9 Small Towns In West Virginia To Visit For A Weekend Getaway

Tucked between forested hills and winding rivers, West Virginia’s small towns feel like hidden sanctuaries where time slows and nature sets the pace. From the mineral springs of White Sulphur Springs to the Concho Rim Overlook of Oak Hill, each town reveals a different side of Appalachian beauty. Whether it is mountain recreation, local history, or a fireside retreat, these weekend escapes promise renewal in every season. Here are the towns in West Virginia well suited for a weekend getaway in 2025.

Fayetteville

Named among America’s “Top 10 Coolest Small Towns” and “Best River Town,” Fayetteville stands out for its mix of natural beauty, adventure, and community spirit. The New River Gorge Bridge, an architectural wonder and one of the longest steel arch bridges in the world, defines the landscape and draws thrill-seekers year-round. Locals and visitors alike enjoy the Long Point Trail, where shaded forest paths lead to a jaw-dropping view of the gorge and river, making it a favorite for hikers and bikers alike.

History runs deep along the Kaymoor Miners Trail, with remnants of coal mines and interpretive signs preserving the stories of West Virginia’s mining heritage. Those seeking a peaceful retreat find it at Rifrafters Campground, a family-run haven surrounded by quiet woods.

Romney

Romney, West Virginia’s oldest town, combines scenic tranquility with deep historical roots, making it a peaceful yet engaging weekend retreat. The Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad takes travelers through the lush South Branch Valley, with glimpses of bald eagles from the train’s open cars feels like a step into a living postcard. Nearby, the Fort Mill Ridge Wildlife Management Area features a well-marked Civil War trail with interpretive signs that bring the area’s past to life.

Families enjoy picnics and gatherings at Hampshire Park, a clean, open space for children and community events. Those who stay overnight find serenity at Wapocoma Campground, with river views and quiet surroundings that create a true sense of escape.

White Sulphur Springs

Set against the Allegheny Mountains, White Sulphur Springs is a classic West Virginia getaway where tradition and relaxation meet. The town comes alive during the annual Dandelion Festival, a Memorial Day weekend celebration honoring veterans with parades, live music, art shows, and community events. Anchoring its timeless appeal is The Greenbrier, a National Historic Landmark and one of America’s most renowned resorts, welcoming guests since 1778 with a legacy of luxury and Southern hospitality.

Nature lovers find peace in Greenbrier State Forest, a scenic expanse of trails, campsites, and mountain views ideal for quiet retreats. For wellness seekers, the Pomona Salt Cave and Spa provides rejuvenation in an eco-friendly, man-made salt chamber nestled into the hillside. A perfect stay awaits at Howard’s Creek Inn, a spacious apartment-style hotel connected to Gustard’s Bistro, the town’s favorite spot for hearty food and evening drinks.

Oak Hill

Oak Hill, surrounded by the beauty of the New River Gorge region, stands out for its lively outdoor spirit and easygoing pace. At Ace Adventure Water Park, families and thrill-seekers spend the day ziplining over the lake, tackling giant inflatables, or relaxing on the beach with wood-fired pizza as the sun sets. At the same time, the Concho Rim Overlook shows a sweeping view of West Virginia’s rugged hills and forests, an ideal spot for photography or quiet reflection.

For recreation close to town, the Collins Park Disc Golf Course & Obstacle Course keeps both kids and adults active with its challenging stations and fitness elements. Visitors can unwind at the Comfort Inn New River, known for its warm hospitality, pool, and hearty breakfast.

Harpers Ferry

Nestled where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers meet, Harpers Ferry feels like a living museum surrounded by natural beauty. The heart of the town lies within Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, with cobbled streets, museums, and preserved battlefields that bring the past vividly to life. Nearby, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy Headquarters serves as both an information hub for hikers and a symbolic halfway mark for those trekking the legendary trail through the Blue Ridge Mountains.

For breathtaking views, a short climb to Jefferson Rock reveals sweeping panoramas of rivers and hills that inspired Thomas Jefferson himself. Just above the town, St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church stands as a striking piece of history and architecture. Visitors can unwind at the 1799 Inn, a beautifully preserved historic home turned vacation rental, where classic charm meets quiet relaxation in the heart of this storied town.

Morgantown

Morgantown makes for a great weekend escape, combining culture with accessible nature in a dynamic university environment. You can stay right in the action at the cozy Hotel Morgan, located in the Historic Downtown area next to shops and eateries. This is conveniently a five-minute walk from the neoclassical-revival design of the Metropolitan Theatre. This venue is the center of performing arts in the city; the Monongalia Arts Center supports the visual, performing, and literary arts communities through programming and educational outreach. Furthermore, the Art Museum of West Virginia University has over 4,000 items, including paintings, prints, sculpture, and ceramics.

Furthermore, Core Arboretum, a university park facility spanning 91 acres of forest and flood plain, is filled with diverse trees, plants, and various birds. For hikers seeking dramatic water features, Deckers Creek is surrounded by lush greenery. This sprawling tributary features cascading waterfalls and fun rock slides, making it an ideal space for exploring the beautiful mountain environment.

Lewisburg

Surrounded by the rolling beauty of the Greenbrier Valley, Lewisburg is a cultured town where art, history, and nature meet in perfect rhythm. Beneath the surface lies Lost World Caverns, a vast underground wonder filled with towering stalagmites and delicate stalactites that dazzle visitors year-round. History enthusiasts can explore the North House Museum, an 1820 landmark that once served as a tavern and inn. Now, the museum preserves generations of Greenbrier County heritage through artifacts and archives.

Downtown, Carnegie Hall stands as one of only four remaining Carnegie Halls in the world. It hosts concerts, art exhibits, and community events that keep Lewisburg’s creative spirit alive. For an elegant stay, the General Lewis Inn, built in the early 1800s, pairs historic charm with refined comfort—just steps from local shops and the relaxed sophistication that makes this town a memorable weekend escape.

Berkeley Springs

Berkeley Springs is an ideal weekend getaway, famous for its history as a colonial spa retreat centered around natural mineral waters. You can make your base camp at The Country Inn of Berkeley Springs, an elegant redbrick mansion just a two-minute walk from the state park. The heart of the town is Berkeley Springs State Park, a stalwart, laid-back area that provides natural springs for bathing, a spa, and various events. The park features a quirky monument: George Washington's Bathtub, which commemorates presidential bathing and demonstrates the tools used before 1784 to create the original soaking area.

For local history, the Museum of the Berkeley Springs is located on the second floor of the 19th-century Roman Bath House, just a three-minute walk from the inn. After soaking in the history, you can head out to the mountains for sweeping views. Prospect Peak is a panoramic overlook that stands nearly one thousand feet above the Potomac River, providing a breathtaking vista of the surrounding West Virginia landscape.

Buckhannon

Situated along the Buckhannon River, Buckhannon is known for its welcoming spirit and community traditions. Each May, the West Virginia Strawberry Festival fills the streets with parades, local crafts, and the sweet scent of ripe berries—a celebration that draws visitors from across the state. For outdoor enthusiasts, Audra State Park offers scenic riverfront beauty with campsites, hiking trails, and whitewater kayaking that reveal West Virginia’s rugged charm at its best.

In the heart of town, Jawbone Park serves as a peaceful retreat for picnics, live music, and family gatherings beneath shady trees. When it is time to rest, the Bicentennial Inn makes a convenient base, featuring recently refreshed rooms, outdoor seating areas, and games that reflect Buckhannon’s relaxed, down-to-earth atmosphere—well-suited for a weekend that merges comfort with natural beauty.

Nine Reasons to Slow Down and Stay a While in West Virginia

West Virginia’s small towns capture the charismatic balance of beauty, adventure, and community spirit. From Fayetteville’s world-class outdoor thrills to Morgantown’s cultural depth and university energy, each destination brings its own rhythm to the Mountain State’s weekend escapes. Whether you are hiking forest trails, tracing history through old streets, or simply savoring local hospitality, these towns prove that relaxation and discovery go hand in hand in West Virginia’s unforgettable landscapes.