West Virginia's Best Small Towns For A Weekend Escape
West Virginia has many small towns that are perfect for a weekend escape. Its rolling hills, forests, mining history, and charming communities make great vacation spots. Spend a weekend exploring the Harpers Ferry National Park, hike the Hatfield-McCoy Trail System, or soak in the warm waters of the Berkeley Springs State Park. From Clay to Bramwell, Helvetia to New Martinsville, each small town has something different to offer travelers. Take a weekend road trip from a nearby city and escape into the peaceful natural beauty of gorgeous West Virginia in one of these ten best small towns.
Barboursville
Escape into the quiet tranquility of Barboursville, West Virginia. This charming small town is perfect for a weekend away as it is a 2-hour drive from Lexington, Kentucky, and around 2.5 hours from Columbus, Ohio. Barboursville dates back to the 1830s and has a number of historical landmarks and buildings worth visiting. Its historic district is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Don’t miss the Civil War Era Toll House.
Twelve miles outside town is Beech Fork State Park, a great option for those looking to get into the West Virginia landscape. Explore the rolling hills, hike the scenic trails, or camp at one of the many campsites. The park also has a gorgeous lake with over 30 miles of shoreline, which is great for relaxing, boating, and fishing.
Harpers Ferry
The town of Harpers Ferry is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Take a road trip from Baltimore, Maryland, or Washington, D.C., to this quiet town on West Virginia’s eastern panhandle. This harbor town is located where the Potomac River and Shenandoah River come together, offering beautiful scenic river views.
Come for the weekend and enjoy hiking the Appalachian Trail, and take in the gorgeous views from vistas like Jefferson’s Rock or the Maryland Heights Trailhead. Visitors can also tour Harpers Ferry National Park, which includes the historic John Brown Fort, old armory, and the Civil War Museum, which all highlight the cultural and historical significance of this port town throughout history.
Bramwell
Another riverside West Virginia town, Bramwell, lies on the banks of the Bluestone River. The area was originally a coal mining town, and visitors can learn about the region’s history and visit historical sites such as the Hewitt House, Perry House, Thoms House, and other residential dwellings of former town founders and families. Check out the Coal Heritage Trail Interpretive Center or the Bramwell Depot for a full history of the town’s coal roots.
Like Harpers Ferry, Bramwell has a population of around 300, making it a great option for a quiet weekend escape. Visitors can enjoy easy access to the nearby Hatfield-McCoy Trail System, one of the longest off-road trail systems in the world. The Pocahontas Trailhead begins in Bramwell, connecting hikers to the vast real system. Nearby Pinnacle Rock State Park is also worth a visit. It features impressive sandstone rock formations and expansive scenic views.
Clay
Like Bramwell, Clay is also a riverside town perfect for outdoor lovers. This peaceful town sits on the Elk River, surrounded by lush forests. Recreational activities are abundant here, from hiking to fishing. The Elk River Trail and Buffalo Creek Recreational Trail offer access to the West Virginia backcountry, where visitors can escape into the trees or mountain bike on some epic runs. Other outdoor sports include canoeing or kayaking along the Elk River or Laurel Creek or hunting in the designated Wallback Public Hunting Area.
The town is quaint but inviting, with a consistent population of only around 400. Clay County’s claim to fame is being the birthplace of the Golden Delicious apple, and the town celebrates its heritage with the Clay County Golden Delicious Festival in mid-September. Visitors can camp in the nearby Bessie’s Braley Campgrounds, rent one of the woodland cabins, or stay at Elk River Inn or the Historic Henry Clay Hotel & Restaurant.
Helvetia
Helvetia is a unique town with a vibe all its own. Visitors will feel as though they’ve been swept away to a tiny European town in this village that harkens back to German and Swiss roots. The town is particularly small, with a population under 100. However, it is a great option for those looking to switch off and truly escape into nature. The town does not have reliable cell phone service, either, so visitors can truly get off the grid and relax in the tranquil surroundings.
Despite its small size, the town has a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Take a guided walking tour of town, or wander through the Helvetia Historic Trail. Enjoy traditional German and Swiss food, music, and dancing, as well as a number of traditional festivals. Check out the Helvetia Community fair, Follow Your Bliss Festival, or visit during the Swiss National holiday. Visitors can also explore the nearby Kumbrabow State Forest, Holly River State Park, or Green Bank Observatory.
White Sulphur Springs
White Sulphur Springs is located in the southeastern part of the state, in the beautiful New River-Greenbrier Valley among rolling green hills and meadows. The town is near the start of the Midland Trail, which has many paths and hiking opportunities. The vast wilderness and forests are a great place to spend a weekend away from the hustle of a bigger city. Enjoy over 78 miles of The Greenbrier Trail, or experience a traditional falconry class. Another option for a peaceful escape is the Salt Cave and Spa, where you can be pampered and enjoy the quiet tranquility.
In town, don’t miss the striking The Greenbrier Resort, with its impressive size and impressive architecture. Other excellent options in town include Big Draft Brewing or Drapers Restaurant. The town also has some interesting history, and it is worth visiting the Cold War Bunkers, an underground city complete with bunkers, a senate room, and a power plant.
New Martinsville
If arts and culture are the vibe, New Martinsville is an excellent option. New Martinsville sits in the mid-Ohio valley along the Ohio River, surrounded by serene landscapes. This artsy, picturesque town is a great place to recharge and soak up creative vibes. Relax at one of the “Art in the Park” summer events, located in the lovely Lewis Wetzel Park, or take in a local concert at the famous Lincoln Theater that dates back to the 1920s.
For history, check out the Wetzel County Museum for old photos, artifacts, and exhibits showcasing the history of the region. Visitors can stay at the Magnolia House Bed and Breakfast, New Martinsville Inn, or the Orchard Bed and Breakfast.
Thomas
Thomas is another quiet town perfect for a weekend escape. It is located in West Virginia’s panhandle and has a population of around 600. Like Bramwell, it was once a coal mining town that has shifted into a peaceful small town full of charm. Visitors can enjoy the gorgeous scenery and lush landscape, as well as the tranquil Albert Falls. Hike the many hills and trails, or escape into the peace of the surrounding wilderness.
In town, enjoy the charm of the Purple Fiddle Cafe, which offers coffee shop drinks and food and doubles as a bluegrass venue. Another great option is Mountain State Brewing Company, which offers a selection of local craft brews that any beer connoisseur would love.
Berkeley Springs
Berkeley Springs is a perfect option for those looking for a relaxing and pampering vibe. The town is home to natural hot springs that are part of the protected Berkeley Springs State Park. Visitors can relax in the soothing waters of the mineral spas and baths, all naturally heated by the springs. Enjoy traditional Roman bathhouses, modern treatments, and everything in between. The springs are a fantastic place to relax and wash away your stresses in the warm water of nature.
The springs were even visited by George Washington, who enjoyed their healing vibes. Other activities in the area include the Washington Heritage Trail or recreational opportunities such as hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and swimming in the Cacapon Resort State Park.
Buckhannon
Hiking and outdoor recreation are also popular in the town of Buckhannon. Visitors can enjoy getting away from it all and exploring the beauty of the Alum Cave Trail. This unique trail ventures through the Smoky Mountains and along the bottom of a deep cliff edge known as Alum Cave. Other recreational areas include the Audra State Park, which has impressive views of the West Virginia wilderness. Aside from natural beauty, Buckhannon has a thriving art scene. The famed artist Charlie Harper has decorated much of the town with beautiful, colorful murals.
Aside from the impressive street art, galleries, and art shops are abundant here, creating a dynamic and creative feel to the town. Art and theater lovers can enjoy the tiny Lascaux Micro-Theater, an eclectic underground theater venue featuring live performances. Visitors can stay in the Bicentennial Inn or the Baxa Inn or get the full nature experience by renting a yurt or cabin in the woods.
Those looking for a weekend escape in West Virginia can find the perfect place to get away from it all. From historical towns to wilderness wonderlands and relaxing hot springs, West Virginia has a little bit of everything for everyone to enjoy. With its proximity to major cities and abundance of charming small towns, there are many great options to get away for a weekend and plan a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Look no further than these small towns in West Virginia for the perfect weekend retreat.
