Top 8 West Virginia Towns To Visit In 2025
One of the most beautiful places in the South, West Virginia, really captures people’s imaginations, including John Denver in his hit song, “Take Me Home, Country Roads.” And all because these seven little towns really do feel like homecoming while enriching your 2025 with new adventures and experiencing vibrant emotions.
Thomas Jefferson loved the area so much that he called Harpers Ferry “perhaps one of the most stupendous scenes in nature.” Berkley Springs State Park features bubbling springs and trails to activities and landmarks against mountainous views. Follow the flowing Potomac River through nature's own tune, and before long, you'll be humming Mr. Denver’s catchy motif yourself.
Berkeley Springs
This little picturesque enclave in the state's eastern panhandle region is right up the alley for those looking to relax in 2025. Boasting a lively downtown area of shops and restaurants, like Charlotte's Cafe, unwinding takes on a new meaning against a scenic set of mountains. Berkeley's all four seasons come in pretty dresses with plenty of ways to enjoy. Soak in the bliss—located within the state park at the heart, people have been bathing in its natural mineral springs for centuries. The town's namesake is perfect for relaxing tense muscles from work or after a hike along the park's many trails with landmarks and picnic spots.
Cacapon Resort State Park is a quick drive or a good warm-up on a bike ride south for a round at the challenging golf course, exploring miles of trails, plus a scenic swimming beach. A whole bunch of businesses sprouted around the allegedly healing springs, like Homeopathy Works, while attracting free spirits and wellness seekers among notable guests. Many come to meet artists in a whole colony downtown, occupying unique shops, galleries, and antique malls. Browse over 100 art dealers in town amid historic buildings. A hike to Prospect Peak rewards with panoramic views over both WV and Maryland. Kickback after at Ravenwood Pub.
Buckhannon
Buckhannon only feels in the middle of nowhere; its riverfront allure attracts people from all walks of life, including for schooling, retreats, and holidaymaking. Home to West Virginia Wesleyan College, there's something for everyone along the scenic Buckhannon River, in the youthful vibe and quieter summers. From cute neighborhoods with well-manicured yards to a progressive feel downtown, load up on what you need in 2025, like history and beautiful architecture, rural views at Upshur County Recreation Park, or dopamine-inducing adventures. Jawbone Park is a festival ground at the heart.
Don't miss the charming riverfront Pringle Tree Park north of downtown for a relaxing family day in nature or leisurely activities. Stonecoal Lake Wildlife Management Area is a dog-friendly reserve just to the west. The annual Strawberry Festival lights up Main Street with arts, crafts, and local foods in a carnival atmosphere. Buckhannon River Walk Trail is a beautiful walk, revealing the town's best side, but it is a trap, with luring galleries and shops just a hop off the trail. Browsing for a unique outfit piece or home decor, you don't want to miss the megapopular Huddle House and the Donut Spot.
Elkins
Often overlooked in the state's Randolph County, Elkins is great to visit for serenity with all the amenities, unobscured views, and no queues. The dog-friendly Glendale Park on the Tygart Valley River through the heart welcomes you to relax with a bridge crossing to River Bend Park. It is just a quick drive east to enjoy views from Bickle Knob Observation Tower. Drop by the Arts Center, Randolph County Community Arts Council, Inc., to meet the artists in art, music, and crafts. South of downtown, Gandy Dancer Theatre and Conference Center present local talent. Visit in 2025 for fishing, hiking, birding, skiing, biking, and even spelunking at the nearby extensive cave system.
Home to H Falls Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad, stop by the West Virginia Railroad Museum for history on this significant commodity in the state. Cruise southeast aboard Greenbrier Express—train-parlor cars are most in demand—to the falls at the Tygart Flyer, with valley, water, and mountain views over delicious dining along the merryway. Bordering the Monongahela National Forest and proximate to three major ski resorts, Elkins' outdoorsy spirit is infectious no matter the season. The scenic Tygart River offers rapids and waves for whitewater enthusiasts, plus calmer spots to float along. Keep your eyes peeled for the rare native and migrating birds in the surrounding hardwood forests.
Harpers Ferry
Where the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers meet, Harpers Ferry is a must-visit at least once in your life. This small town is eager to share its deep and unique heritage with visitors who've never been there in 2025. As a key location during the Civil War, Thomas Jefferson loved the area so much that the river views turned a founding father and third president quite poetic, pronouncing it to be “perhaps one of the most stupendous scenes in nature.” Destroyed partially during the war, some buildings were spared. After deciphering which is which through the charming downtown among reconstructed architecture, take a break for a picnic at a town green or sunning on a deck with a drink. Bolivar Children's Park at the Heart and Murphy Farm to the South are popular for serene family moments in nature.
Just a stroll to the eponymous state park in the southwestern quadrant, it exceeds all expectations for history buffs and nature lovers trailing Jefferson's footsteps to top views overlooking the town and the rivers. From Harpers Ferry Park Association Bookshop on Shenandoah Street to Bolivar Heights Battlefield and other Civil War-era battlefields, take your time strolling through all that Harpers Ferry has to offer. This also includes the circa 1848 John Brown’s Fort, a guard and fire engine house turned prison during the Civil War. The Guided Harpers Ferry Tour offers more connections between John Brown, the town, and American history, with natural history and geography insights. Cross the river via the Appalachian Trail & C&O Canal Towpath for more landmarks, like Maryland Heights Trailhead, 100-Pounder Battery, and C&O Canal Lock 34.
Shepherdstown
The oldest town in West Virginia, predating the Revolutionary War, can be a new shiny destination to explore in 2025, with many Civil War sites and battlefields preserved for re-enactments. Founded in 1762, Shepherdstown features centuries-worth of history at the Historic Shepherdstown Museum. Located within the Entler Hotel, discover Civil War artifacts and a mail wagon from 1905 at the allegedly haunted hotel. Meanwhile, the antiquated town boasts spectacular nightlife through award-winning local restaurants and a thriving live entertainment scene. A whole generation has enjoyed performances at Shepherdstown Opera House since 1910, including popular modern shows. Popodicon is a historic event venue, while O’Hurley’s General Store feels straight from yesteryear.
Some 80 miles from Baltimore and Washington, DC, the area teems with hikes at the western bend of the Potomac River, revealing the town's age with landmarks from different time periods along the way. From C&O Canal Lock 38 to Shepherdstown Battlefield, there is much to discover in Shepherdstown. Cross the border to Antietam National Battlefield in Maryland. It reminisces of the famous 1862 Civil War battle next to Burnside Bridge for a glimpse from the top and along the several plaques. Back in town, drop by the Contemporary American Theater Festival, visit Frank Center, a music hall, and dine at the most popular Blue Moon Cafe. No visit is complete without a selfie at the James Rumsey Monument in an intimate riverfront park. Just south, Bridge Fine Art & Framing is a must-stop to perk up your space back home.
Summersville
Whilst beautiful in every season's dress, Summersville is perhaps the best new town to first discover in the relevant sunny season. Comprised of various parts, the inkblot of a lake transitions into a river-like eastern flow towards the town, where the Muddlety Creek stops short at Summersville's bounds. Boasting the clearest waters in all of West Virginia, the 2,700-acre Summersville Lake has been attracting generations to enjoy a quiet corner, with many scenic places for a hike in and around Summersville Lake State Park, plus beaches, launches, and fishing spots. The state's largest lake is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving, with boat and kayak rentals also available.
From Salmon Run Trail to the intimate Pirate's Cove, take the Long Point Trail in the fall to admire foliage reflected in the crystal blue. Just south, Upper Gauley River Put-In is a popular spot to pitch a tent. Further down, the 156-acre Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park blends history into nature as a Civil War battle site on a canyon rim with hiking trails, a history museum, and reenactments. Battle Run Public Beach and the most popular Battle Run campground are also on the lake's western shore. So set out with a picnic from Sheetz and return after an outdoorsy day to delicious dining at the Local 805, which serves your favorite comfort food, or El Bandido for authentic Mexican flavors.
Thomas
Hidden by nature from the oblivious, Thomas is surrounded by woodland trails and scenic overlooks. Thomas City Park Trails connects adventurers to the best spots, including Blackwater Falls State Park, with a lodge, cabins, and a restaurant in a natural setting near waterfalls. Just southwest, Albert Falls is one of the state's prettiest. The glittering strand of cascades on Blackwater River tumbles over a smooth precipice, changing color by season into an appealing turquoise. Just a stroll down the river via Blackwater Canyon Trail, Douglas Falls is a large waterfall with a river pool to dip your feet, swim, or chill out. Don't miss Douglas Highwall and Pace Point Overlook, plus a selfie across Blackwater Canyon Trail Bridge on the way back.
Recharge at Tip Top on specialty java drinks, baked goods, light bites, and a full bar. Buxton & Landstreet Gallery and Studios, in a restored classic building, boasts a curated selection of fine art and craft, including paintings, ceramics, woodwork, and glass. Purple Fiddle is a reputable music venue with family-friendly plays, plus a cafe and bar with weekly live entertainment. Dine nearby at the elegant yet casual Elender’s Global Cuisine/Florals and stay out late at the Mountain State Brewing Co. No visit is complete without catching the sunset from Lindy Point Observation Deck. Make a sweet stop at Macy Lou's Gourmet Apple Co. and for local goodies at THOMASYARD, with souvenirs to stock up your pantry with memories of Thomas.
White Sulfur Springs
Drawing people for centuries, there isn't just one reason to finally visit White Sulphur Springs in 2025. Home to the infamous Greenbrier estate, the sprawling Georgian architecture makes a statement against the Allegheny Mountains, plus the winter holidays are lovely here. This legendary resort features over-the-top exterior Christmas decorations, plus luxe rooms and delicious dining, with florid patterns and vibrant colors draping every surface as you move throughout. Stay lavishly with every comfort or enjoy the views from manicured gardens and tour the ballrooms and sweeping staircases. Attracting architecture and design fans from around the country, many bring their families to soak in the timeless classic against the picturesque range to the east.
Originating in these mountains, the bubbly mineral waters with restorative powers lured the American gentry under the cool alpine air in the summer. Exuding elegance through nature, the town is home to hardy residents who like a good hike through the hardwoods of the Monongahela National Forest. White Sulphur Springs has so much to offer alongside its rich history, like the Oakhurst Links, one of the nation's oldest golf clubs. Plan for the upcoming warm season to explore Greenbrier Valley Trail on a hike or a bike ride. From the annual Dandelion Festival in the spring to the 1862 Battle of Dry Creek re-enactments in the summer downtown, the foliage drapes the Freshwater Folk Festival and frames your falltime adventures through Greenbrier Valley.
Just picture it: You're on a summer getaway in Summerville, then boarding the Greenbrier Express for a foliage ride east of Elkins and soaking up the decked-out Greenbrier resort during the holidays. Backdropped by Alleghany Mountains, these are just a few of the vibrant scenarios in the Mountain State.
From the Civil War battlefields to the spectacular Monongahela National Forest and beautiful architecture, Harpers Ferry is a hidden gem for nature lovers, while Shepherdstown is the state's oldest, predating the Revolutionary War. So, to make 2025 the most exciting one yet, these towns will get you there.
