A little bit of Branson in the heart of West Virginia

Why travel all the way to Branson, Missouri, when you can enjoy award-winning dinner theater right here in West Virginia? A piece of Branson, which is known for its variety-style dinner shows, can be experienced in Elkins.

Voted “Best of the Best” by the American Bus Association, Gandy Dancer Theatre & Conference Center delivers heartfelt and hilarious entertainment to enjoy while you tuck into hot, plated meal at your table. These charming, high-energy performances by some of the area’s fines entertainers are family-friendly and run the gamut of genres, from comedies to murder mysteries to holiday specials to tribute shows. (You might even see Elvis or Sonny and Cher!)

The 11,000 square foot conference center can accommodate 250 people, making it an ideal venue for weddings and receptions, reunions, business conferences and group tours. Staff takes care of the cooking, setup and cleanup, and of course, the entertainment. Audio and visual equipment available for use includes 16’ video projection screen. There’s even an onsite wedding coordinator to assist your party with table decorations, dining options, photographers, music and more.

Make your reservations online or call the theater for details on custom group packages. You might even want to turn your evening into a longer vacation. Gandy Dancer Theatre is set in the mountain town of Elkins, where there’s plenty to see and do!

Stay:

Set on a hill overlooking Elkins, the historic Graceland Inn pairs Victorian elegance with beautiful mountain vistas. The Isaac Jackson Hotel offers spacious, newly remodeled rooms and modern conveniences. Additional lodging is available at several chain motels, cabins, and bed and breakfasts in the area.

Play:

West Virginia Mountain Rail Adventures operates scenic train rides out of the Elkins Depot. Hop aboard the New Tygart Flyer or the Cheat Mountain Salamander for an adventure that promises stunning views of woods and water as well as the possibility of spotting a black bear or bald eagle.

The Stirrup Gallery at Davis & Elkins College harbors nine museum collections, including the 10,000-piece Darby Collection with artifacts dating back to the Stone Age. Davis & Elkins also is home to the Augusta Heritage Center which presents the annual Augusta Festival, a celebration of traditional music and dance.

In the area:

Known as the gateway to the Monongahela National Forest, Elkins forms a great base for outdoor adventuring. You’ll find an abundance of hiking trails, fishing opportunities and scenic overlooks within an hour’s drive of the city. Nearby attractions include Canaan Valley Resort State Park, Blackwater Falls State Park and the Seneca Rocks-Spruce Knob National Recreation Area.

Contact our Call Center at 1-800-CALL-WVA to request a free travel guide or assistance with your trip planning. And don’t forget to share and tag your photos #AlmostHeaven West Virginia!

This post was last updated on March 17, 2022