Fall Archives

Marshall University vs. Middle Tennessee State University

Watch the Marshall University Thundering Herd take on the Middle Tennessee State University Blue Raiders on Friday, October 5th at

WVU vs. University of Oklahoma

Watch the West Virginia Mountaineers take on the University of Oklahoma Sooners on Friday, November 23rd at Mountaineer Field at

WVU vs. Texas Christian University

Watch the West Virginia Mountaineers take on the Texas Christian University Horned Frogs on Saturday, November 10th at Mountaineer Field

WVU vs. Baylor University

Watch the West Virginia Mountaineers take on the University of Baylor Bears on Thursday, October 25th at Mountaineer Field at

WVU vs. University of Kansas

Watch the West Virginia Mountaineers take on the University of Kansas Jayhawks on Saturday, October 6th at Mountaineer Field at

The best ways to go leaf peeping in West Virginia

This fall, immerse yourself in the dazzling colors of the Mountain State’s fall foliage. See everything from the brilliant yellows

These 4 spots are perfect for fall foliage in West Virginia

Before the branches go bare, make sure to check out these West Virginia stops for the best October fall foliage.

FAMILY EXPLORER: 2018 Salute to our Veterans and First Responders Air Show at West Virginia International Yeager Airport

Paige Butcher, Family Explorer Come and enjoy two full days of free family fun at the Salute to our Veterans

LOCAL WARES & FARES EXPLORER: No, Salt Isn’t Just Salt!

Nancy Bruns, Local Wares & Fares Explorer A friend came over the other day to help me prepare a meal

FESTIVAL EXPLORER: 8 Ways to Experience a Wild and WonderFall Season in Greater Morgantown

Susan Riddle and the GMCVB team, Festival Explorers It’s that time of year again when family, friends and visitors journey

BUDGET TRAVEL EXPLORER: Weekly Fall Foliage Report Offers Tips on Best Color, Scenic Drives

Barry Cook, Budget Travel Explorer Autumn in West Virginia is a brief but beautiful window, when the days grow cooler

These Kid-Friendly Restaurants in West Virginia are perfect for the whole family

Looking for new restaurants your kids will love? These spots in West Virginia are perfect for the whole family. From

These West Virginia-Made Bits & Bites make for perfect gifts

Looking for some unique West Virginia flavors and products? These places have everything to satisfy your Mountain State cravings and

Uphill and Downhill: The top ways to do both in West Virginia

No matter the season, there is adventure to be found in the Mountain State. Rain or shine, day or night,

These 6 Restaurants in West Virginia Serve Cheeseburgers that will Blow Your Mind

There’s nothing quite as good as finding the perfect burger spot. Here’s a list of Almost Heaven places with cheeseburgers

4 must-try experiences in the New River-Greenbrier Valley Region

The New River Gorge region is home to some of the best West Virginia experiences. With so many to choose

FestivALL Fall: An Evening With WV Dance Company

This powerful and energetic company brings intimate interpretations of human experience to life through movement and dance. Enjoy several pieces

FestivALL Fall: The Comedy of Errors

Back by popular demand, the American Shakespeare Center returns to FestivALL Fall, this time with their production of The Comedy

5 Farm Activities that are Perfect for Fall in West Virginia

Fall is a magical time in the Mountain State. As the leaves begin to change and the air becomes crisp,

These 5 Places Have the Most OVER THE TOP Milkshakes in West Virginia

Crazy, over-the-top milkshakes are one of the most popular trends across the country right now, and West Virginia has some

Here are some Helpful Tips as Hurricane Florence approaches

As Hurricane Florence approaches, it’s important to take precautions to ensure everyone’s safety. For the latest news, check with these

The most unique places to stay in West Virginia will amaze you

Located throughout West Virginia you can find unique, beautiful and special locally owned motels and inns with incredible customer service

These College Football Teams Bring Action and Excitement to the Mountain State

Football has finally returned to the Mountain State! No matter what team you’re affiliated with, everyone can agree that college

Do you want to explore Almost Heaven? This is where to start

So, you want to explore West Virginia but you don’t know where to begin? Don’t worry – you aren’t alone.

Looking for a wild ride? Then you must visit this place

Grab some friends and try something new when you visit Hatfield-McCoy Airboat Tours in Matewan. On your tour you will

The world’s tastiest apple was born right here in West Virginia

Every third weekend in September a special festival is held in the Mountain State, the Clay County Golden Delicious Festival.

This West Virginia River Transforms for Six Weeks Every Fall

West Virginia is home to some of the finest whitewater rafting found anywhere in the world. Thousands of people flock

OUTDOOR EXPLORER: Ready, Set, Go To The Gauley! 5 Need-To-Know Planning Tips

Heather Johnson, Outdoor Explorer It’s hard to believe that Gauley Season will be here in a few short weeks! Like

MUSIC EXPLORER: 10 Reasons to Attend a Mountain Stage Show

Larry Groce, Music Explorer Before I get to the ten reasons to join us for a live Mountain Stage show,

HISTORY & HERITAGE EXPLORER: Check Out These Only-In-West-Virginia Monuments You Have to See To Believe

Jeanne Mozier, History & Heritage Explorer In West Virginia, monuments are quirky and occasionally dedicated to fictional figures – maybe.

LUXURY EXPLORER: Experience America’s Resort, A Four-Season Travel Destination

Cam Huffman, Luxury Travel Explorer It’s a question that’s posed almost as often as When was “The Greenbrier built?” (1913)

LUXURY EXPLORER: Proximity – The Real Luxury of the Eastern Panhandle

Stephanie Mathias, Luxury Explorer As a native of West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle, having close proximity to Washington, D.C. meant I

FESTIVAL EXPLORER: FestivALL Fall Events Highlight the Best of West Virginia

Mallory Richards, Festival Explorer FestivALL Fall brings the essence of autumn to life throughout the rolling hills and valley of

ENTERTAINMENT EXPLORER: Hidden Gems in Hip, Historic Charleston, West Virginia

Alisa Bailey, Entertainment Explorer With unique food, art, recreation and music, a visit to Charleston, West Virginia, is the Mountain

These Are The Best Pancakes in West Virginia

A stack of big, fluffy pancakes is the perfect way to start your morning. But here in the Mountain State,

This Fall Festival Has Been A Tradition For 77 Years!

Fall is right around the corner, and what better way to kick off the most magical season in the Mountain

Fill Your Heart with Fall: Fests for the Season

This fall immerse yourself in all things West Virginia by attending some of the states most exciting and unique festivals.

Mark down these 12 MUST-DO West Virginia Fall events

West Virginia is the perfect place for a fall getaway. With so much to do in the Mountain State, it

Discover the Perfect Scenic Drives in West Virginia

“Country roads, take me home, to the place I belong.” We all know this song by heart. In fact, you’re

Discover Why West Virginia Rafting Will Soon be in the National Spotlight

It is no secret that West Virginia boasts some of the finest whitewater rafting in the world. It continues to

Whitewater Adventure is Perfect for All Ages in West Virginia

Picture this: You’re rushing down the New River with your closest friends. The cool, fresh water splashes across the smile

National Grandparents Day was created in this small West Virginia town

Did you know that National Grandparents Day has roots in West Virginia? We celebrate Grandparents Day thanks to Marian Herndon

Relax amongst the adventure at these 6 incredible places

It’s a known fact that West Virginia is home to incredible adventure, but the Mountain State is also full of

The 1862 battle is of significant historical value to our nation and a valuable West Virginia Landmark. Battlefield Barn Bash includes: historic Potomac river crossing (water levels permitting) and tours of the Shepherdstown Battlefield, food, music, and living history re-enactments.

The 10 Best Spots for Trail Running in West Virginia

From flat, peaceful runs through the West Virginia countryside to runs that will take you up to see some of

C & D Bunner Family Spooky Yard Haunt

We are truly a Family Yard Haunt. We have 32 different themed rooms/areas, plus a maze to walk through. Kids Day: October 6 from 1pm - 5pm and October 21 from 1pm - 3pm. All Ages welcome. The kids may wear their costumes these days. We ask that no face masks be worn or anything else on their face please! We will have a face painter available free of charge. The kids get to walk through the Haunt and collect candy and treats. There are no tricks. We will have treat bags to give to the kids this day. The first 50 kids in Saturday and Sunday will receive a T-shirt. Fright Night: October 13 and 27 from 7:30pm - 11:00pm. Please remember this is for ages 12 and up ONLY. These two nights are much darker. All ages welcome, but could be scary for young children; Admission Free; Donations Welcome. Please park at Mt. Nebo Church and walk up or park along side the road were the rope lights are located. We are not handicap accessible.

Mount Hope Jubilee

Friday, September 14th: Alumni Meet & Greet; Street Dance 6pm – 9pm Saturday, September 15th: 9:30am music begins, 10am parade, vendors throughout the day.

6 Incredible Almost Heaven whitewater rivers and how to experience them

Among many attractions, West Virginia offers visitors some of the most incredible whitewater rafting in the world. Since 1968, rafters

The Simon & Garfunkel Story

The Simon & Garfunkel Story is back! This immersive concert-style theater show chronicles the amazing journey shared by the folk-rock duo Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel. Using huge projection photos and original film footage, this performance features a full live band performing all the hits including “Mrs. Robinson,” “Cecila,” “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” “Homeward Bound,” and many more. Get your tickets fast as this is an evening not to be missed.

The Wizard of Oz: The Spectacular New National Tour

There truly is no place like home as the greatest family musical of all time, the wonderful The Wizard of Oz, twists its way to Morgantown! The entire family will be captivated as they travel down the Yellow Brick Road and beyond with Dorothy, Toto and their friends the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow in this lavish production, featuring breathtaking special effects, dazzling choreography and classic songs. A spectacular celebration of the iconic 1939 MGM film, The Wizard of Oz will blow you away from the moment the tornado touches down and transports you to a dazzling Oz, complete with munchkins and flying monkeys. Don’t miss the chance to travel “Over the Rainbow” and experience this national treasure on stage.

West Virginia Symphony with Lee Greenwood

Grammy Award-winning, singer-songwriter Lee Greenwood is best known for his patriotic anthem “God Bless the USA.” Voted the most recognizable patriotic song in America, “God Bless the USA” has landed in the top 5 on the country singles charts three times (1993, 2001, 2003). Greenwood joins the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra in their performance of “Lee Greenwood: Salute to America,” featuring some of Greenwood’s most famous songs, including “God Bless the USA.” Founded in 1939, the WVSO performs more than 50 concerts annually. WVSO Musical Director Lawrence Loh is in his second season with the Symphony. Loh has an affinity for pops programming and currently leads annual pops programs with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, where he previously served as a resident conductor.

Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo: A Very Intimate Acoustic Evening

Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo met each other in 1979 for the first time, in a small rehearsal room at SIR studios in New York City. The rest as they say, “is history.” Pat Benatar’s staggering vocal range and Neil Giraldo’s trailblazing artistry as a guitarist, producer, songwriter and arranger, together forge the undeniable chemistry and unprecedented sound that created some of rock’s most memorable hits, including “Love is a Battlefield,” “Heartbreaker,” “We Live for Love,” “We Belong,” and the signature, “Promises in The Dark.” Together they have sold over 30 million albums worldwide and won an unprecedented four consecutive Grammy awards. Their rock and roll love affair has endured for more than three and a half decades. Theirs is a chemistry that will undoubtedly be thrilling music fans forever.

Morgantown Marathon

Conquer one of the most challenging courses, with more than 2,000 feet of elevation gain, at the 5th Annual Morgantown

50 Facts to Celebrate 50 Years of Whitewater Rafting in West Virginia

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the whitewater rafting industry in West Virginia. Whether you are a beginner or

Which Backcountry Vehicle fits You Best for Almost Heaven Adventure?

With so many back-country vehicles to choose from, it can be hard to decide which is best for you. Whether

Railfan Weekend at the Elkhorn Inn

Looking for an ideal railway tourism destination? Look no further than the Elkhorn Inn, dubbed "the best legal train-watching location in the USA" in Railfan & Railroad magazine. The Railfan Weekend will include multiple dinners inside authentic railway dining cars, a unique, historic getaway for two. The weekend will also host special guest Michael Kisser of RailStream.net, so you're sure to learn something new.

Bands, Bites and Brews

These fun and easy day-trips prove you’re never far from Almost Heaven fun

West Virginia is conveniently located within a few hours of many of our country’s major cities. Richmond, Virginia; Lexington, Kentucky; Pittsburgh,

West Virginia Camping 101

While West Virginia is home to so many great outdoor activities, camping is one of the best! From sleeping under

Capitol Theatre Presents ‘Of Devils and Men’

West Virginia-based playwright and director Lawrence Burgess is back with a new courtroom drama mixed with a hint of the supernatural. In 2021 West Virginia, the death penalty has been enacted into law. Twelve jurors (one is the devil) must decide the fate of the accused, with great new consequences from their decision. One of them has a secret... .......and the end has come! Friday, October 19 at 8pm Saturday, October 20 at 8pm Sunday, October 21 at 3pm Friday, October 26 at 8pm Saturday, October 27 at 8pm Sunday, October 28 at 3pm Wednesday, October 31 at 7pm Admission: $15 general admission; $10 Sundays

BB Riverboats Kanawha River Sightseeing Cruise

BB Riverboats is bringing our largest paddlewheel boat, The Belle of Cincinnati, to Haddad Riverfront Park. Our unique venue will provide a Sightseeing Cruise from 3pm-5pm, while sailing through downtown Charleston on the mighty Kanawha River. Enjoy the scenery as we travel both North and South of Haddad Riverfront Park. Capture the entire beauty of South and North Charleston from the Kanawha River. Snack bar and bar available onboard. Please call reservations to reserve your tickets today, 859-261-8500. Sightseer: $23 Adult, Kids $17

Thomas Rhett Life Changes Tour

THOMAS RHETT Thomas Rhett scored his first No. one hit in 2013 with “It Goes Like This," introducing a sound that mixed the southern swagger of county music with pop hooks, R&B grooves, soulful strut, and the anything-goes attitude of rock. WITH SPECIAL GUESTS BRETT YOUNG and MIDLAND Brett Charles Young is an American country pop singer and songwriter. Brett is currently touring with his band which includes lead guitarist Sam Davis, drummer Billy Hawn, guitarist Matt Ferranti, and bass guitarist Noah Needleman. Midland is an American country music group formed in 2016 in Dripping Springs, Texas, consisting of Mark Wystrach (lead vocals), Cameron Duddy (bass guitar, background vocals), and Jess Carson (lead guitar, background vocals). In addition to their roles in the band, Wystrach is an actor and model, and Duddy is a music video director. The band has released one studio album, On the Rocks, which has accounted for three charted singles on the Billboard country music charts: "Drinkin' Problem", "Make a Little" and "Burn Out". The band's musical style can be defined as neotraditionalist country.

Mountain Stage featuring BKO Quintet

BKO Quintet’s music is born from a meeting between five established artists. This gathering provides a journey into the heart of the contemporary Mali. BKO is a power quintet from BAMAKO Associating the guitar of griots with the lute of Bambara hunters had never been undertaken before in the Malian music universe. It is indeed two opposite worlds that BKO have decided to bring up together in order to develop a resolutely urban music style rooted in secular tradition.

American Idol Auditions

Think you have the talent to be an American Idol? The popular TV show makes a stop in Charleston to audition hundreds for a shot at stardom.

Stay in these 14 cabins for relaxing getaways

From rustic cabins perched upon a mountain to secluded hideaways, these cabins will provide the relaxing getaway you’ve been looking

Tamarack Dinner Theatre – Hamlet

Dinner Theatre | Hamlet Tamarack: The Best of West Virginia and The Rustic Mehcanicals - West Virginia's Shakespeare Troupe proudly presents Hamlet! 2 showings: October 12th & October 13th Hamlet has the world at his feet. Young, wealthy, and living a hedonistic life studying abroad. Then word reaches him that his father is dead. Returning home he finds his world is utterly changed, his certainties smashed and his home a foreign land. Struggling to understand his place in a new world order he faces a stark choice. Submit, or rage against the injustice of his new reality. As relevant today as when it was written, Hamlet confronts each of us with the mirror of our own morality in an imperfect world. Written by William Shakespeare, Perfromed by The Rustic Mehcanicals - West Virginia's Shakespeare Troupe Dinner is served at 6:30pm, show begins at 8pm. A cash bar will be available at dinner and during the show. Menu: Smørrebrød (Rye Bread with Smoked Salmon & Dill Crème Fraiche And Pumpernickel Bread with Liver Pate) Danish Corn Feast Soup (corn, carrots, potatoes, celery, onions, and garlic) Krebinetter (Breaded Pork Cutlet, Fried Apples, Boiled Potatoes, Orange Glazed Beets) Rye Bread, Rolls & Butter Risalamande (Rice Pudding with Spiced Cherry Topping)

45th Annual Apple Butter Festival

Join us for the 45th Annual Apple Butter Festival! With no admission fee and activities for all ages, this is

6 Iconic West Virginia Views & The Top Ways to Experience Them

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing, scenic Sunday afternoon drive through the mountains or an adventure-filled hike to an iconic

From mild to wild: West Virginia rafting for families

Looking to spend some quality time and bond with your family away from all the hustle and bustle? Giver whitewater

Wing connoisseur? Visit these 5 places

Do you consider yourself a wing expert? If so, visit these places for unique wing experiences. These are the perfect

This tiny West Virginia town packs a ton of history

Holding the title of “smallest town in West Virginia,” according to Country Living, Thurmond’s official population is 5. Although today

True West Virginia Nightlife: Stargazing Must-Sees

The Mountain State is known for its incredible scenic beauty and outdoor adventure opportunities, but did you know its also

Find your perfect West Virginia spa getaway today

In need of a spa getaway but not sure where to go? Relax, we’ve got you covered. With locations all

The 10th Annual Heartwood In the Hills Fundraiser

help support arts for the underserved children and youth of Central WV. A lovely outdoor event with food, music and incredible mask and costume display from Heartwood!

Ready to get out of your comfort zone? Try this!

Have you been feeling the need to shake things up recently? Perfect! The Mountain State offers some of the best

5 best places to pick up West Virginia-made goods

Throughout the Mountain State, you can find incredible artisan-made goods that have been inspired by the state’s iconic beauty. Whether

Your guide to campsites with a side of luxury in West Virginia

Are you a fan of the outdoors but not ready to commit to sleeping in a tent? We’ve got you

2018 West Virginia Book Festival

Meet your favorite authors at this free, two-day celebration of books, reading, writing and creativity. Visit the Children’s Word Play area, see authors and vendors in the Festival Marketplace and find a bargain in the giant Used Book Sale (Saturday only). Activities and events for all ages. Friday, October 26 at 10am to 9pm; Saturday, October 27: 8am-5pm

Stop by these amazing must-see areas for true West Virginia experiences

It’s no secret that West Virginia has some of the best and most unique experiences to offer. From whitewater rafting and

How many West Virginia creatures can you spot?

West Virginia is home to over 500 different species of wildlife ranging from birds to amphibians and everything in between.

These 5 dishes are nacho average snack

Sometimes nothing hits the spot quite like a towering pile of nachos. All around the Mountain State, you can feast

Have you been to the secret bunker at the Greenbrier? The ‘Today’ Show has!

Did you know that carved deep into the mountainside of West Virginia is an emergency Cold War fallout shelter? Housed under

Your guide to whitewater rafting in West Virginia

It’s no secret that West Virginia is one of the best places in the world to whitewater raft. From the

WV Symphony presents: A Percussive Surprise

Program: Ludwig van Beethoven: Coriolan Overture Richard Danielpour: “The Wounded Healer” Percussion Concerto Sergei Prokofiev: Romeo & Juliet Lawrence Loh, conductor Lisa Pegher, percussion Lisa Pegher is known for pioneering percussion as a solo instrument within the orchestral realm and beyond. New York City’s "The Glass" once described her as “More than just a drummer—an alchemist of time, sound, and space, crafting visceral landscapes that penetrate the earsand mind.” Pegher will perform Richard Danielpour’s “The Wounded Healer” Percussion Concerto, which he wrote especially for her, with the WVSO in November.

WV Symphony presents: Lee Greenwood, Salute to America

Lee Greenwood is an award-winning country music icon known for the most recognizable patriotic song in America, God Bless the USA. This Academy of Country Music Male Vocalist of the Year's CD "American Patriot", went platinum in just three months. Greenwood will perform with the WVSO at the newly remodeled Charleston Civic Center with special VIP seating and hospitality tables on the arena floor.

WV Symphony presents: Pipe Dreams

Program Franz Schubert: Rosamunde Overture Francis Poulenc: Organ Concerto Beethoven: Symphony No. 1 Lawrence Loh, conductor Bradley Welch, organ Hailed as “a world-class virtuoso” and “an expert at defining darks, lights, shadows and colors,” Bradley Hunter Welch is increasingly in demand as a recitalist, concerto soloist, and collaborative artist. Since winning the Dallas International Organ Competition in 2003 Welch devotes his full-time attention to a thriving solo concert career.

WV Symphony presents: Opening Night Spectacular!

Program Michael Torke: Javelin Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky: Piano Concerto No. 1 Sergei Rachmaninoff: Symphonic Dances Lawrence Loh, conductor John Nakamatsu, piano Jon Nakamatsu is a true aristocrat of the keyboard, whose playing combines elegance, clarity and electrifying power. Of his 2014 solo disc of the piano works of Robert Schumann, BBC Music Magazine said “Nakamatsu clarifies Schumann’s mid-range saturated textures to a remarkable degree, reveling in its fantastic imaginings with rapier-like precision and effortless command.”

South Side Depot – Fall Foliage Train Rides

A beautiful train through the winding foothills of the Potomac Highlands- it's a wonderful time for family, friends and kids! A short trip of just 1 1/2 hours to see some of the most beautiful fall colors around- the trip here will be worth it! Call the South Side Depot to get your tickets! Fall Train Rides- October Saturdays 6th, 13th, 20th Times: 10am, 12:30pm, 3pm Sundays 7th, 14th, 21st Times: 12:30pm and 3pm Ticket Prices: Adult $20 Senior $15 (60+) Child $10 (2-12) Child under 2 free Tickets will go on sale in June- Call the South Side Depot purchase your tickets.

South Side Depot – Fall Foliage Train Rides

6 of the Best Places for Dinner & a Natural Show

Have you been craving those amazing one-of-a-kind summer nights enjoying delicious food and incredible views with your friends and family?

Eastern Panhandle 101

History Just a short distance from DC, the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia is a mecca for history, scenery and

Celebration of Lights

Local individuals, families and businesses have sponsored over 420 lighted holiday displays for your viewing enjoyment. These displays decorate the road around Morris Park located on Pleasant Valley Road in Fairmont. Many people and groups volunteer their time to help with the set up and daily operation of Celebration of Lights event. Each year, over 1,000 hours of volunteer time is dedicated to producing this event for the public. Please come enjoy the displays! The event is sponsored by the Rotary Club of South Fairmont.

Marion County Dancing with the Stars

Join the United Way of Marion County and the Marion County Chamber of Commerce on October 13, 2018, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., for Marion County's Dancing with the Stars. The event will be held at the Falcon Center on the campus of Fairmont State University in Fairmont, West Virginia. Six couples compete in the dance competition to take home the coveted Mirror Ball Trophy!

These 4 places serve West Virginia’s best moonshine

West Virginia is said to be one of the birthplaces of moonshine. Also referred to as mountain dew or white

51st Annual Railroad Days

For two weekends in October, the streets are filled with a variety of vendors, great food, live entertainment, and carriage rides through the Hinton Historic District. The Railroad Museum showcases model railroad and John Henry exhibits, photo and art exhibits, and more. New River Train Excursions runs daily trips from Huntington, WV to Hinton, WV each day of the festival.

Discover Fall in Almost Heaven

Featured Road Trip

Get A True Taste of West Virginia Along This Memorable Route

Check Out These Charming Small Towns in Almost Heaven

A Memorable Trip Through the Potomac Highlands

Explore Some of West Virginia's Most Stunning Sights

You Can Take a Drive and a Dip Along This Historic Loop

Public Waters

National Parks

State Parks

Wildlife Management Areas

National Forests

Mountain Towns

Cabins & Vacation Rentals

Campsites

Bed & Breakfasts

Hotels & Motels

Resorts

State Parks

Spring

Summer

Fall

Winter

Archives

Discover Fall in Almost Heaven