Exploring Almost Heaven is an amazing adventure, but doing so as a family makes it even more special. From high intensity activities to simply strolling a charming town, West Virginia is the perfect place to experience something new with the whole family. You’ll never forget the cherished memories you’ll make in Almost Heaven.
New River-Greenbrier Valley
Home to endless amounts of family fun, The New River-Greenbrier Valley region of the state is both exciting and full of scenic beauty. Known for its iconic whitewater rapids, this region has several incredible outfitters such as ACE Adventure Resort, Adventures on the Gorge, River Expeditions and New and Gauley River Adventures, which specialize in rafting trips as well as other amazing adventures such as ziplining, rock climbing and much more.
Or discover the gorgeous state parks in the region like Babcock State Park, Hawks Nest State Park and Pipestem Resort State Park. A perfect experience for the whole family, the Pipestem Peaks Zipline Tour at Pipestem Resort State Park features nine zips, a cable bridge, a belay and reaches speeds of up to 50 mph. This thrilling adventure takes you through the treetops of Almost Heaven and provides incredible panoramic views.
Eastern Panhandle
Known for its incredible history, scenery and small-town charm, the Eastern Panhandle is perfect for a family adventure. A must-see is Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, with its picturesque streets, museums and exhibits, hiking trails and battlefields. There’s something to see and do at every corner.
Exploring the region’s charming towns such as Berkeley Springs, Shepherdstown, Charles Town and Martinsburg is a fun family activity. These beautiful towns are home to incredible restaurants, lovely boutiques and gorgeous places to stay. Visit Berkeley Springs State Park for a unique experience. The park is home to a mineral spa that has been in use since colonial times and is renowned for its warm spring water.
If a thrilling adventure is what you and your family seek, head to River Riders Family Adventure Resort in Harpers Ferry. At River Riders, families can experience flat water and whitewater tubing, ziplining, whitewater rafting trips, an aerial adventure park and more.
Hatfield-McCoy Mountains
The Hatfield-McCoy Mountains region of the state is rooted in rich history, abundant scenic beauty and outdoor adventure. Open 365 days a year, the Hatfield-McCoy Trails are a great way to explore the mountains of West Virginia and experience family fun at the same time.
Another beautiful location in this region is Chief Logan State Park, where the entire family can enjoy miles of hiking and biking trails, camping beneath the stars and fishing at Chief Logan Lake. Here, you can truly escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature.
After a day of exploration, cool off at Water Ways Waterpark. The waterpark features waterslides, a lazy river, kiddy island and more for the kids to enjoy.
Metro Valley
Bustling with shopping, dining and entertainment, the Metro Valley region is home to the cities of Charleston and Huntington. Whether you’re in Huntington or Charleston or in one of the smaller communities in-between, there’s always something to see and do.
In Huntington, visit Heritage Farm Museum and Village, a replica 19th-century Appalachian village. Here, visitors can learn, explore and have a fun time. The whole family will enjoy visiting the artisan center, blacksmith shop, museum and petting zoo. Other activities include touring the beautiful campus of Marshall University, Huntington Museum of Art and Camden Park.
Discover the capital city of Charleston, where you can tour the gorgeous State Capitol, experience the incredible State Museum at the Culture Center or simply stroll through the vibrant city.
For a unique experience, visit the Mothman Museum in Point Pleasant.
Mid-Ohio Valley
Charming towns, riverfront cities and a rich heritage make the Mid-Ohio Valley region so unique. Home to museums, theaters, specialty shops, historic sits and so much more, the Mid-Ohio Valley is perfect for exploration and discovery.
Visit Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park, accessed only via a sternwheeler ride on the Island Belle. This historical island is a must-see. On the island, visitors can tour the beautiful grounds and stunning Palladian mansion and take a horse-drawn carriage ride.
If a little fresh air is what you seek, hike, bike or go horseback riding on the 72-mile North Bend Rail Trail. The North Bend Rail Trail takes you across 36 bridges, through 10 tunnels and is part of the 5,500-mile American Discovery Trail.
Stop by Berdine’s 5 & Dime, where the whole family can find an incredible souvenir or special gift. Operating since 1908, Berdine’s 5 & Dime features tin toys, bulk candies, books, sewing items and more.
Mountaineer Country
The home of the West Virginia Mountaineers and the vibrant cities of Fairmont, Clarksburg and Bridgeport. There’s always something unique to do in the Mountaineer Country region. Touring the campus of West Virginia University is always a must. Walk around the lovely campus with its historic building and unique sights. Take a picture in front of the iconic Woodburn Hall, which was built in 1876 and placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Head to Fairmont and stop at Valley Falls State Park. Known for its series of four picturesque waterfalls, Valley Falls State Park is a peaceful and beautiful retreat. The whole family can also explore the parks 18 miles of scenic hiking and biking trails. Head into the city of Fairmont and explore its trendy shops and restaurants such as Joe N’ Throw, the Poky Dot and the Rambling Root.
Tygart Lake State Park is always an incredible family destination. This park features a 1,750-acre lake, stunning views and an array of outdoor activities. Here, fishing, boating, biking, camping and swimming are just waiting to be experienced.
Northern Panhandle
The Northern Panhandle region of the state is full of family-friendly activities. A National Historic Landmark, the West Virginia Independence Hall is also considered the birthplace of West Virginia. Visitors can visit the courtroom where West Virginia came to be the nation’s 35th state.
After a little bit of history, head to Oglebay Resort an incredible place for family time. At Oglebay Resort, the whole family will enjoy going to the Good Zoo, horseback riding, strolling the Bissonnette Gardens, pedal boating on Schenk Lake and trying the aerial challenge course.
The Grave Creek Mound Archaeological Complex in Moundsville is an incredible experience. The Grave Creek Mound is 2,000 years old and is the largest Adena Mound. Also, on site is the Delf Norona Museum, which features exhibits and displays.
Mountain Lakes
Outdoor adventures lie at every corner of the scenic Mountain Lakes region. In this region, enjoy swimming, snorkeling, water-skiing, boating and so much more thanks to Stonewall Jackson Lake, Stonecoal Lake, Summersville Lake, Sutton lake and Burnsville Lake. Stonewall Resort State Park is a secluded retreat and a lovely location for a family getaway. Stonewall Resort has a number of delicious restaurants to dine at and incredible adventures to choose from as well. Kids will enjoy stand-up paddleboarding on the lake and making s’mores by the fire pit.
In Summersville, stop by the Summersville Lake Retreat and Lighthouse, West Virginia’s only lighthouse. Visit the lighthouse for incredible views of Almost Heaven from the 360 degree gallery deck.
For a wild experience, the West Virginia State Wildlife Center in French Creek is always a fun stop. Here, visitors can see cougars, bears, snakes, golden eagles and many other animals in spacious enclosures, which allow the animals to interact with their environment.
Potomac Highlands
The Potomac Highlands region is nature’s playground. Families will enjoy strolling charming mountain towns, visiting incredible art galleries, dining at unique restaurants and of course, experiencing the regions one-of-a-kind adventures. This region is home to many iconic locations including Seneca Rocks, Spruce Knob and Dolly Sods Wilderness Area. All three of these beautiful locations provide amazing hikes and the most gorgeous scenic views.
A getaway to the mountain towns of Thomas and Davis is perfect for the whole family. These towns are home to incredible state parks such as Blackwater Falls State Park and Canaan Valley State Park. They are also home to beautiful art galleries, specialty shops and restaurants like Sirianni’s Pizza Cafe, The Purple Fiddle, Creature Art Gallery and The White Room.
Other adventures in this area include Smoke Hole Caverns, which provide guided tours of the caverns magnificent formations that were formed millions of years ago. This region is also known for its incredible train excursions. Both the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad and Durbin and Greenbrier Valley Railroad will take you on amazing trips through the scenic beauty of the state.
