14 Most Scenic West Virginia Towns
Not many people visit West Virginia; a shame considering just how much fun it has to offer. Aptly nicknamed the Mountain State, it stands out as the only state wholly within the Appalachian Mountain region. This results in scenic alpine beauty presenting unmatched opportunities for ardent adventurers to get lost in the great outdoors. But that is only the beginning of what makes West Virginia tick as a vacation destination.
Across the picturesque landscapes defining the state lie a bunch of beautiful small towns that promise an unforgettable visitor experience. With friendly communities calling them home, tourists can expect trademark Southern hospitality at every corner they turn. If you are yet to experience the charm of the Mountain State, set the stage for a riveting rendezvous with a trip to these scenic towns in West Virginia.
Harpers Ferry
Harpers Ferry’s claim to fame is the gateway to the popular Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. Located where the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers interact, this West Virginia gem houses a collection of historical structures from the 1800s, noteworthy among them being John Brown’s Fort, where the infamous abolitionist raided the town in 1859. You will also come across one of the oldest taverns in the country. A peek inside White Hall Tavern takes you back to the mid-19th century when it served as a popular meeting point in the community.
Harpers Ferry also boasts stunning natural surroundings that visitors can soak in from different vantage points. Jefferson Rock is a great example and sits along the renowned Appalachian Trail. From the overlook, guests are rewarded with unprecedented vistas of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers.
Shepherdstown
Shepherdstown is a tiny community steeped in Civil War and American history, inviting tourists to explore its rich past inside the Historic Shepherdstown Commission & Museum. Browsing the halls of the facility exposes a rich collection of artifacts, archives, and memorabilia, shedding light on the Civil War and the town’s history. Situated along the Potomac River, the town delights with laidback scenery. The James Rumsey Monument, established in honor of the man credited with inventing the steamboat, is a lovely nature space offering the best views of the river.
The presence of Shepherds University has helped elevate the local arts scene through its Phaze 2 Gallery, and theater lovers constantly congregate inside the historic Shepherdstown Opera House to watch entertaining musical and theatrical performances.
Summersville
Summersville is a popular warm-weather getaway with a raft of aquatic adventures for tourists. It is home to the state’s largest lake, which also shares a name with the town. Boasting 60 miles of shoreline, the waterbody is a recreational hub that draws swimmers, boaters, anglers, and paddle boarders. It is surrounded by Summersville Lake State Park, an outdoor oasis offering a range of adventures, from hiking and camping to picnicking and biking.
Downtown Summersville has a quaint array of businesses with pedestrian-friendly streets encouraging visitors to explore the neighborhood. Treasure hunters will fancy speculating for neat finds at Clark's Antiques & Salvages to add to their collection.
Berkeley Springs
Berkeley Springs was made famous by the healing waters of its natural springs, which for centuries have drawn visitors of diverse social standing to the town. Newcomers can get a sense of this natural phenomenon at Berkeley Springs State Park, the epicenter of the historic mineral spa revered for its medicinal properties. The town is encircled by spectacular natural landscapes, and sightseers willing to scale Prospect Peak will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Potomac River.
After getting enough of the outdoors, try exploring the area’s rich history inside the Museum of the Berkeley Springs. A quick tour offers an interesting journey back to the 18th century, with an opportunity to view almost 50 historic site exhibits.
Elkins
This quiet riparian community in Randolph County has rich natural scenery, punctuated with beautiful landscapes like the Tygart Valley River and the Monongahela National Forest. There are endless outdoor opportunities to make the most of in Elkins. Ardent outdoorsmen can visit Fox Forest Wildlife Management Area to hike, fish, sightsee, and kayak along the Tygart Valley River. Meanwhile, Elkin City Park presents a more urban alternative, allowing you to escape the crowds and enjoy a serene oasis in the middle of the city.
If you love the arts, you are in for a remarkable treat in this artsy community. The town features multiple art centers, such as the Gandy Dancer Theater and Conference Center, renowned for staging exciting musical performances.
Hinton
Picturesque natural scenery beckons tourists to experience this charming little town in Summers County, with the promise of exciting outdoor experiences to fuel their entire stay. Adventurers will be spoilt for choice, starting at Bluestone State Park, which places you along the lovely shores of Bluestone Lake. Here, anything goes, from fishing and boating to hiking and ziplining. Hinton is also home to the Brook Falls Roadside Park, a popular whitewater rafting spot that features a 4-foot drop of the beautiful Brook Falls.
But you will not be spending all your time in Hinton outdoors. For a change of scenery and a break from monotony, the Ritz Theater will prove an excellent alternative, treating visitors to the latest movies and enthralling stage performances.
Charles Town
Charles Town is another safe bet for outdoor enthusiasts but balances this out with a fair share of exquisite indoor pursuits. Named after the founder, Charles Washington, this quaint town delights fans of the open spaces with the Cool Spring Nature Preserve. This sprawling green space comprises meadows, forests, and marshes inhabited by different species of birds, insects, and mammals. Strolling through the vibrant town center, visitors will encounter attractions like the Jefferson County Museum, a great stop if you are curious to learn about the county’s colorful past.
Elsewhere, the Old Opera House Theater Company & Arts Center invites locals and visitors alike to enjoy moving live shows staged inside a restored historic venue.
Lewisburg
Considered the jewel of Southwest Virginia, Lewisburg boasts a thriving arts scene hosting the state’s official theater. The Greenbrier Valley Theater is revered across the region and entertains audiences with professional productions of musicals, plays, drama, and other theatrical performances. Lewisburg also houses the Carnegie Hall, ensuring there is never time to rest for lovers of the arts.
Theater aside, Lost World Caverns are one of the biggest tourist draws in Lewisburg. Designated a National Natural Landmark, this series of caves presents guests with a unique experience, where they venture below the surface to explore a dramatic display of stalagmites, dome pits, curtains, and other natural formations.
Davis
This tiny community in Tucker County packs a punch of attractions, guaranteeing something to entertain visitors around the year. Davis sits along the scenic banks of Blackwater River, providing a raft of outdoor opportunities inside Blackwater Falls State Park. Tourists can make the most of hiking and biking adventures, but the highlight of the park is the gorgeous 62-foot cascade. There is more to do outdoors courtesy of Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge, which features a mix of wetlands and uplands in the Allegheny Mountain region.
Come the cold season, winter sports enthusiasts suit up to explore the powdery slopes of Canaan Valley Ski Resort. The charming facility welcomes skiers, snowboarders, and tubers, and runs a year-round ski lift.
Wheeling
This Ohio River town, set in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, is an irresistible stop for the outdoorsy tourists. Wheeling charms visitors with idyllic nature spaces, hinting at its pleasant natural surroundings. An excellent example is Wheeling Park, which spans 406 acres and features an Olympic-sized swimming pool, boasting all manner of recreational activities for all ages. At Oglebay Good Zoo, animal lovers will fancy making a furry friend during close encounters with over 50 exotic species, some of whom are endangered.
Wheeling houses a fair share of museums, some as whimsical as they come. If you visit with kids, remember to take them to the Kruger Street Toy and Train Museum, where they will be intrigued by an extensive collection of classic toy exhibits and model trains.
Buckhannon
One of the prettiest towns in West Virginia, Buckhannon lies along the banks of the Buckhannon River, presenting a wonderful natural scenery to explore. One of the best ways to do this is to take on the Buckhannon River Walk Trail, a picturesque 3-mile stretch ideal for hiking and biking. Audra State Park is another must-visit spot for outdoor lovers in the town. Spanning 355 acres of raw wilderness, it delivers an impressive mix of recreational adventures, highlighted by whitewater kayaking down the Middle Fork River.
Back in town, indoor-oriented visitors can choose from points of interest like the American Hemp Museum to explore the rich legacy of hemp or the Lascaux Micro-Theater to watch a family-friendly flick.
Point Pleasant
Nature enthusiasts will be pleased by the strategic location of Point Pleasant, sitting at the confluence of the Kanawha and Ohio Rivers. This promises a nice opportunity to get on the water for a neat perspective of the town. Along the delightful waterway, you will come across the McClintic Wildlife Management Area. It harbors a mix of habitats, from wetlands and hardwood forests to brushland, that you can explore on a hike. Picnickers will love the serene setting of Tu-Endie-Wei State Park and savor unparalleled views of the Ohio-Kanawha River confluence.
If you are a fan of local myths and legends, you might want to check out the Mothman Museum. This quirky attraction was dedicated to a birdlike creature of local folklore known as Mothman and displays a range of souvenirs associated with the figure.
Fairmont
Fairmont is a charming waterfront community along the Tygart Valley River. It offers a tranquil escape from the crowds with isolated nature spaces like Valley Falls State Park. Stretching more than 1,100 acres, the park serves as the ultimate playground for those looking to immerse in nature, offering adventures like hiking, fishing, and whitewater kayaking. Those who prefer a less remote alternative can head to Palatine Park, home to family-friendly aquatic recreations and a splash pad.
Beyond the outdoors, Fairmont offers pleasant indoor pursuits to keep everyone happy. The Telephone Museum is a great choice for fans of retro experiences and displays an array of telephones documenting the evolution of communication.
Fayetteville
Fayetteville is a popular jump-off base for tourists planning to explore the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve. This picturesque town sits on the rim of the New River Gorge, just south of the iconic New River Gorge Bridge. Hiking along Long Point Trail places adventurers in the perfect spot to soak in panoramic views of the New River Gorge and its famous bridge. Exploring the town center, several attractions, such as the Historic Fayette Theater, make it a hot spot for art lovers.
Meanwhile, the corridor boasts a thriving dining scene with numerous restaurants. When peckish, stop by Pies & Pints and enjoy tasty specialty pizzas accompanied by a glass of refreshing craft beer.
Although many tourists overlook it, the Mountain State has shown that it has what it takes to be considered a go-to travel destination. From rich Civil War history and stunning natural landscapes to culture-rich communities with a welcoming spirit, the small towns in West Virginia represent the life and blood of the state. Whether an outdoor enthusiast, culture vulture, history buff, nature lover, or culinary connoisseur, these scenic gems will make for a remarkable holiday experience.
