8 Most Inviting Towns in West Virginia
Bordered by Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Ohio, and Maryland in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States of America stands the state of West Virginia, which is home to just over a million people and overlooked by the scenic views of the Appalachian Mountains.
It is also home to West Virginia and Marshall College Sports Teams. The Mountain State is brimming with rich folk music and opportunities to discover the natural world and relax away from the vicissitudes of city life. If you have ever needed to take a break and enjoy yourself for a while, this state is filled with spirited small towns that draw you closer to paradise, like these eight inviting towns that would have you wishing you visited before now. It is not too late to pack your bags and begin.
Berkeley Springs
Need to stop and recharge? Berkeley Springs is the perfect spot. The seat of Morgan County and the site of mineral springs, this town is aesthetically pleasing to tourists and locals alike. It is famous for being America’s first commercial hot spring and was recognized by George Washington in 1747 as a National Public Spa.
Situated between the mountains of West Virginia, Berkeley Springs is a dome of attraction with continued visits of tourists from across the world coming to explore its artistic culture and natural elegance. Located ten miles east and two miles southwest are Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area and the Cacapon Resort State Park, which are good sites to visit and host picnics and group hikes. The Museum of Berkeley Springs is a great place to learn about the town. You can also get keepsakes at Berkeley Springs Antique Mall.
You can attend the Apple Butter Festival held in October and the International Water Tasting Festival held in February for a chance to get intimate with the town’s culture.
White Sulphur Springs
Chill, amazing, unique. All you need to know about White Sulphur Springs is contained in those three words. Located in the Greenbrier Valley travel region, White Sulphur Springs is filled with hospitable and welcoming people and is also home to amazing food recipes and diners. If you do visit West Virginia, you have to stop at this unique, adventure-filled town.
The area is adjacent to the vast Monongahela National Forest, which spans over 919,000 acres, which is just right for hiking, biking, or sitting still and basking in the colorful hue of the evening sun. Want to go on short trips? The Blue Bend recreation area is just 8 miles north. The Falconry at the Greenbrier is a prominent tourist attraction in the area. You can go for a massage at POMONA Salt Cave and Spa or visit George Washington & Jefferson National Forest, which is 11 minutes from the town.
Shepherdstown
Do you long for the ambiance and elegance of the old world? Look no further than the idyllic town of Shepherdstown. See the beauty of culture and the old-world setting at its finest.
The Shepherdstown Museum is home to artifacts and relics that are chronicles of the town’s past, creating a feeling of nostalgia around the town’s colonial roots. Nightlife is replete with amazing local music, theatrical performances, and dishes from restaurants like Blue Moon Cafe. The James Rumsey Monument offers opportunities for fun, picnics, and get-togethers. If you love books, you can get a book or two at Shepherdstown Public Library. You can also enjoy art exhibits at Dickinson & Wait Craft Gallery.
Ripley
Charming in its own way, Ripley is a small town located forty miles off Charleston, West Virginia. It is home to Fourth of July celebrations as it is the same date as the Mountain State Arts & Crafts Festival. The town is named in honor of Harry Ripley, who unfortunately drowned in Mill Creek in 1830.
The town ripples with numerous entertainment scenes, such as the Staats Mill Covered Bridge and the Cedar Lakes State Recreation Center. If you prefer traditional recreation, then you should visit Ripley City Park. It embodies everything you would want in a park, from water slides to picnic shelters and playgrounds. Fun is guaranteed at the park. You can also get the best deals on artwork at WV Artisan Market.
Harpers Ferry
The only thing more beautiful than the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers is the town that borders it. With a history dating back as far as the 18th century and renowned for its role in the Civil War, Harper’s Ferry holds a deep connection to historical times that the restored buildings and old streets have well preserved.
Visitors can explore these sites to get a glimpse of the past, some of which include the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, Appalachian Trail Conservancy Headquarters, and John Brown Museum. The town’s horizon is covered by scenic views that you can catch while hiking along the Appalachian Trail, which showcases Jefferson Rock. If you have a knack for photography, you can take pictures. You can also enjoy a refreshing time at Rockhaven B&B.
Elkins
Elkins, a small town located along the Tygart Valley River, is home to almost 7,000 people and the county seat of Randolph County. Bordered by the Tygart River, you can explore the river, go rafting and fishing, and shoot rapids while you are at it. It is close to the Monongahela National Forest, known for its rich biodiversity and extensive recreational opportunities, where you can go for hikes, explore the natural forest, and watch the birds soar in their habitat.
If you are a lover of the natural environment, then this place is just for you. This town has immense cave networks like Bowden Cave that you can explore during your visit. For some of the best food and entertainment in town, the Iron Road Inn and Old Brick Playhouse offer premium services that would have you wanting more.
Buckhannon
What is not to love in Buckhannon? The sounds, the great art of the locals, the historic buildings, and all of Buckhannon just leave an experience you would not want to miss. Approximately 355 sq miles in size, Upshur County is a pure and untapped rural area where you can create long-lasting memories.
Buckhannon is home to a few historic buildings, such as the West Virginia Wesleyan College, established in 1890. The Pringle Tree Park is also a place of interest for history buffs, and third-generation plants can be found there.
C.J. Maggie’s and 88 Lounge provide great entertainment and food for the nightlife in Buckhannon. You would not want to miss the talk of the town, which is the Strawberry Festival in May that brings the town together for eight days of fun and excitement.
Davis
If you are seeking a peaceful holiday spot with the best view of nature, then you should visit Davis. Although it is the last town on the list, this does not downplay the beauty and chill nature of this town.
Notably, Davis features several properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places, adding historical depth to its charm. Among these, the Herman August Meyer House is particularly significant, now serving as a bed-and-breakfast.
If you want to get beer, then check the craft beer scene at New Heritage Distilling or at Stumptown Ales. The town is renowned for its coal and logging activities. This makes it great for hiking and skiing, which can be done at Canaan Valley Ski Resort and Blackwater Falls State Park.
Discover West Virginia's Welcoming Towns
West Virginia boasts of charming small towns that make the perfect holiday destination. With a good blend of historical elements, vibrant nightlife, natural endowment, and hospitality, these towns are inviting to tourists from different parts of the world, and you would not want to miss out on these fantastic spots. When planning your next trip, you should add these destinations to your list. Make time to visit historic spots, take pictures, and make long-lasting memories. Regardless of the town you choose, you are sure to experience the time of your life.
