Experience Historic Stops for the Whole Family in West Virginia This Summer
Home to endless historic stops – especially in the summertime, West Virginia is the perfect playground for families to explore and create incredible memories. Throughout the state, families can find historic spots that not only tell amazing stories of the past but also provide fun for the entire family. Visit these historic locations this summer for meaningful memories.
Heritage Farm Museum and Village
A place where kids can run around, explore and learn, Heritage Farm Museum and Village allows visitors to experience firsthand the ways of early pioneer life. As West Virginia’s first Smithsonian Affiliate, Heritage Farm is the perfect place to visit the past and learn the history of early settlers. At Heritage Farm, families can visit the Artisan Center, the Blacksmith Shop, the Log Church, Makerspace, museums, Conway Homestead Site, Petting Zoo and Six Simple Machines Discovery Zone. Both kids and adults will enjoy the different exhibits, attractions and workshops that are available at Heritage Farm.
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, Harpers Ferry National Historical Park continues to be a favorite destination amongst families. At Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, visitors can stroll down the parks beautiful, picturesque streets, explore the many different museums and exhibits, hike the trails and battlefields and experience a historic trades workshop. The park features many historical locations including John Brown’s Fort, where John Brown and many of his followers barricaded themselves in 1859 as well as the Jefferson Rock, a landmark made of large masses of Harpers shale and where Thomas Jefferson stood on October 25, 1783.
Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to explore a vintage coal mine? The Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine shows visitors a true representation of early 20th century coal camp life. At the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, the whole family can ride through the dark passages of the coal mine, visit a recreated coal camp, explore the Youth Museum and pick up a special souvenir from the gift shop to remember your trip by.
Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park
Accessed via sternwheeler, beautiful Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park is perfect for families to stroll and explore. At Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park, visitors can enjoy tours of the gorgeous grounds and mansion or simply enjoy the park via a horse-drawn carriage ride. The island has an incredibly rich history, settled in 1789 by Harman and Margaret Blennerhassett. In 1805, thry allowed their estate to become headquarters for Aaron Burr’s military expedition to the Southwest, an episode that raised the island to national renown and awarded it a permanent footnote in American history.
This post was last updated on March 18, 2022