These Historic Towns in West Virginia Are Worth Exploring

Although only established in June of 1863 after splitting from the secessionist state of Virginia – an event that took place around 90 years after the founding of the United States – West Virginia lays claim to nearly 300 years of European settlement. First settled by German immigrants in 1727, the area that comprises modern-day West Virginia now attracts close to five million tourists annually, here to experience not just its natural splendor but also its rich history.

Dotted across the “Mountain State” are countless charming towns that offer a glimpse into the region’s storied past. From the lush green valleys of Shenandoah to the rugged beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, each of these towns has played an essential role in shaping not just the state of West Virginia, but the nation as a whole.

Harpers Ferry

Despite only having a permanent population of around 260 people, Harpers Ferry certainly punches well above its weight in terms of cultural and historical significance. A trendy destination for tourists that’s only an hour’s drive northwest of Washington DC, this strategic spot on the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers was first settled in 1732 and played an essential role in the Civil War.

This past is preserved in the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, which tells the story of John Brown's raid on the town’s armory in 1859 and other historic events through exhibits, demonstrations, and a collection of restored buildings. The town is also famous among hikers due to its being the midpoint of the over 2,000-mile-long Appalachian Trail.

Lewisburg

Established in 1870, the heart of Lewisburg is its historic downtown. A Designated National Register Historic District, it’s fun to explore on foot for its many well-preserved buildings from the 1800s. Top attractions in Lewisburg include one of only four Carnegie Halls still in continuous use in the world. Built in 1902, it’s a popular community hub for its regular shows and performances, art classes, and workshops.

For history buffs, the North House Museum provides a deep dive into local history with exhibits about its early settlement days to the present day. The Lewisburg Historic District also includes the 18th-century Old Stone Church, one of the oldest churches in West Virginia. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the town’s proximity to the Greenbrier River Trail, a 78-mile-long route that’s ideal for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.  

Shepherdstown

Its location just a few miles up the Potomac River from Harpers Ferry makes Shepherdstown a good day trip destination in this part of the country. Founded in 1762 and the oldest town in the state, it’s home to the fascinating historic Shepherdstown Museum, a great tourist attraction that’s housed in the old Entler Hotel in the heart of the downtown core. Highlights include learning about the town's role in the Civil War and viewing its impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits. Afterward, take a stroll along German Street with its pretty backdrop of old homes and retail outlets.

The town is also known for its thriving arts scene, influenced mainly by the presence of Shepherd University. The university's Center for the Arts hosts numerous public cultural events, including music performances, theater productions, and art exhibitions. The Potomac River and the C&O Canal towpath are also fun to explore, with opportunities for kayaking, fishing, biking, and hiking adventures aplenty.

Fayetteville

Fayetteville, West Virginia, is well-known as a gateway to some of the most spectacular scenery in this part of the USA. In addition to the well-preserved buildings of the Fayetteville Historic District, visitors are drawn to the spectacular New River Gorge Bridge, an engineering marvel completed in 1977. One of the longest steel arch bridges in the world, it boasts incredible views of the New River Gorge below and is particularly stunning during the fall foliage spectacle. Are you interested in extreme sports? The annual Bridge Day Festival, one of the largest extreme sports festivals in the world, attracts BASE jumpers and rappelers for a thrilling day of throwing themselves (safely!) off this 876-foot tall structure. Fun bridge walk experiences are also available.

The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is also fun to explore and is famous for its white-water rafting adventures (the rapids here range from Class III to V). The park also offers over 1,500 climbing routes, miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, and opportunities for fishing and bird watching. For those interested in history, the Fayetteville Historic District provides a glimpse into the town's past with its well-preserved buildings and charming streets.

Berkeley Springs

Located in the mountainous Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia near the state border with Pennsylvania, the quaint spa town of Berkeley Springs has attracted visitors for centuries. Established by George Washington in 1776 and named initially Bath after the famous Roman spa town in England, the star attraction here is Berkeley Springs State Park. Situated bang-smack in the middle of the town, it was established in 1970 and is home to warm mineral springs that have been a draw since Native American times. The public bathhouse here offers a range of spa services and also features a museum that delves into the history of the springs and the town's development as a spa destination.

Historically, the town's charm is reflected in its architecture, with several buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, most notably Berkeley Castle, an unusual stone structure built in the 19th century. Cultural highlights include the Berkeley Springs Studio Tour, held each October to coincide with the region’s stunning fall colors, and the Festival of the Waters, an international water-tasting event held in February.

Buckhannon

Handily located just a few miles east of the I-79 highway, charming Buckhannon is a delightful day trip stop for those looking to enjoy an authentic small-town West Virginia experience. The beating heart here is the Downtown Buckhannon Historic District, a collection of 57 important heritage buildings that can be enjoyed via a stroll along Main Street. History buffs will want to pop into the Upshur County Historical Society’s museum, which features a collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that tell the story of Buckhannon and the surrounding area.

Another important attraction in Buckhannon is West Virginia Wesleyan College, a beautiful and historic campus that adds a cultural dimension to the town. Founded in 1890, the college hosts various events and activities open to the public, including art exhibits, concerts, and lectures. For outdoor fun, head to the West Virginia Wildlife Center, as well as into the surrounding Allegheny Mountains region.

Charles Town

Charles Town is located in West Virginia's scenic Shenandoah Valley and is steeped in American history. A major draw is the town’s historical connection to the family of George Washington, with the Charles Town Historic District in particular being home to several sites associated with the country’s first President. Topping most lists of historical places to visit in Charles Town is the wonderfully named Happy Retreat, the home of Charles Washington, the town's founder and George Washington's youngest brother.

Another key attraction is the Jefferson County Courthouse, famous for being the site of the trial of abolitionist John Brown following his raid on Harpers Ferry, a pivotal moment in the lead-up to the American Civil War. Horse race fans will want to include the Charles Town Races on their travel itinerary; part of a casino complex, it makes for a fun way to conclude a West Virginia road trip.

The Final Word

West Virginia's historic towns offer a fascinating glimpse into some of the critical moments in American history. From the storied streets of Harpers Ferry to the healing waters of Berkeley Springs, together these seven towns paint a fascinating picture of one of the country’s prettiest states. Exploring these destinations as part of a day trip or an extended vacation will certainly provide a fun and authentic West Virginia travel experience.