[List] 25 Must-Do Adventures When You Visit West Virginia for the Ultimate Trip

Key Takeaways:

• West Virginia is a hidden gem with diverse outdoor adventures and rich cultural history.
• From thrilling outdoor activities to scenic landscapes, West Virginia has something for every traveler.
• Whether you’re hiking in the mountains or exploring historic towns, West Virginia guarantees unforgettable experiences.

West Virginia, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, is a state known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, West Virginia has a unique charm that draws visitors in with its scenic landscapes, outdoor adventures, and deep-rooted heritage. Known for its coal mining past, historic towns, and vast wilderness areas, West Virginia is a place where history and nature beautifully converge. Whether you’re into hiking, white-water rafting, or exploring charming mountain towns, this state offers a variety of activities that will leave you enchanted.

People love West Virginia for its slow-paced charm, vibrant festivals, and abundance of outdoor opportunities. The state is home to some of the best hiking trails in the U.S., including those in the Monongahela National Forest and New River Gorge. Whether you’re discovering local history in small towns or finding your thrill on an adrenaline-pumping adventure, West Virginia offers something for everyone. With its small towns filled with charm, towering mountains, and rich culture, a visit to West Virginia will surely leave you wanting to return for more.

Here are 25 things to do in West Virginia:

#1 Hike the Appalachian Trail: Experience stunning views and diverse ecosystems on this world-famous trail.

#2 Raft the New River Gorge: Conquer thrilling white-water rapids in one of the best rafting spots in the country.

#3 Visit Harpers Ferry National Historical Park: Walk through this historic town and learn about its Civil War significance.

#4 Tour the Greenbrier Resort: Explore this historic resort known for its luxurious accommodations and rich history.

#5 Explore Blackwater Falls State Park: Hike to the breathtaking Blackwater Falls, one of the state’s most iconic landmarks.

#6 Drive the Scenic Mountain Parkway: Take a scenic drive through the Appalachian Mountains and enjoy the views.

#7 Discover the New River Gorge Bridge: Visit the New River Gorge Bridge, one of the largest steel spans in the world.

#8 Visit the WVU Coliseum: Attend a live sports event or concert at this historic venue in Morgantown.

#9 Go Ziplining in the New River Gorge: Experience the thrill of ziplining with stunning views of the gorge below.

#10 Stroll Through the Town of Shepherdstown: Explore this charming historic town with its unique shops and restaurants.

#11 Take a Dip in Summersville Lake: Enjoy boating, swimming, and relaxing at this beautiful mountain lake.

#12 Visit the West Virginia State Museum: Dive into the state’s history with exhibits on coal mining, the Civil War, and more.

#13 Go Horseback Riding in the Monongahela National Forest: Explore the forest trails on horseback for a unique adventure.

#14 Explore the Lost World Caverns: Discover the beauty of underground caves on a guided tour.

#15 Hike the Cranberry Wilderness Area: Hike through one of the largest wilderness areas in the state with incredible views.

#16 Experience the Mountain State Forest Festival: Attend this festival in Elkins to celebrate the area’s forestry industry and local culture.

#17 Take a Scenic Train Ride on the Cass Scenic Railroad: Ride a vintage steam train through the scenic mountains of West Virginia.

#18 Visit the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine: Tour an authentic coal mine and learn about West Virginia’s mining history.

#19 Enjoy the West Virginia Jazz Festival: Enjoy live jazz performances in the heart of Charleston during this vibrant festival.

#20 Visit the West Virginia State Capitol: Admire the beautiful architecture of the state capitol building in Charleston.

#21 Explore the Seneca Rocks: Hike to the top of Seneca Rocks for incredible panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

#22 Attend the Bridge Day Festival: Watch adrenaline junkies base jump off the New River Gorge Bridge during this annual event.

#23 Tour the Mothman Museum: Discover the legend of the Mothman in Point Pleasant and explore the museum dedicated to this cryptid.

#24 Take a Boat Ride on the Ohio River: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the scenic Ohio River, one of the longest rivers in the U.S.

#25 Visit the West Virginia Botanic Garden: Explore this peaceful 82-acre garden with nature trails and beautiful landscapes.

Where Can I Find Both Free and Paid Events Going on in West Virginia?

To find both free and paid events happening in West Virginia, PlanMyWeekend.ai is a great resource. The platform provides an easy-to-use guide to help you discover upcoming events that match your interests, from live music to outdoor activities and family-friendly festivals. Whether you’re looking for free community events or paid experiences like concerts or theater performances, PlanMyWeekend.ai has you covered. It also helps you stay updated on local happenings and ensures you make the most of your visit to the state.

Final Thoughts

West Virginia offers an exciting blend of outdoor adventures, rich history, and small-town charm that will captivate any traveler. Whether you’re rafting through the New River Gorge, hiking in the mountains, or immersing yourself in the state’s history, there’s something for everyone. Plan your trip today and discover the natural beauty and hidden gems of this incredible state. Use PlanMyWeekend.ai to find events, activities, and experiences that will make your West Virginia trip truly unforgettable.

Author: Dejon Brooks

Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai