West Virginia is a hive of fun things to do for solo travelers, couples, and families alike. There isn’t just one thing you should go and see, eat or do – there are plenty!
Things to do in West Virginia
West Virginia is one of the most beautiful places you can visit – and it isn’t heaving with tourists, unlike some big cities, but you’re bound to meet a few people from out of state or from outside of the US.
So you’ll be able to enjoy it to the fullest!
Something to keep in mind is that West Virginia is pretty rural, and to get the most out of your time there; you should hire a car or book your travel in advance.
Harpers Ferry in West Virginia
If you love meeting other tourists on your travels and enjoying truly breathtaking sights, then Harpers Ferry is where you should be heading. For those interested in history, Harpers Ferry holds some particular significance. Due to its location, it was heavily fought over in the American Civil War, and plenty of historic landmarks and buildings exist.
The area has plenty to do, including whitewater rafting, ziplining, and inner tubing – not to mention the stunning and vast wilderness.
To truly immerse yourself in nature, you could spend a couple of hours on the Appalachian Trail – but try to find a local guide before you do!
Charleston
Charleston is the heart of West Virginia and sits right where the Kanawha and Elk rivers meet. Head to the State Capitol building and be prepared to have your breath taken away but the stunning tranquil waters nearby.
For architectural buffs, Charleston offers a wide variety of styles, and there is something on every street for you to see – not to mention the beautiful must-visit West Virginia State Museum and the Avampato Discovery Museum.
If you love to mix a little bit of the city with a little bit of nature, then pull on your hiking boots and head to the Kanawha State Forest, and then once you have worked up an appetite, head to one of the many restaurants or cafes, so a bite to eat.
Fayetteville
The saying small but mighty suits Fayetteville perfectly. While it is smaller than many of the other places in West Virginia, there is plenty to do. And, since it is surrounded by stunning greenery, while you’re kicking back, finding where to wager on Time2play, or doing a crossword, you’re surrounded by nature.
Fayetteville is popular with adrenaline and thrill-seeking adventurers as it is home to the millennia-old New River. Almost any outdoor activity you can think of is available here, from llama trekking in nearby local natural spaces to horseback riding, fishing, kayaking, and rock climbing.
Cass Scenic Railroad
The Cass Scenic Road combines history and views. The steam-driven locomotive carries you through a heritage railroad, and the Cass Scenic Railroad State Park will surround you. You will get the full experience of a steam-powered train, including the steam billowing and the whistle blowing.
Valleys, hills, and the historic lumber mill are all up for exploration. Perhaps the most talked about view on the train ride is as you head towards the Bald Knob summit and watch the landscape unfurl before you.
Seneca Caverns
The Seneca Caverns combine history, mystery, and beauty. Getting a tour of the caverns will give you a much deeper insight into the area’s history, and you will hear about the ceremonies that the Seneca Indians had.
The rock formation is something that you won’t see every day, and what’s more, is that depending on the type of tour you book, you may be able to try your hand at gemstone mining!
The caverns have plenty of facilities too, so after your time in the cavern, you can take home something from the gift shop and have a bite to eat in the restaurant – or pack your sandwiches and enjoy the picnic area.
New River Gorge Bridge
Many travelers want to see some of the most photographed places in the world and take their photos there. Photographers across the globe travel to the New River Gorge Bridge because of its sheer magnitude.
It is one of the highest bridges in America, consists of 22,000 tons of steel, and stands at 876 feet. Rather than walk across the bridge freely, tours secure visitors to safety rails and offer a three-hour walking tour. Plenty of time to soak up the views from both sides. The views of the surrounding Appalachian Mountains change with the season, so you will always leave with stunning photos.
Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum
One of the biggest draws of the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum is that many paranormal reports surround the area and the building. Brave tourists and those who love to explore all things ghosts and ghouls will love this location. The asylum has beautiful architecture and leans into the Gothic Revival era; it was a functioning psychiatric hospital until 1944 but is now a National Historic Landmark.
You might recognize the building from the game Fallout 76 or its appearances in Paranormal Lockdown, Ghost Hunters, Destination Fear, or Portals to Hell.
Blackwater Falls State Park
Blackwater Falls State Park is the most famous park in West Virginia, and with good reason. The park offers excellent accessibility – meaning that the young and old can enjoy it without issues. Of course, if you are there, you will head to the 62 ft high cascading waterfall, which flows into the Blackwater Canyon from the Blackwater River.
There are many points of interest, too, like the nature center, Elakala Falls, and the Lindy Point Overlook.
Choosing the right place to stay and things to do is vital when traveling with children; here are some tips to make it smooth sailing: Have An Awesome Adventure With The Family With These 8 Tips.
