The Best West Virginia Travel Destination For Retirees
Post-retirement, all retirees can ask for is a partner, a bag, and a destination where they can explore their heart's content at their own pace. West Virginia promises them exactly that in the United States. From the tranquil shores of Stonewall Jackson Lake to the famed steam trains of Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, there is something for every kind of traveler.
The diversity of locales, from the Appalachian Mountains to the Potomac River, makes the itinerary even more interesting. Whether you are riding a steam-powered train, appreciating a lakeside meal, or striding along a mild trail, these West Virginia travel destinations for retirees deliver a rejuvenating escape.
Blackwater Falls State Park
Blackwater Falls State Park is a retreat in the Allegheny Mountains. Noted for its iconic Blackwater Falls, the park delivers breathtaking views as the amber-hued water cascades 62 feet into the canyon below. The park's gentle hiking paths, like the almost a-mile-long Pendleton Point Overlook, showcase stunning views of the Blackwater Canyon. For bird enthusiasts, the area is a haven for spotting unique Appalachian species. During warmer months, retirees can enjoy peaceful picnics in shaded spots or fish in Pendleton Lake, which is stocked regularly for anglers.
Blackwater Falls Lodge provides 54 cozy accommodations and dining options, perfect for unwinding after a day outdoors. Its large windows and deck seating have relaxing views of the park. If you are in the mood for a quiet corner to read or reflect, the lodge also features a fireplace lounge. Nearby Davis, West Virginia, is a small town with local eateries and artisan shops worth visiting. Hellbender Burritos and Stumptown Ales are community favorites, serving fresh and flavorful meals.
Harpers Ferry
Where rivers Shenandoah and Potomac meet each other is where Harpers Ferry sits. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park is where retirees can delve into the town’s pivotal role in the Civil War and the abolitionist movement. Exhibits, guided tours, and restored buildings provide a glimpse into the past, creating an engaging experience without requiring strenuous activity. The John Brown Museum is a must-visit for history buffs, while the nearby Gothic Revival St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church is a popular spot to admire views of the surrounding hills.
The town’s riverside location is perfect for gentle walks along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath. This flat, shaded trail is great for biking or birdwatching, with benches to relax and soak in the atmosphere. The nearby 4.5-mile Maryland Heights Overlook presents an incredible vantage point of the rivers and the town below, accessible via a moderate hike for those feeling adventurous.
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, centered around one of the world’s oldest rivers, proposes breathtaking views, accessible trails, and opportunities for slow-paced exploration. It’s a haven for those who enjoy relaxing in the great outdoors without demanding physical activity. The Canyon Rim Visitor Center, which provides a fantastic overlook of the majestic New River Gorge Bridge, has exhibits that share the area’s history and natural significance. The Bridge Walk, a guided tour along the catwalk beneath the bridge, is a unique experience for those seeking something memorable yet safe and low-impact.
The park features several easygoing trails, like the 2.4-mile Endless Wall Trail and Long Point Trail spanning 3 miles, which lead to picturesque overlooks with minimal effort. Retirees can also enjoy a riverside picnic at Fayette Station or Sandstone Falls, where the sound of rushing water adds to the relaxing atmosphere. Remnants of the coal-mining era are scattered throughout the park, touching upon its history. Explore the Nuttallburg Coal Tipple or the Thurmond Historic District to learn about the region’s industrial past.
Canaan Valley Resort State Park
Canaan Valley Resort State Park is another Allegheny Mountains getaway, boasting sweeping mountain views, a mild climate, and easy access to activities tailored for a slower pace. Retirees can take a chairlift ride to Weiss Knob for panoramic views of the valley without strenuous hiking. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the 18-hole championship golf course, designed with rolling fairways that blend into the natural surroundings.
Fishing is also available in the nearby Blackwater River, and the resort’s picnic areas provide undisturbed settings for a quiet lunch. In fall, the park’s vibrant foliage is a highlight, drawing visitors for its breathtaking colors. The resort’s accommodation mix of 59 campsites, 23 cabins, and 160+ rooms makes it easy to relax after a day of exploration. For retirees traveling in winter, the park provides low-key snow activities like tubing and cross-country skiing.
Berkeley Springs
There is no better place to rejuvenate than in Berkeley Springs. The centerpiece of the town is Berkeley Springs State Park, home to warm mineral springs that have attracted visitors for centuries. Retirees can indulge in soothing spa treatments, including massages and mineral baths, in the park’s historic Roman Bathhouse. A stroll through the park also reveals George Washington’s Bathtub, a quirky and historical nod to the town’s early visitors.
Beyond the springs, Berkeley Springs has plenty of low-impact activities. Art lovers can explore local galleries like the Ice House, which features rotating exhibits, live performances, and workshops. The Cacapon Resort State Park is just a short drive away. It flaunts easy walking trails, mountain biking, a golf course, and a lake for fishing or paddle boating in its over 6,000-acre area.
Stonewall Resort State Park
Stonewall Resort State Park embraces lakeside beauty and modern comforts on the shores of Stonewall Jackson Lake. The lake is ideal for retirees who enjoy fishing or simply soaking in the views. Kayak and pontoon rentals allow for gentle exploration of the water. If staying on land feels more inviting, the paved and well-marked walking trails meander through forests and along the shoreline, providing accessible routes for enjoying the outdoors.
The park’s full-service resort has excellent accommodations and dining options, such as Stillwater Restaurant, where guests can relish meals crafted from locally sourced ingredients. The on-site spa at Stonewall Resort provides massage and wellness treatments, allowing retirees to unwind fully. There is also a lakeside patio and fire pit, perfect for quiet evenings under the stars.
Bluefield
The Appalachian Mountains town of Bluefield is prominent as "Nature’s Air-Conditioned City," experiencing cool summers and enjoyable weather year-round. The town’s charm begins at Lotito City Park, a spacious green area perfect for walks, mountain biking, or taking in the mountain views. Meanwhile, the Bluefield Elks Golf Course has been a well-kept 9-hole mainstay since the 1900s.
Downtown Bluefield adds cultural flair with its historic district, where retirees can stop by the Bluefield Arts Center. This venue comprises a neoclassical performing space and two galleries. The restored 1928 Granada Theater is another highlight, hosting classic films and community events that draw visitors of all ages.
Cass Scenic Railroad State Park
Cass Scenic Railroad State Park is a nostalgic getaway where retirees can step back in time and enjoy the beauty of the West Virginia mountains. The centerpiece of the park is its historic steam-powered trains. Retirees can board one of these classic locomotives for a slow-paced journey up the mountain, passing through dense forests and open meadows. The 4.5 hours ride to Bald Knob, the park’s highest point, culminates in spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes and opportunities to spot wildlife along the way.
The town of Cass itself feels like a step into the past. Retirees can discover the preserved company town, originally built for logging workers in the early 20th century. The Cass Company Store is a must-visit for souvenirs and local goods. For those who prefer a bit of walking, the 78-mile Greenbrier River Trail, a flat and scenic path nearby, is a good option for strolls or bike rides.
West Virginia’s mild weather, warm hospitality, and diverse attractions make it a retiree’s paradise. From flowing rivers to welcoming downtowns, the state invites retirees to reconnect with the joys of travel. Whether it's the historic charm of Harpers Ferry, the therapeutic mineral springs of Berkeley Springs, or the breathtaking landscapes of New River Gorge National Park, these West Virginia travel destinations for retirees are surely a catch. Every corner promises memories to cherish and moments to savor.
