The Ultimate Guide to Almost Heaven
John Denver’s iconic song, “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” has been the unofficial anthem of West Virginia since its release in 1971 – and there’s a reason he likened the state to “Almost Heaven.”
With sweeping mountains, seemingly unlimited outdoor activity and plenty of towns both big and small to draw you in, West Virginia is a true destination for year-round fun.
Thinking about a trip to the Mountain State? Make sure these cities are on your list.
Charleston
West Virginia’s capital city may share a name with one of the South’s most popular destinations, but the history, art and culture have an allure all their own. Positioned at the confluence of the Kanawha and Elk rivers, with three major interstates routing through, Charleston is an easy to access destination for an affordable getaway.
Outdoor Adventure
Outdoor recreation is synonymous with West Virginia, and there is no shortage of options in Charleston. Explore the 9,300-acre Kanawha State Forest, noted among naturalists for its diverse wildflower and bird populations. Afterward, stroll the Sunrise Carriage Trail, which once served as a path for horse-drawn carriages for an early-1900s governor. The path routes through a mountainside, and the work is worth the spectacle. Wrap your outdoor adventures at Coonskin Park for more than a thousand acres of woodlands, hiking and biking trails, a handicapped accessible 18 hole par three golf course, an Olympic size pool, picnic shelters of all sizes, tennis courts, sand volleyball courts, bike rentals, pedal boat rentals and a modern playground area.
Arts & History
No vacation is complete without appreciating the area’s arts and history. In Charleston, visit the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences to experience music, theater, art and science all under one roof. Then, head for history shopping at The Capitol Market, a renovated 1800s freight station designed to capture the essence of an outdoor farmers’ market with indoor specialty shops. Keep the journey through time going at the West Virginia State Museum, where visitors trek from a prehistoric coal forest into early western settlement and into the present day. For a truly unique experience, visit J.Q. Dickson Salt-Works, a seventh-generation salt-making family that harvests an all-natural salt by hand from an ancient ocean nestled in the Appalachian Mountains.
Where to Eat & Drink
All of that adventuring will surely work up an appetite. Luckily, Charleston is brimming with excellent eateries. Experience Appalachian roots at 1010 Bridge, with its menu inspired by local farms and businesses. Take the edge off with a visit to Black Sheep Burritos & Brews, known not only for its variety of brews, but also for its burrito-based menu. Pizza craving? No worries, Lola’s has some of the best in town – with charming ambience to boot. Venture to the trendy Elk City neighborhood for a moonshine nightcap at the newly opened The Bullock Distillery.
Fayetteville
Coined an “outdoor lover’s haven,” Fayetteville is a destination particularly admired by whitewater rafters and fishermen, surrounded by mountains beloved by hikers, mountain bikers and rock climbers. Named one of the Coolest Small Towns in America by Matador Network, a visit to Fayetteville is a must for any West Virginia itinerary.
Outdoor Adventure
With water and mountains aplenty in Fayetteville, there are countless outdoor activities ready to wow any adventurer. When the weather is agreeable, go whitewater rafting in America’s newest National Park and Preserve: the New River Gorge. If the thrill of rafting isn’t of interest, the Upper New river offers relaxing float trips as well. Out of the water, catch scenic views at the Bridge Walk, an 851-foot-high catwalk offering some of the best views in the entire state. Wanting to feel a little more grounded? The mountains offer many hiking trails (check out the Long Point Trail) and mountain biking options for riders beginner to experienced.
Arts & History
During the Civil War, Fayetteville was contended by both the North and South. Today, visitors can tour the Historic District, which includes 75 historic homes, buildings and sites along the Civil War Trail. Venture through history until reaching 1941, where Wild Blue Adventure Company takes sightseers to the skies in a World War II Stearman biplane. After all that history, hit the town for shopping at the Hobbit Hole, a shop offering nifty knicknacks. Fans of the Hobbit Hole will also adore the New River Antique Mall and its 25 booths filled with unique finds. Lastly, pay a visit to the Lost Appalachia Trading Co., where local makers sell everything from cozy sweatshirts to home decor.
Where to Eat & Drink
Start your day at church – but not in the way you may think. Housed in a beautiful old church, the Cathedral Cafe is known as a free-spirited joint with the best coffee in town (pro tip: order the berry pancakes). Swap your morning brew for something stronger at Bridge Brew Works, home to the Mountain Momma Pale Ale to imbibe like a true West Virginian. Keep the tour going at The Freefolk Brewery, a brewery-turned-art-gallery with great beer and an even better ambience.
Morgantown
There is something special about college towns, and Morgantown, West Virginia (home of West Virginia University) is no exception. Deep in the heart of Mountaineer Country, the town brims with school spirit and youthful vigor. Catch a football or basketball game or an art or beer festival in the West Virginia town that says on the go, known for its vibrant nightlife, highly rated restaurants, unique arts, plentiful shopping and outdoor adventure.
Outdoor Adventure
Just outside of Morgantown stands Coopers Rock State Forest offering a multitude of outdoor activities – think picnicking, fishing and camping – in addition to its vast hiking and biking trails. Opening for the season this May, check out the main overlook offering sweeping views of the Cheat River Gorge and nearby trading post. Venture to the 70-acre Doresy’s Knob Park and Lodge, the newest park in the Bopark Park System. Climb its “Sky Rock,” offering views that roll for miles.
Arts & History
West Virginia University was founded as a public, land-grant institution in 1867, just four years after West Virginia became a state. Home to the world’s finest institute studying human memory, a visit to the campus and surrounding city is a trip you won’t soon forget. One of the oldest buildings on campus, visit Woodburn Hall, the centerpiece of the university. Known as “West Virginia’s most beautiful playhouse” with a rightful spot on the National Register of Historic Places, the Metropolitan Theatre dates back to 1924 and is one of the better surviving examples of neoclassical revival architecture in the area. In true West Virginia spirit, take the arts outdoors with a visit to the West Virginia Botanic Garden, the only one in the entire state. The garden is open daily and admission is free.
Where to Eat & Drink
A college town is sure to have great nightlife. For excellent craft beer, specialty cocktails and delicious pub fare (plus one of the best brunches in town), visit Iron Horse Tavern. Other eateries that should earn a spot on any itinerary are Table 9, a gastropub known for craft food and drinks, and Tin 202, serving high-quality, locally sourced food and libations. For budding sommeliers, visit the area’s award-winning, family-owned vineyard and winery Forks of Cheat Winery and Distillery.
Where will you wander in West Virginia this year? While each of these cities make for a memorable Southern getaway, there is much adventure to be had in Almost Heaven. For more information, visit wvtourism.com.
