19 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in West Virginia
Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Apr 25, 2022
With some of the East Coast's most beautiful and rugged scenery, West Virginia is filled with year-round outdoor adventure opportunities. Its wild mountain country, densely-forested wilderness areas, and fast-running rivers are playgrounds for hiking, camping, caving, rock climbing, white water rafting, boating, and fishing. In the winter, ski resorts offer a range of snow sports .
Active travelers will never run out of things to do here. While many tourists come to the state for these outdoor activities and scenic landscapes, West Virginia offers much more in the way of tourist attractions, from the historic sights of Harpers Ferry and the elegant Greenbrier and its legendary golf courses to some very unusual attractions, including a penitentiary to tour.
You'll find plenty of vacation ideas with our list of the top tourist attractions in West Virginia.
1. Blackwater Falls State Park
2. monongahela national forest and seneca rocks, 3. the greenbrier, 4. ski & play at snowshoe, 5. berkeley springs, 6. new river gorge national river, 7. white water rafting, 8. harpers ferry, 9. west virginia penitentiary, 10. mothman museum and festival, 11. cass scenic railroad state park, 12. west virginia state museum at the culture center, 13. explore seneca caverns, 14. huntington museum of art & ritter park, 15. beckley exhibition coal mine, 16. grave creek burial mounds, 17. cathedral falls, 18. west virginia state capitol, 19. trans-allegheny lunatic asylum.
Named for the dark waters of the Blackwater River, colored by tannic acid from fallen hemlock and red spruce needles, Blackwater Falls drops 60 feet over sandstone ledges before the river continues to rush through an eight-mile-long gorge. Steps and viewing platforms make the falls accessible year-round.
Also popular places to visit in the park are Elakala Falls , which cascade down the wall of the canyon and can be reached by a short trail, and Pendleton Falls , easily seen from a roadside pull-off.
The view into the Blackwater Canyon from Lindy Point, one of the most beautiful places in West Virginia, is another park highlight, as is Pendleton Point Overlook, at the canyon's deepest point. The park has a boating lake, as well as swimming, fishing, and camping.
Address: 1584 Blackwater Lodge Road, Davis, West Virginia
Official site: http://www.blackwaterfalls.com/
With elevations ranging from around 1,000 feet to 4,863 feet above sea level, the Monongahela National Forest offers beautiful views, wildlife, and the highest point in the state. The variety of terrain and rainfall across its more than 900,000 acres gives it one of the most diverse forest ecosystems in the country, supporting more than 225 bird species; 75 species of trees; and 70 fish species, both game and non-game.
About 100,000 acres of the park are designated as the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area , offering some of the best traditional multi-pitch technical climbing on the east coast. Seneca Rocks is a distinctive 250-foot-deep formation of white and gray quartzite that stands almost 900 feet above the North Fork River. Some routes are moderate, but experts are challenged by the exposed summit pinnacle.
You don't need to be a climber to enjoy the park. Non-climbers can visit the Seneca Rocks Discovery Center, stay in the campgrounds at Seneca Shadows and Big Bend, go fishing, or hike and spot birds in the park's thousands of acres of wildlands.
Address: 200 Sycamore Street, Elkins, West Virginia
Official site: http://www.fs.usda.gov/mnf
The Greenbrier has earned its designation as a National Historic Landmark several times over. Located at White Sulphur Springs, which have been in use as a natural spa since the 1700s, the grand hotel has hosted 26 presidents, foreign dignitaries, and royalty, including Prince Rainier and Princess Grace of Monaco and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor.
But however grand and luxurious it is as a resort, it has played other historic roles, too. Early in World War II, it was used as a detention center for German and Japanese diplomats who were in the United States when war was declared. Later in the war, it was commandeered by the U.S. Army to use as a hospital, where nearly 25,000 patients were treated.
During the Cold War, an underground shelter was built to house the entire U.S. Congress in case of nuclear attack. This shelter, given the code name "Project Greek Island," was decommissioned in 1992 and is open to the public for tours, as is the Presidents' Cottage Museum, with exhibits about presidential visits and the history of the resort.
More than 50 different activities are available in the resort and in the 5,100-acre Greenbrier State Forest . Along with horseback riding, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, adventure courses, and a 40,000-square-foot spa, the resort has multiple golf courses (even an indoor one for winter) and a distinguished golf history as the venue for numerous championships.
Greenbrier State Forest offers cabins and campsites, swimming, fishing, bike trails and hiking - the 78-mile-long Greenbrier River Trail is a multi-purpose rail trail that is also used for cross-country skiing in the winter. A getaway in one of the centuries-old Legacy Cottages is one of the most romantic things to do in West Virginia.
Address: 300 W. Main Street, White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia
This year-round resort is best known for its skiing, with three separate areas to choose from, all with 100 percent snowmaking. With an 800-foot vertical drop, Snowshoe Basin's 38 trails cover all experience levels, served by seven lifts, including a high-speed detachable quad. Of Silver Creek 's 18 trails, 12 are open for night skiing.
The Western Territory Area's steep, rugged terrain has 1,500 feet of vertical drop, the most advanced terrain in the region. Steeps on Cupp Run, designed by legendary Olympian Jean-Claude Killy, and Shay's Revenge reach 52 percent pitch.
In other seasons, activities include mountain biking, scenic chairlift rides, geocaching, horseback riding, Segway tours, ziplining, trampolining, climbing, pedal boats, paddle boarding, canoeing, hiking, fishing, and golf at the Raven Golf Club. Not far away, in Greenbank, is the National Radio Astronomy Observatory .
Address: 10 Snowshoe Drive, Snowshoe, West Virginia
Official site: http://www.snowshoemtn.com
Read More: Best Ski Resorts in West Virginia
The bathhouse at Berkeley Springs State Park , in the center of Berkeley Springs, first opened in 1930, but long before that bathing in the warm and effervescent mineral waters was popular. George Washington was a regular visitor and even earlier, the springs' restorative and therapeutic properties brought Native Americans here from as far away as southern Canada.
Baths and treatments take advantage of the five main springs and several smaller ones, flowing at a rate of 2,000 gallons of clear, sparkling water per minute at a constant 74.3 degrees Fahrenheit.
Located in the center of the small town of Berkeley Springs, the state park facilities include the old-fashioned private bathing tubs, saunas, and massages at the Old Roman Bath Building and Main Bath House; elsewhere in town are more luxurious private spas with a range of health and beauty options.
Contrary to its name, New River is actually one of the oldest rivers on the continent. As it flows into West Virginia, it cuts through the Appalachian Plateau, forming the New River Gorge and plenty of white water for tubing, rafting, and canoeing. Other recreational opportunities are all around it: hiking, ziplining, hunting, fishing, bird-watching, camping, biking, and rock climbing.
One of the state's most photographed sights is the soaring New River Bridge , the longest steel span in the hemisphere and the nation's third highest, 876 feet above the canyon floor. The National Park Service maintains 70,000 acres of park lands along the river, and at Hawk's Nest State Park, you can ride an aerial tramway into the bottom of the New River Gorge, a prime spot for white water rafting.
South of New River Gorge National River at Bluestone State Park there is hiking, fishing, camping, and boating on the large lake behind the Bluestone Dam.
Official site: http://www.nps.gov/neri/index.htm
It's no secret that West Virginia is one of the best places to go white water rafting. Several rivers offer world-class rapids for experts, and others are well-suited to less experienced and learning rafters. The most famous waters are in the Gauley River , between Summersville and Fayetteville, in the Gauley River National Recreation Area. Both the Gauley and New rivers are easily accessed from a base in nearby Babcock or Hawks Nest state parks .
Here, the 25-mile river flows at high speed through gorges and valleys, providing the thrill of a lifetime to experienced rafters; it's no wonder the Class V rapids are nicknamed the "Beast of the East."
Fall is the time to find the most challenging flow, but at any time it's a good idea to hire an experienced guide who knows the river and its quirks and can help you find the places that are best suited to your own experience level. Although it's known for its Class V rapids the Gauley has some stretches of Class III that are suitable for intermediate levels.
For those with less experience, the Tygart River, Cheat River, and Potomac River are good options, as is the Upper New River, which has good stretches for beginners. Lower New River has Class IV rapids that offer runs past the New River Gorge Bridge.
- Read More: Best White Water Rafting Rivers in West Virginia
The Shenandoah River meets the Potomac River at this small West Virginia town, which was the site of abolitionist John Brown's raid on the United States arsenal in 1859, an event that hastened the onset of the Civil War.
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park has museums, historical exhibits, and programs, plus about 20 miles of hiking trails. You can explore the rocks where the rivers meet and walk up to St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church and the old cemetery on the hill behind it.
Also in Harpers Ferry is the Appalachian Trail Visitors Center , from which you can take a hike on the Appalachian Trail for views of the town and rivers. Local outfitters offer tubing excursions in the river.
One of the most unlikely places to visit in any state, the West Virginia Penitentiary welcomes guests from April through November to tour the grim prison that sometimes held more than 1,000 prisoners at a time. The forbidding Gothic fortress opened in 1876, and the last prisoner left in 1995. Between those dates it was the scene of fires, escapes, prison riots, and almost 100 executions.
Visitors can tour the building and its claustrophobia-inducing five-foot by seven-foot cells during the day, or explore the reportedly haunted location at night. The penitentiary is a popular place for paranormal researchers looking for evidence of spectral phenomena.
Address: 818 Jefferson Ave, Moundsville, West Virginia
Official site: http://www.wvpentours.com
In 1966, reports of lights in the sky and a strange flying figure began circulating in Point Pleasant, West Virginia. The figure was variously described, but most reported a winged human figure dressed in black, with red eyes. From there arose the local legend of Mothman.
Pop culture took up the myth as the story spread (there's even an exhibit on Mothman at the International Cryptozoology Museum in Portland, Maine) and the town turned the legend into a museum, a statue, and a Mothman Festival . The popular free event is held on the third weekend in September and features costumes, activities, and vendors selling souvenirs depicting a bat-like cartoon Mothman.
Address: 400 Main Street, Point Pleasant, West Virginia
Official site: www.mothmanmuseum.com
At the Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, you can relive the Golden Age of Steam on a line built in 1901 to haul lumber from the forest to the mill, riding in refurbished logging flat-cars pulled by an original Shay steam locomotive. The full 4.5-hour trip includes switchbacks that allow the train to climb grades as high as 11 percent to reach Bald Knob. At an altitude of 4,700 feet, this is West Virginia's third highest point , overlooking spectacular views.
At Whittaker Station, a 1940s logging camp has been recreated, with the living quarters and the equipment. At the base, you can tour a museum and the depot and see restored company houses that can be rented for overnight stays. On the train ride, be prepared for noise, black smoke, and chilly temperatures at Bald Knob.
Official site: www.cassrailroad.com
Among the free things to do in West Virginia is touring the West Virginia State Museum in Charleston to learn about the state's culture, history, art, paleontology, archaeology, and geology. One of the most popular of its 60,000 artifacts is a pair of dressed fleas from a 19th-century flea circus .
Well-designed exhibits of a more serious nature literally follow a path through the state's history, beginning with stone and dirt and ending in a paved highway. As visitors progress from room to room through the centuries, audio features augment exhibits and films.
Artifacts include everyday implements and items such as a telescope that George Washington used to survey land in West Virginia. In one section, you'll learn more about John Brown's raid at Harpers Ferry, and elsewhere is an original settler's cabin reconstructed in the museum.
Address: 1900 Kanawha Blvd E, Charleston, West Virginia
- Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Charleston, West Virginia
The formation of Seneca Caverns began 460 million years ago, when the cavern's limestone bed first formed. The native Seneca people are thought to have used the caves for shelter beginning in the early 1400s.
The caverns were later found by a local farmer, Laven Teter, while looking for water for his livestock, and the largest chamber, rising to 60 feet in places, is named Teter Hall in his memory.
You can visit these on one-hour guided tours that descend to 165 feet below the entrance. Pathways are well-lit, and cement steps with handrails help visitors navigate deeper into the caverns. The separate Stratosphere Cave is on the same property.
Address: 3328 Germany Valley Road, Riverton, West Virginia
Official site: http://www.senecacaverns.com
In addition to its 10 exhibition spaces, the Huntington Museum of Art maintains an interactive education gallery, a 287-seat auditorium, a conservatory for tropical and subtropical plants, a coral reef aquarium, two outdoor sculpture gardens, and two miles of hiking and nature trails. A quarter-mile paved accessible Sensory Trail is designed for the visually impaired.
Outstanding in its permanent collections of more than 16,000 objects are 4,000 pieces of glassware and the Touma Near Eastern Gallery, encompassing art from the Middle East, Ottoman Turkey, Central Asia, the Indian sub-continent, North Africa, and Moorish Spain.
Highlighting the Ritter Park Historic District is a 75-acre park with a walking, jogging, and biking trail and a garden of more than 3,000 roses that is considered one of the best rose gardens in America .
Address: 2033 McCoy Road, Huntington, West Virginia
Official site: https://www.hmoa.org
Coal mining is central to both the history and economy of West Virginia, especially in the region around Beckley. You can tour one of these mines, going deep underground in a cart that once carried the miners to work daily. Guided by a miner who tells about the work here, the tour gives you a feel for the lives of those who spent their daylight hours in these dark passages.
A recreated coal camp with the Coal Company House, superintendent's house, a church, and the school depict an early 20 th -century coal camp. The adjacent Mountain Homestead recreates a 19 th -century Appalachian frontier settlement, with a log home, barn, blacksmith shop, one-room schoolhouse, and general store. A Youth Museum has changing interactive exhibits.
Address: Ewart Ave., Beckley, West Virginia
Official site: https://beckley.org/coal-mine/
One of the free things to do in West Virginia, and one of its secret places, is also one of the most intriguing, a glimpse into a culture that thrived here 2,000 years ago. Grave Creek Archaeological Complex , near Wheeling, centers on the largest known burial mounds of the Adena people, built about 250-150 BC.
These mounds, as high as 62 feet and nearly 250 feet at the base, required moving more than 60,000 tons of earth, creating the largest conical type structure of any of the mound-building cultures.
The Delf Norona Museum on the site displays some of the nearly 450,000 artifacts found in the multi-level burial site and elsewhere in the area. The exhibits illuminate the lives of these prehistoric people and the construction of the mounds.
Address: 801 Jefferson Avenue, Moundsville, West Virginia
Cane Brook joins New River a short distance east of Gauley Bridge, but before it does, the stream drops more than 100 feet from the mountains above. The lower 60 feet of its plunge are visible from a roadside stop on Route 60.
The water cascades down a canyon it has cut through the forested mountainside, dropping in a long series, splashing into a veil of foam at each successive level as it falls over the sandstone ledges. The waterfall, with its setting amid overhanging foliage, is a favorite for photographers, especially in the fall when the hardwoods are in their autumn colors.
Along with being one of the most beautiful waterfalls in West Virginia , Cathedral Falls is also the most accessible, with a roadside viewing area.
Location: Route 60, Gauley Bridge, West Virginia
Five feet higher than the dome of the US Capitol Building in Washington, D.C., the 293-foot golden dome at the State Capitol in Charleston reflects Greek and Roman architectural influences. It was designed by Cass Gilbert, who also designed the Woolworth Building in New York City, the world's tallest building when it was constructed.
During the building process, from 1924 to 1932, more than 700 train carloads of Indiana limestone were used. White marble from Vermont and Italian travertine sheath much of its interior, which you can tour daily.
As unconventional a tourist attraction as the West Virginia Penitentiary, the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum is a landmark in the history of treatment for the mentally ill. Constructed between 1858 and 1881, the asylum is the largest hand-cut stone masonry building in the hemisphere, and in the world it is exceeded only by the Kremlin in Moscow.
It was designed by the architect Richard Andrews, who arranged the long rambling wings in a staggered formation, so that each of the connecting structures received as much therapeutic sunlight and fresh air as possible.
Tours highlight a number of historical themes, including architecture, Civil War raids, treatment of the mentally ill, even the facility's agricultural history and place in the local community. Like the West Virginia Penitentiary, the asylum has also been a research location for paranormal investigators .
Official site: http://trans-alleghenylunaticasylum.com
More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com
More on West Virginia: For a luxurious and relaxing vacation, consider staying at one of the top resorts in West Virginia or enjoying some of the state's many outdoor attractions . If you have time to tack on one more stop during your trip, consider visiting the attractions of Charleston, West Virginia .
Where to Go Next: Bordering West Virginia on the east and south, the historic state of Virginia is scattered with charming small towns and other places for relaxing weekend getaways .
More on West Virginia
- Architecture
- Photography
- Community Parks
- Distilleries
- Historic Landmarks
- National Forest
- National Parks
- National Wildlife Refuges
- Natural Wonders
- State Parks
- Vacation Packages
- Wildlife Management Areas
- Agriculture
- Economic Development
- Health and Medicine
- Higher Education
- Historical Reenactments
- Real Estate
- Romantic Getaways
- Transportation
- Weather and Climate
- Fairs & Festivals
- Native American
- Lore and Legend
- Agritourism
- ATV Touring
- Irish Road Bowling
- Powerboating
- Rail Excursions
- Attractions
- Communities
Pastoral beauty of lower Kanawha Valley broadcast by W.Va. painter
Moon & Star pattern glassware from W.Va. attracting new audiences
Statue of Abraham Lincoln at West Virginia Capitol took years to...
Which are the top 10 arts communities in West Virginia?
Monongahela National Forest sets opening dates for recreation sites
New River Gorge national park in West Virginia now attracting more...
Visitation increased in 2023 for all national park sites in southern...
Islands in the Ohio River in West Virginia are a Noah's...
"Worm Moon of March" lore is accurate, says West Virginia gardener
West Virginia's northern panhandle was once prime U.S. sheep country
Forgotten West Virginia tavern rediscovered in Greenbrier County
Monument near Summersville, West Virginia, recalls beloved nanny goat
Prehistoric West Virginia was never a so-called uninhabited hunting ground
A silver rush in the Ohio Valley near Ravenswood, W.Va., came...
Tale of West Virginia monster may have first been documented in...
Historic spring, cabin undetected near busy W.Va. expressway interchange
First B&B established in New River Gorge now for sale
Capon Springs offers 30-percent state resident discount
Glade Springs resort suspends operations until April 20
Beckley tourism leaders welcome Hilton hotel, growth
Capon Springs celebrates 88th season by changing very little
Unique, single-leafed orchid sprouts in winter woodlands in West Virginia
Ohio River refuge islands in W.Va. increasingly attract kayakers
National Geographic names rafting New River Gorge top 2024 experience
Snowshoe Mountain in W.Va. ranks among most affordable ski resorts
West virginia travel guide.
Our West Virginia Travel Guide includes everything you'll need to arrange a West Virginia vacation in a matter of minutes. West Virginia Explorer is, in effect, a travel guide of many thousands of pages, but here we've consolidated information to help make trip-planning fast and easy. Additionally, we maintain a compendium of travel sources who can send information your way in a matter of minutes.
West Virginia Travel Tips
West Virginia is an easy state in which to travel. Its interstate expressways and highways are modern and well-marked. Its people are also friendly and will go out of their way to help you navigate and find food, shelter, and fun. The following are also sure to help you navigate with minimal effort: West Virginia Travel Tips .
Convention & Visitors Bureaus
Are you interested in arranging a vacation for a large number of people? Convention & Visitors Bureaus across the Mountain State provide prospective travelers with travel resources, especially where conventions and group travel planning is concerned: Convention & Visitors Bureaus .
Fallout 76 Travel
Bethesda Softworks in 2018 unveiled the most recent in its series of Fallout role-playing video games titled Fallout 76 , which plays out in an alternate version of West Virginia. Many locales in the game, however, are based on real-world locations that players now visit. Follow along with our guide: Fallout 76 .
Stay Connected
Latest articles.
Popular News
- Advertising
© Copyright 2000, 2002, 2006, 2012-2014, 2023 West Virginia Explorer. All rights reserved.
© Copyright 2000, 2002, 2006, 2012-2014, 2024 West Virginia Explorer. All rights reserved.
Protect Your Trip »
19 surprisingly cool things to do in west virginia.
From the newest national park in the U.S. to the Mothman Museum, West Virginia is increasingly intriguing.
The Top Things to Do in West Virginia
Courtesy of West Virginia Department of Tourism
"Almost Heaven, West Virginia."
The state that inspired John Denver's now-classic American anthem, does, in fact, feel a bit like Heaven (or at least what we imagine it to be). Yet it isn't a destination at top of many bucket lists, if it even has a place on those lists at all. It's time to change your mind.
Read on to discover the top things to do in West Virginia.
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve: Glen Jean
Getty Images
If there's only one place you can visit in West Virginia, let it be New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Born out of a COVID-19 relief bill, New River Gorge became the nation's 63rd national park in December 2020. The area – which spans more than 70,000 acres – has long been a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Its 53-mile stretch of the New River (ironically one of the oldest rivers in the world) is famous for whitewater rafting, with beginner- and family-friendly tours and rapids up to Class V, widely considered some of the most challenging to navigate.
Of course, the park also offers other ways to take in its otherworldly landscape – think scenic driving routes, hiking, biking, climbing, fishing and free ranger-led activities including junior ranger programs. Accommodation options inside the park are limited to camping, but there are plenty of hotels and resorts within a short drive.
Bridge Walk: Lansing
Whatever you do in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, don't miss the one-of-a-kind Bridge Walk, where guided tours are offered on a catwalk beneath the famous New River Gorge Bridge. The bridge towers 876 feet above the New River, but don't worry – guests are securely fastened to a cable, and tours move at a relaxed pace so you can feel comfortable (and stop for scenic views and photo ops along the way). Previous visitors say the Bridge Walk is a must in West Virginia, with some calling it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Participants must be at least 8 years old.
If you're feeling extra brave after mastering this walkway, you can even come back for Bridge Day, West Virginia's largest single-day festival, where thousands gather every October to watch daredevils jump off the bridge into the gorge below.
Address: 57 County Route 85/9, Lansing, WV 25862
Hatfield-McCoy Trails
The infamously bizarre Hatfield-McCoy Feud that lasted nearly 30 years (and even inspired a dinner show in Pigeon Forge ) actually took place in West Virginia and Kentucky. Today, the region in which the feud took place is now the largest trail system on the East Coast, with 1,000 miles of wooded pathways, rolling hills and quintessential Appalachian towns to explore.
Waterfall Trail
In June 2022, West Virginia launched a statewide Waterfall Trail, allowing travelers to more easily navigate some of the state's 200-plus waterfalls with a free mobile passport – plus the chance to win prizes along the way. As of 2023, there are 38 trail stops in total. These include the famous Blackwater Falls, where the tannic acid of fallen hemlock and red spruce needles tints the water. Not surprisingly, it's one of West Virginia's most photographed destinations.
Read: The Best Places to Hike in the U.S.
Watoga State Park
Watoga State Park was named a Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association in 2021, along with the adjacent Calvin Price State Forest and nearby Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park. Travelers who want to catch a glimpse of the nighttime light show can opt for tent camping or cabin accommodations, spring through fall.
Address: 4800 Watoga Park Road, Marlinton, WV 24954
Adventures on the Gorge: Lansing
Courtesy of Adventures on the Gorge
The ultimate experience in West Virginia, Adventures on the Gorge, is an award-winning adventure outfitter and resort on the rim of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. The destination resort offers a dizzying array of outdoor activities, the most popular of which is whitewater rafting. Travelers rave about the half- and multi-day excursions for various skill levels, noting that the guides are friendly, helpful and all-around great. Adventure seekers can also enjoy zip lining and canopy tours (including a nighttime MoonTrek), rappelling, mountain biking, guided hikes, horseback riding, cave tours, laser tag and paintball. On Summersville Lake (the largest in West Virginia), there's kayaking, standup paddleboarding and multi-sport excursions that include a little bit of everything.
After an action-packed day, visitors can grab a bite to eat at any of the three on-site restaurants and retreat to their choice of accommodations, which include everything from cozy cabins to glamping tents with views of the New River Gorge Bridge and surrounding forest.
Address: 219 County Route 60/5, Lansing, WV 25862
The Greenbrier: White Sulphur Springs
Courtesy of Greenbrier County CVB
A National Historic Landmark, The Greenbrier served as a hospital for wounded soldiers during the Civil War and World War II. In 1778, it became "America's Resort," first hosting wealthy Southerners, then celebrities, U.S. presidents and even royalty. You don't have to be a guest of the luxury resort (or an A-lister) to get a glimpse of it – guided hotel tours are offered – but overnight guests enjoy upscale accommodations ranging from signature guest rooms to estate homes, a roster of activities for all ages, golf, a spa, restaurants, a casino, retail shops, seasonal events and more. Whether you splurge for an overnight stay or not, don't miss the Bunker Tour, where you'll discover a former emergency fallout shelter and top-secret government relocation facility for Congress from the Cold War period.
Address: 101 W. Main St., White Sulphur Springs, WV 24986
Lost World Caverns: Lewisburg
Go 120 feet underground to explore stalagmites (some of which measure up to 80 feet tall) and stalactites at Lost World Caverns. Self-guided tours typically take about 45 minutes and are appropriate for all ages, while the Wild Cave Tour for ages 10 and up takes visitors to undeveloped parts of the caverns over the course of several hours. This attraction, which was first discovered in 1942, also includes a museum and gift shop. Previous visitors highly recommend Lost World Caverns, cautioning that the caves can be slippery and difficult to traverse in some areas, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes and a light jacket .
Address: 907 Lost World Road, Lewisburg, WV 24901
Harpers Ferry
Perhaps the most well-known destination in West Virginia, Harpers Ferry is more than a quaint 19th-century town. It's a National Historic Park with Civil War sites including battlefields, remnants of campsites and, most notably, John Brown's Fort and the John Brown Museum. If you don't remember this one from history class, John Brown is the abolitionist credited with leading what's now known as the Harpers Ferry Raid, in which he attempted to start an armed revolt of enslaved people in 1859.
Harpers Ferry is also known as the psychological midpoint of the 2,178-mile Appalachian National Scenic Trail and, as such, attracts thru-hikers to the historic Lower Town's restaurants and nearby vacation rentals. Other highlights in Harper's Ferry include The Point, where you can see the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers; crossing the Potomac on a pedestrian bridge to access the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park towpath; and, better still, getting out on the waters in a river tube, cold drink in hand.
Read: The Best Places to Celebrate Black History Month
Berkeley Springs State Park: Berkeley Springs
Soak in the soothing springs of this state park, known for its warm waters, which maintain a comfortable temperature of 74.3 degrees Fahrenheit, and its bathhouses, where available spa services include massages and mineral baths. The springs date back centuries, first flourishing as a health mecca for Native Americans, then drawing European settlers beginning in 1730. Several years later, George Washington discovered the healing powers of the springs and began visiting them regularly. It is largely because of him that the place now known as Berkeley Springs State Park remains the popular wellness destination it is today. Visitors praise the park and surrounding town, noting that you can see the historic Berkeley Springs Castle (reserved for private events only) from here.
Address: 2 S. Washington St., Berkeley Springs, WV 25411
Mothman Museum: Point Pleasant
In 1966, two grave diggers in Clendenin, West Virginia, reported the sighting of a strange winged figure with red eyes. Shortly after the incident, local residents began to make similar claims, with many blaming the massive creature, nicknamed the Mothman, for the 1967 Silver Bridge collapse and subsequent death of 46 people. The story was so bizarre it captured the attention of Hollywood (resulting in "The Mothman Prophecies" movie, based on a book of the same name) and inspired the Mothman Museum in the town of Point Pleasant, where the mythical creature is said to reside. The museum features original newspaper clippings, handwritten police reports, props used in the 2002 film and more. The Mothman Statue stands 12 feet tall outside of the museum, and the Mothman Festival is hosted every September. Previous patrons of the museum say it's fun and interesting, and that admission – less than $5 for adults – is cheap.
After you explore this eerie museum, spend some time in Point Pleasant, an attraction in itself with great restaurants, shopping, seasonal events and the historic (and supposedly haunted) Lowe Hotel.
Address: 400 Main St., Point Pleasant, WV 25550
World's Largest Teapot: Chester
If you're road-tripping through West Virginia, consider making a stop at this quirky attraction, which measures 12 feet high and 44 feet wide. Before achieving fame, the "World's Largest Teapot" was created as a giant keg for Hires Root Beer and then installed as a snack stand at a mini-golf course in Pennsylvania. In 1938, a man named William "Babe" Devon brought it to Chester, West Virginia. He added a spout, lid and handle so he could use the newly revamped structure to promote the region's then-booming pottery industry, selling teapots and other souvenirs from its window. The teapot went out of business around 1980, was restored by the Chester City Council in 1990, and has sat at the junction of U.S. Route 30 and State Route 2 ever since.
Tips on Trips and Expert Picks
Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.
West Virginia Penitentiary: Moundsville
During its 100-plus years in operation, the West Virginia Penitentiary saw riots, homicides and executions including public hangings. So it's no surprise that when the storied prison decommissioned in 1995, former prison guards began offering tours to the public. Current tour options include a Public Ghost Hunt and Private Paranormal Investigations, as the prison is said to be haunted by former inmates. You can even try your hand at an escape room game. Previous visitors confirm the prison tours are all at once creepy, informative and enjoyable. The West Virginia Penitentiary is so spooky that it's been featured in Netflix's "Mindhunter" (along with the town of Moundsville) and Hulu's "Castle Rock," among other TV shows and movies.
Address: 818 Jefferson Ave., Moundsville, WV 26041
Read: Hauntingly Abandoned Places You Can Still Visit
West Virginia State Museum: Charleston
Located in the charming state capital of Charleston, the West Virginia State Museum features informative and interactive exhibits that pay homage to the culture and history of the Mountain State. Notable artifacts on display include a pair of Billy the Kid's leather chaps and the telescope George Washington used to survey the state's lands. Previous visitors say this Charleston museum is truly impressive, with some advising you'll need a few hours to see everything it has to offer. Bonus: As a state-operated attraction, the museum is free to enter. The West Virginia State Museum also manages a few historic sites throughout the state, including West Virginia Independence Hall and Camp Washington-Carver.
Address: 1900 Kanawha Blvd. E #435, Charleston, WV 25305
Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine: Beckley
Courtesy of Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine
A small, family-operated coal mine and camp from roughly 1890 to 1910 that later became a commercial endeavor until it closed in 1953, the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine is now a highly rated attraction in West Virginia. Previous visitors say both kids and adults enjoy exploring the former coal mines with veteran miners, who lead guided tours in authentic "man trips," the cars used in mining operations. When you emerge from the tunnels, explore the Coal Camp, with restored original buildings including the Pemberton Coal Camp Church and the Helen Coal Camp School, then stop by the Youth Museum of Southern West Virginia, which features a planetarium and a recreated homestead from the late 19th century. Admission includes the tour and access to the camp and museum. The Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine is open from April to November, but bring a light jacket no matter when you visit as the mines can get chilly.
Address: 513 Ewart Ave., Beckley, WV 25801
Twin Falls Resort State Park: Mullens
Escape to Twin Falls Resort State Park, a destination resort with more than 25 miles of hiking and biking trails (where you can see the park's namesake waterfalls), an indoor swimming pool, an 18-hole golf course and a restaurant. Overnight lodging options include camping (tents or RVs), cabins and hotel rooms. The park also features a reconstructed pioneer homestead, where guests can learn about frontier life at the attraction's working farm and gardens. Recent guests have left positive reviews of the resort, commenting that it's both beautiful and clean.
Monongahela National Forest
Another nationally protected region in West Virginia, the Monongahela National Forest spans more than 919,000 acres in 10 counties over elevations that range from 1,000 to nearly 5,000 feet above sea level. Areas of interest include Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area, which features the highest peak in West Virginia, and the Dolly Sods Wilderness, notably the Bear Rocks trail. Both areas offer some of the best views in the state. Throughout the vast national forest there are ample hiking and biking trails, scenic driving routes, and places to stop for a picnic lunch. You can also go swimming, boating, fishing, horseback riding and, if you'd like to stay a few days, camping in tents, RVs or on-site cabins. A visit in the winter affords opportunities for snowmobiling, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
NROCKS Outdoor Adventures
With so much rugged mountain landscape, it's no surprise that West Virginia has a Via Ferrata (a mountain route with permanently installed steel rungs and cables). Located near the Monongahela National Forest, NROCKS Outdoor Adventures offers guided rock-climbing tours of the Via Ferrata. Participants aged 13 and up gain 1,085 feet in elevation, cross a suspension bridge that is 150 feet high and 200 feet long, and reach exposed heights of 280 feet during the roughly 1-mile trek, which takes about 3.5 hours. Recent tourgoers say the experience is thrilling, though not for the faint of heart. For the ultimate adrenaline rush, nighttime tours are offered on select dates throughout the year.
Address: 141 County Route 28/5, Circleville, WV 26804
Cass Scenic Railroad State Park: Cass
A remote destination in Pocahontas County, Cass was once a company town for loggers, who transported lumber via what's now known as the Cass Scenic Railroad. Climb aboard a historic steam-driven locomotive (operated by the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad) for a scenic ride to Bald Knob, the third-highest point in West Virginia. The train ride , which affords panoramic views of the Appalachians, lasts about 4.5 hours round trip and includes lunch. For those visiting Cass Scenic Railroad State Park with kids, previous visitors recommend the two-hour round trip to Whittaker Station, a former logging camp. Some travelers also suggest a visit in the fall to enjoy the colorful foliage . Within Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, visitors can explore the former lumbering town as well as a gift shop, restaurant, museum and theater. Overnight cabin accommodations are also available.
Address: 12363 Cass Road, Cass, WV 24927
You might also be interested in:
- The Best Hotels in West Virginia
- The Top Things to Do in Virginia
- The Most Romantic Getaways in Virginia
- The Top Things to Do in Ohio
Tags: Travel , US Vacations , Mid-Atlantic Vacations
World's Best Places To Visit
- # 1 South Island, New Zealand
- # 4 Bora Bora
If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.
You May Also Like
The best walking shoes for travel.
Catriona Kendall March 4, 2024
The 13 Best Las Vegas Tours
John Rodwan March 4, 2024
The Best Kids Luggage
Amanda Norcross March 1, 2024
Best Hoover Dam Tours from Las Vegas
Holly Johnson and Ann Henson March 1, 2024
Top Things to Do in Colorado
Leilani Osmundson Feb. 29, 2024
The 5 Best NYC Bus Tours for 2024
Holly Johnson and Marisa Méndez Feb. 29, 2024
Top Bachelor Party Destinations
Timothy J. Forster Feb. 29, 2024
The 8 Best Hollywood Tours
Gwen Pratesi and Ann Henson Feb. 28, 2024
Top Adults-Only Resorts in the Caribbean
Sharael Kolberg Feb. 28, 2024
The Best Statue of Liberty Tours
Lyn Mettler and Ann Henson Feb. 27, 2024
19 wild and wonderful West Virginia adventures
Jan 6, 2022 • 10 min read
Hugged by the leafy Shenandoah Mountains at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, Harpers Ferry is a photogenic launchpad for hiking the Appalachian Trail – one of many such adventures in the Mountain State © ablokhin / Getty Images
One word to describe West Virginia’s terrain? Untamed. Anchored by the Appalachians, the Mountain State holds a thrilling trove of wild rivers, deep gorges and thick forests perfectly suited for action-packed adventures, with whitewater rafting and rock climbing at the top of the list.
A good place to start? New River Gorge National Park and Preserve – the newest national park in the country. Inviting small towns dot the mountain foothills, and historic sites spotlight the state's contributions to America's story, from coal production to Cold War secrets to one very famous family feud. Here are some of our favorite adventures in West Virginia.
Celebrate the Bridge
The most iconic landmark in the state, the graceful New River Gorge Bridge is the third highest bridge in the United States and, at 3030ft, one of the longest single-span arch bridges in the world. The 876ft-high span closes to vehicles on the third Saturday in October for Bridge Day, when hundreds of BASE jumpers parachute from its ledge and pedestrians are allowed to stroll from one end of the gorge to the other. The rest of the year, brave travelers can join a Bridgewalk tour, which offers dizzying views of the river from the catwalk beneath the span.
Tour a secret bunker at the Greenbrier
During the height of the Cold War, the US government carved a secret bunker into a mountain behind the posh Greenbrier resort, in White Sulphur Springs – in the event of a nuclear attack, it would've been a fallout shelter for members of Congress. Kept secret for more than 30 years, the bunker is now open for tours. After you explore the vast complex, walk over to Draper’s for a fried green tomato sandwich and some exuberant decor.
Ride a “man car” into a coal mine
The coal-mining industry fueled, quite literally, America’s emergence as a world power, and in the early 1900s, southern West Virginia was an epicenter of coal production. Today veteran miners lead tours deep into a former mine at the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine ; visitors board a passenger tram – known as a man car – for the family-friendly trip. The Mine Wars Museum in Matewan focuses on the violent confrontations between miners, mining companies and the US government in the early 1920s, while the Coal Heritage Trail, a national scenic byway, swings through 13 counties.
Tip: Many small museums and outdoor guiding companies are only open seasonally, typically April through October, so check their status before visiting.
Pick a side in Hatfield and McCoy country
The most famous family feud in America developed along the banks of the Tug River, in the mountainous terrain of southern West Virginia and eastern Kentucky. It’s a complicated saga, including a post–Civil War land dispute, a stolen pig, an illicit love affair and lots of murders. Museums and visitor centers in the towns of Matewan and Williamson dig into the details, and there's a driving-tour map to key sites. A 1000-mile all-terrain vehicle (ATV) trail system, known collectively as the Hatfield-McCoy Trails , crosses multiple counties and stops by feud-related sites; ATV rentals are available across the region.
Get to know New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
The epicenter of America’s newest national park ? Fifty-three wild miles of the New River. This powerhouse of a river – one of the world's oldest – flows down a forested gorge, carving a deep path through the Appalachian Mountains. Whitewater rafters bounce down its rapids while rock climbers tackle 1400-plus routes on the sandstone cliffs that soar above its waters. Waterfalls, wildflowers and views of the New River Gorge Bridge are highlights for hikers, while four riding loops bring mountain bikers to the Arrowhead Trails. Whispers of history drift through the park’s abandoned mining towns, and through sites on its African American Heritage Auto Tour.
Feast your eyes on the 6 most underrated views and vistas in the US
Eat fantastic food in Fayetteville
Compact Fayetteville is a convivial basecamp for hikers, mountain bikers, paddlers and rock climbers who are ready to tackle – or recover from – adventures in New River Gorge National Park. It’s also bursting at its polar fleece seams with good restaurants. Sandwiches are slathered in deliciousness at Secret Sandwich Society , while Pies & Pints slings pizzas loaded with crowd-pleasing toppings like Gouda cheese, sriracha shrimp and marinated grilled steak, alongside an extensive selection of craft beer. Coffee and homemade desserts are served under stained-glass windows at Cathedral Cafe , tucked inside a small former church.
Defy gravity at the Mystery Hole
When it comes to kitschy attractions, the Mystery Hole ranks with the kitschiest. Tucked in the basement of a cabin festooned with flags and multicolor wackiness (you’ll know it when you see it), the exhibits here appear to defy gravity – but in a charmingly kooky way. Ten miles northwest of Fayetteville on mountainous US 60, this is roadside America at its finest.
Try rock climbing to hit new heights
The jagged peaks of Seneca Rocks rise 900ft above the North Fork River, striking a now-iconic silhouette. Rock climbers have scaled its sheer sandstone flanks since the mid-1930s. Climbing newbie? Join a class at one of the nearby climbing schools. For hikers, a 1.5-mile trail climbs to an observation platform near the top of the formation. Twelve miles south at family-friendly NROCKS Outdoor Adventures , guides lead fixed-anchor via ferrata climbs up and across a double-fin rock formation. Climbers, who are harnessed to the rock, cling to a trail of steel steps. Be warned – a 150ft-high suspension bridge also awaits!
Devour a pepperoni roll
Baskets of pepperoni rolls – soft bread rolls stuffed with cured meat – are ubiquitous in gas station mini-marts across the Mountain State. According to lore, a 1920s-era Italian miner-turned-baker wanted to create an easy-to-hold meal for miners. After some experimentation, he developed the pepperoni roll, which could be eaten with one hand and stayed edible all day. Selling pepperoni rolls since 1927, Country Club Bakery is the birthplace of this West Virginia delicacy.
Experience whitewater thrills on the Upper Gauley River
Stepping into your raft at the base of the 390ft-high Summersville Dam on a dam-release day is an act of sheer courage. On six fall weekends, water from Summersville Lake roars from the dam through several enormous tunnels, creating wild whitewater on the Upper Gauley River. These Class III to V+ rapids plunge you down roiling chutes for a thrilling ten-mile run, one of the most challenging – and fun – whitewater adventures in the US. Rafting trips on the Lower Gauley and the nearby New River are well-suited for nature lovers and adventurous families. Adventures on the Gorge and other rafting outfitters cluster near Fayetteville.
Step back in time at Harpers Ferry National Park
Time travel is a reality in the lower town of Harpers Ferry , where red-brick buildings and cobblestone streets evoke the hamlet's 19th-century heyday as a hub for trade, industry and transportation. Most notably, it was the site of abolitionist John Brown’s unsuccessful attempt to spark a slave uprising in 1859, and today much of the downtown is an open-air museum run by the national park service. Hugged by the leafy Shenandoah Mountains at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, Harpers Ferry is also a photogenic launchpad for hiking the Appalachian Trail and biking the C&O Canal towpath .
Hike for miles at Dolly Sods Wilderness
Sprawled across the summit of the high-elevation Allegheny Plateau, the northern reaches of Dolly Sods Wilderness set a stark but striking scene. Red spruce trees pop against the blue skyline, which surrounds a windswept plain dotted with boulders, upland bogs, and grassy balds – alpine terrain that mirrors the landscape of northern Canada. Forty-seven miles of trails crisscross its 17,371 acres, making Dolly Sods a prime spot for day-long or weekend adventures. Build your own loop hike from the Beaver Dam or Bear Rocks trailheads.
Hunt for ghosts at the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum
Easily spooked? Then avoid the evening paranormal tour at this former hospital for the mentally ill, which was in operation from 1864 until 1994. A Gothic-style building constructed of hand-cut sandstone, it stretches nearly a quarter-mile on the outskirts of tiny Weston. Despite the insensitive name of the place (it was later renamed Weston State Hospital), its history tours thoughtfully discuss the inhumane practices that regularly occurred at mental hospitals in the past.
Explore music and mountain culture in Charleston
Settle in for a night of toe-tapping live music from up-and-coming national musicians – folk, blues, indie and world rock – during the two-hour Mountain Stage show produced by NPR. Broadcast on select Sunday nights, shows are often held at Charleston's State Capitol Complex, at the Culture Center Theater at the West Virginia State Museum . Exhibits in this top-notch museum spotlight key events and characters in the Mountain State.
Enjoy big views at state parks
Short trails lead to big views at state parks across West Virginia. At Blackwater Falls State Park in Davis, the 57ft-high falls tumble into an 8-mile gorge hugged by hickory, hemlock and red spruce trees. Perched on a high-elevation ledge, the overlook at Hawks Nest State Park takes in the New River and the mountain slopes that hug it – an especially pretty scene in fall when leaves are ablaze in color. Protected by a wood-and-stone fence, the rocky viewpoint at Coopers Rock State Forest is almost as photogenic as the forested Cheat River Valley far below. The best part? Admission to all state parks is free.
Shop and dine in charming small towns
The best small towns in West Virginia share several traits: top-notch restaurants, historic inns, intriguing ties to the past and walkable Main Streets lined with locally owned shops. Just west of Greenbrier resort, Lewisburg’s historic downtown dates from the 1700s. Visit Carnegie Hall , sample local granola in Bella the Corner Gourmet, then try the Trust Me salad at the Stardust Cafe .
The oldest town in West Virginia, Shepherdstown is a short drive from Antietam National Battlefield in Maryland. Savor New American fare within the upscale confines of Press Room – a romantic spot for date night. George Washington himself once soaked in the hot springs in Berkeley Springs, officially known as Bath.
These 11 small-town getaways are perfect for fall
Have fun year-round at Snowshoe Mountain Resort
The one outdoor sport you can’t do at Snowshoe ? Surprisingly enough, it’s snowshoeing! This mountain-top resort, which sits at 4848ft, is named for the all-white snowshoe hare. But no worries, the resort serves up a host of alternative winter adventures, including snowboarding, snowmobiling, snow-tubing, sleigh riding and skiing, which is offered on more than 60 trails. In summer, mountain bikers hurtle down Snowshoe Bike Park, which has nearly 40 trails; the largest bike park in the region, it regularly hosts the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup.
Catch live music at the Purple Fiddle
An oasis of fun in the far northern reaches of the Monongahela National Forest, the Purple Fiddle is a small music venue with a big heart and a bigger reputation. Anchoring the tiny town of Thomas and its sidekick Davis, this former country store now shines as an artsy music hall. With nightly live shows, the Fiddle welcomes road-trippers from up and down the east coast for its eclectic, mostly acoustic performances – look for nationally known bands playing old-time music, rock and roll, reggae, Cajun and funk. It serves beer and great sandwiches too.
Stroll the Cranberry Glades Boardwalk Trail
The four peat bogs at the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area are remote, eerie and unlike any landscape you’d expect to see in West Virginia. More typical of Canada, the acidic wetlands here are a remnant of the Ice Age – a spongy carpet of decaying plant material, where orchids and carnivorous plants have managed to stake a claim. A half-mile boardwalk cuts a meandering path through two of the fragile bogs, which are located an hour north of Lewisburg.
Safety recommendations and restrictions during a pandemic can change rapidly. Lonely Planet recommends that travelers always check with local authorities for up-to-date guidance before traveling during COVID-19 .
You might also like: West Virginia will pay remote workers $12,000 to move there West Virginia's New River Gorge is full of wild and wonderful outdoor adventures The newest national park in the US is a hotspot for outdoor adventures
Explore related stories
Jan 7, 2022 • 7 min read
In the rippling Appalachian Mountains, there's a network of trails plunging down gorges, past waterfalls, and across ancient rivers.
Jan 5, 2024 • 7 min read
Nov 28, 2023 • 5 min read
Oct 3, 2023 • 5 min read
Sep 5, 2023 • 6 min read
Nov 16, 2022 • 2 min read
Aug 16, 2022 • 5 min read
Apr 12, 2022 • 9 min read
Apr 4, 2022 • 12 min read
Mar 28, 2022 • 10 min read
Top West Virginia Attractions
Things to do in west virginia, explore popular experiences, popular cities in west virginia.
Ways to tour West Virginia
National Park Whitewater Rafting in New River Gorge WV
New River Gorge Zip Lining
New River Gorge ATV Adventure Tour
Private Northern Virginia Wine Tours
Lower New River Whitewater Rafting Trip
New River Gorge, WV Adventure Waterpark - Full Day
Charleston Let’s Roam Treasure Hunt:West Virginia’s Cultural Crown!
New River Gorge Whitewater Rafting, WV - Lower New Full Day
New River Gorge Zip Line Canopy Tour
New River Gorge Side by Side Family Tour
Top attractions in west virginia.
Outdoor Activities
Tours & Sightseeing
What travelers are saying
West Virginia Attractions Information
Search Website:
- 1-800-847-4898
- Get Your Free Travel Guide
- Cabin & Vacation Rentals
- Hotels & Motels
- Bed and Breakfasts
- Campgrounds
- Conference Facilities
- Retreat Center
- Fairs and Festivals
- Wine, Beer & Spirits
- Performing Arts
- History / Heritage
- State Attractions
- Whitewater Rafting
Unique Shopping
Dining in southern west virginia, spas and massage, farms and farmers market.
- Group Tour Planner
- Transportation
- Meeting Planner
- Plan Your West Virginia Wedding
- Brochures and Guides
- Motorcycle Touring
- Relocation / Education
- Visitor Services
- Business Services
- Fayette County
- Raleigh County
- McDowell County
- Mercer County
- Summers County
- Monroe County
- Nicholas County
- Greenbrier County
- Wyoming County
Things To Do In Southern West Virginia
With hundreds of miles of trails, a conveniently located ski resort, and some of the best rock climbing and whitewater rafting on the East Coast, adventure is all around in Southern West Virginia. And let’s not forget our unique shopping and dining options, relaxing spas, farms and farmers’ markets full of local goods. You’ll never run out of things to do here.
West Virginia is a great mountain shopping showcase. We're a region marked by specialty shops, skilled artisans, historic boutiques and fully stocked outdoor outlets. Ready to shop? We're ready for you! Find a special mountain treasure to remember your trip.
Looking for adventure? Mild or wild, the possibilities are endless. Since we live in the mountains, we know how to have fun outdoors. Our parks, forests, rivers and trails are the perfect setting for outdoor adventure. From bikes to baseball, rafting to ropes courses, snow tubing to skiing and literally everything else you can do outside, we've got it. Experience nature’s playground in Southern West Virginia.
Whether it's dining above a beautiful mountain vista or grabbing something on the go, there's a lot for foodies to discover in Southern West Virginia. Come for a visit, and bring your appetite. With so many unique meals to taste, you'll need to stay a little longer to try them all!
Treat Yourself You're on vacation - it's time to indulge. Take some personal time out and visit one of our luxurious spas. Get the 5-star treatment, including wonderful massages from expert licensed massage therapists and world-class skincare.
Visit Southern West Virginia's mountain markets! Shop local and discover flavorful, fresh, locally grown produce, unusual curiosities and everything in between.
Featured Partners
Travel Guide
Outdoor thrills. Southern-style eats. Cozy hospitality. Unique tradition. Rich heritage. …and kind folks eager to share it all with you. Discover the heartland of “Almost Heaven.”
Free Travel Guide
Experience the Top of West Virginia firsthand. Come discover our rich industrial past, savor a meal at a local restaurant, and unwind in nature. When you visit our quirky World’s Largest Teapot or try your luck at Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack, & Resort, you’ll quickly find that our little piece of “Almost Heaven” is anything but ordinary.
Are you more of a foodie or a history buff? Looking to blaze a trail or check out the local art scene? We’re here to help you plan your next visit to the Top of West Virginia!
Start Exploring!
What to eat, where to gather, where to shop, where to stay, our travel guide.
From country roads to recreation all year long, enjoy everything that the Top of West Virginia has to offer. Take a look at our latest online guide and plan your next trip today.
- February 28, 2024 February 28, 2024
From Tracks to Table: A Taste of History at Station Grille Restaurant and Tavern
When you enter the doors of the Station Grille Restaurant and Tavern, the converted 1877...
- January 30, 2024 January 30, 2024
Two-Day River Roadtrip
Looking to escape the house during the chilly months, but dislike the frigid temperatures that...
- December 20, 2023 February 28, 2024
Loco for Crazy Mexican
When it comes to finding authentic Mexican cuisine in the Northern Panhandle, Crazy Mexican Restaurant...
See what's happening at the #TopOfWV
- Things to Do
- Food and Drink
Discover the Undiscovered CWV
Usa cycling pro road nationals, coming to cwv.
Chef Paul nominated for 2024 James Beard Award
2nd nomination for cwv chef.
Charleston's Award Winning Brewers Row
Discover the taste of #cwv's local breweries one pint at a time..
Discover Charleston, WV
Download Our App!
Planning the perfect day in Charleston just got much easier! We’re excited to unveil the Charleston Guide App, an interactive way to map out everything you don’t want to miss in Charleston.
Explore Outdoor Rec
Hiking & Biking One of the best things about Charleston is the easy access to amazing hiking and biking opportunities. Just moments from downtown, Kanawha State Forest offers nine trails covering more than 25 miles. “The Spotted Salamander” is a paved, level walkway with braille interpretive nature stations designed for both visually impaired and physically […]
One of the most iconic landmarks in Charleston is the 23.5 karat gold dome of the West Virginia State Capitol. In addition to the picturesque dome, the State Capitol complex is a perfect destination for those who love architecture, history, art, or slowing down and relaxing outdoors. Take a free indoor tour of the Capitol […]
Upcoming Events
WVSSAC Girls Basketball Tournament
GODSMACK Vibez Tour
Rug Hooking at KCYC
Friday Morning River Rides with West Virginia Pedal Pals
Photos of #cwv.
Veterans Salute Discount
Calling all veterans and active duty military personnel! West Virginia State Parks thanks you for your service. To show our appreciation, we’re offering 10% off all lodge room, cabins and campsites. Every day. Just use code VETS10 when you make your reservation and present a valid military ID at check in.
*Some exclusions apply.
*Offer is not available at Stonewall Resort State Park. A valid military ID must be presented at check in.
Browse Additional Deals
Travel Alert
For health and safety updates and information about the free vaccine clinics at West Virginia’s state parks and forests, click here.
Veterans Salute Discount: Take 10% off your entire stay with offer code VETS10 .
- 1-833-WV-PARKS
- Merchandise
- Interactive Vacation Guide
- Aerial Tours
- Elk Management Tours
- Golf Courses
- Hiking Trails
- Horseback Riding
- Mountain Biking Trails
- Museums and Historical Sites
- Outdoor Adventures
- Scenic Train Rides
- Snow Sports
- Whitewater Rafting
- Groups & Events
- Green Initiative
- Adopt-A-Trail
State Parks
- Berkeley Springs
- Blackwater Falls
- Blennerhassett Island
- Camp Creek and Forest
- Canaan Valley
- Carnifex Ferry Battlefield
- Cass Scenic Railroad
- Cedar Creek
- Chief Logan
- Droop Mountain Battlefield
- Fairfax Stone
- Holly River
- Little Beaver
- Moncove Lake
- Pinnacle Rock
- Prickett's Fort
- Summersville Lake
- Tomlinson Run
- Tu-Endie-Wei
- Tygart Lake
- Valley Falls
- Watters Smith
State Forests
- Cabwaylingo
- Calvin Price
- Coopers Rock
Rail Trails
- Elk River Trail
- Greenbrier River Trail
- North Bend Rail Trail
Cozy Cabin Stays For Your Bucket List
Are you yearning for a tranquil escape surrounded by the beauty of nature? Look no further than West Virginia’s state parks and forests, where over 300 cozy cabins await to make your getaway truly unforgettable.
Golf Tee Times
- Museums & Historical Sites
Accommodations
Unique stays, travel responsibly.
Learn more about health and safety updates at West Virginia's state parks and forests.
Trip Inspiration
State park stories, add these frozen waterfalls to your west virginia bucket list, grab your snow boots and plan a winter hike at these west virginia state parks, romantic getaways are picture-perfect at these west virginia state parks, upcoming events, spring line dance weekend: pipestem resort.
Friday March 15 - Sunday March 17, 2024 Join line dance instructors Alice Dauggherty and Tim Hand and line dance the weekend away at beautif...
Blackwater Falls State Park Green Day Hike
Take a Green Day hike on the Balanced Rock Trail with a Blackwater Falls State Park naturalist. Meet the naturalist in cabin 1-26 loop at 10:00 a.m...
Clueless! A Murder Mystery Theatre – North Bend State Park
Calling all detectives! North Bend State Park is pleased to announce Clueless! – a Murder Mystery Theatre by Murder and Merriment. Nine guests ha...
Easter Egg Hunt: Tygart Lake State Park
Tygart Lake State Park's Annual Easter Egg Hunt is scheduled for 2 p.m. on March 24. This event will be held on the lawn at Park Headquarters, and...
See what our guests love about #wvstateparks
- Search All Parks
- Audra State Park
- Babcock State Park
- Beech Fork State Park
- Blackwater Falls State Park
- Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park
- Bluestone State Park
- Cabwaylingo State Forest
- Cacapon Resort State Park
- Camp Creek State Park and Forest
- Canaan Valley Resort State Park
- Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park
- Cass Scenic Railroad State Park
- Cathedral State Park
- Cedar Creek State Park
- Chief Logan State Park
- Coopers Rock State Forest
- Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park
- Greenbrier State Forest
- Hawks Nest State Park
- Holly River State Park
- Kanawha State Forest
- Kumbrabow State Forest
- Little Beaver State Park
- Lost River State Park
- Moncove Lake State Park
- North Bend State Park
- Panther State Forest
- Pinnacle Rock State Park
- Pipestem Resort State Park
- Seneca State Forest
- Tomlinson Run State Park
- Twin Falls Resort State Park
- Tygart Lake State Park
- Valley Falls State Park
- Watoga State Park
- Watters Smith Memorial State Park
- Beartown State Park
- Berkeley Springs State Park
- Calvin Price State Forest
- Fairfax Stone State Park
- Prickett's Fort State Park
- Stonewall Resort State Park
- Summersville Lake State Park
- Tu-Endie-Wei State Park
West Virginia is home to some of the most beautiful and remote areas in the United States. Be sure to download your Park Pack for maps and other park information.
Spring Through Fall Reservations Now Open!
MOUNTAIN RAIL WEST VIRGINIA
Train rides in elkins & cass, wv.
FEATURED MOUNTAIN RAIL ADVENTURES
- Train Steam
- Clock 5 Hours
- Users All Ages
Greenbrier Express Winter Special
The Greenbrier Express (GBX) train departs from the restored, historically important town of Cass and closely follows the clear, free-flowing Greenbrier River to the small mountain village of Durbin. All ticketholders will be served lunch onboard. Lunch is included in the ticket price.
- Train Diesel
- Clock 4 Hours
Elkins Winter Special
This vintage diesel-powered passenger train departs from the historic Elkins Depot.
On the trip along the Tygart River to Tygart Junction, enjoy a cold cut lunch, which is included in the ticket price. If you’re looking for comfort and spectacular river views on a vintage train this is the ride for you!
- Most Popular
- Clock 4.5 Hours
Cass Bald Knob Trip
Take a journey to the second highest point in West Virginia! The steep climb of 2,390 vertical feet from Cass to Bald Knob (Elev. 4,842’) on Back Allegheny Mountain gives passengers breathtaking, panoramic vistas and a climate with plants and animals typically found in the far north.
- Waterfall Stop
New Tygart Flyer
This wilderness excursion departs from Elkins and features mountain grades, an “S” curve tunnel, a high bridge and miles of unspoiled mountain views. Vintage diesel-powered locomotives climb along the cascading Shavers Fork of the Cheat River to the High Falls of Cheat. Enjoy the view relaxing aboard our comfortable climate controlled passenger coaches.
- Newest Excursion
- Clock 5.5 Hours
Greenbrier Express
The Greenbrier Express (GBX) train departs from the restored, historically important town of Cass and closely follows the clear, free-flowing Greenbrier River to the small mountain village of Durbin. Sightings of Deer, River Otters, and Black Bear along with Eagles, Hawks, Ospreys, and other species of birds are common.
- Most Economical
- Clock 2 Hours
Cass Whittaker Station
Experience this breathtaking trip to Whittaker Station in Cass, WV! Climb the lower slopes of Cheat Mountain along picturesque Leatherbark Creek. Stop at Whittaker Station, surrounded by green meadows and scenic countryside. This train ride is historic, authentic and a spectacular trip to the past!
About Mountain Rail
Discover west virginia by rail enjoy remote wilderness excursions on historic steam-driven locomotives and vintage diesel-powered passenger trains. get a first-hand look at the natural wonders that make west virginia a truly wild and wonderful vacation destination., other offerings.
GROUP TOURS
INDIVIDUAL PACKAGES
CASTAWAY CABOOSE
UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS
Elkins murder mystery wine train.
Learn More »
Cass to Spruce
Journey to a logging Ghost Town
Elkins Ramps & Rails Festival
Cass parade of steam.
- Clock 1 Hour
Elkins Ramps & Rails Festival
Learn about this unique indigenous Appalachian leek while enjoying local arts, crafts and live music. Local food vendors show off scrumptious ramp dishes! While enjoying the festival, enjoy one of our short 1-hour train trips! This is a local favorite!
- Logging Ghost Town
Cass to Spruce Trip
Passenger service returns to ghost town of Spruce. Once known as the the highest and coldest incorporated town east of the Mississippi, accessible only by rail, Spruce has become a popular destination for those wanting to experience the notorious ghost town.
Cass Climax Special Caboose Rides
Join us on May 18, July 13, August 10 and September 7th for excursions behind Climax No. 9 along the Greenbrier River! Riders will enjoy the sights and sounds of the unique locomotive from inside one of three cabooses on the one hour round trips to Pine Flats and return.
A unique festival of steam for all ages! Attendees will have the opportunity to view all of our operable, steam locomotives, from the Cass parking lot as they move down the rails. Parade is free!
- Users Ages 21+
Join us on a rail adventure to help us figure out Whodunit in an exciting murder mystery! While the mystery unfolds, you’ll also be enjoying heavy hors d’oeuvres provided by the Railyard Restaurant in Elkins, WV and wine tastings provided by Lambert’s Winery of Weston!
DISCOVER MORE
Cass scenic railroad.
Real Mountain Railroading
Freight Services
Cass scenic railroad state park, top-rated west virginia train rides.
The Greenbrier Express was a wonderful & relaxing trip. The beautiful scenery and wildlife was amazing. Staff was knowledgeable and very friendly. I was very impressed by the lunch that was included. I was pleasantly surprised that it was a fix your own sandwich and there were different meats and cheeses with all the condiments to make a delicious sandwich. It was quite an impressive spread put on by this small town. I would highly recommend going on this day trip and am planning on going again.
We did the 4-hour New Tygart Flyer trip from Elkins Depot. The depot was easy to find, and there is so much within one block of the parking lot. The train ride itself was lovely. We upgraded to the parlor car (which I would recommend). The food & drinks, service, and atmosphere were wonderful. The trip was relaxing and the fact that it only took four hours, left us the remainder of the day to do as we pleased. I would recommend this trip to anyone who appreciated trains, West Virginia, or who just likes to relax!
As a huge train fan, this was a ride on my bucket list. We ended up having perfect weather. The woods are very pretty and change quite a bit as you go up the mountain. The food they provided was great and the whole operation is very well maintained. We were impressed that they even had accommodations for those in a wheel chair. Our loco was built in 1923 in our home state of Ohio. It's coming up on being 100 years old, but you wouldn't know it! The 4 hours go by so fast. A memorable experience for sure!
In the late 1970s, I happened to drive through Cass and discovered the railroad. I tried to get tickets, but they were sold out. I decided that I would come back and ride it "some day". Life got in the way and I didn't get back until last month. The trip to the top of Bald Knob was everything I could have expected and more! Throughout the 4 hour trip, our conductor Josh regaled us with both history and anecdotes of the lumbering days. This train ride was wonderful, I'd highly recommend it to everybody!
We had such a wonderful time on the ride to Bald Knob- it was spectacular! The fact that it was a beautiful day helped in every way. The crew was great and very serious about their job. We heard all the information and local lore over the speakers. The lunch was more than enough and we were thankful for it. The kids enjoyed it and the adults did too! Very nice and knowledgeable guides. We enjoyed every moment we were there. Very thankful we went. Price is great for all we received. A wonderful day away from home!
PHOTO GALLERY
Places in West Virginia that feel like somewhere else
CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY) — You don’t have to leave West Virginia to get a completely unique experience.
Earlier this year, Nexstar’s West Virginia stations released a list of places that are in West Virginia, but don’t feel like it . Here are a few more places you can go to feel like you’re in a completely different place without even leaving the state.
Ice Mountain
Located in Hampshire County, Ice Mountain is an anomaly that stays cool all year round, even in the middle of summer. Ice forms in the talus at the bottom of the mountain, and then cold air comes out of vents when the weather heats up, allowing plants that normally grow up near the Arctic Circle to survive there. The National Natural Landmark is open to guided tours by appointment.
Huntington Arch
The Veterans Memorial Arch in Huntington’s Memorial Park will give you the feel of being in Europe. The arch is a smaller replica of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, France. The Veterans Memorial Arch was built in the 1920s as a memorial for Cabell County residents who died while fighting in World War I. According to the West Virginia Encyclopedia , many West Virginia soldiers who fought in WWI are buried in France, which might account for the French-inspired memorial.
The original Arc de Triomphe was built in the early 1800s to honor those who fought in the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars. It also marked the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from the First World War, according to Paris’ tourism website .
On Oct. 2, 2023, the newest Gold Star Families Monument was unveiled near the Memorial Arch on what would have been the 100th birthday of WWII Medal of Honor Recipient, the late Woody Williams. The installation of the Gold Star Families Monument in that location was one of his final wishes before his passing in June 2022.
North Wheeling Historic District
Wheeling was West Virginia’s original state capital and is one of the oldest cities in the state , founded in 1769. The architecture in the city really does take you back in time. The North Wheeling Historic District along Chapline Street has among the highest concentration of Victorian revival-style buildings in the country. There are also Greek Revival and Italianate architectural styles among the 134 structures in the 2.5-block area known as “Old Town.” The neighborhood is registered on the National Register of Historic Places.
Blennerhassett Island
Located in the Ohio River , Blennerhassett Island is in Parkersburg, West Virginia. It was the home of Harman and Margaret Blennerhassett in the 1800s. The island is now a West Virginia State Park that is only accessible by boat. Being on an island in landlocked West Virginia already feels like another world, but it also feels like a step back in time. A replica of the Palladian mansion built by Harman Blennerhassett is open for tours from people dressed in period-appropriate attire, and horse-drawn carriage rides are available because there are no cars on the island.
For those who are interested in the paranormal, a few “Mansion by Candlelight” tours are available every October where you might see one of the ghosts that people have reported seeing on the island .
Imagine you have been driving on two-lane roads in West Virginia’s remote mountains and you come across a 2.34-acre white disk almost 500 feet above the ground—the Green Bank Telescope. The Green Bank Observatory in Pocahontas County is so uniquely West Virginian that it feels like a whole other world. The Green Bank Telescope is a trailblazer of radio astronomy that has been operating for more than 60 years, making discoveries in everything from aliens to black holes . Another anomaly is that the entire town is the National Radio Quiet Zone, meaning that there is no cellphone service and no Wi-Fi —it truly does feel like a trip back in time.
Mystery Hole
Self-declared “the best kept secret in WEST VIRGINIA or maybe in the whole U.S.A.,” Mystery Hole is a tourist attraction in Ansted that claims to defy the laws of gravity. The “hole” is a particular spot that some claim doesn’t obey the laws of gravity; “your sense of balance is entirely upset,” the Mystery Hole website says. Some say that balls roll uphill and a person can sit in a chair balanced on a strip of wood on a wall, but many of the “wonders” are very secret and can only be discovered if you visit in person. Mystery Hole is usually only on weekends during the summer season.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOWK 13 News.
Things to Do
- Places to Stay
- Places to Go
Travel Responsibly
Places to stay, places to go, adventure & recreation.
- Aerial Excursions
- ATV & Off-roading
- Horseback Riding
- Motorsports
- Rock Climbing
- Scenic Trains
- Skiing & Winter Sports
- Watersports
- Whitewater Rafting
Luxury & Relaxation
- Natural Springs
- Off the Grid
Culture and Lifestyle
- Dining & Drinks
- Farm-To-Table
- History & Heritage
- Nightlife & Entertainment
Events Calendar
Discover fall in almost heaven.
Featured Destinations
From ATV excursions in small towns to scenic drives across the state, West Virginia is made for everyone. Rest and relax at a world-class resort or head out for a waterfall hike. It’s all waiting for you this summer in Almost Heaven.
Chase stunning fall foliage this season aboard a scenic train ride or ATV excursion. Reconnect with friends and family in a cozy cabin. From charming small towns to flavorful farm-to-table dishes, an autumn adventure awaits in Almost Heaven.
Featured Road Trip
Get a true taste of west virginia along this memorable route.
Less than three hours outside Roanoke, this stretch of West Virginia is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. Shaped by the famous New River Gorge, you’ll find plenty of riverside activities, outdoor adventures and some of the most extraordinary views. Pair that with the region’s compelling historical past and vibrant small towns, and you’ve got one very memorable trip....
Explore Road Trips
Culture & Lifestyle
Check Out These Charming Small Towns in Almost Heaven
Get a true taste of west virginia along this memorable route, a memorable trip through the potomac highlands.
Defined by its rivers and lush forests, this region in southern West Virginia has some of the most spectacular outdoor recreation.
Explore Some of West Virginia's Most Stunning Sights
Just a short drive outside of the Washington and Baltimore metro areas, this loop through West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle is both a relaxing and enlightening weekend getaway.
You Can Take a Drive and a Dip Along This Historic Loop
Travel regions, parks and public lands.
Public Waters
National Parks
State Parks
Wildlife Management Areas
National Forests
Mountain Towns
Cabins & Vacation Rentals
Bed & Breakfasts
Hotels & Motels
Vacation Homes & Rentals
Explore lodging.
Whether you prefer a luxury retreat at a world-class resort or a rustic campsite stay under starry night skies, West Virginia has accommodations for every type of traveler. As you plan your mountain road trip, explore one-of-a-kind stays and traditional comforts along the way. The peace and solitude of Almost Heaven is just an overnight stay away.
Current Season
The wonder of winter in West Virginia is filled with untouched fallen snow, scrapes of skates along fresh ice and snow-capped mountain views you have to see to believe.
Blooming rhododendrons. Wildflower hikes. Rushing waterfalls. Welcome to spring in West Virginia. It's the season where Almost Heaven comes alive.
Escape the churn and burn of the daily routine and hit the road this summer. Explore wide open spaces with plenty of room to roam.
Nature works her magic every autumn in West Virginia. As the third most forested state, our country roads are vibrant with color and a sight to behold in the fall.
Welcome Centers
Roads to Almost Heaven
The state is easily accessible by six interstates. The only toll road is the West Virginia Turnpike, Interstate 77 between Princeton and Charleston. With Welcome Centers in almost every corner of the state it can be easy to find a friend that will point you in the right direction.
Staffed Hours of Operation: 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m .
I-77 North & Southbound Welcome Center
1325 Highland Avenue
Williamstown, WV 26187
Phone: (304) 375-2700
I-81 Northbound Welcome Center
Interstate 81 Northbound Mile Marker 2
Bunker Hill, WV 25413
Phone: (304) 229-8836
I-81 Southbound Welcome Center
Interstate 81 Southbound Mile Marker 25
Falling Waters, WV 25419
Phone: (304) 274-2281
I-79 Southbound Welcome Center
M.M. 159 Southbound
Morgantown, WV 26501
Phone: (304) 328-5261
I-64 Eastbound Welcome Center
I-64 Eastbound Mile Marker 10
Huntington, WV 25701
Phone: (304) 529-2120
I-64 Westbound Welcome Center
Interstate 64 Westbound Mile Marker 179
White Sulphur Springs, WV 24986
Phone: (304) 536-4553
I-68 Westbound Welcome Center
Mile Marker 31
Hazelton, WV 26525
Phone: (304) 379-2648
Parksways Authority Service Centers, West Virginia Turnpike
Steven Meadows WV Parkways Authority Tourist Information Centers Supervisor Phone : 304-256-6702 Ext. 310 Fax : 304-256-6708
I-77 Service Plazas
West Virginia Tourist Information Center
Exit 9 186 Greasy Ridge Road, Princeton, WV 24740 Route 460 Phone : 304-487-2214 Phone : 304-487-2130
Bluestone Travel Plaza
West Virginia Turnpike, Mile 18 Northbound Hot and cold food available Phone : 304-384-7534
Morton Travel Plaza
West Virginia Turnpike, Mile 72 Northbound Hot and cold food available Phone : 304-595-2238
Beckley Travel Plaza
West Virginia Turnpike, Mile 45 North and Southbound Hot and cold food available Mailing address: 501 VanKirk Drive, Beckley, WV 25801 Phone : 304-256-6695
Tamarack Crafts Center
West Virginia Turnpike, Mile 45 North and Southbound Mailing address: 1 Tamarack Park, Beckley, WV 25801 Phone : 1-888-262-7225
Welcome to #AlmostHeaven
Explore more winter adventures.
West Virginia Waterfalls to Explore this Winter
The charming nature of Almost Heaven’s waterfalls make winters here so special. Exploring these cascades provides the perfect excuse to kee…
5 Reasons West Virginia is Worth A Winter Trip
The winter season turns West Virginia into a magical globe full of untouched natural beauty, one-of-a-kind adventures and a multitude of ho…
Experience Holiday Magic on these Christmas Train Getaways
Ride a vintage locomotive for the year’s most magical Christmas tradition! Starting in late November, the romantic age of steam travel…
A Winter Getaway in the Potomac Highlands
Encompassing the Allegheny Mountains and Monongahela National Forest, the Potomac Highlands region is home to some of the most spectacular …
Winter Retreats: 10 Cozy Mountain Spots
Here in Almost Heaven, there are a multitude of mountain spots to slip away to while enjoying the natural beauty and peace of the winte…
Meet The Destination So Magical It Became A Christmas Movie
Calling White Sulphur Springs home, The Greenbrier has long been a favorite year-round getaway and this year its holiday festivities ar…
Happening now in #AlmostHeaven West Virginia
Americans whose yacht was hijacked in Grenada were likely thrown overboard and died, police say
Two Americans are presumed dead after they vanished from their yacht in Grenada , leaving behind evidence of a bloody struggle, police in nearby St. Vincent and the Grenadines said Monday.
While loved ones of Kathy Brandel and Ralph Hendry are hopeful that the American retirees and sailing enthusiasts could still turn up alive, St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Superintendent Junior Simmons offered a more somber assessment.
"Based on the investigation thus far, it is presumed that Ralph Hendry and Kathy Brandel are deceased," Simmons said in a video statement Monday afternoon .
Hours earlier, police in Grenada said there's still hope to find the couple.
But Royal Grenada Police Commissioner Don McKenzie also said he's offering “condolences” to the family of the two American boaters, who were most likely “disposed of” at sea by escaped prisoners. McKenzie said there's a “low probability” Brandel and Henry might be alive.
Three accused criminals escaped from jail on Feb. 18 before they "commandeered" the couple's boat, called Simplicity, and headed north, McKenzie said. Police have said the escapees boarded the boat while it was docked in the St. George area of Grenada.
"They headed to St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Information suggests that while traveling between Grenada and St. Vincent, they disposed of the occupants," McKenzie told reporters.
Asked whether investigators have an idea where the "missing" Americans might be, McKenzie flat-out said, "No."
"We have nothing conclusive to say that the individuals are dead," he added. "We still hold out hope that, in spite of what might be a low probability, they will turn up alive somewhere, that they're alive."
Simmons in St. Vincent and the Grenadines left little doubt of his opinion in the probe “into the disappearance and presumed death of two United States citizens ... Ralph Hendry and his common law wife Kathy Brandel.”
In an interview that aired Monday on NBC Nightly News, Rob Maher, a friend of the couple who acted as their emergency contact, said that the situation was “like a bad Hollywood movie.”
“It’s hard to think of their last moments with the idea that they might have been thrown overboard alive. It’s difficult to conceive for a friend,” he added.
Couple's sons are in the Caribbean
The couple’s sons called the pair’s disappearance “the rarest of the rare occurrences.”
Brandel’s son, Nick Buro, and Hendry’s son, Bryan Hendry, told NBC Washington that they first learned the couple were missing after U.S. consular officials in Barbados contacted them.
A good Samaritan who found the pair’s abandoned boat contacted the Salty Dawg Sailing Association , whose flag was flying on the mast, and word made it to the two sons, too.
They said they were told the couple vanished after three men escaped from police custody Feb. 18 and boarded their boat in Grenada the next day, Buro said.
Buro said they were told an “altercation of violence took place" on the boat, adding that there was evidence of the violence and that the couple’s possessions were "strewn around all over." Items had also been stolen.
McKenzie said, "What I can say to the family is my condolences and we are still hoping for what I consider a positive outcome, which is we still have the hope that our worst-case scenario will not be a reality."
The scene on the couple's boat was "consistent with signs of violence," Simmons in St. Vincent and the Grenadines said.
"Several items were strewn on the deck and in the cabin, and a red substance that resembled blood was seen on board," he said. "There was no discovery of bodies on board the yacht."
The escapees were caught by police in St. Vincent and the Grenadines on Wednesday and are in custody there, according to Buro and officials.
Police told Buro that they have questioned the suspects multiple times, and he said the family expects charges soon.
Buro and Hendry are in the Caribbean and have been speaking with authorities, including the St. Vincent and the Grenadines police and coast guard, and they expressed their appreciation.
A spokesperson for the U.S. State Department said it is aware of the reports involving two citizens missing in the vicinity of Grenada and St. Vincent and the Grenadines but did not identify the couple. The official added that U.S. authorities are coordinating with local law enforcement officials as they carry out their search efforts.
“We are monitoring the situation and seeking additional information,” the spokesperson said. “The Department of State has no higher priority than the welfare and safety of U.S. citizens abroad. We stand ready to provide appropriate assistance to U.S. citizens in need and to their families.”
Life on the water
The couple met in Virginia and have been married for 27 years. They raised the boys together in the state, where they lived until 2013, selling their home in Alexandria to trade it in for Simplicity and life on the water.
"They wanted to see the world. They wanted to experience life. They wanted to see what the world had to offer outside of their small window of living in one place and being mobile and being able to have a different adventure every day — that’s like the definition of living," Buro said.
Buro said that the family has always been close and that they talk often. He considers Ralph Hendry his father and Bryan Hendry his brother, and he said he knows Hendry feels the same way about him and Brandel.
The couple “lived with a sense of wonder and love,” Hendry said.
“They loved immersing themselves in different cultures and meeting people and spreading their love wherever they could,” he said.
Buro echoed his stepbrother’s sentiments.
“You’ll never meet more beautiful people than Kathy and Ralph,” Buro said. “They were there for people when they needed it most, and I just, they’re my inspiration for everything, and I can’t express how much I love them, and I know everybody else who knows them feels the same way.”
The couple had been planning the trip down to Grenada — their first to the Caribbean island — for “years and years and years, training themselves, preparing the boat, preparing themselves ... to make the trip,” Hendry said.
It was going to be a “very long trip, not to be taken lightly,” and the couple felt they had “prepared themselves adequately,” Hendry said.
They made the voyage down with the Salty Dawg Sailing Association, and everyone arrived safely, Buro said.
Bob Osborn, the association's president, said the situation was upsetting and tragic.
“In all my years of cruising the Caribbean, I have never heard of anything like this,” he said in a statement.
Yacht 'was their home'
Buro thinks his mother and stepfather could still be alive.
“We still think there’s a chance that they’re out there," he said. Because the investigation continues and St. Vincent and the Grenadines police were "quick to apprehend the suspects and are searching," there is hope.
"We still hope that they are OK and that we can bring them back," Buro said.
He said that the entire situation "is something that is completely unexpected" and that they are trying to understand the "senseless act of violence against two people that were just living their lives in their home."
Buro said the couple worked hard on their dream and had become seasoned sailors. Simplicity “was their home,” he said.
He said the couple’s top priorities were always safety and security, “to make sure everything they did was safe and was going to keep them safe.”
“To have that turn out in a way where something out of their control took that away from them is what’s so horrific about this and so sad, because they were just, this is just something that they’ve always wanted to do, and they did it, and it’s just, it breaks our hearts,” Buro said.
Rebecca Cohen is a breaking news reporter for NBC News.
Mauricio Casillas is a reporter for NBC Washington.
David K. Li is a senior breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital.
IMAGES
COMMENTS
The Mountain State comes to life when the snow begins to melt. Springtime is filled with fresh blooms, spirited small towns and world-class outdoor adventure. In West Virginia, let country roads lead you far away from everything. And a little closer to heaven. Feel free to stay awhile.
Find state parks, things to do, arts and culture, permits and licenses, and visitors information on the official Tourism website of West Virginia. Learn about the state's natural and cultural attractions, events, and activities.
Travel Regions. With regions consisting of mountains, rivers, streams, and valleys. Almost Heaven has everything to make your adventure come true. West Virginia is divided up in nine travel regions, each providing their unique take on the history and beauty that the state provides. Below you will find a path to each travel region.
Home to scenic views and outdoor adventures, Southern West Virginia is the perfect destination for your next vacation. Get Your Free Travel Guide Search Website: Search. Close Search. Search. 1-800-847-4898; Blog; Calendar; Get Your Free Travel Guide ; Places to Stay. ... Welcome to Southern West Virginia! Our area is made up of nine unique ...
The Visit Southern West Virginia Official Visitors Guide is your guide to a carefree vacation in the mountains. The Official Visitors Guide features a wide variety of lodging accommodations, a multitude of must-see attractions, our top events, delectable dining and shop till you drop stores, malls, antique and specialty shops. Whether you are ...
Tourist Attractions in West Virginia. Southern West Virginia's breathtaking scenic landscape, characterized by steep hills, deep valleys, swift rivers and serene lakes, is the perfect place to relax and admire your surroundings. Paired with our friendly small towns featuring breweries and distilleries, inspiring art venues, historical ...
6. New River Gorge National River. New River Gorge National River. Contrary to its name, New River is actually one of the oldest rivers on the continent. As it flows into West Virginia, it cuts through the Appalachian Plateau, forming the New River Gorge and plenty of white water for tubing, rafting, and canoeing.
Our West Virginia Travel Guide includes everything you'll need to arrange a West Virginia vacation in a matter of minutes. West Virginia Explorer is, in effect, a travel guide of many thousands of pages, but here we've consolidated information to help make trip-planning fast and easy. Additionally, we maintain a compendium of travel sources who can send information your way in a matter of ...
The West Virginia State Museum also manages a few historic sites throughout the state, including West Virginia Independence Hall and Camp Washington-Carver. Address: 1900 Kanawha Blvd. E #435 ...
11. Seneca Caverns. This is one of West Virginia's show caves and is an epic place to visit! The mysterious and beautiful Seneca Caverns is located in the Germany Valley close to Riverton. It used to be a place for the Iroquois confederacy tribe of Seneca Natives as a ceremony facility back in the 1400s.
Let these destinations help you find your way. Ski the Valley. Pocahontas County Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) ACE Adventure Resort. Mercer County Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) Tucker County Convention and Visitor's Bureau (CVB) Visit Southern West Virginia Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) Colder temperatures. Warmer memories.
Celebrate the Bridge. The most iconic landmark in the state, the graceful New River Gorge Bridge is the third highest bridge in the United States and, at 3030ft, one of the longest single-span arch bridges in the world. The 876ft-high span closes to vehicles on the third Saturday in October for Bridge Day, when hundreds of BASE jumpers ...
By WineTastersTwo. This 0.6 mile bridge spans over the New River, which is actually the 2nd oldest rivers in the world. See ways to experience (2) 2023. 5. Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and Youth Museum. 853. Speciality Museums. As focal points of Beckley's lovely New River Park, the Exhibition Coal Mine, the Rahall Company Store, Mine Museum ...
If you like a lot of options on a vacation, Southern West Virginia is the perfect place for you. Adventure, relaxation, shopping and dining, it's all here. Get Your Free Travel Guide Search Website: Search. Close Search. Search. 1-800-847-4898; Blog; Calendar; Get Your Free Travel Guide ; Places to Stay.
Experience the Top of West Virginia firsthand. Come discover our rich industrial past, savor a meal at a local restaurant, and unwind in nature. When you visit our quirky World's Largest Teapot or try your luck at Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack, & Resort, you'll quickly find that our little piece of "Almost Heaven" is anything but ordinary.
East End. One of the most iconic landmarks in Charleston is the 23.5 karat gold dome of the West Virginia State Capitol. In addition to the picturesque dome, the State Capitol complex is a perfect destination for those who love architecture, history, art, or slowing down and relaxing outdoors.
Book a spring break getaway and save big on your stay. From February 21 - 26, book a lodge, cabin or campsite between now and March 31, 2024 and receive 25% off your entire stay. This offer excludes Stonewall and Canaan Valley Resort State Parks. Use code: FLOWERS.
Take a journey to the second highest point in West Virginia! The steep climb of 2,390 vertical feet from Cass to Bald Knob (Elev. 4,842') on Back Allegheny Mountain gives passengers breathtaking, panoramic vistas and a climate with plants and animals typically found in the far north. Book Now. Learn More.
The official Facebook page for the West Virginia Division of Tourism invites you to stay, play and explore with us. Tag your Mountain State posts with #AlmostHeaven to give us permission to repost ...
Order Your Free 2024 Vacation Guide. Undiscovered hidden gems and world-class outdoor adventures await in the Mountain State. Order your free West Virginia Vacation Guide today to begin planning the unforgettable getaway you have been longing for. By selecting submit I am choosing to opt-in to West Virginia Department of Tourism communications.
Self-declared "the best kept secret in WEST VIRGINIA or maybe in the whole U.S.A.," Mystery Hole is a tourist attraction in Ansted that claims to defy the laws of gravity.
West Virginia Tourist Information Center. Exit 9 186 Greasy Ridge Road, Princeton, WV 24740 Route 460 Phone: 304-487-2214 Phone: 304-487-2130. Bluestone Travel Plaza. West Virginia Turnpike, Mile 18 Northbound Hot and cold food available Phone: 304-384-7534. Morton Travel Plaza.
The couple met in Virginia and have been married for 27 years. They raised the boys together in the state, where they lived until 2013, selling their home in Alexandria to trade it in for ...