History & Heritage
From a former top-secret U.S. bunker to the home of John Brown’s famous raid, West Virginia’s history is rich and diverse. West Virginia was the only state to be born out of the Civil War and has since spent its years developing and promoting a culture that is filled with one-of-a-kind historical destinations you have to see to believe. Your version of history heaven awaits.Featured Itinerary
DAY 1
Begin your trip in Huntington with fresh-brewed coffee and a breakfast sandwich from Butter It Up, located in The Market. Then, take a step back in time at Heritage Farm Museum and Village for a living history demonstration of Appalachian culture. Next, visit the nearby Museum of Radio & Technology which houses 10,000 square feet of displays telling the story of entertainment technology from the 1920s to present. Chow down for lunch at the Marshall Hall of Fame Cafe before heading East on I-64 to Charleston where you can take a self-guided tour of the West Virginia State Museum and walk the vibrant grounds at the State Capitol. In late afternoon, walk the Sunrise Carriage Trail before dining at one of the many local restaurants on Capitol Street. End your day with a stay at the Brass Pineapple Inn for a quaint and charming night.
DAY 2
Follow Route 119-S to Madison and take a mid-morning tour of the Coal Heritage Museum. Continue to Logan to connect with nature at Chief Logan State Park then grab a bite to eat at Morrison’s Drive Inn. In the afternoon, continue south to Williamson for a brief stop at the Hatfield-McCoy Museum before making your way east to Matewan. Take a self-guided walk along the historic flood wall or tour the famous Coal House before feasting on BBQ at Wingo’s Grill. When you’re ready to rest, check in to the Matewan Bed & Breakfast for a comfortable night’s sleep.
DAY 3
After a hot B&B breakfast, begin your morning journey on Route 52 East for an up-close view of West Virginia’s coal towns. Arrive in the charming town of Bramwell and take a driving tour along “Millionaire Row,” a section of affluent homes that are a picturesque reminder of the area’s rich history. Enjoy a light lunch at The Corner Shop then drive to neighboring Princeton for countless historic sites including the Princeton Railroad Museum, Mercer County War Museum and the Clay Memorial Park. Finish the day with fine dining at David’s Downtown then spend the night at The Baker’s Hill Inn in Bluefield before returning home in the morning.
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