5 Ways Destination West Virginia

Introduction to Destination West Virginia

West Virginia, known as the Mountain State, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, West Virginia is a destination that offers something for everyone. From the scenic beauty of the Appalachian Mountains to the exciting attractions of its cities, West Virginia is a place that will leave you with unforgettable memories. In this article, we will explore 5 ways to experience the best of Destination West Virginia.

1. Outdoor Adventures

West Virginia is an adrenaline junkie’s paradise, with a wide range of outdoor activities to suit all interests and skill levels. Some of the most popular outdoor adventures in West Virginia include: * Hiking and backpacking in the Appalachian Mountains, with over 200,000 acres of public land to explore * Whitewater rafting and kayaking on the New River and Gauley River * Rock climbing and bouldering in the scenic valleys and canyons * Cycling on the many scenic bike trails, including the famous Allegheny Trail * Fishing and hunting in the state’s many lakes, rivers, and forests

2. Cultural Attractions

West Virginia is also home to a rich cultural heritage, with a unique blend of Appalachian, African American, and European influences. Some of the top cultural attractions in West Virginia include: * The Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences in Charleston, which features a variety of art and science exhibits * The West Virginia Museum of American Glass in Weston, which showcases a stunning collection of American glass art * The Appalachian Power Park in Charleston, which hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year * The historic town of Harpers Ferry, which features a charming collection of shops, restaurants, and historic buildings * The West Virginia State Museum in Charleston, which tells the story of the state’s history and culture

3. Scenic Drives and Views

West Virginia is a state that is best seen from the road, with a network of scenic drives and byways that offer breathtaking views of the Appalachian Mountains. Some of the top scenic drives in West Virginia include: * The Midland Trail, which runs from Charleston to Lewisburg and features stunning views of the Kanawha River Valley * The Highland Scenic Highway, which runs from Richwood to Cass and features breathtaking views of the Appalachian Mountains * The New River Gorge Scenic Drive, which runs from Beckley to Fayetteville and features stunning views of the New River Gorge * The Kanawha Valley Scenic Drive, which runs from Charleston to Point Pleasant and features beautiful views of the Kanawha River Valley * The Country Roads Scenic Byway, which runs from Morgantown to Kingwood and features stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains

4. Food and Drink

West Virginia is also famous for its delicious cuisine, which features a unique blend of Appalachian, Southern, and Midwestern influences. Some of the top foods and drinks to try in West Virginia include: * Country roads coffee, which is made from locally-roasted coffee beans * West Virginia wine, which is made from a variety of grapes grown in the state’s many vineyards * Mountain State BBQ, which features a unique blend of sweet and tangy sauces * Appalachian apple cider, which is made from locally-grown apples * Pepperoni rolls, which are a classic West Virginia snack made from pepperoni and bread

5. Festivals and Events

West Virginia is also home to a wide range of festivals and events, which celebrate the state’s music, art, and culture. Some of the top festivals and events in West Virginia include: * The West Virginia State Fair, which features live music, food vendors, and animal exhibits * The Mountain State Forest Festival, which celebrates the state’s forestry industry and features live music and crafts * The Appalachian Stringband Festival, which features live music and dancing from some of the state’s top stringbands * The West Virginia Jazz and Blues Festival, which features live music from some of the state’s top jazz and blues musicians * The Mothman Festival, which celebrates the state’s famous Mothman legend and features live music, food vendors, and crafts

📝 Note: Before planning your trip to West Virginia, be sure to check the state's official tourism website for up-to-date information on events, attractions, and activities.

In summary, West Virginia is a destination that offers something for everyone, from outdoor adventures and cultural attractions to scenic drives and delicious food and drink. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or entertainment, West Virginia is a place that is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.