Vacation Areas In West Virginia
Vacation Areas In West Virginia: When you make plans for your next trip, you might not think of West Virginia. But you should. Beautiful natural scenery, an interesting history, and a huge number of attractions are all waiting to be found in this amazing state. Finding out about West Virginia is an adventure in and of itself, so we made this amazing West Virginia dream list to help you get the most out of your trip.
It’s a good idea to make a dream list before your trip to West Virginia. Why? This great method for planning your must-see places and activities will ensure that your holiday will be fun and memorable.
Do you need help figuring out how to start? You can’t look anywhere else. We’ll give you our personal trip wish list for West Virginia in this article. It will inspire you to start making your list of places and landmarks you have to see.
Best Affordable Places to Stay in West Virginia
Sometimes, finding cheap, nice, and comfy vacation rentals in West Virginia can be challenging. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hotel and don’t want to spend a lot of money, these places are worth looking into.
The old schoolhouse in Middleway
Book this cute Middleway Historic Schoolhouse rental to make your trip extra special. This studio is convenient and exciting, being close to state parks, wineries, hiking trails, and historical sites. Because it is close to places like Shepherdstown, Gettysburg, and Harpers Ferry, it is a great place for active people to start their trip. The property has old games, a gas fire pit in the private yard, and a well-stocked kitchen for a fun stay in the lower Shenandoah Valley.
The Bluebird Suite by Harpers Ferry
The beautiful Bluebird Suite at Harpers Ferry Guest House is right in the middle of Bolivar, making it easy for tourists to find a quiet place to stay near historical sites and beautiful scenery. Near state parks and rivers, people who love the outdoors can go climbing, mountain biking, and kayaking. The suite is a great place to stay if you want to explore the area because it has a private door and is close to shops and restaurants.
A cozy cottage in Riverton
If you want to go climbing in the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area, this beautiful cabin is a great place to stay. The Allegheny Mountains and nearby sights like Seneca Caverns, Spruce Lake, and Seneca Rocks are easy to get to from this area, which is tucked away on the edge of the national forest. This land is perfect for people who love the outdoors and offers a memorable vacation in West Virginia with beautiful scenery.
The Glo Haus in Peterstown
With three interconnected pods set among the trees, the Glo Haus is a one-of-a-kind place to camp. This housing offers a unique mix of comfort and outdoor living. The gathering pod has a dining table and entertainment choices, and two sleeping pods can each fit two people. Added features like kids’ slide exits and Aurora Night Sky lamps make sure that your visit is fun and memorable.
Explore These Six Only-In-West Virginia Places to Stay
Whether you’re traveling to West Virginia for adventure, relaxation, or sightseeing, you’ll find a unique place to stay nearby. Scattered throughout the state, these six destinations exemplify the wonders of West Virginia:
Reel It In:
Harman’s Luxury Log Cabins, nestled in the Monongahela National Forest near Petersburg, is a haven for fishing enthusiasts and first-time anglers alike. Guests enjoy private access to nearly two miles of the North Fork River, stocked with trophy trout. Professional guides and a fully-equipped fly fishing shop are available There are many interesting places to stay in West Virginia, whether you’re there to see the sights, go on an adventure, or relax. These six places spread out across the state, are great examples of West Virginia’s beauty:
Turn it over.
Harman’s Luxury Log Cabins is a dream come true for both experienced and new anglers. It is in the Monongahela National Forest, close to Petersburg. The North Fork River, which is stocked with prize trout, is open only to guests for more than two miles. There is a fully stocked fly fishing shop and knowledgeable guides on site. Besides fishing, you can go camping, rock climbing, birdwatching, or caving in the area. Take it easy in one of Harman’s luxurious cabins by the fireplace after a long day of sightseeing.
Kick backwards:
Around two hours from Washington, DC, Capon Springs, and Farms is a peaceful place to relax. The resort has two nine-hole golf courses and a spring-fed pool, as well as massages, facials, and reflexology lessons. Comfort food made from scratch is served at every meal.
Go back in time:
Visit one of the many museums and Civil War sites in Hampshire County to learn about its long past. You can visit the Taggart Hall Museum in Romney or Fort Mill Ridge, which is a restored Civil War trench. People who like being outside can go hiking, biking, and swimming in the area. After a day of seeing the area’s historical sites, come back to the basic 24-unit Koolwink Motel. It makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
Looking down from above:
At Seneca State Forest, the 65-foot fire tower has stunning views. Bring a lunch and spend the day hiking and checking out the park’s beautiful views. Discover the fascinating past of Pocahontas County by visiting places like Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park and the birthplace of Pearl S. Buck. Take it easy in a nearby house or bed and breakfast after a day of exploring.
Pick the road with the most beautiful views:
Two beautiful nature areas in Tucker County are Canaan Valley Resort State Park and Blackwater Falls State Park. If you stay at a bed and breakfast in Davis or Thomas, you can enjoy the beauty of a small town and be close to hiking trails and rivers.
On the Mountain, Action
Snowshoe Mountain has outdoor activities for people of all ages, such as guided ATV tours, mountain biking, disc golf, and hiking. At the end of an exciting day of exploring, guests can unwind in style in hot tubs and at the Spa at Snowshoe.
Bucket List Vacations: West Virginia’s National Parks
Most people aim to visit every national park, and for good reason. The National Park Service works hard to keep these parks in great shape so that people can enjoy their natural beauty. So, these National Park Service (NPS) sites should definitely be on your list of things to do in West Virginia.
The Bluestone River National Scenic:
The Bluestone River is in the southern Appalachians. It is a place of wild beauty, different scenery, and history. Outside, you can find a beautiful, untouched part of West Virginia that will make you fall in love.
The Ohio Canal and the National Park of the Chesapeake
The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal is like going back in time. It was once an important way for Potomac River towns to get supplies and people. Learn about the interesting past of this canal, which has helped the area by making it easier to get goods like coal, lumber, and crops to markets.
A National Park along the Gauley River:
In the Gauley River National Recreation Area, you can enjoy the natural beauty by visiting its beautiful gorges, valleys, and cultural places. For people who like to take chances, whitewater boating on the East Coast is a great experience that you shouldn’t miss.
Harpers Ferry is home to the National Historical Park.
The Blue Ridge Mountains and the point where the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers meet make for a beautiful setting for learning about our country’s past. Explore the interesting town of Harpers Ferry, where history and beautiful scenery meet in interesting ways everywhere you look.
The New River Gorge National Park is:
The New River is one of the oldest rivers in North America. It is beautiful to watch as it flows through rough terrain and carves huge canyons. Visit the beautiful New River Gorge National Park to realize how beautiful nature is.
10 Best Places to Take a Summer Vacation in West Virginia
During the hot summer months, West Virginia’s mountain ranges with lots of trees look like paradise. West Virginia’s winding rivers, cute small towns, and scenic rolling hills make it easy to relax and get back in touch with nature. West Virginia has fun things to do for everyone, whether you’re planning a trip with your family, by yourself, or with your significant other.
Morgantown is:
The West Virginia Botanic Gardens have a lot of natural plants and a green environment. Explore five well-marked tracks and keep an eye out for colorful birds and strange reptiles. You can stop for lunch under the trees or listen to talks about gardening, plants, animals, and protecting the environment given by Botanic Garden staff.
The New River Gorge’s State River:
The New River Gorge is found downstream of Hinton, West Virginia. It is a great place to go rock climbing, whitewater rafting, and learn about natural history. There is a lot for everyone to enjoy, from guided tours and hikes with beautiful views to activities that showcase the area’s natural beauty.
In Harper’s Ferry:
Harpers Ferry is a famous town and National Park where the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers meet. Visit old shops, go on a guided tour of an archaeological site, and try traditional crafts like blacksmithing and woodworking. Book a room at a nearby vacation home to ensure a good time.
In Charleston:
Charleston is the state capital of West Virginia. It has a busy arts and sports scene, as well as many restaurants serving food from the area. Take in the friendly small-town vibe while exploring the city’s many sights. A vacation apartment in the city is a nice place to stay when you’re not at home.
Town of Riverton
In Riverton, West Virginia, you can explore the huge Seneca Caverns system. You can go on guided tours that take you through beautiful rock formations and end at a big underground lake. The gem mining is fun for kids, and they can keep the treasures they find as special reminders of their journey underground.
West Virginia State Museum at the Culture Center
One of the many free things to do in West Virginia is to visit the West Virginia State Museum in Charleston. The museum has a lot of information about the state’s culture, history, art, fossils, archeology, and geology. In its amazing collection of 60,000 items, tourists can marvel at strange treasures, like a popular exhibit of two dressed fleas from a flea circus in the 1800s.
Using clever design, the museum’s displays take visitors on a chronological tour of the state’s past, from the earliest times (shown by stone and dirt) to the present day (shown by a paved highway). As people walk through the different rooms from different eras, audio elements enhance the experience and complement the films and shows.
There are both everyday items and historically important ones on show, like a telescope that George Washington used to survey land in West Virginia. The museum also offers visitors the opportunity to learn about important events in the state’s past, like John Brown’s raid at Harpers Ferry, and look around a restored original settler’s cabin.
What is the nicest part of West Virginia?
The List: Best Places to Live in West Virginia, According to Experts
- Bridgeport. “Bridgeport is a centrally located city with two freeways that make it accessible to anywhere in the state,” says Rocket Homes. …
- Cheat Lake.
- Morgantown.
- Wheeling.
- Charleston.
Morgantown is on the Monongahela River and gets an average of 155 clear days, 43 inches of rain, and 28 inches of snow each year. Because of these things, Morgantown is a great place for quiet activities like camping by the river, fishing, and walking tours of the Historic Downtown District. People also think that Morgantown is one of the best small places in West Virginia. It is home to the Big 12 school, West Virginia University.
This college town is greatly affected by West Virginia University. The proud blue and gold clothing that people wear shows how much they love their school. This public research university has an impressive football team, an excellent academic record, a large network of distinguished graduates, and many NCAA rifle titles. It has about 28,000 kids.
Morgantown, which has more than 30,000 people, is a thriving city with lots of fun things to do, huge parks, well-known businesses, nice weather, and great schools nearby. Outdoorsy people are urged to do a wide range of activities in the area because of its beautiful natural settings. In the Monongahela National Forest, you can go on exciting river rafting trips. In Coopers Rock State Forest, you can hike, camp, and fish. Hazelwood Green is a great place for family trips because it has a dog park, a playground, and a splash pad. Winter sports fans will have a great time in the area around Deep Creek Lake, which is close to Morgantown. Nearby Wisp, Canaan Valley, and Snowshoe Mountain Resort offer skiing and other water activities.
Is tourism big in West Virginia?
Tourism is a big and growing business in West Virginia.
People come to West Virginia from all over the country to visit, and the tourist industry is doing very well.
The Tourism Advisory Council and the Department of Tourism met virtually on Tuesday to discuss major progress in several areas, such as more web traffic, coverage in national media, and the general effect of West Virginia’s tourism promotions.
Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby says that the state’s direct tourism impact was more than $5 billion in 2022, and its total economic effect was more than $7 billion.
The department also said that website page views went up by 56% and that almost 4.5 billion people saw social media posts. They were also written about in more than 1,000 well-known tourist magazines. Ruby said that she would ensure that tourist magazines write about West Virginia in the future.
Ruby talked about how the tourism department is using radio and T.V. ads to get the word out about West Virginia’s exciting sites and beautiful fall foliage. These ads got people from both inside and outside of West Virginia to visit the Mountain State by focusing on cities like Pittsburgh, Columbus, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C. She said that West Virginia’s tourism marketing is different from other states because it uses a unique advertising strategy that targets both residents and people from other states.
How many tourist regions does West Virginia have?
nine travel regions
West Virginia is divided up in nine travel regions, each providing their unique take on the history and beauty that the state provides.
People know that the warm water springs in Berkeley Springs always have a temperature of 74.3 degrees Fahrenheit. The natural springs are nice, but this cute town has a lot more to offer. Make sure you go to the state park, which has both fun things to do and historical sites.
In Harper’s Ferry:
History buffs will love Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. The park offers many activities all year long, such as interesting live history shows. Learn about Harpers Ferry’s interesting past and how important it was during the Civil War.
The Highlands of the Potomac
Knob of Spruce:
West Virginia’s tallest point is Spruce Knob, which is 4,863 feet high. The viewing tower at the top of the peak in the Monongahela National Forest gives visitors an amazing view in all directions. As you’re in the area, don’t forget to see Seneca Rocks and Dolly Sods as well.
Cass Scenic Railroad:
At Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, you can ride a real steam-powered train and relive the good old days. You can also learn a lot of history about the area by visiting the old town of Cass or participating in events and trips that happen all year long in the park.
Alpine water bodies:
Stonewall Resort in Jackson:
This cute resort is tucked away on the shores of Stonewall Jackson Lake and has a wide range of facilities and events to fit everyone’s tastes. Stonewall Jackson Resort has things to do for everyone, from relaxing hobbies to water sports.
For Lake Summerville:
Vacationers love Summersville Lake, West Virginia’s biggest Lake. It is great for swimming, boating, camping, and fishing, among other fun things to do. You can also do more outdoor activities and fish at Sutton, Burnsville, and Stonecoal Lakes, which are also beautiful lakes in the area.
Is it expensive in West Virginia?
The cost of living in West Virginia is 9% lower than the national average. Housing is 20% lower than the national average, while utilities are 6% lower. When it comes to basic necessities such as food and clothing, groceries are around 6% lower than in the rest of the country, while clothing costs 6% lower.
West Virginia is known for being one of the least expensive states in the U.S. It is home to over 1.7 million people.
Statistics show that West Virginia has 1.24 times lower living costs than the U.S. average. This makes it a good place to live for people who want to save money.
The Missouri Economic Research and Information Center (MERIC) released data in 2022 that ranked West Virginia ninth among states with the lowest cost of living, adding to the state’s reputation as a cheap place to visit.
Is West Virginia a beautiful place?
West Virginia is a beauty queen of a state, with ragged mountains to hike or ski and white-water rapids to paddle. It’s also stuffed with Civil War history and charming small towns. To explore it all, you’ll need a home base.
West Virginia is called “The Mountain State” because of its lush growth, and Mother Nature has blessed the state with lots of greenery. One of Pennsylvania’s many beautiful nature areas is the lush Monongahela National Forest, which is known as one of the country’s most biologically diverse places.
Beautiful views in the forest reward tired hikers, clear streams offer peace to those who seek it, and a wide variety of plants and animals interest people who love nature. You can do many things outside in Monongahela National Forest, such as walks, fishing, watching birds, and just enjoying nature. All of them say the experience will be great.
Many people say that Monongahela National Forest is “almost heaven,” and it really is. Its beautiful scenery and peaceful atmosphere make it a great place to visit.
After traveling all over the state for a long time, I learned that the best family vacations in West Virginia mix fun things to do with the peace and quiet of nature.
Oglebay Resort is one of our top choices because it offers a wide range of activities in a beautiful setting. Every time I go back to Oglebay, I think of the best things about living in the Mountain State. I hope that every family can experience the same things.
When it comes to making memories with your family, remember that the best holidays in West Virginia are the ones that you will never forget.