West Virginia State University Capitol Center Theatre

Charleston, WV

Opened as the Plaza Theatre in 1912, it featured high-class vaudeville entertainment and novel attractions. In 1921, the building was remodeled with a Wurlitzer pipe organ and a projector room. A 30 foot electrical sign and a marquee were addedon the front. The facility was renamed the Capitol Theater and offered silent movies and vaudeville. In 1923, a fire collapsed the roof; the loss estimate was $175,000. The owners rebuilt immediately and with “talkies” the theatre was wired for sound. In 1982, changes to the economy and the downtown community as well as competition from movie chain theatres forced it to close. In 1985, the
theatre reopened as the Capitol Plaza. In 1991, the building was given to West Virginia State University and renamed the Capitol Center. It is open for walk-in tours from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays and during events. (Listed NRHP 1985)

Trip Inspiration

Sunrise Views Worth Waking Up For in West Virginia 🌄

In West Virginia, the first few minutes of sunlight are some of the most majestic. From untouched forests to lofty fire towers, these are s...

Read More

These One-of-a-Kind Races Can Only be Found in West Virginia 

Ready to swap the flat, fast city courses for something wilder? West Virginia is home to a collection of running races that are truly one-o...

Read More

Now is the Time to Plan Your Family Getaway to West Virginia

Warm sunshine, lush forests, and roaring cascades — now is the time to start planning your summer family escape to the Mountain State! No...

Read More

Pack your bags and get ready to spend 48 hours in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia

The Eastern Panhandle is a dynamic region renowned for its history and natural beauty. From whitewater rafting, to buildings dating back th...

Read More

Craving a Craft Brew? Check out these West Virginia Favorites

The craft brewery scene in West Virginia has experienced a remarkable renaissance, growing from just five breweries prior to 2009 to 36 ope...

Read More

Glamp or Camp Your Way Through Spring in West Virginia

Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars at a rustic forest site or soaking in a private hot tub from your luxury yurt, Almost Heaven...

Read More

Extend Your Adventure with these Backpacking Getaways in West Virginia

West Virginia offers some of the most rugged and scenic backpacking getaways on the East Coast, characterized by its "Almost Heaven" landsc...

Read More

Whitewater Rafting Season is Just Around the Corner in West Virginia!

The whitewater rafting season in West Virginia typically kicks off in early April, signaling the start of a thrilling, three-season adventu...

Read More

Chase the Thrill on these Almost Heaven Off‑Road Routes!

West Virginia offers some of the most extensive and diverse off-road opportunities in the eastern United States, most notably through the w...

Read More
More Inspiration