7 Eclectic Small Towns In West Virginia
Known as “Almost Heaven,” West Virginia conjures up images of winding country roads, the austere grandeur of the Allegheny Mountains, blue skies, tumbling rapids. However, real beauty is hidden in its small, charming towns, some of which serve an eclectic menu of interesting offerings. You have Harpers Ferry, a small, artsy town that triggered the nation’s rebirth, and Elkins, which hosts one of the largest and oldest festivals in the entire state. Ready to jump in? Discover 7 eclectic small towns in West Virginia.
Harpers Ferry
Every well-read historian knows that Harpers Ferry was the site of an event that triggered the Civil War, changed the face of the nation forever, and caused sympathetic sentiments that reverberated across the globe: John Brown's daring attempt to free enslaved people. When Brown was later convicted and murdered, Victor Hugo commented that it was like “Washington slaying Spartacus.” How is Harpers Ferry today? It hosts the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, the site of Brown’s failed attempt; Storer College, where the Niagara Movement — a forerunner to the NAACP — held its first public meeting in the United States; and the Harpers Ferry Armory and Arsenal, which Brown raided. Don’t miss The Point, where the waters of both the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers meet.
Lewisburg
Kickstart your adventure with some fried pickle Spears and buffalo cauliflower at The Asylum, a downtown establishment that whips up yummy eats in a lovely, laid-back setting. You may not have gotten the memo, but Lewisburg was ranked number one in USA TODAY’s Best Small Town Food Scene for 2024. Interestingly, or perhaps not, it was the second time in a row. Keep in mind that you can catch a great show at the State Fair of West Virginia, a high-octane August event that also features cooking contests and livestock shows. But if beautiful artwork has a habit of electrifying your heart, you have several options to work with, including Young at Art, a warm, homey venue that dabbles as an awesome place for gift shopping. And with the spellbinding Start of Greenbrier River Trail a blink away, avid hikers and bikers have something to sate their wanderlust.
Fayetteville
With the scenic New River and the New River Gorge Bridge, the longest steel span in the Western Hemisphere, Fayetteville boasts a setting fit for a Hollywood movie. Named after the Marquis de Lafayette, a French nobleman who left the comfort of his birthplace to join the American Revolution, Fayetteville is a stunning piece of West Virginia that also boasts several heart-gripping rock climbing hot spots. Start by pulling up a chair at Pies & Pints on Maple Avenue, a famous establishment that serves pizzas with firm crusts and juicy, flavorful toppings. Keep in mind that if you cannot find a piece of antique at the nearby New River Antique Mall, there is a high chance it does not exist anywhere else. From a Jack Daniel’s Whiskey barrel to vintage A.P. Donaghho Crocks, this place will leave every avid antiquarian blown away.
Morgantown
Morgantown is a vibrant college town with tons of interesting and eclectic offerings. If you don’t know anything about Morgantown, it is enough to know that it is the starting point of the Mon River Rail-Trail System, a swoon-worthy network that follows the Monongahela River for a decent number of heart-melting miles. From its tree-lined canopies to its stunning river views, you will hardly find anything as immersive as this in West Virginia. If food is high on your list, you have Von Blaze (for a Dom chicken sandwich), El Pollon Kitchen and Bar (for fried plantains), and Iron Horse Tavern (for Carmelized Brussels Sprouts). Any of these spots should pave the way for a great show at the Metropolitan Theatre, a beautifully restored venue with a history that predates the Great Depression.
Shepherdstown
From art to natural beauty to pepperoni rolls, Shepherdstown is among West Virginia’s best-kept secrets. Before grabbing a cold beer at the Mecklenburg Inn, a charming establishment built when George Washington was president of the United States, embark on a walking ghost tour with any operator, especially if you want to experience the town’s highly touted paranormal side. Keep in mind that many people believe Shepherdstown to be the most haunted place in the nation. At the James Rumsey Monument, one can catch a glimpse of Maryland’s landscape while inhaling gorgeous riverfront views. Otherwise, if you have a watercolor that deserves a handsome frame, pass by Bridge Fine Art & Framing, the home of many wonderful local artists and artisans. Just don’t miss the delicious pepperoni rolls at Alma Bea because the taste will linger in your tongue for aeons.
Point Pleasant
Interesting local folklore mingles with a storied industrial history at Point Pleasant, a small, slow-paced town that hosts a branch of Marshall University, West Virginia's oldest public university. This town’s name is an easy giveaway: almost every point here is pleasant. Or is it? But first, the folklore. 59 years ago, two young couples fled the local woods, claiming they had seen a creature with 10-foot wings and glowing red eyes. Whether there were actual sightings is the subject of debate. However, that’s how the myth of “the Mothman” was born. Today, Point Pleasant hosts the Mothman Festival every year, a unique event that draws up to about 15,000 people — almost four times the town’s population. There is "The World's Only Mothman Museum" on Main Street, a fascinating place with memorabilia and clippings dedicated to the local legend. For a unique culinary experience, try the Ichiban Hibachi Steakhouse, especially if Japanese cuisine is up your alley.
Elkins
Boasting a historic downtown anchored by the iconic Tygart Hotel, a massive, six-story, Romanesque Revival-style building whose history goes back almost 120 years, Elkins blends beautiful architecture, awe-inspiring outdoor scenery (it is lovingly framed by the Appalachian Mountains), and artistic expression. So, what makes Elkins stand out? You can catch a reasonably priced show at the Elkins Cinema 8, explore railroad life through artwork and dioramas at the West Virginia Railroad Museum, float down Tygart Valley River, or enjoy delicious pumpkin rolls at Guilty Pleasures Sweet Shop. Keep in mind that the Mountain State Forest Festival, which takes place at the start of autumn every year, is among the largest and oldest festivals in the entire state.
The Takeaway
There is really no place like West Virginia. First, if you think Alabama is where to find Southern Hospitality, it is because you have not stayed for an appreciable time in the Mountain State. Besides, West Virginia’s natural beauty is as mind-bending as it is underrated. Don’t even mention its heritage or historical significance. The trick, however, is to find a small, charming town that presents an eclectic mix of offerings: a blend of history, food, art, and the outdoors.
