West Virginia’s small towns hold the keys to adventures that can’t be found elsewhere. From historical landmarks to engaging local businesses, these gems will have you wishing you were a local yesterday.
Keep a lookout for these small towns and the adventures on your horizon.
Milton 🏺
Milton should rank high on your list if you’re into locally made fine china and antiques. Head to Cabell County to shop and tour Blenko Glass Company, a family-owned and operated glass company since 1893. Located in Milton since 1921, Blenko prides itself on relying on old-school craftsmanship, imaginative designs and attention to detail to produce hand-blown glass. Shop for vintage treasures at The Old Timey Shop. Find everything from decorative knick-knacks to high-quality furniture and glassware.
Wheeling ⛳️
In the Northern Panhandle, Wheeling is known as the friendly city. Watch live entertainment at The Capitol Theatre, an elegant Victorian theater venue that hosts performances of all types. If you’re feeling lucky, The Wheeling Island Hotel-Casino-Racetrack offers the best in gaming, entertainment and more. While in the heart of downtown, get your picture on the Almost Heaven swing at the Wheeling Heritage Port, just outside of WesBanco Arena.
Let the adventures continue at Oglebay Park Resort and hit the green at the award-winning Arnold Palmer Signature Course and the popular Robert Trent Jones, Sr. Designed Speidel Course. To learn more about how West Virginia came to be, West Virginia Independence Hall is a museum dedicated to the state’s history.
Charleston 🏙️
Charleston may be the capital city of West Virginia, but deep down, it’s a small town with a big personality. For an epic view of the city, walk on the 1.4-mile Sunrise Carriage Trail. Follow the steady gravel incline looping around large rocks and steep drop-offs, providing great views of the city as you work up the trail. The Capitol Market is a perfect place to spend an afternoon shopping. Along with fresh produce, you can find unique West Virginia gifts and goodies.
Gaze at the magnificent 293-foot gold dome of the State Capitol, which is five feet higher than the dome of the U.S. Capitol. You have plenty of options for lunch or dinner, including Adelphia’s Sports Bar for authentic Greek cuisine, Pies and Pints next door for delicious pizza, and much more.
Fayetteville 🌊
Fayetteville is a small town that’s also the gateway to the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, one of the nation’s newest national parks. Plan an epic recreational retreat with local outfitters, Adventures on the Gorge or ACE Adventure Resort. Hop on the New and Gauley rivers via a whitewater rafting trip, go on a zipline canopy tour, rock climbing and much more. Choose from an array of cabins, vacation-style homes, lodges and campsites to extend your adventures.
You’ll be surprised by how much flavor this tiny town packs. Secret Sandwich Society features trendy chicken sandwiches named after U.S. Presidents. Try breakfast or lunch at Cathedral Cafe, a former church that converted its sanctuary to a spirited dining hub. Try Pies and Pints for mouthwatering pizza creations and quench your thirst with a craft beer from Bridge Brew Works.
Huntington 🍻
Huntington is a vibrant town that offers something for everyone. Visit Pullman Square, a lifestyle center in the downtown area with arcade bars, perfect for nightlife and special occasions. You’ll also find antique malls, quaint boutiques and consignment stores. Heritage Farm Museum & Village is West Virginia’s way to take you back to pioneer times and features 15 log structures, five log cabin inns with modern amenities, a barn retreat center and much more.
For outdoor adventures, Ritter Park features a creek that winds through acres of manicured lawns, a walking trail, a dog park, tennis courts, an amphitheater and a famous rose garden. Just 25 minutes away, the beautiful Beech Fork State Park offers biking, boating, camping, hiking and fishing.
Fairmont 🍝
The birthplace of the state’s iconic pepperoni roll, Fairmont is the perfect balance of small town charm, history and outdoor recreation. Shop for iconic knick-knacks and more at Arts & Antiques Marketplace, where over 80 vendors’ riches are spread over three floors. Try the original delicious pepperoni roll from Country Club Bakery, and get a forkful of some of the most authentic Italian food at Muriale’s Italian Restaurant & Catering. Putt your way through Appalachian history at Coal Country Miniature Golf, where the obstacles are made from vintage mining equipment.
Less than 30 minutes away from town is Valley Falls State Park, with 1,145 acres of beautiful scenery and a stop on the West Virginia Waterfall Trail. Nearby hiking trails include the scenic 1.9-mile Rhododendron Trail and seven others. You’ll also see an Almost Heaven swing perched by the Tygart Valley River, making the perfect backdrop for your next Instagram post using #AlmostHeaven!
What other cool small towns are there in West Virginia? You’ll find a lot more to explore in our FREE West Virginia Vacation Guide!
Explore More TownsA Big Day for Small Town Adventures in #AlmostHeaven
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