The Best Small Towns in West Virginia To Chill Out
Known for its rolling hills, beautiful mountainscapes, and vibrant culture, West Virginia is the only state that is entirely within the Appalachian Region. With its stunning landscapes, the Mountain State is home to incredible outdoor adventures, peaceful lakes, and charming small towns. The state has several small towns that are ideal spots if you are looking to relax and unwind. Visitors enjoy exploring Civil War history in these small towns, shopping in historic downtown districts, and participating in annual festivals. These best small towns in West Virginia offer an atmosphere to chill, soak up the local history, and enjoy the great outdoors.
Charles Town
Founded in 1786, Charles Town is named after George Washington’s brother, Charles Washington. During the 1700s, the family-owned significant land in the area, and Charles moved to the Lower Shenandoah Valley, where Charles Town sits, in 1780. The historic downtown reflects the town’s past, including buildings from the 1800s. History buffs can learn more about the town’s history at the Jefferson County Museum in the charming downtown area.
For those looking to chill on an outdoor adventure, Moulton Park is a popular spot to boat, fish, swim, or kayak in the Shenandoah River. Nature lovers also enjoy exploring the Cool Spring Nature Preserve, which includes 63 acres of forests, meadows, and marshes. The preserve is a great place to go on quiet walks in nature and birdwatch. The preserve offers guided bird walks most weekends.
Fayetteville
Nestled along the rim of the New River Gorge is the charming town of Fayetteville. Due to its location, the town was the site of many Civil War battles and was held by both the South and the North. The town’s history continues into the downtown historic district, which boasts 75 historic homes and buildings. For those looking for relaxation, this is the perfect area to explore local shops and restaurants.
However, if you want to explore the great outdoors, Fayetteville has a lot to offer! Located along one of the world’s oldest rivers, the New River, thrillseekers to Fayetteville enjoy whitewater rafting. Those looking for a more scenic view enjoy hiking to Wolf Creek Falls, Diamond Point, or along many of the trails in the New River Gorge National Park. Plus, a view of the New River Gorge Bridge, one of the world's longest single-span arch bridges, is a must!
Harpers Ferry
One of the few towns along the Appalachian Trail in West Virginia, Harpers Ferry serves as the halfway point between Georgia and Maine on the 2,190-mile trail. It is also the perfect place to soak in local history, explore exhibits at the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, and enjoy the beauty of nature. Since the entire town is a National Historic District, Harpers Ferry is a great place for history lovers.
From 1800s architecture to ruins of a church that served as a hospital and barracks during the Civil War, there is ample history to satisfy any history buff. The town is also the site where the Shenandoah River and Potomac River meet, making fishing a great relaxing option. For those looking for more outdoor adventures, Harpers Ferry National Historic Park offers hiking, biking, and climbing, as well as museums and historical presentations.
Lewisburg
Located in southern West Virginia, Lewisburg is an idyllic destination to chill for art lovers, history buffs, and nature enthusiasts. The town is often voted "America’s coolest small town" due to its art scene, beautiful mountains, and architecture. The perfect place to relax and unwind is at the many local shops, art galleries, and restaurants in Lewisburg’s historic downtown. The downtown also offers visitors the opportunity to learn more about the town’s history at the North House Museum and view barracks from the 1700s.
Plus, a trip to Lewisburg must include a concert at Carnegie Hall, one of only four Andrew Carnegie-funded centers still operating in the country. During the summer, visitors enjoy all the thrills and adventures that the West Virginia State Fair has to offer. Outdoor enthusiasts also enjoy exploring the nearby Greenbrier River and Lost World Caverns, where you can explore amazing underground rock formations.
Shepherdstown
Since Shepherdstown is the oldest town in West Virginia, the community offers a rich history in addition to a vibrant art scene, annual festivals, and stunning nature to explore. Each year, the town hosts the Contemporary American Theater Festival, where visitors watch world premieres of several new plays. The town also hosts the annual DogFest in the summer and Christmas in Shepherdstown during the holiday season.
While you are in town, a stop at the Historic Shepherdstown Museum is a must. The museum showcases exhibits and artifacts from the town’s three centuries of history. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Potomac River and its tributaries provide boating, rafting, and tubing for all to enjoy. Since mountains and woodlands surround the charming town, Shepherdstown is also the perfect place to hike and explore the great outdoors.
Summersville
Summersville is the perfect place to chill in the summer. Home to West Virginia’s largest lake, Summersville Lake provides sparkling water for boating, fishing, swimming, and even scuba diving! The lake also offers scenic views of the mountains and great hiking trails that surround the serene water. More water activities are available on the Gauley River and Meadow River, such as whitewater rafting. These rivers meet near Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park, a 156-acre Civil War battle site set on the rim of the Gauley River Canyon. Visitors can learn more about the importance of the 1861 Battle of Carnifex Ferry in the park’s museum and hike along trails in one of the oldest state parks in the country.
Wheeling
Located along the Ohio River, the small town of Wheeling offers adventure, music, and relaxation for anyone looking to chill. This charming town is home to several annual festivals and events, including the Annual Wheeling Polka Festival. During the summer and fall, there is a festival almost every weekend! The town is also home to the Wheeling Island Hotel, Casino, and Racetrack, a luxury resort with a greyhound track.
For those looking for outdoor adventures, Wheeling offers horseback riding, kayaking, ziplining, skiing, and more. The town has a 24-mile paved trail system for jogging, walking, and cycling. Visitors can also explore water trails in Wheeling Creek, a popular spot for canoeing and tubing.
Whether you are looking to chill by kayaking on the water, hiking in the mountains, or shopping in local stores, these West Virginia towns are the perfect places to relax and unwind. From annual festivals to tubing down the river or enjoying a quiet walk in nature, West Virginia offers something for everyone. Known as "almost heaven," you are sure to find the relaxation or adventure you are looking for in the Mountain State.
