Town guide: Buckhannon
Fresh meals, outdoor attractions, and lively festivals define this Upshur County city.
Dining
At C.J. Maggie’s, indulgence is the main ingredient. This cozy family restaurant will spoil you with homemade sausage and meatballs, wood-fired pizza and savory chicken-and-biscuits. They also have loads of pasta recipes. Just make room for Cake-in-a-Jar— luscious desserts you can take home in a glass keepsake. Lemon raspberry cheesecake, peanut butter, caramel … decisions, decisions!
Fish Hawk Market is a true farm-to-table establishment. Chefs Dale Hawkins and Teresa Lipps prepare daily specials from local growers, all day long. Entrees aside, there are specialties like homemade bread, scones, cupcakes, cookies and pepperoni rolls. There’s even a gourmet “grab-and-go” section. It’s a quality restaurant that’s warm, welcoming and committed to home cooking.
For live music, head to 88 Restaurant and Lounge. Every Friday, a band or musician entertains diners— no cover charge. While you’re there, order classic sandwiches, seafood and hearty entrees. They serve traditional breakfasts, too.
Entertainment
Every spring, Buckhannon rejoices with its prized Strawberry Festival. This 8-day event packs in the charm with a horse-and-carriage parade, 
quilt show, draft horse pull and strawberry recipe competition. Bring an appetite, because vendors arrive with desserts, treats and meals dedicated to the crimson berry.
Jawbone Park takes farmers’ markets a step further. On Festival Fridays, locals gather in the evening for live entertainment, arts n’ crafts, music and more. These typically last from June to September, but confirm online before setting out.
The Lascaux Micro-Theatre skips mainstream movies and goes for the indies instead. It’s also where you can watch foreign flicks and documentaries.
Shopping
For more than 40 years, artist Ron Hinkle has made bright, complex glassworks. He crafts just about everything: tumblers, animals, vases and 
Christmas ornaments. His fragile “eggs” are fascinating, too. Each one swirls with vivid colors, stripes and dots. Visit his gallery Monday-Saturday or call ahead and ask him about demonstration times.
While you’re hunting for fine art, don’t pass by Artistry on Main. Local artists manage this co-op and sell pottery, wirework, sculptures and more. Pick up unique creations or sign up for lessons in basket weaving, needle felting and more.
Main Street Antiques and Collectibles is packed with tempting goodies, so prepare to browse! You’ll have to sort through glassware, knick knacks, furniture and books. They also have an ample wine and beer selection.
Recreation
Nature lovers should check out Audra State Park. The wooded preserve has scenic campgrounds, picnic spots and spots for kayaking. In fact, Middle Fork River is a popular whitewater destination. There’s also Alum Cave— a fascinating formation with a surging overhang.
History
One of the oldest homes in Buckhannon is Latham House. The quaint white dwelling dates to 1858.
History buffs also get a kick out of Pringle Tree Park. During the Seven Years’ War, 2 colonists deserted their fellow English soldiers. They fled to present-day Buckhannon and lived in a giant sycamore tree. Today, you can see the 3rd-generation plant!
Where to Stay
Prepare to be spoiled at A Governor’s Inn. 
The owners of this 19th-century home are generous with their homemade cookies. You’ll live well, too. Breakfasts are hearty, you might even get to taste banana and chocolate French toast! Look forward to private baths, snacks, robes and antique decor.
Bicentennial Inn is another option. Conveniently located on Main Street, the hotel boasts a complimentary beverage service, landscaped garden, books and a picnic area. The 88 Restaurant and Lounge is on the premises, too!
This post was last updated on March 16, 2022