Our 2021 Summer Bucket List

Golden sun rays and warm summer nights are the only thing on our mind as we approach the beginning of June. With all of this bubbling anticipation and longing for adventure, it can be hard to fit everything into a few quick months. To make things easy, we have taken care of all of the planning so all that’s left to do is hit the country roads!

Let our official 2021 Summer Bucket List guide the way.

Unique Stays

Log House Homestead

Cairo, WV

Settle in for a cozy night’s rest in a place like no other. When staying at the Log House Homestead, you will have the entire hand-hewn log home to yourself. While you enjoy the surrounding Parkersburg, stop by the beautiful North Bend State Park for some adventure and a scenic view or two.

Hotel Morgan

Morgantown, WV

Find a luxurious stay at the newly renovated Hotel Morgan, where a modern take on historic splendor awaits. While you relax and unwind, don’t forget to grab a craft brew or farm-to-table meal in Morgantown. Bonus: Enjoy easy access to your vacation home base with flights in and out of the Morgantown Airport.

The Cabin on Coney Island

Hinton, WV

Looking to immerse yourself in a fishing and floating respite? Head to Summers County, where your perfect retreat awaits among the trees. Only accessible by boat, a stay at The Cabin on Coney Island includes a private island– all for you! Fish your heart out as you relax at the confluence of the New and Greenbrier Rivers.

Trail Searching

Guadineer Knob

Cheat Bridge, WV

Randolph County is the proud home of some of the most popular trails in Almost Heaven. One of these hikes can be found in the Guadineer Knob area, where scenic views abound. Perfect for beginner hikers or those looking to find an easy overlook, this simple loop leads to a breathtaking landscape amid the historic red spruce trees. Stop by the mountain town of Elkins for a delicious bite to eat or a sweet treat.

Coal Heritage Trail

Beckley, WV

Enjoy a different type of passage on the Coal Heritage Trail. Head from town to town as you explore the National Coal Heritage Area and learn the history of coal mining in Raleigh County. Take on the coalfields where the monumental Battle of Blair Mountain was fought or head to the historic coal towns of Southern West Virginia while taking in all of the adventure the region has to offer.

Snowshoe Mountain Bike Park

Snowshoe, WV

Don’t let the lack of snow fool you– summer on Snowshoe Mountain is an adventurer’s paradise. Home to a world-class mountain biking park, a sunny day on the trails of Snowshoe is perfect for bikers of all skill levels. Spend your day riding the trails and then head out to the surrounding mountain playground of Pocahontas County, on Snowshoe Mountain and beyond.

Booze Cruise

Brix 27

Martinsburg, WV

If a taste for the finer things is on your list, Brix 27 is the perfect place for you. Enjoy a sophisticated selection of wines and locally sourced flavors, in a spot that offers fun-dining. After you get your fill, head out on the town in Martinsburg or retreat to a peaceful mountain escape.

hawk knob unsweet cider

Hawk Knob Hard Cider & Mead

Lewisburg, WV

If you find yourself in Greenbrier County this summer (and we recommend you do) don’t miss out on some of the best hard cider, hand-crafted here in Appalachia. Hawk Knob ciders are best enjoyed around a crackling campfire so grab some to-go or stick around and enjoy a brew in their Tasting Room.

The BARk

Charleston, WV

What better way to enjoy the warmth of summer than with a craft cocktail… on a dog-friendly patio? Bring your furry friend or go on your own to The BARk– either way, you are sure to meet man’s best friend. Don’t try to hold back your smile as your pooch enjoys a puptini and then head to the pet-friendly Capitol Market to complete your day in Charleston.

Aquatic Escapes

North Branch Potomac River

Barnum, WV

Pack up your flies and step into your waders– trout fishing awaits in Mineral County. Cast a line in one of the best trout fishing areas, where both rainbow and brown trout have been known to swim in abundance. Swing by Evan’s Dairy Dip for a sweet treat to round out your day on the water.

Adventures on the Gorge

Lansing, WV

Any bucket list in Almost Heaven could never be complete without a visit to the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve. Put on your game face and get ready for a wild whitewater adventure or opt for a family-friendly day on the river. Whatever you choose, any time spent on the water with Adventures on the Gorge is unforgettable.

Summersville Lake

Summersville, WV

When the heat of summer really hits there are few things as refreshing as a cooling dip. Find just that in Summersville at the “Little Bahamas of the East” or as you may already know it, Summersville Lake. Splash around with a boat rental or stick to the shore for some beachside relaxation.

Relax & Refresh

Canaan Valley Resort State Park

Davis, WV

Enjoy a mountain landscape like no other as you take on the green at Canaan Valley Resort State Park. Golf your way from one hole to the next until you have all 18 and a day of fun under your belt. Stay close to the course with a relaxing overnight stay in the resort lodge or a comfy cabin in beautiful Tucker County.

Mtn. Laurel Spa

If you have relaxation on the mind, it is time to head to Lewis County! Discover an indulgent escape at the Mtn. Laurel Spa with a tranquil massage or facial. While you find yourself at Stonewall Resort State Park stay for a lakeside meal or peaceful stroll along the boardwalk.

The Resort at Glade Springs

Daniels, WV

We love a rustic getaway but sometimes a blissful resort escape doesn’t hurt! At The Resort at Glade Springs, find more than meets the eye, with their seemingly endless list of activities and excursions. Book your stay in a comfortable hotel room or look into a vacation rental to fit the whole family!

All of this and more is on the horizon in Almost Heaven! Don’t miss a must-try adventure by letting our 2021 Vacation Guide lead the way. Request your FREE guide today!


Travelers are encouraged to check the status of individual businesses and to review all Travel Responsibly guidelines before taking a trip.

This post was last updated on May 26, 2023