12 Prettiest Small Towns In West Virginia
West Virginia's charm isn’t just in its towering mountains and rolling hills: it's found in the pretty small towns that dot the landscape. From the vibrant fall foliage to the peaceful pace of life, these places showcase the true meaning of 'Mountaineers are Always Free.' Whether you seek history, adventure, or a warm, welcoming atmosphere, these towns, from Lewisburg to Shepherdstown, offer an unforgettable escape in the Mountain State.
Lewisburg
Lewisburg is located in southeastern West Virginia, surrounded by the wooded ridges of the Allegheny Mountains. The town features a preserved downtown with stone churches, brick storefronts, and one of only four Carnegie Halls still in use worldwide. Washington Street runs through the center, lined with small businesses, local galleries, and a historic courthouse.
The nearby Greenbrier River Trail, a converted rail line, offers over 75 miles of flat trail for walking, biking, and skiing. Several parks and green spaces border the town, offering mountain views and seasonal color, especially in fall.
Lewisburg hosts regular community events, including the Lewisburg Chocolate Festival and a local food fair. The town remains walkable, with well-kept homes, quiet streets, and a mix of public buildings and small shops that reflect its long history.
Shepherdstown
Shepherdstown is the oldest town in West Virginia, located along the Potomac River in the Eastern Panhandle, near the border with Maryland. Founded in 1762, it retains much of its colonial layout and architecture. German Street, the main thoroughfare, is lined with stone buildings, small cafes, and independent bookstores. Historic homes and churches surround the town center, many of which date to the 18th and 19th centuries.
The nearby C&O Canal Towpath runs parallel to the river and draws walkers, cyclists, and birdwatchers. Fall brings sharp color to the hills, and the river offers calm views year-round. Morgan’s Grove Park and the James Rumsey Monument Park add green space close to town.
Shepherd University contributes to the town’s quiet energy, hosting cultural events, lectures, and concerts. Weekly farmers’ markets and seasonal parades bring residents and visitors together.
Fayetteville
Fayetteville sits near the New River Gorge, surrounded by forested hills and sandstone cliffs. The town is a gateway to New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, where visitors can hike, climb, and paddle in one of the most scenic areas of Appalachia. The iconic New River Gorge Bridge, just minutes from downtown, offers sweeping views year-round, with peak fall foliage drawing crowds in October.
The town itself features a compact historic district with brick sidewalks, restored buildings, and locally owned shops. Cathedral Café, housed in a former church, serves as a community hub. Art galleries and outfitters reflect the town’s active and creative culture.
Outdoor trails begin at the town’s edge, including the Long Point Trail, which leads to a viewpoint overlooking the bridge.
Berkeley Springs
Tucked into the mountains of Morgan County, Berkeley Springs is known for its natural springs, colonial history, and quiet, tree-lined streets. The town grew around warm mineral waters long believed to have healing properties. Today, Berkeley Springs State Park still features public Roman-style bathhouses fed by the springs, drawing visitors seeking both history and relaxation.
The downtown area includes historic inns, antique stores, and art galleries, all set against the backdrop of forested hills. The architecture blends 19th-century brick storefronts with wooden cottages and porches draped in ivy. Nearby, Prospect Peak provides a high-elevation view of the Potomac and Cacapon valleys, especially vivid in autumn.
The town hosts regular festivals, including the Apple Butter Festival each fall, which adds a layer of tradition and small-town warmth.
Thomas
Located in Tucker County, Thomas is a former coal town turned arts hub that sits along the North Fork Blackwater River. Its historic downtown follows a narrow ridge and features original brick buildings from the early 1900s, many now housing galleries, cafés, and vintage shops. This preserved main street creates a compact and walkable setting full of character.
Surrounded by the Allegheny Mountains, Thomas offers access to dramatic landscapes year-round. The nearby Blackwater Falls State Park is known for its 57-foot waterfall and dense forest trails, especially scenic during fall when the foliage peaks in bright orange and red. The town is also minutes from the Monongahela National Forest.
Thomas maintains a quiet rhythm with local music events, art walks, and a Saturday market. The Purple Fiddle, a live music venue in a former general store, draws travelers and musicians from across the region.
Davis
Davis sits high in the Allegheny Mountains near the Canaan Valley and offers a rugged, scenic setting that stands out across the state. At over 3,000 feet in elevation, it is one of West Virginia’s highest towns and provides access to some of the region’s most striking natural landscapes. The nearby Blackwater Falls State Park features the iconic 57-foot waterfall and miles of trails through dense forest, rhododendron thickets, and mountain vistas.
The town itself blends historic structures with a low-key, welcoming atmosphere. Brick storefronts and weathered wooden buildings line the main street, housing bike shops, cafés, and a popular brewery. A short drive brings visitors to the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge and Dolly Sods Wilderness, known for panoramic views, rare plant species, and highland plateaus.
Harpers Ferry
Harpers Ferry stands at the meeting point of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, surrounded by steep, forested hills that create a dramatic setting. Its well-preserved 19th-century architecture lines narrow, hilly streets that descend toward the water, offering visitors a walkable glimpse into the past. Much of the town is part of Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, where stone buildings, cobbled lanes, and interpretive signs tell the story of John Brown’s 1859 raid and the town’s Civil War history.
The scenic beauty extends beyond the historic core. The nearby Maryland Heights Trail climbs to a cliffside overlook with sweeping views of the rivers and town below. Seasonal changes bring spring blossoms, colorful fall foliage, and mist rising off the rivers in winter.
Wardensville
Wardensville, located near the Virginia border in Hardy County, blends Appalachian scenery with a growing arts and culinary scene. Tucked into a valley between forested hills, the town is surrounded by natural beauty, including the nearby George Washington National Forest. Trout Run and the Lost River flow through the area, adding to the quiet, rural charm.
The historic downtown features brick storefronts and wood-frame buildings that house bakeries, craft shops, and cafés. Wardensville Garden Market is a hub for local produce, handmade goods, and community events. Just outside town, visitors can hike trails in Lost River State Park, explore scenic backroads, or watch for wildlife along the river.
Marlinton
Nestled in Pocahontas County, Marlinton is a picturesque town surrounded by the rolling hills and dense forests of the Monongahela National Forest. Known for its natural beauty, Marlinton is a gateway to outdoor adventures, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The Greenbrier River runs through the town, offering scenic river views and opportunities for kayaking and fishing.
Marlinton’s historic district is home to well-preserved buildings, including the Pocahontas County Courthouse and a variety of charming homes. The town’s main street features local shops, cafés, and antique stores that contribute to its quaint atmosphere. During the warmer months, the town hosts the annual Pocahontas County Opera House concert series, which adds a lively cultural touch to the peaceful surroundings.
For nature enthusiasts, the nearby Cass Scenic Railroad and the famous Snowshoe Mountain resort provide year-round recreation.
Philippi
Located in the heart of Barbour County, Philippi is a charming town rich in history and natural beauty. Known for its historical significance as the site of the first land battle of the Civil War, Philippi boasts several well-preserved landmarks, including the Philippi Covered Bridge, one of the oldest covered bridges in the state. The bridge spans the Tygart Valley River, providing a scenic spot for photography and reflection.
The town’s main street is lined with a mix of colonial-era buildings, antique shops, and cozy cafés, adding to its quaint atmosphere. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Tygart Lake State Park, where opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking abound. Philippi’s close-knit community and annual festivals, like the Blue and Gray Reunion, celebrate its heritage and offer visitors a chance to experience local traditions.
Glenville
Glenville is surrounded by lush forests, tranquil lakes, and meandering rivers, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The nearby Stonewall Jackson Lake State Park is a prime spot for boating, fishing, and hiking, with expansive views of the Appalachian Mountains.
Glenville is also known for its charming downtown, where Victorian-style homes and classic buildings create a nostalgic atmosphere. The town hosts a variety of local events, including the annual West Virginia State Folk Festival, which celebrates traditional music, crafts, and culture.
Buckhannon
Located in the heart of West Virginia, Buckhannon is a charming town known for its rich history and scenic beauty. Surrounded by the Allegheny Mountains, Buckhannon offers stunning views, particularly in the fall when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red and gold. The nearby Audra State Park is a favorite for outdoor activities, featuring hiking trails, picnicking spots, and picturesque river views.
Buckhannon’s downtown area is a highlight, with well-preserved historic buildings, including colonial-style homes and the grand Upshur County Courthouse. The town’s welcoming atmosphere is enhanced by its friendly residents and active community events. The West Virginia Strawberry Festival, held each spring, draws visitors with its local foods, crafts, and parades.
From charming streets to breathtaking views, West Virginia’s small towns are full of surprises. They offer a slower pace and a sense of freedom that is hard to find elsewhere. Whether you are exploring historic sites, hiking scenic trails, or simply relaxing in a cozy café, these prettiest towns invite you to slow down and take it all in. In the Mountain State, adventure and serenity are always just around the corner.
