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
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
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
Mountain Stage: Livingston Taylor
Livingston Taylor picked up his first guitar at the age of 13, which began a 50-year career that has encompassed performance, songwriting, and teaching. Livingston recorded his first record at the age of 18 and has continued to create well crafted, introspective, and original songs that have earned him listeners worldwide. His musical knowledge has inspired a varied repertoire, and he is equally at home with a range of musical genres—folk, pop, gospel, jazz—and from upbeat storytelling and touching ballads to full orchestra performances. Advance Tickets: $20; Mountain Stage Members: $15; Day of Show: $30; All Tickets General Admission
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
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
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!
This WV town has one of the biggest 4th of July celebrations
You could say that Independence Day is Ripley’s favorite holiday. Ripley’s 4th of July celebration dates back to the late
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
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
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
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
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
Fourth of July in Ripley
Join 'America's Largest Small-Town Independence Celebration.' A full day includes the Little Patriots Hour with superheroes, Firecracker 2-Miler Race, and Grand Parade. Free concerts include the Ladies for Liberty Andrews Sisters tribute), Parrots of the Caribbean (Jimmy Buffet tribute), and Dwight Icenhower (Elvis tribute). The free show is capped by the 10 p.m. fabulous fireworks.
Classic Rock & Comedy
The free show on the lawn of the Jackson County Courthouse begins with festival favorite Phil Dirt & The Dozers. Funnyman Bil Lepp is next on stage followed by Surf's Up, a tribute to The Beach Boys.
Zach Williams Concert
Christian rock award-winner Zach Williams is the headliner for the annual U-Turn concert. The free event is on the lawn of the Jackson County Courthouse in Ripley.
Free Concert in Ripley
Nashville's Dave & Daphne, comedian Jacob Hall and Rick K & The Allnighters perform a free evening of entertainment on the lawn of the Jackson County Courthouse.
Charleston Metro Bands Concert
A free outdoor concert on the lawn of the Jackson County Courthouse features patriotic marches, Broadway tunes and movie hits.
Kanawha Kordsmen Concert
Making their Ripley debut is The Kanawha Kordsmen. The group has been specializing in the barbershop-style music for more than 40 years. The Kordsmen represent the Greater Kanawha Valley Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society. More than two dozen voices will join for a free outdoor concert on the lawn of the Jackson County Courthouse Square in Ripley.
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
The Last Gallows: John Morgan’s Farewell
"Gallows" is a new dramatized documentary about the last public execution in West Virginia. John F. Morgan was convicted in 1897 of using a hatchet to murder three family members. He was hanged in front of a crowd of 5,000 spectators in Ripley. The incident was described in a 1965 bluegrass song by Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs.
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
The ultimate West Virginia beer road trip
Venture your way through the Mountain State and have some incredible brews along the way! From IPAs to stouts, each
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
The Ultimate West Virginia Wine Road Trip
Journey through the Mountain State and visit stellar wineries set upon our gorgeous, rolling hills along the way. Each stop
West Virginia Black Walnut Festival
Founded in 1954, the West Virginia Black Walnut Festival began as a gathering centered around bringing your walnuts to Spencer to have them weighed and sold to the nut company. 64 years later, the BWF is going strong with a carnival, crafts, live music, a car show, exhibits, a grand parade, good food and great times!
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
Celebrate Free Comic Book Day in West Virginia
In an era of big box stores and online shopping, the neighborhood comic shop has stood the test of time,
You must try these 8 giant burgers in West Virginia
What makes a hamburger special to you? Is it the chargrilled, juicy beef? Is it the way you dress a
5 incredible motorcycles rides in West Virginia
There’s nothing quite like riding over the mountains and through the valleys of West Virginia. Whether you want a curve-hugging,
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
Relax during these 6 easy adventures in West Virginia
Everyone knows that West Virginia is the prime place for hard-hitting adventures like whitewater rafting the Gauley River’s class V+
BYOB- Bring your own banjo to these down-home mountain music fests
What’s more fun than a jam session beneath the trees? Grab your instrument of choice and get to pickin’ at
This huge, four-day-long festival in West Virginia has a little bit of everything
For more than half a century the Mountain State Art and Craft Fair has been as closely stitched into West
Celebrate Earth Day in West Virginia
Earth Day is celebrated worldwide every April 22 in an effort to promote a healthy, sustainable environment. There are many
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
Rip through these 4 roarin’ raceways!
West Virginia’s rural hills and hollows combine with our bold “go-for-it” attitude to make motocross (MX) a top-rated sport. The
The Sweeter Side of the Feud Distillery and Winery
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.
THIS festival is the sweetest spot in West Virginia
The town of Ripley has held a festival every March since 2008 to celebrate one of the most important things
GSC Bluegrass Band
Glenville State College's Bluegrass Band will perform a free concert at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 24 in the historic Alpine Theatre. Seating is limited to 120.
Afternoon With Mark Twain
American author and humorist Mark Twain will be portrayed by Doug Riley of Tunnelton as part of the West Virginia Humanities Council's History Alive program. The pen name for Samuel Clemens, Twain is known for works such as The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. Ironically, he died April 21, 1910. The free performance is in the historic Alpine Theatre, 210 W. Main Street in downtown Ripley.
10 iconic overlooks in West Virginia that will WOW you
What makes a view scenic? Is it the layers of purple mountains blending into the horizon? Acres of rolling green
Mark Twain Afternoon
Celebrate the life of American author and humorist Samuel L. Clemens on the anniversary of his death in 1910. Doug Riley portrays "Mark Twain" in Ripley's historic Alpine Theatre, 210 W. Main Street in Ripley. The performance is through the WV Humanities Council's History Alive!
Gentle Hikes for All Ages in Almost Heaven
With a nickname like the Mountain State, you might think hiking is a tough chore in West Virginia. But West
Antique Tractor Pull
Antique Tractor Pulls.
Tour de Lake XC Mountain Bike Race
Charles Fork Lake is a 70-acre impoundment located in Roane County approximately 2 miles southeast of Spencer. It is accessible from WV Route 36 via County Route 36/2. The Tour de Lake Mountain Bike Race is one of the most popular and longest running events in the WV Mountain Biking Association points series. Saturday, March 24th - Short Track Race - Registration 1:00-3:30 PM, 1st Race 3-3:30 Sunday, March 25th - XC Race - Registration begins 9 AM, Kids Race 11 AM, Pre-race meeting 11:45 AM, Race Start 12:00 PM Registration for both the Short Track and Cross Country are available at https://www.usacycling.org/.
‘Aliens Among Us’ Mini-Con
This 4th annual event is hosted by the Jackson County Public Library at the corner of Church & North streets in downtown Ripley. Activities include role play games, crafts, costume contests and Jedi Training Camp. Call 304-372-5343 for details.
Tales of Three Liars
Spend April Fool's Eve in the historic Alpine Theatre with champion liars James Froemel of Morgantown, Ian Nolte of Huntington and Jacob Hall of Charleston. Call 304-514-2609 for details.
These 13 signature West Virginia wines hit all the right notes
Whether you prefer a dry red or a sweet dessert wine, you’re sure to find the perfect glass at
8 Unique Sandwiches in West Virginia
Not all gourmet meals require a knife and fork. You can eat these West Virginia-made sandwiches on the go, but
Holiday Craft Workshops
Make a gift for someone special or perhaps a decorative item for the home. Choose from holiday baskets, wood carving, stained glass, wood turning, or dulcimer. Call 877-426-8056 for details.
Road Scholar Crafts
Nine craft workshops are available at Cedar Lakes Conference Center, near Ripley. Topics are Fiddle, tin smithing, creative writing, bread making, wood turning, quilting, stained glass, watercolors, and basketry. Call 877-426-8056 to register.
Road Scholar Crafts
Choose from eight topics at Cedar Lakes Conference, near Ripley. Basketry, primitive rug hooking, blacksmithing, quilting, stained glass, watercolors, dulcimer, and wood turning are offered.
Road Scholar Crafts
Choose from 10 workshop topics at Cedar Lakes Conference Center, near Ripley. Topics are blacksmithing, photography, wood turning, quilting, stained glass, woodcarving, watercolors, basketry, nature printing and playing the fiddle. Call 877-426-8056 for details.
Road Scholar Crafts
Choose from seven craft workshops at Cedar Lakes Conference Center, near Ripley. Basketry, dulcimer, quilting, wood turning, watercolors, stained glass, and creative writing are available. Call 877-426-8056 to register.
Road Scholar Crafts
Choose from eight class workshops. Basketry, wood turning, photography, quilting, nature printing, watercolors, marquetry & parquetry are offered. Register at 877-426-8056.
Holiday Craft Workshops
Make a gift for someone special or a decorative item for your home. Workshop topics are painting, stained glass, wood turning, photography, and playing the bowed psaltery. Call 304-372-7860 for information.
Craft Week @ Cedar Lakes
Workshops in the craft house are stained glass, basketry, painting, wood turning, and dulcimer. Call 304-372-7860 for registration details.
Craft Week @ Cedar Lakes
Six workshops are offered through the craft program at Cedar Lakes Conference Center. Topics are blacksmithing, fiddle, acrylics, wood turning, woodcarving, and dulcimer. Call 304-372-7860 for information.
Craft Week @ Cedar Lakes
Ten craft workshops are offered. Topics are basketry, quilting, fly fishing, wood turning, creative writing, watercolors, woodcarving, blacksmithing, stained glass and playing the bowed psaltery. Call 877-426-8056 for details.
Craft Week
Artisans are offering workshops about basketry, quilting, stained glass, woodcarving, watercolors, wood turning, blacksmithing and playing the dulcimer. Call 877-426-8056 for details.
Quilting Retreat
This week-long workshop features three talented instructors. Judy Lilly will focus on covered bridge quilts. Log cabin quilts are taught
Old Time Fiddle Week
Learn from master fiddle player Dave Bing. The workshop is for intermediate and advanced players. Call 304-372-7860 for information.
Craft Spring Fling
Six craft options are available for this weekend getaway. Choose from basketry, beading, painting, wood turning, penny rugs or playing the ukulele. Call 304-372-7860 for details.
Potter’s Gathering
Master potter Bill van Gilder of Maryland is leading the 39th annual Potter’s Gathering at Cedar Lakes Conference Center, near
Crafty Cabin Fever Weekend
A informative weekend getaway is planned at Cedar Lakes Conference Center in Ripley. Learn basketry, wood turning, stained glass, wool felting and psaltery playing from professional instructors. Call 304-372-7860 for information.
Have you shopped at these locally owned grocery stores in West Virginia?
Independent grocery stores make it easy for you to get fresh, natural foods and other products while supporting your local
Ripley Convention & Visitors Bureau
WV Chocolate Festival
Have a “sweet” time during Ripley’s 12th annual Chocolate Festival. It begins with a 10 a.m. parade through downtown Ripley
The WV adventure continues indoors at these 5 spots
Cold, rainy (or snowy!) weather got you down? Never fear! There are plenty of things to do indoors in West
Mountain State Art & Craft Fair
A tradition since West Virginia's Centennial of 1963, this event is known as "The Granddaddy of Art & Craft Fairs." The 4-day Fair features more than 100 artisans, music, food and culture in five villages that made early Appalachia special: Celtic, Italian, German, Swiss, and The Americas.
Checklist: Best thing to try at every WV State Park
With nearly 50 state parks and forests spread across the state, West Virginia provides a scenic piece of Almost Heaven
Holiday Open House 2017
Wine tasting, food, and sales.
10 West Virginia classes that will turn ANYONE into an artist
Set aside the stick figures and get hands-on with an art class in West Virginia. Whether you want to learn
Gal getaways: 6 women-only events and places
Would you and your girlfriends like to escape for a weekend or evening? Head to the Mountain State for indulgent
6 doughnut shops in WV that will make your mouth water
Whether you like yours topped with sprinkles or stuffed with raspberry jelly, donuts in the Mountain State are sure to
The must-try beer from every WV brewery
West Virginia’s growing craft beer scene is creating a ton of delicious, must-try beers from all over the state. Here’s
Here We Come A-Caroling
Storyteller Susanna "Granny Sue" Holstein and guitarist Jeff Seager share the origins of Christmas carols. Many were brought to America from 'the old country.'
Vietnam: WV Veterans Remember
More than 35,000 West Virginians served combat duty in Vietnam. Five of them are featured in this 1-hour documentary produced by WV Public Television. Admission is free. Donations are accepted for the Jackson County Hunting Heroes program.
Meet West Virginia’s unique fruit: the pawpaw
Have you ever tried a pawpaw? This oblong, greenish brown or yellow fruit that has a sweet, custard-like flavor similar to
Ripley Ghost Walk
Storyteller Granny Sue leads the "Do You Believe?" ghost walk, a 1-mile stroll through downtown Ripley. The lantern tour features tales of local history such as WV's last public hanging and the tragic death of the town's namesake, Harry Ripley. Walks begin at 6:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. from the Jackson County Courthouse. Call 304-514-2609 to register.
Agatha Christie Murder Mystery
"And Then There Were None" is on stage in Ripley's historic Alpine Theatre. The 3-act murder mystery is presented by The Jackson County Players. A 2 p.m. Sunday matinee also is available.
Veterans Day with Landau Eugene Murphy, Jr.
Ripley's 10 a.m. parade from the high school to the Jackson County Courthouse features the 400-member Military Honor March and two large parade balloons. The 11 a.m. ceremony on the courthouse lawn includes patriotic selections by West Virginia's Landau Eugene Murphy, Jr.
West Virginia’s oldest movie theater is still going strong
West Virginia is home to dozens of grand old theaters harboring a century’s worth of memories dating back to the
Blessing of the Animals
Got Pets? We Bless! Bring your furry, feathered, finned (and even scaled!) creatures to Saint Matthews Episcopal Church for a Blessing of the Animals in honor of St. Francis of Assisi Day. Join The Reverend Kim Webster at 6PM in the Payne Memorial Garden on October 4, 2017 for this wonderful ceremony. St. Matthew's is located at 36 Norwood Road in Charleston, WV. For more information, please call 304-343-3837.
Mountwood ATV Adventures
Downtown Throwdown – BBQ & Brewfest
Our premier fall event in downtown Parkersburg has quickly become the Downtown Throwdown BBQ and Brewfest. Our Brewfest features many of West Virginia’s craft beers. Attendees will have the option to purchase various BBQ and other food items from their choice of food vendors. Most vendors accept cash only, but there are ATM’s in the vicinity of the event. At the end of the evening, attendees are encourage to cast their vote for the favorite BBQ item in the ballot box at the main gate. At the end of the evening, our winner will be announced and receive their award. Local entertainment provides this event with the atmosphere to sit back, relax and enjoy the evening. This event is made possible with the support of the Parkersburg Jaycees and other sponsors.
Land Baron Outfitters
4th Annual Parkersburg Paddlefest
Parkersburg Paddlefest is a fun-filled three day festival dedicated to people-powered watercraft. Kayaks, Canoes, and Stand-up Paddleboards are welcome to come and participate in this unique event. Point Park, at the confluence of the Ohio and Little Kanawha Rivers, is the setting for the first two day’s activities, and the weekend concludes with a lake excursion on Sunday at North Bend State Park Lake.
Free Music Seminar
West Virginia's "Ambassador of Music" Dick McVey is leading this session in the historic Alpine Theatre. He is a 30-year veteran on the Nashville scene as an entertainer, producer and publicist. The event is hosted by the Jackson County School of Music. Contact Laurie Shultis on Facebook for information.
Rodeway Inn
Econo Lodge
Classic Plastics Toy Store
Beginning Craft Workshops
Several workshops geared for beginners are available near Ripley. Learn fiber stools with Dallas Skeen, dulcimer with Martha Turley, wool felting with Debbie Martzel, photography with Ron Gaskins, blacksmithing with Cody Fields, and stained glass with Troy Knight.
Blacksmithing & Pastels
The art of pastel painting is taught by Vivian Ripley and blacksmithing with Cody Fields are offered near Ripley.
October Craft Workshops
Five craft workshops are available near Ripley. Learn rug hooking with Diane Kelly, photography with Ron Gaskins, rug hookingwith Byron Young, dulcimer playing with Heidi Muller, and water colors with Jerre Watkins.