An Almost Heaven Summer Bucket List

Spend some time this summer at ACE Adventure Resort and find yourself minutes away from the New River Gorge. Sit back and relax while your kids have at it or take part in the fun right along with them. Complete with private cabins, an adventure lake, rock climbing, whitewater rafting, zip lining, mountain biking and on-site dining, you can’t go wrong with a stay at this mountain resort.

Nearby Adventures on the Gorge Resort also gives way to some of the best that southern West Virginia has to offer. Overnight accommodations include everything from deluxe cabins and glamping tents to RV sites and vacation homes. Spend your days playing paintball and laser tag, going whitewater rafting, hiking, horseback riding, fly fishing and more.

Escape to West Virginia’s great outdoors where 25 cabin rentals reside on lush mountaintops overlooking the Guyandotte River below. At the Appalachian Outpost, you’ll find all you need for a thrilling, off-road adventure. Guests are granted easy access to the ATV-friendly town of Man nearby, machine rentals, a wash station and free parking. Enjoy dining at onsite restaurant and grabbing treats from the coffee and icecream shop.

Retreat to Capon Springs and Farms for a restful and relaxing vacation spent amongst 4,700 acres of breathtaking farmland scenery. Rejuvenate with the healing spring water found throughout the property and refuel with homemade comfort food. Pamper yourself with a massage, facial or a personal swim spa pool at the spa. Swing away on the rolling hills of green with your choice of a regulation golf course or short par three.

Visit Hampshire County for a family-fun excursion aboard the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad. Witness rolling, green hills and take in jaw-dropping views as you journey along the South Branch of the Potomac River. Be sure to watch for American bald eagles when passing through the Trough, one of the train’s most iconic and scenic spots. Have your pick between a half or full day trip and even be served a made-from-scratch meal.

Kick up some dust and catch some wind with a rip-roaring machine ride on the Hatfield-McCoy Trails this summer. This impressive trail system is composed of over 1,000 miles of rideable terrain and has options for skill levels of all kinds. For a unique ride, traverse Pocahontas Trail in Mercer County and venture into the town of Bramwell, historically known for its numerous millionaire homes from the early 20th century.

Travel to Jefferson County for an abundance of exciting activities provided by River & Trail Outfitters. Take on the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac rivers with guided rafting, tubing, kayaking or canoeing quests. After conquering the waters, spend time on land exploring Harpers Ferry National Historical State Park.

West Virginia’s oldest town continues to be a thriving arts scene and features many award-winning local restaurants. Bistro 112 brings a little bit of Paris to the Mountain State. Dine outside in the heart of downtown at the Blue Moon Café. Unwind and sip stellar brews at Bavarian Brothers Brewing. Shepherdstown is also home to the Contemporary American Theater Festival, an annual event that showcases new, top-notch plays each summer.

Browse exquisite exhibits and a lush plant observatory at Huntington’s Museum of Art this summer. Adults and kids will both enjoy in the two miles of hiking trails, interactive educational galleries and coral reef aquarium. Part of the National Coal Heritage Area, you’ll be able to learn about the heritage of West Virginia while having fun along the way. End your day on a sweet note with a stop by Austin’s Homemade Icecream!

Travel back in time with a trip to Berkeley Springs, famously known as the country’s first spa. Stroll the same streets that George Washington once did and see for yourself the world-renown waters that have been drawing in guests seeking relief and relaxation for centuries. Treat yourself to a luxurious whirlpool, blissful Roman Bath, sauna session or therapeutic massage at Berkeley Springs State Park. Take a swim in the outdoor pool followed by a family picnic in the park.