7 Most Eccentric Towns in West Virginia
While it might be known for its access to the Appalachian Mountains or its storied history of feuding factions like the Hatfields and McCoy’s, West Virginia is a state of eccentric towns full of colorful characters and unforgettable experiences. Whether in Alderson or Weston, every small town has character, flair, and charm. In between, visitors will be amazed at many exciting attractions and businesses, from exploring the Mothman Museum in Point Pleasant to uncovering America's past at the reconstructed John Brown's Fort in Harpers Ferry.
Point Pleasant
This small town, Point Pleasant, has a lot to offer regarding legends and history, the most famous being an eerie legend of a creature called Mothman, which captured the imagination of locals and visitors alike. In the heart of the town itself, one will find the Mothman Museum, complete with a wide-ranging collection from witness testimony and historical artifacts to kitschy memorabilia, including a life-size statue of the creature. September is when Point Pleasant really comes alive: the Mothman Festival launches downtown - thousands of aficionados come for live music, speakers, and guided tours of the TNT area, a historic munitions site where many of the sightings were made.
When the festival is not happening, check out the great places of interest, including Tu-Endie-Wei State Park, an area of beauty at the confluence of the Ohio and Kanawha Rivers. The park commemorates the Battle of Point Pleasant, a significant pre-Revolutionary War battle.
Harpers Ferry
Harpers Ferry stands at the confluence of the rivers Potomac and Shenandoah, and this town has everything to make it appeal to your historical instincts: rich history combined with magnificent natural landscapes. The historic vibes and significance of the community shine in local favorite dining locations like Alstadts Ale House or the highly acclaimed White Horse Tavern.
While very much a modern and thriving town, Harpers Ferry was substantially relevant in American history. This location was the spot for John Brown's raid in 1859, which helped trigger the events that led up to the outbreak of the Civil War. Much of this history is there for visitors to walk through the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, over 3,500 acres, with several exhibits to behold. The most popular of these exhibits are the reconstructed John Brown's Fort and historic armory ruins. Additionally, Harpers Ferry is said to be haunted. Ghost tours explore the cobblestone trails, discussing spine-tingling tales of a haunted past, ensuring that people witness this place's mystique and allure.
Cass
Situated in the majestic Pocahontas County, Cass offers a time-warp experience for train enthusiasts and history lovers. The Cass Scenic Railroad State Park sits at the center of everything, running a fleet of historic steam-powered locomotives that take visitors back to an era reminiscent of the early 20th century. The railroad climbs to Bald Knob (the third-highest peak in West Virginia at 4,840 feet), where visitors are rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the Allegheny Mountains.
Visitors may stroll around the town and view restored company houses replicating the period's architectural style, including the Old Cass Company Store, which was the heart of the community. Visitors may also take part in guided tours of facilities and get a firsthand look at the lives of those working at this time.
Weston
Two different groups of people frequent Weston every year: history buffs and paranormal investigation teams. The Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, a formidable Gothic Revival building completed in the mid-19th century, is one of the area's top attractions for both groups. Its dark architecture and tragic history have made it a mecca for paranormal seekers. The community’s unique history and ties to the glass industry are forever immortalized at the Museum of American Glass. Beyond the extensive history, the exhibits showcase several pieces of fine glasswork and depict the significance of glassmaking in the region.
All the ghost exploration and diving into the gorgeous history of glassmaking will work up an appetite, so rub elbows with the colorful community at their favorite spots like Don Patron Mexican Grill or Thyme Bistro. By combining a haunted history and artistic heritage, Weston provides an experience that is a real treat for historians and thrill-seekers alike.
Bramwell
Bramwell today and the town in the late 1800s were very different sights. Once a 'city of millionaires,' the town now is caught in a perpetual look backward to the time of prominence. By the time the little town's population peaked, it boasted more millionaires per capita than any other place in the United States. The guests can take tours of extravagant houses reflecting very rare architectural styles, from the stained glass of the Jairus Collins House to the grand ballroom on the third floor of the Goodwill House.
Beyond the lavish mansions, Bramwell has adorable antique shops, galleries featuring the work of various craftspeople, and charming eateries with friendly and welcoming atmospheres. Some popular spots locals and travelers love include the Corner Shop and Casa Familia.
Alderson
Weirdly enough, Alderson is best known for being the location of the Alderson Federal Prison Camp - an all-female minimum-security facility. While gorgeously placed amid the Greenbrier River banks with a densely forested backdrop, the greatest attraction will always be the site where celebrity women served hard time, such as Martha Stewart or Billie Holiday. Every year, Alderson observes Independence Day festivities in a big way, with one of West Virginia's largest celebrations. A parade, fireworks, and an array of river-themed activities complete the observance of the Fourth of July as a day of community and fraternity among the residents and tourists alike.
The Alderson Historic District allows visitors to discover well-preserved 19th-century architectural features reflecting a vibrant town history. Long-standing businesses and favorite food stops add to this eccentric community’s charming, slow pace- including retail like Alderson’s Store or the Big Wheel Restaurant.
Ronceverte
Ronceverte, a small town on the Greenbrier River, allows much of its identity to be tied to scenic river activities and the arts. Every June, the town comes alive during the annual Ronceverte River Festival. Local heritage is displayed with various river races, local and regional music acts, and dozens of artisan vendors lining the streets with handmade crafts and delectable food.
The Historic Ronceverte District is on the National Register of Historic Places, which features many fine examples of early 20th-century architecture and the famous 1915 Ronceverte Depot. Historic charm is only truly appreciated with a full stomach, and there are no shortages of popular dining stops like The Sportsman Tavern.
Wrapping Up
Small towns in West Virginia give the traveler a combination of history, culture, and scenic beauty. West Virginia has all of these, including steam-powered journeys in Cass, glassmaking history in Weston, and the millionaire mansions of Bramwell. From the Big Wheel Restaurant of Alderson to Alstadts Ale House of Harpers Ferry, unique attractions and favorite local businesses pepper each town with its own story. Mystique, charm, and timeless tales - there are no shortages of any of them in every single community in The Mountain State.
