history & heritage Archives

Mark These Upcoming Almost Heaven Summer Events On Your Calendar

Summer in West Virginia is the perfect time to enjoy all the fairs, festivals and other events the Mountain State

Fresh Strawberries and Fond Memories Await at the West Virginia Strawberry Festival

Since 1936, the West Virginia Strawberry Festival has worked to honor strawberry growers from all over the Mountain State. At

These train excursions will lead you to stunning places

The sights and sounds you’ll experience on an excursion along the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad are unparalleled. American Bald Eagles,

Scenic mountain drives make memories for a lifetime at this annual event

Stunning cars, scenic drives and splendid shows return to The Greenbrier in May. The Greenbrier Concours d’Elegance will be held

Do you know how the Gauley River’s ‘Lost Paddle’ received its name?

Traversing the legendary Gauley River is no easy task. Rafters have been flocking to its world-renowned rapids for years, and

These trails are the Perfect Way to Explore Almost Heaven

Trails are an incredible way to discover the scenic beauty of Almost Heaven. Around the state, more than 375 miles

Enjoy Southern Hospitality in Almost Heaven at These Charming Places to Stay

Around the state, charming hotels and motels welcome guests with southern hospitality each day. From historic hotels to unique motels,

These Almost Heaven Beers are Influenced by West Virginia History and Culture

West Virginia’s craft beer scene continues to grow, and it has become quite popular in recent years. Several breweries around

An Almost Heaven B&B Might Be for You if…

Cozy retreats. Historic locations. Fine Dining. Scenic Sights. Nestled in Almost Heaven, beautiful, historic, charming bed and breakfasts greet visitors

This James Beard Award-Winning Restaurant has been a Huntington Staple for more than 80 Years

Since 1938, Jim’s Steak and Spaghetti House has been a staple of the Huntington community. The restaurant has been a

Spring break adventures that will clear your mind and warm your spirit

Warm temperatures. Crisp morning air. A longing for adventure. Spring has found its way back to the Mountain State and

Vibrant Flowers and Historic Homes: Find Them This Spring in Almost Heaven

As spring breathes life back into the mountains of West Virginia, many homes around the state open their doors for

Spending your Saint Patrick’s Day in Almost Heaven

This Saint Patrick’s Day, you can celebrate Irish heritage no matter where you are in the Mountain State. Put on

Reed’s Mill

Visit these Hidden Castles in Almost Heaven

Hidden throughout West Virginia, castles can be found that will that take you back in time. Beautiful architecture, manicured grounds

Rich History & Scenic Beauty Lie On Every Corner of This Trail

Journey across the Washington Heritage Trail, a trail that George Washington himself blazed throughout his incredible life. The trail begins

ENTERTAINMENT EXPLORER: Historic Lewisburg, Topping Must-Do Lists from Around the Country

Greenbrier County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Entertainment Explorers Since its earliest days, Lewisburg has been a literal crossroads and commercial hub for

You can get an up-close look at these Almost Heaven factories

West Virginia is home to incredible businesses – many of which open their doors to share their crafts with the

Almost Heaven adventures for all to enjoy

The Mountain State is home to world-class adventure and exploration, offering a wide variety of options depending on visitors’ interests.

The peculiar story of West Virginia’s world-traveling mummies

Believe it or not, West Virginia is home to two scientific anomalies. In the small, historic town of Philippi, visitors

The trip you’ve been longing for. Memories in the making. That’s Almost Heaven.

If you’re looking to visit West Virginia, these iconic adventures are perfect ways to see Almost Heaven. Whether you’re looking

A look at 2019 in West Virginia: Important dates and events you don’t want to miss

Mark your calendars for these 2019 events in Almost Heaven. Which ones will you be attending? FEBRUARY: Cabin Fever Craft

Travel every Almost Heaven region

Each region in Almost Heaven is home to beautiful sites. From gentle rolling farmland to deep gorges and canyons, the

Most Instagram-friendly spots in West Virginia

Scenic views. Toppling ice cream sundaes. Tall waterfalls. These moments all call for photos. And, West Virginia has an abundance

Your Guide to Exploring the Monongahela National Forest

The Monongahela National Forest covers a massive area of nearly one million acres and is bursting with breathtaking scenery and

Discover fresh air and even fresher powder at the longest snow tubing run in the Mid-Atlantic

While skiing and snowboarding are perfect for adrenaline-seekers, Almost Heaven has something for everyone. If you enjoy a more relaxing

Elk Theatre

These special West Virginia buildings feature unique architecture and history

While West Virginia is known for its rolling hills, gorgeous mountains and abundance of wildlife, it is also home to

Snow doesn’t stop the fun in these Almost Heaven spots

When the leaves have fallen from the trees and snow has found its way to the Mountain State, the fun

Have you been to West Virginia’s six national parks?

National parks offer incredible opportunities to experience history, explore the state’s natural beauty and venture to gorgeous places you’ve never

These unique places to stay can only be found in Almost Heaven

Everyone needs a change in their normal routine from time to time. When planning your next vacation to West Virginia,

These West Virginia activities are perfect for your New Year’s resolutions

We’ve all said it – “New year, new me.” Each new year brings the opportunity for change. Outdoor activities are

West Virginia Cities by Day & Night

The Mountain State is home to a mix of vibrant, eclectic, unique and historic cities that are perfect for wandering

ENTERTAINMENT EXPLORER: 19 Ways to Explore Winter in Randolph County

Taira Landavere, Entertainment Explorer Winter is here! The first snowflakes have fallen from the sky, and there’s no better place

This unique WV event is one you probably haven’t heard of

One of the Mountain State’s most unique festivals during the holiday season is the Feast of the Seven Fishes Festival

The best places for ice skating in Almost Heaven

Whether you’re a child or just a child at heart, ice skating is something that you can enjoy. You may

Enjoy an Old Tyme Christmas in Harpers Ferry

This winter celebrate Christmas in an extra special way at the Harpers Ferry Old Tyme Christmas Festival. The festival kicks

This Group is Approaching 60 Years of Tradition at Oglebay Resort

For 90 years now, beautiful Oglebay Resort in Wheeling has been welcoming guests with generous hospitality. Thanks to the resorts

Insider’s Guide to Real-World WV Locations in Fallout 76

Looking to explore the real-life Mountain State locations in Fallout® 76? You’ve come to the right place. Through an exclusive partnership

Do you know the history of these 4 haunted West Virginia locations?

It is no secret that West Virginia is home to many spooky places. With a history as unique and deep

These 3 West Virginia locations are some of the spookiest in America

Everyone loves a good ghost story. Something about us loves the terrifying idea of the supernatural, no matter how often

This West Virginia cryptid has its own iconic trail

On a dark September night in 1952, several residents of Flatwoods, West Virginia experienced something they will never forget. Edward and

Who is the Mysterious Mothman?

“Couples See Man-Sized Bird … Creature … Something.” This was the headline on the front page of the November 16,

5 of the most haunted locations in West Virginia

With as much history as West Virginia has, there is no surprise that there is no shortage of hauntings. For

Your guide to college football game day in West Virginia

West Virginia University or Marshall University? Many West Virginians feel strongly about one or the other, and these two schools

These monsters of West Virginia folklore can be found in Fallout 76

Here’s a sneak peak at some of the West Virginia monsters of folklore that will be included in Fallout 76!

Did you know about West Virginia’s deep Italian heritage?

The West Virginia Italian Heritage Festival is one of the largest and most widely known annual events in the state.

Did you know these 6 West Virginia football traditions?

College football tradition runs deep in the Mountain State – both for Marshall University and West Virginia University! Every week,

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

These 6 little-known West Virginia facts are going to blow your mind

West Virginia is known for its scenic beauty and its one-of-a-kind adventures, but the Mountain State has so much more

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

Friends of Old Main

These incredible gardens in West Virginia are only open once every 2 years

Bluefield opens its magical land of gardens only once every two years! The event, “Through the Garden Gate,” showcases the summer

Fly through West Virginia with these pioneers of early aviation

Orville and Wilbur Wright are generally credited with the invention and successful flying of the world’s first airplane, but did

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

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,

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

1968-2018: A Look Back at the History of West Virginia Rafting

Whitewater rafting has been a staple of West Virginia and one of its most popular tourism attractions for many years,

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

155 ways to enjoy summer in West Virginia

West Virginia turns 155 years young on June 20! And while you’re spending the birthday exploring the beautiful state, here

Eastern Panhandle 101

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

Your Guide to Summer in West Virginia

Summer in West Virginia is that special time of year when everything looks and feels perfect! The trees are lush

Celebrate Father’s Day in West Virginia

Father’s Day is that one day a year dedicated to those who fulfill that role in our lives. And according

The Ultimate West Virginia Distillery Road Trip

Moonshine, whiskey, bourbon… oh my! If you have a taste for the wild side, we have the perfect road trip

These 6 Magnificent mansions in West Virginia are stunning

Scattered throughout the Mountain State are some of the most beautiful mansions dripping with opulence and begging for their history

Bramwell Train Depot Visitor Center

Everything old is new again: New turns for old places

West Virginia’s rich history is captured in lovingly restored churches, train stations, schools and homes that have been converted to

Flying into DC? Take a quick trip to the Eastern Panhandle in West Virginia

So, you’ve just flown into DC and are looking for something amazing to do. Well, look no further than the

You’re flying into West Virginia—now where to go?

The Mountain State is served by several primary airports offering commercial services. Is this your first time flying into West

Hit the history trail: 4 West Virginia road trips with heart

Planning your summer road trip? These fascinating trails might pique your interest in West Virginia’s rich culture and history. Download

4 must-dos at the West Virginia Vandalia Gathering

The Vandalia Gathering is West Virginia’s signature festival that celebrates traditional dance, music, and crafts. Families and friends will be

The unofficial start to summer in West Virginia

Summer is just around the corner! And West Virginia is the place to be. This season is truly a magical

5 farm workshops to learn traditional trades

If you’re a farm kid at heart but never had the opportunity to learn the traditional arts and skills associated

33 Things To Do On Route 33

Take a drive through scenic, rolling hills on Route 33 in Upshur, Lewis and Randolph counties to experience 33 unique

When it’s above 90 degrees, “Nature’s Air-Conditioned City” serves lemonade

Is there anything better than a glass of ice cold lemonade on a warm summer day? That’s why Bluefield is the

Did you know: Mother’s Day was created in West Virginia

The term “mountain mama” calls to mind our beloved state anthem, “Take Me Home, Country Roads.” But are you familiar

Mountain views & a show: The best amphitheaters in West Virginia

From waterfront views to dramatic views of the New River Gorge, each amphitheater in West Virginia is different, yet equally

7 Days, 7 Ways to Celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week

May 5-11, 2019 is National Travel and Tourism Week—an occasion established by congressional resolution 35 years ago to celebrate the

These 27 places know EVERYTHING about West Virginia

Have you consulted a local convention and visitor’s bureau when planning your trip? These organizations are staffed by friendly and

12 months, 12 festivals & events in West Virginia

Throughout the year, the Mountain State is home to some of the most unique and fun festivals and events. From

These 20 events are West Virginia must-sees

Parents hear it every year as school winds down for the summer: “I want something to do!” Fortunately, there’s always

You’ll never believe what West Virginia’s state fossil is

You’ve heard of the state animal (black bear) and the state tree (sugar maple) … but did you know

What’s a “panhandle”? Explore West Virginia’s most northern and eastern arms

Out of all 50 states, West Virginia has the most distinct shape, with two panhandles extending to the north and

5 mom and pop shops in West Virginia you must visit

You’ll never believe what you can find at some of the state’s oldest and most unique “mom and pop shops.”

Celebrate Easter in West Virginia

For many, Easter is a time for rebirth, renewal and reflection. It’s also a time for celebration and family fun.

There’s a 400-million-year-old ocean beneath West Virginia

Did you know there’s a 400-million-year-old ocean beneath West Virginia? It’s called the Iapetus Ocean, and it lies underneath the

Motorcycles in the Mountains

West Virginia’s twisting mountain roads were made for two-wheeling fun. The annual MountainFest Motorcycle Rally welcomes over 50,000 motorcycle riders