2025's 11 Best Small Towns To Visit In West Virginia
Although not as popular as some of its Southern and Mid-Atlantic neighbors, the Mountain State consistently surprises newcomers with its picturesque mountain scenery and exotic outdoor adventures. Tucked away in the heart of Appalachia, West Virginia is home to countless small towns brimming with charm, history, and natural beauty. From panoramic riverside retreats to artsy mountain enclaves, these hidden gems offer the perfect escape from the tumult and turmoil of modern life.
Whether you are chasing fall foliage, exploring historic rail trails, or simply soaking up the serene landscapes, the best small towns to visit in West Virginia promise an unforgettable getaway steeped in local flavor and Appalachian hospitality. From Ripley to Davis, uncover the best escapes other than Harpers Ferry for anyone visiting the Mountain State in 2025.
Summersville
Summersville is one of the few lakefront communities in West Virginia, set on the scenic shores of Summersville Lake. The state's largest lake fuels year-round adventures, and visitors flock to Summersville Lake State Park to make the most of its 60-mile shoreline. Activities range from picnicking and hiking to boating and kayaking. Those who crave a soak in the glittering waters can head to Battle Run Public Beach, which boasts an extensive shoreline and thin crowds to guarantee a level of privacy.
The sleepy downtown region has a couple of hangouts where you can unwind after the tiring outdoor activity. This includes Maloney's Pub, a down-home establishment known for serving hearty meals and great cocktails in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Fayetteville
Fayetteville sits right next to the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, and promises vacationers a jam-packed itinerary discovering its stupendous natural scenery. A thrill rafting trip down the New River, courtesy of Cantrell Ultimate Rafting, is an excellent way to start on a high note. While there is no shortage of breathtaking sights to see in Fayetteville, Wolf Creek Falls leaves an impression with its multi-tier appearance, making for an unmissable photo opportunity.
Beyond its open spaces, downtown Fayetteville welcomes guests for captivating theatrical presentations by regional talent at the Historic Fayette Theater, featuring comedies, musicals, plays, and more. Alternatively, you can speculate on vintage treasures to buy at the New River Antique Mall.
Berkeley Springs
Nature, history, and the arts collide in this tiny Morgan County village to offer tourists a well-rounded experience. Berkeley Springs is famously associated with its naturally occurring springs, whose healing waters have drawn admirers since time immemorial. Many people gather at Berkeley Springs State Park for a mineral spa bath to benefit from the water's healing properties. The on-site Museum of the Berkeley Springs helps chronicle the park's rich history by displaying artifacts inside a 19th-century bathhouse.
Culture connoisseurs coalesce over a mutual thirst for the arts at Frog Valley Artisans to browse intimate pieces by regional artists. Meanwhile, those who wish to grab a memento before leaving the town can stop by Berkeley Springs Antique Mall.
Davis
This secluded gem on the Blackwater River banks has the vibes of a quintessential mountain town, flanked by pristine natural appeal. Ardent outdoorsmen are spoiled for choice with access to vast wilderness areas like Blackwater Falls State Park. Over 20 miles of hiking trails invite you to explore the reserve and revel in the majestic views of the Allegheny Mountains and the 62-foot Blackwater Falls. The adventures spread to the Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge, where a diverse population of local wildlife thrives.
Davis's active craft brewery scene promises guests refreshing craft beers whenever they feel like unwinding after a long day. At Stumptown Ales, you can catch up with peers in a neighborly atmosphere over great-tasting cold beers.
Barboursville
Barboursville is a charismatic town in Cabell County that impressively balances its lively downtown area with a picturesque backcountry riddled with natural treasures. The town square offers plenty of modern pursuits, including high-end shopping and dining at the Huntington Mall. This vast establishment houses at least 150 brand-name retailers, restaurants, and entertainment zones. Visiting families can also look forward to fun moments with loved ones at Tickers & Timbers, featuring escape rooms, a smash room, and a paint splatter room.
Outdoorsy tourists who wish to breach the downtown limits can head to Beech Fork State Park, where a 3,000-acre playground bordering Beech Fork Lake invites picnicking, fishing, birdwatching, and other activities. More reasons to embrace the great outdoors await at the 700-acre Barboursville Park.
Ripley
Ripley's marvellous outdoors combines the lush Ohio River Valley and the Appalachian foothills, resulting in breathtaking scenery. It offers multiple green spaces where visitors can reconnect with Mother Nature, such as RC Park. This family-friendly space is home to diverse recreational amenities, ranging from a swimming pool and a splash pad to ball fields. While exploring the backcountry roads, you will come across the Historic Staats Mill Covered Bridge. Built in 1887, the landmark is an excellent reminder of old-world bridge architecture.
The WV Artisan Market welcomes vacationers to shop for an array of cute wares and souvenir items by talented artisans from the region, including pottery, jewelry, woodworking, and more. Those who need something to eat can always pop into Roadhouse 2081 for mouth-watering steaks and fried chicken.
Shepherdstown
Shepherdstown is a historic college community along the Potomac River that traces its origins to the 1700s when the first settlers arrived. It shares its unique backstory at the Historic Shepherdstown Museum using a diverse collection of artifacts, including several relics from the Civil War period. Art is a big part of local culture, and Shepherdstown generates interest with professional stage performances at the Shepherdstown Opera House. This intimate venue stages a mix of theatrical presentations and movie screenings, making it a regional culture hub.
Booking a tour with Shepherdstown Mysteries Walk is an excellent way to discover the historic downtown district, with the help of a resourceful guide bringing to life each attraction's backstory. Meanwhile, those looking to get outside and enjoy the air can head to Morgan's Grove Park and relax under a shady tree.
Elkins
This adorable escape in Randolph County spoils adventurers with unlimited outdoor opportunities across its vast open spaces. It boasts a rich park system that encourages tourists to get outside, starting with the Fox Forest Wildlife Management Area. This sprawling jungle along the Tygart Valley River offers opportunities for hikers, anglers, boaters, and more. Meanwhile, the Stuart Recreation Area is another playground enveloped by the Monongahela National Forest, offering a serene escape from the noise of downtown.
Luckily, the town balances its wilderness activities with exciting pursuits around its bubbly downtown district. If you love the arts, you can stop by the Old Brick Playhouse Company for an engaging live play. Alternatively, you can explore the region's railroad heritage during the logging and mining heydays at the West Virginia Railroad Museum.
Buckhannon
One of the most beautiful towns to visit in West Virginia, Buckhannon's stunning outdoor landscapes combine the majestic peaks of the Allegheny Mountains and the meandering valley of the Buckhannon River. This cultivates exciting adventures for tourists throughout the 355 acres of Audra State Park. Here, recreational enthusiasts congregate to take advantage of camping, hiking, kayaking, and nature viewing activities. Some of the best river views await along the Buckhannon River Walk Trail, a 3-mile trek overlooking the pristine waterway.
Buckhannon is also known for its lively art landscape, and admirers come from around the region to catch theatrical performances at the Colonial Arts Center. Finally, souvenir lovers have a chance to sort through beautiful primitives and collectibles for something to buy at the Buckhannon Antique Mall.
Lewisburg
Set in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Lewisburg is a small town with big charm, boasting a vibrant performance art landscape, a rich history, and unmissable shopping opportunities. Its downtown neighborhood harbors a string of art centers, such as the Greenbrier Valley Theatre. This local hub connects the community with the arts through classes, events, presentations, and workshops. The same is true for Carnegie Hall, where audiences congregate to watch concerts, plays, dramas, and other enthralling performances.
Lewisburg's dynamic heritage comes to life at the Greenbrier Historical Society, where guests can take a tour to examine resourceful artifacts explaining life in the past years. Meanwhile, those who love to shop can find an assortment of farm produce, flowers, baked goods, and other items at the Lewisburg Farmers Market.
Marlinton
Marlinton is a secluded community along the Greenbrier River with all the answers to your outdoor adventure needs. Its serene and uncrowded natural areas cultivate gentle activities away from the noise, including biking, hiking, and horseback riding along the 70-mile Greenbrier River Trail to discover the beautiful backcountry. Meanwhile, over 10,000 acres of undisturbed nature draw visitors to Watoga State Park. Set on the shores of Watoga Lake, this recreation hub accommodates boaters, campers, anglers, and hikers year-round.
Besides the nature, Marlinton's interesting backstory is told by the Pocahontas County Historical Society Museum, which chronicles the region's past dating back to the Native American period. Elsewhere, the Pocahontas County Opera House entertains the community with compelling stage productions.
West Virginia offers a charming mix of natural beauty and small-town hospitality, making it a perfect getaway destination in the United States in 2025. Lewisburg, with its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and welcoming downtown, provides a delightful cultural experience. Meanwhile, Davis attracts outdoor enthusiasts with its stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and access to Blackwater Falls State Park. Whether you are exploring scenic mountains or discovering local heritage, these best small towns to visit in West Virginia offer a fraction of the gems in the Mountain State's underexplored corners.
