7 of the Friendliest Towns in West Virginia
John Denver put West Virginia on the map for many outside the Ohio Valley with his famous song, Country Roads. However, one of the most charming aspects of this majestic state is the people who live there. Known for their rugged independence, West Virginians are also part of close-knit and warm communities.
Wheeling and Morgantown are certainly the most popular cities in West Virginia, but you should not overlook the warmth of small, welcoming hometowns. These towns have it all: exciting events to attend, low-crime rates, and welcoming shops, restaurants, and hotels to spend your days.
Lewisburg
Lewisburg is a scenic little town in Greenbrier County. It's a centrally located town with routes 92, 219, and 60 crossing through it. Despite its important location, Lewisburg retains its small-town feel and close-knit community. Visitors can join the townsfolk at the classy Greenbrier Theater and Carnegie Hall.
Both sites are known for their first-rate bluegrass music and variety of plays. However, if you feel more adventurous, join a local tour and explore the Lost World Caverns.
Lewisburg's notoriously low crime rate adds to the community's close-knit nature and loving hospitality. The crime rate is 31% lower than the national average, with violent crime almost unheard of in the city. One thing's for sure; you'll always enjoy spending time with the people of Lewisburg.
Shepherdstown
Shepherdstown is a historic town in Jefferson County. Its the oldest city in all of West Virginia, established in 1762 by the Virginia House of Burgesses. The locals celebrated their 250th anniversary in 2012, marking a significant milestone for the town.
It's an essential part of the history and culture of the Shenandoah Valley region of the state. Some proud moments for the Shepherdstown locals include hosting the Israel-Syrian peace talks in 2000 and being the site of the historic battle of Antietam.
The Antietam Overlook Farm Bed and Breakfast will offer a luxurious experience, all while embracing the complexities of the town's history. Staying here will allow you to completely appreciate all the local landscape has to offer. If you enjoy mingling with people who are still closely connected to their roots, check out Shepherdstown. It's also a hotspot for ghost sightings and other paranormal activity, so it's the spot for you if that sounds up your alley.
Elkins
Elkins is one of the larger towns in Randolph County, situated on the cusp of the Eastern Panhandle. Thomas Skidmore received a 400-acre plot of land in 1778, marking the beginning of Elkins.
It's located along the Tygart River, a main tributary of the Monongahela River. This river adds to the town's beauty and natural wonder, a trademark of West Virginia. If you're feeling adventurous and want to get the full wilderness experience in Elkins, spend a few nights at the Pegsus Farm Campground.
Although, if you don't like roughing it in an RV or tent, there are plenty of high-quality hotels in the area. The Wingate Hotel by Wyndham is one of the highest-rated hotels, just a few minutes off Highway 92. Partake in the annual Mountain State Forest Festival honoring the town's stunning natural surroundings. And don't forget to join the locals in celebrating their culture at the Augusta Heritage Festival.
Berkeley Springs
Berkeley Springs is the county seat of Morgan County, near central West Virginia. Berkeley Springs was initially called "Bath" by early settlers to the region to honor its sister city, Bath, England.
To this day, Berkeley Springs is best known for its mineral-rich spring water. Native tribes and early settlers would visit the springs for their natural healing properties, and it later became a significant part of the town's tourist industry.
The Berkley Springs Bathkeeper's Cottage is a quiet, charming, and wholesome place to rent for a romantic or peaceful time. The house encapsulates the sweet vibe of the neighborhood and makes you feel right at home. Experience the beauty of the town and its fascinating history, all in the company of its warm and welcoming residents.
Point Pleasant
Point Pleasant gets its name for Camp Point Pleasant, which was an important outpost during the French and Indian War. Nestled on the border of Ohio, it's a town known for its hospitality and local folklore. Legend has it that the Mothman, a strange humanoid with wings, haunts the region.
Experience the full legend at the Mothman Museum and taste the local vibe and legends. While the Mothman might be a harbinger of doom, Point Pleasant certainly isn't gloomy. Travel to Fort Randolph if you're also a history lover and want to see what the area offers. Stay at the historical Lowe House to get a fully immersive experience of the area. The hotel is known for its welcoming staff and clean environment, making it the ideal place to kick off your shoes at the end of a busy day. The bar in the hotel is a great place to mingle with locals and other travelers.
Summersville
Summersvile is located in Nicholas County, not far from Charleston to the west. Summersville was established in 1824; however, it suffered an unfortunate fate during the Civil War when it was burned to the ground by a Confederate spy. However, this experience only served to solidify the town's reputation as a resilient and tightly connected community.
The town's closely tied to its roots, with the "Old Maine" section of the city being the historic region. Although, this doesn't mean the city hasn't grown and evolved with the times. This town has much to do, including sailing at the Summersville Lake Marina.
Mingle and chat with the townsfolk at The Local WV bar and restaurant. The drinks are great, as are the food and service. You'll get a real feel for the vibe of the town. Indulge, kick back, and enjoy the quiet yet exciting town in central West Virginia.
Bethlehem
Bethlehem is a very peaceful town nestled in the Ohio Valley, south of Wheeling and Pittsburg. Its proximity to two major cities grants it access to more exciting environments, but Bethlehem is best known for being a quiet and welcoming small-town community. This is perhaps best exemplified by the low-crime rate. Violent crime gets a rating of 11, while most towns in the U.S. have a rate of 22.7.
Rolling hills, farmland, and close-knit church communities primarily dominate this community. If you're looking for a small town to visit and experience beautiful nature trails and warm people, Bethlehem is a great place to stay.
Despite being close to big cities, there are plenty of exciting things to experience outside of Bethlehem. Wheeling Park and the Waterfront by the Ohio River are two excellent sites to visit and see all the natural wonders of West Virginia.
Conclusion
West Virginia's slogan, "Wild and Wonderful," perfectly encapsulates the balance the state maintains between its adventurous side and welcoming environment. The Appalachian Mountains create an air of ancient mystery that permeates the landscape and gives the state its rugged and natural wonder.
However, it's the people living here who really give this place its charm and warmth. Known for their hospitality and down-to-earth approach to life, they're the people you want to spend time with while exploring this vast and beautiful state.
