7 Underrated Small Towns to Explore in West Virginia
West Virginia, often celebrated through its slogans like "Almost Heaven" and "Wild and Wonderful," truly lives up to these descriptions with its array of small towns each offering unique experiences. These locales present a fusion of natural beauty and historical depth, making them ideal for explorers seeking serene landscapes and insights into America’s past. The fresh air of the Appalachians and the quiet streets where history whispers secrets of ages past offer these towns a peaceful retreat from the bustle of city life.
Let's uncover towns that may not dominate travel brochures but deserve attention. Whether you are drawn to the adventures offered by America’s newest national park at New River Gorge, or the tranquil charm of towns with roots deep in the nation's history, these locations promise enriching experiences for every visitor.
Berkeley Springs
Berkeley Springs in West Virginia, established in 1776 and once known as Bath, captivates visitors with its historical depth. The town's history is deeply intertwined with its famous warm mineral springs, which have drawn visitors from George Washington to modern day travelers seeking its therapeutic benefits. At the heart of this historic spa town lies Berkeley Springs State Park, a central feature with the Old Roman Bathhouse offering a glimpse into the early 19th century spa practices through its nine individual bathing chambers. These chambers are filled with the natural spring water that has been a focal point of the town since its inception. Additionally, the town is dotted with structures that echo its colonial past, like Berkeley Castle, a 19th-century structure built by German stonemasons that mirrors European grandeur, making the town a living museum of both American and architectural history.
The town is surprisingly rich in artistic expression, hosting over 100 art galleries that showcase the work of local artists, along with unique shops and antique malls that reflect its eclectic taste. Seasonal events like the Berkeley Springs Studio Tour and the international water-tasting Festival of the Waters highlight the community's engagement with both nature and the arts. Just a short drive from major cities like Washington, DC, Berkeley Springs provides a diverse escape with activities that respect its past while celebrating the present.
Elkins
Elkins, a small town in Randolph County, West Virginia, offers an impressive array of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Surrounded by the vast expanses of the Monongahela National Forest and near three major ski resorts, Elkins provides ample opportunities for all sorts of recreational pursuits, from world-class hunting and fishing to hiking and bird-watching. The Tygart River adds to its appeal, offering thrilling rafting experiences that attract water sports lovers. Additionally, the town is a gateway to exploring extensive cave networks, appealing to those fascinated by geology and natural history.
Elkins is home to a variety of performance venues, including the American Mountain Theater, which delivers family-friendly entertainment, and the Boiler House Theatre at Davis and Elkins College, which stages a range of dramatic productions. The Old Brick Playhouse also adds to the local scene with engaging theatrical performances. This fusion of outdoor recreation with a robust cultural scene provides visitors with a well-rounded experience, ensuring that there's something to satisfy every taste.
Buckhannon
Buckhannon thrives along the banks of the Buckhannon River, framed by scenic landscapes and charming architecture that captures the essence of small-town America. Buckhannon's Main Street, the centerpiece of the Downtown Buckhannon Historic District, boasts a collection of 57 historic buildings ranging from Queen Anne to Colonial Revival styles, providing a picturesque backdrop for both casual explorers and history aficionados. The Upshur County Courthouse, constructed in the 1890s, is particularly notable for its architectural beauty and historical significance. For those interested in the arts and history, the Upshur County Historical Society’s museum offers a trove of local artifacts and stories, enriching visitors' understanding of the area’s past.
Aside from its architectural and historical allure, Buckhannon offers a wealth of activities that fuse its cultural heritage with modern attractions. The annual Strawberry Festival transforms the town into a lively hub of activity, drawing families for carnival rides, local food, and community celebrations, reflecting the town's warm, welcoming nature. Additionally, the nearby Stonewall Jackson Lake Wildlife Management Area provides extensive options for outdoor recreation, from hiking to wildlife observation in its 18,000 acres of forests, hills, and farmland.
Ripley
Ripley, West Virginia, often overlooked, presents a compelling case for being one of the state's hidden gems, particularly for those drawn to the arts and small-town festivities. This town of just over 3,000 people is strategically positioned between the Appalachian foothills and the Ohio River Valley, offering picturesque landscapes and a tranquil living environment. The artistic pulse of Ripley is best experienced during the Mountain State Art and Craft Fair, an annual event that attracts artists from across the region to display their work. This event, along with various other artisan gatherings throughout the year, underscores Ripley’s commitment to nurturing a vibrant arts scene despite its modest size. Moreover, the town is proud of its historical commercial entities, such as Vail Furniture, which holds the title of the oldest independent furniture establishment in the nation, adding a unique historical flavor to its local commerce.
The festive spirit of Ripley comes alive spectacularly each Fourth of July, when it hosts what is locally celebrated as "America's largest small-town Independence Day celebration." This event not only draws the community together but also attracts visitors from across the state and beyond, looking to partake in a richly traditional American celebration. Additionally, the town’s layout, with its parks and proximity to natural waterways like Mill Creek and the Ohio River, provides ample outdoor activities.
Shepherdstown
Shepherdstown, West Virginia, is a captivating locale that offers a rich tapestry of history and modern culture, making it a uniquely appealing destination for travelers. Less than 80 miles from major metropolitan areas like Baltimore and Washington, D.C., this historic town is perched between the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, providing not only stunning natural landscapes but also a playground for those inclined towards outdoor adventures. The town's storied past is prominently on display, marked by its role in the Civil War, including the 1862 Battle of Shepherdstown. Visitors can dive into this history with local site preservation and re-enactments that bring the past vividly to life. The town's architecture, featuring Colonial Revival and Federal styles, adds to the atmospheric charm, complemented by the historic Shepherdstown Museum located in the venerable Entler Hotel.
In addition to its historical allure, Shepherdstown boasts a dynamic cultural scene, influenced heavily by the local university. The Shepherd University Center for the Arts, for example, offers a variety of public performances, from music and theater to art exhibitions, enriching the community's cultural fabric. The nightlife here pulses with energy from award-winning dining options encompassing a range of cuisines to a local music scene that resonates through the streets. Seasonal festivities, like the vibrant array of Christmas events, further showcase the town’s community spirit.
White Sulphur Springs
White Sulphur Springs in West Virginia is a town that offers a fascinating mix of luxury and local charm, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a quieter but refined getaway. Historically renowned for its luxurious resorts such as The Greenbrier, a sanctuary of leisure and golf that has been attracting visitors since the 18th century, the town has a rich heritage tied to rest and recreation. Not only does it house one of the oldest golf clubs in America, Oakhurst Links, but it also provides ample opportunities for nature enthusiasts with access to the Monongahela National Forest, which is ripe for hiking and biking along the scenic Greenbrier Valley Trail. Annually, the town celebrates this blend of nature and culture with events such as the Dandelion Festival in spring and the Freshwater Folk Festival in autumn, offering visitors a glimpse into the community’s vibrant local life and traditions.
Downtown thrives with unique culinary spots like Rosa Hog’s BBQ and Big Draft Brewing, offering a taste of local flavors and craftsmanship. Accessibility is another of the town’s strengths, with Amtrak’s Cardinal route providing a direct line to major cities like Chicago and Washington, D.C., making it an easy escape for urban dwellers.
Harpers Ferry
Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, has a modest population of 200 and profound historical significance. This small town, strategically positioned at the junction of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, serves as a picturesque backdrop to a rich tapestry of American heritage. Notable as the site of John Brown's 1859 armory raid, an event that played a pivotal role in heightening national tensions before the Civil War, Harpers Ferry has preserved this and other historical moments within the expansive Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. The park not only safeguards the area's history but also provides visitors with immersive experiences through well-preserved sites and engaging re-enactments, capturing the essence of the past in a vivid and educational manner.
Moreover, Harpers Ferry appeals to nature lovers and outdoor adventurers, with its location amidst the stunning scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains and along two significant rivers. It is a prime spot for kayaking, hiking, and bird-watching, with easy access to scenic trails, including the Appalachian Trail, which runs directly through the town. The convergence of natural wonders with historical depth makes Harpers Ferry uniquely positioned as a destination that offers both serene beauty and a deep dive into critical episodes of American history.
As we conclude our exploration, it's clear that the state offers a rich palette of experiences that extend far beyond the typical tourist trails. Each town, from Berkeley Springs with its historic spas to the vibrant arts scene in Ripley, represents a unique chapter in West Virginia’s narrative, waiting to be read and experienced. These towns, with their unique festivals, historical sites, and natural beauty, are not just places to visit but are destinations to be lived and breathed.
