you have plenty of water and snacks for hikes or other outdoor activities.
Consider driving: West Virginia’s winding roads and scenic routes can be a highlight of any trip to the state. Consider renting a car or driving your own vehicle to explore the state’s beautiful countryside and small towns.
Be respectful of the locals and the environment: As with any travel destination, it’s important to be respectful of the local community and the environment. Stay on designated trails, dispose of trash properly, and be courteous to locals and other travelers.