6 Whimsical Towns to Visit in West Virginia
West Virginia has a fascinating history that spans long before its founding in 1863. As the name suggests, West Virginia was once part of the state of Virginia, but after Virginia’s succession from the Union, the western part of the state disagreed and filed for statehood, which was approved. This chapter in the state’s history illustrates just how unique and independent the people of this state truly are and highlights the community’s rugged and wild character. The state’s wild nature is only highlighted by the wilderness cascading through its borders, with the Ohio River flowing to the west of the state, sharing its borders with its neighboring state, Ohio.
The state is home to nearly 50 state parks, with many having vast expanses of woodlands and rocky landscapes of the Appalachian Mountains. West Virginia was immortalized by John Denver in his song “Country Roads,” where he calls the magical, whimsical state “Almost Heaven.” For sure, the majestic mountains, winding rivers, and pristine landscapes are prime examples of this claim and live up to the state's official slogan: “Wild and Wonderful.”
Shepherdstown
Shepherdstown is one of West Virginia’s most charming little towns located along the banks of the Potomac River. The town traces its roots back to before the arrival of settlers in the early and mid-1700s, with Native tribes living and hunting in the area. Shepherdstown is not far from the Warrior Path, which later became part of the Great Philadelphia Wagon Road. However, the community of Shepherdstown really did not become official until Thomas Shepherd took a 222-acre piece of land, of which he was the only one in charge of the government. It was officially chartered at Mecklenburg in 1762 but later had its name switched to Shepherdstown.
As one of the oldest towns in West Virginia (possibly the oldest), Shepherdstown has a lot of historic charm to attract visitors. It is home to the Rumsey Monument, which commemorates the very first steamboat construction in town in 1787. Shepherd University is another historic and significant location in town. It was built in 1871 but was not a four-year college until 1930. The campus is certainly worth walking through while in town and exploring the early days of the community. The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal path runs through town is an ideal place for cycling and sightseeing the town and its natural charm.
The Thomas Shepherd Inn is a beautiful place to stay so guests can appreciate all this town has to offer. The location is well-known for its peaceful rooms that are restful and rejuvenating after a long day outside. It is not far from the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal path and other significant historic sites in town, including the university. Another charming place, nestled right along the Potomac River, is the Bavarian Inn Resort and Brewing Company. Whether a visitor wants to rent a room for the weekend or drop by for a good drink and bite to eat, this place has a little of everything.
Berkeley Springs
Berkeley Springs is an adorable small town in northeastern West Virginia, located just under an hour west of Shepherdstown. Before the arrival of European settlers around 1740, the land was largely occupied by Native American tribes who fought with early settlers until their defeat at Bushy Run in Pennsylvania. In 1670, Sir William Berkeley, the then-governor of the colony of Virginia, commissioned John Lederer to explore the region of the modern-day town, where he stumbled upon the mineral springs, which were known for their medicinal properties.
Before European arrival and exploration, the Native Tribes were aware of the town’s springs and their alleged medical benefits. However, as colonists continued coming to the area, they started to spread the word about the benefits of the town’s springs, which later led to America’s first spa. This spa still stands to this day in the form of the Town of Bath, located within the borders of Berkeley Springs, which visitors can visit and explore. The area known as Bath gets its name from the ancient Roman city in Britain by the same name and includes historic sites like Washington’s Bathtub, Berkeley Springs State Park, and the Museum of Berkeley Springs.
Several stunning historic structures in town are a must-see, including the Berkeley Springs Castle, the Romanus Hunter House, Judge John W. Wright House, and more. The Berkeley Springs Castle was built between 1885 and 1891 by Colonel Samuel Taylor Suit, who reportedly built the castle to impress a woman so she would marry him. Today, this castle sits in tranquillity, immersed in the woods and mountains of West Virginia, with the warm spring waters nearby. The Berkeley Springs State Park houses the Old Roman bathhouse as well as the Main bathhouse, where guests can receive top-notch massages and other calming treatments, immersed in nature and history.
Hinton
Hinton is located over five hours southwest of Berkeley Springs, situated along the shores of New River. Hinton most likely got its name from Evan Hinton, an influential founder and early sheriff in town, although there is some dispute over this claim. The community largely sprang up due to the construction of the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad, which sought to connect east and west. The construction of the railroad was delayed because of the Civil War but picked up again once funding was available and completed in 1905.
The town sits as the perfect launch pad into the surrounding natural wilderness of the region in southern West Virginia. Just outside the borders of this little town are several stunning state parks and nature sites that make for an exciting time, including Bluestone State Park and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Bluestone State Park sits right along Bluestone Lake and is a beautiful place for camping, fishing, hiking, and everything outdoor-related. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is just under an hour northwest of the town, houses several gorgeous nature trails, and showcases one of the area's most stunning woodlands.
The Trump-Lily Farm, located within the preserve’s boundaries, is a well-maintained farmhouse and landscape. This farmstead is a perfect example of early West Virginia’s subsistence farming. However, the town itself is not to be overlooked. Hinton is home to Wildwater Express Waterslide, which is located within the town’s historic district. This site is ideal for people of all ages and has two slides, a kiddie pool, a basketball court, picnic area, and offers a fun time with the local community. The Guest House Inn is a gorgeous place to enjoy the town and rest after trekking in the wild wilderness of the state.
Buckhannon
Buckhannon is a lovely town situated nearly three hours northeast of Hinton. It has the unique reputation of being the only incorporated town in Upshur County, as well as being the county seat. Despite its more rural setting, Buckhannon is a happening location with plenty to do and experience, largely thanks to its vibrantly rich history. Although the history pre-dates the arrival of Europeans with Native Americans living in the area for centuries, the town of Buckhannon’s history really did not begin until Robert Patton Jr. purchased the land in 1809 for $3,000.00 from Elizabeth Cummins Jackson.
The city is a college town. The West Virginia Wesleyan University stands near the town’s center and is a symbol of the community’s desire to encourage high education. It dates back to 1890 and still houses some nationally recognized historic landmarks, including Agnes Howard Hall and the slightly newer Lynch-Raine Administration Building and Annex. Thanks to its rural setting, Buckhannon is surrounded by several gorgeous parks and nature sites that are ideal for hiking and exploring. Audra State Park is a lovely spot around 20-30 minutes east of the borders of town and is just one of the options.
Audra State Park has campgrounds, so guests can stay for a few days without needing to leave nature. The park also has hiking paths, boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities. They also have specially designed trails specific for a unique activity called geocaching, which is similar to a scavenger hunt. Additionally, approximately 30 minutes to the west is the Stonecoal Lake Wildlife Management Area, which also offers boating on its 550-acre lake. Those who prefer to stay in town can consider booking a room at the Bicentennial Inn and eating at the Stone Tower Brews for some wholesome food.
Lewisburg
Two and a half hours south of Buckhannon is the small yet whimsical community of Lewisburg. The town used to be known as Camp Union, Fort Savannah, and other names until the Virginia General Assembly officially incorporated it as Lewisburg in 1782. It was a strategic location for settlers since it sat on the crossroads of Seneca and Midland trails. Lewisburg’s origins are largely thanks to the presence of what is known today as the Lewis Spring.
The community’s European settlers began moving into the area after the pioneer John Lewis and his sons camped out in the current location of the town and fought with the local Native American tribes as they traveled to Point Pleasant. Visitors can visit the many historic landmarks still in town that have been well-preserved. The Lewis Spring still exists near the center of the city, with Andrew Lewis Park still preserving the site of the original springs where settlers would refresh themselves. Andrew Lewis, one of the sons of John Lewis, supposedly built the small, white structure in the park which is likely to date all the way back to the 1750s.
The Greenbrier Historical Society also does an excellent job of recording and preserving the community’s past. The Northouse Museum is one of the main attractions. It was built in 1820 and houses some of the town’s oldest artifacts from its early years, which people can view by touring the building and viewing the collection. The community is also home to Carnegie Hall, a site designed to encourage the arts that host theatrical events, including amazing music and educational classes and workshops. The Washington Street Quarters is a restful spot to book a room, which is conveniently located within the heart of town and is within walking distance of most of the best shops and sites.
Point Pleasant
Point Pleasant, located approximately two and a half hours northwest of Lewisburg, is a lovely town resting along the banks of the Kanawha and Ohio rivers. Reportedly, in 1770, the future first president of the United States, George Washington, surveyed the land and gave it its name. In 1777, Chief Cornstalk, leader of the Shawnee People, traveled to Fort Rudolph with his son to sue for peace with the settlers. However, his gesture of peace was not met with equally good nature on the side of the Europeans, who captured and killed them.
Point Pleasant is notoriously known for being a haunted and cursed town, with legend saying Chief Cornstalk put a curse on the land because of the betrayal. This makes Point Pleasant a uniquely interesting place to visit, especially in the fall, due to the many myths and legends surrounding the wild landscape. The Mothman is probably one of the most popular paranormal experiences reported in town, with the Mothman Museum standing on Main Street, showcasing the town’s most popular symbol. Tourists planning to visit in the fall can enjoy the Mothman festival which is sure to be exciting.
Even those who do not believe in cryptids are sure to enjoy the town’s fascinating myth that is so influential to its culture. The city also houses some of the most charming and beautiful sites to enjoy all year round. Point Pleasant Riverfront Park is a spectacular spot to go for a jog along the Ohio River or simply relax and take in the stunning sunset. Those hoping to gain a better appreciation for the town’s past should pay a visit to the Silver Bridge Disaster Memorial, commemorating the collapse of the city’s bridge and those who passed away. Last, one of the most charming and beautiful spots is Tu-Endie-Wei State Park in the south of town, with its amazing obelisk and gorgeous natural charm.
West Virginia’s slogan, “Wild and Wonderful,” really spells out how it feels to visit this magical state hidden in the hills of the Appalachian Mountains. Sometimes overlooked because of its ruggedness, it is precisely this natural charm that draws over a million tourists each year, with the national and state parks drawing most of the visitors. This highlights one of West Virginia’s most appealing features, and the thing that draws people there all year round: it’s landscape.
From the rugged wilderness of Monongahela National Forest to the charming bistros and cafes of Wheeling, West Virginia has a little bit of everything. For those traveling with children, there are waterparks and plenty of fun parks, or for the elderly, there are plenty of leisurely paths that allow for safe and exciting excursions in nature. This whimsical state is suited for everyone and is an exciting place to spend a weekend or even a few weeks.
