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Exploring Southern West Virginia
Explore our blog for a taste of unique attractions, cultural discoveries and find the adventure that Southern West Virginia has in store.
Discover upcoming events, must-visit hidden gems, interesting local stories and more!
Spooky Spots To Visit in Southern West Virginia
The hills of southern West Virginia are full of beauty, history, and mystery. From the area’s pre-European settlement to the present day, the people of this land have shared stories…
Escape to the Great Outdoors: Driving Tour
Winding country roads and steep mountain passes make Southern West Virginia the perfect place to take a long drive on a weekend. Whether you’re on a family outing or cruising…
Where To See Fall Foliage in WV
The trees are alight with fiery color all across Southern WV! These rolling mountains are covered in canopy, and it’s burning with reds, oranges, and yellows for fall. This area…
Oh yes . . . It’s almost Gauley Season
It’s that time of year, the leaves start turning, the air gets crisper and the Gauley River gets rowdy! The roaring Gauley River rushes to life on a few select…
Favorite Fall Hikes in Southern West Virginia
Request A Free Visitor’s Guide Southern West Virginia is a wonderful sight to see at any time of the year, but if you’re looking to see our area in all…
Discovering the Roots: The Hidden Stories Behind Unique Names of West Virginia Locales
As you navigate the country roads of Southern West Virginia, you might notice the unique and sometimes unfamiliar names on the signs around you. You may even hear locals pronouncing…
Where to Eat in Southern West Virginia if You’re a Vegetarian or Vegan
Picking out a place to eat when traveling can be tricky, especially if you have a dietary restriction. This blog post’s vegetarian author has spent several evenings eating fries and…
The Wonderful Wildlife of West Virginia
As the third most forested state in the country, West Virginia is home to a diverse array of wildlife. Whether hiking, biking on a trail, or driving down country roads,…
Southern West Virginia Should Be Your Next Road Trip Destination
Picture driving on curving roads to scenic overlooks, feeling refreshing mountain breezes, wading in flowing rivers, watching fireflies dance in a forest at dusk, and gazing at the Milky Way…
Celebrate Black History in Southern West Virginia
As we celebrate Juneteenth in Southern West Virginia, we’re taking a look at some of our most prominent Black leaders and historical sites where you can learn more about the…
One of the US’s Newest National Recreational Trails Begins at a Resort for America’s Early Presidents
On June 1, 2024, Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland announced the designation of four new National Recreational Trails in honor of National Great Outdoors Month. The Sweet Springs Turnpike…
50 Years Ago, Construction Began on the New River Gorge Bridge
In 1974, it took 40 minutes to drive across the New River from Fayetteville, West Virginia to Lansing, West Virginia—where the Canyon Rim Visitor Center for the New River Gorge…
5 Reasons to Tour & Taste Southern WV’s Wine & Spirits
West Virginia might be known for its unique Mountain Moonshine, but we’ve perfected many an alcoholic beverage. Our top-notch wineries and distilleries churn out award-winning, unique, handcrafted drinks to suit…
Views that are worth the hike
The mountains and gorges of southern West Virginia provide endless opportunities for scenic views. While many overlooks are located along roadsides, some of the best views require a bit of…
Anatomy of a Cool Small Town
So what makes up a ‘cool’ small town? Well in our humble opinion it’s a combination of many things. It has to be both scenic and historic and MUST be…
Wedding Planning Timeline
When it comes to wedding planning, the earlier you get started the better. From picking the venue to deciding on your guest list, you’ve got plenty of decisions to make….
Wedding Photographers
Having an experienced wedding photographer is important piece in planning your nuptials. It’s a special time that you’ll want to cherish for years to come, and a photographer will be…
Wedding Day Emergency Kit Checklist
No matter how much you plan for your wedding, ultimately, something will go wrong. Whether a button comes loose on a tux or a bridesmaid’s nail polish chips – pack…
5 Fayette County Music Festivals You Don’t Want to Miss
Fayette County is ready to groove in the summer sun with a series of music festivals at venues throughout the area! Here are our top must-see fests in Fayette County…
10 Reasons Southern West Virginia Should Be On Your Travel Bucket List
Southern West Virginia is calling! Our stunning region, recently featured in National Geographic’s “20 Coolest Travel Adventures,” offers something for everyone — from thrill seekers to nature lovers. Fuel your…
Rafting, Rhododendrons and Recreation Spring Hits Southern West Virginia
Ah, spring! Little green buds, wildflowers, the great outdoors… is there anything better? Well, the answer to that question depends on… where you spend your spring. We’re biased, of course,…
Spring, Ramps and Butter?
Be sure and bring home some fresh ramps from your ramp feast / dinner to make some delicious and simple ramp butter!
Follow The Civil War Trail In Southern West Virginia
West Virginia’s unique history is deeply intertwined with the Civil War. Originally part of Virginia, the state was born out of the conflict when it seceded from the Confederacy in…
Chasing Waterfalls in Southern West Virginia
One thing about humans: we’re attracted to water. Something about vacations often leads us to lakes, rivers, and oceans. We just can’t get enough of it, and we love to…
The River’s The Thing: West Virginia Whitewater Rafting’s 56th Anniversary
This year marks the 56th anniversary of commercial whitewater rafting in West Virginia. What began as a dream among three brothers from Pennsylvania grew into a key component of West…
Seven Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Southern West Virginia
Make the most out of Valentine’s Day this year with a quick, romantic trip to Southern West Virginia. From mountain escapes to intimate wine tastings, we’ve put together seven ways…
Seven Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Southern West Virginia
Make the most out of Valentine’s Day this year with a quick, romantic trip to Southern West Virginia. From mountain escapes to intimate wine tastings, we’ve put together seven ways…
Got any New Year’s resolutions? Find ‘em in all 9 counties!
Why stop at one resolution? Southern West Virginia has pulse-pounding adventures for the whole year. Resolve to do one (or more) of these activities for 2024! 1. Beckley-Raleigh County Welcome…
Got any New Year’s resolutions? Find ‘em in all 9 counties!
Why stop at one resolution? Southern West Virginia has pulse-pounding adventures for the whole year. Resolve to do one (or more) of these activities for 2024! 1. Beckley-Raleigh County Welcome…
Lewisburg
Walking down Washington Street in downtown Lewisburg is like taking a trip back in time to old-world Southern hospitality and charm. You will find award-winning restaurants, art galleries, beautiful antique…
Lewisburg
Walking down Washington Street in downtown Lewisburg is like taking a trip back in time to old-world Southern hospitality and charm. You will find award-winning restaurants, art galleries, beautiful antique…
Holiday Light Displays in Southern West Virginia
With the holidays right around the corner, take some time to enjoy the beauty of the season! Southern West Virginia has an abundance of amazing holiday light displays. Plan an…
Appalachian Coal Town Christmas
The Annual Appalachian Coal Town Christmas at the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine in Beckley, WV is a perfect family adventure. Take a step back in time to coal camp living….
Giving thanks: celebrating Veterans’ Day and Thanksgiving
After the glitz and glitter of Halloween, November is a time of reflection. Join us as we celebrate our country’s heroes— and give thanks for what we have. Veterans Day…
Trick-Or-Treat Times for Southern West Virginia
Updated Oct 26, 2023 The usefulness of this post will depend entirely on what side of the Halloween equation you’re on. If you like all the stuff about our spookiest…
Escape to the Great Outdoors: Hiking Trails
Southern West Virginia is the perfect destination to get outside and breathe some fresh air. From woodland paths that open up to amazing vistas to treks down into the New…
Rent a cabin, deep in Southern West Virginia: Twin Falls Resort
Header picture is Pi0neer Farm not a rental cabin. Escape to a world of pristine forests and starry nights. There’s a cabin waiting for you in one of Southern West…
It’s the Berries!
It’s The Berries Tis the season to forage for berries! Here are a couple of ideas for some tasty dishes that will be sure to please any crowd. Fresh Berry…
It’s Ramp Season!
Spring has officially sprung, and with it comes a certain smell that wafts from the woods – the smell of ramps. What Are Ramps? Ramps are wild leeks that are…
Fayetteville Dining
Known for being a small town with a big appetite, Fayetteville, West Virginia, is a foodie’s paradise. Located in the heart of the New River Gorge, Fayetteville’s local restaurants are…
Spring, Ramps and Butter?
Be sure and bring home some fresh ramps from your ramp feast / dinner to make some delicious and simple ramp butter!
Where to Warm Up in Southern West Virginia – Coffee Shops
The weather in West Virginia can be unpredictable. Luckily, Southern West Virginia has a number of cute cafes and coffee shops that are sure to help you stay warm (cool)…
Spring Hiking and Wildflowers
Head outdoors this spring to experience the almost heaven views (and scents) of southern West Virginia. From moderate walks through the scenic New River Gorge to challenging hikes to find…
Off-Road Adventures in Southern West Virginia
Southern West Virginia is home to some of the best outdoor recreation opportunities, including ATV trail riding! We even have the largest contiguous trail system in the United States: the…
Chasing Waterfalls in Southern West Virginia
One thing about humans: we’re attracted to water. Something about vacations often leads us to lakes, rivers, and oceans. We just can’t get enough of it, and we love to…
Foraging in Southern West Virginia
Have you ever taken a hike through the woods and see plants that look good enough to eat? Well many of them are!
Italian Restaurants in Southern West Virginia
Southern West Virginia is known for many things, from our national parks and outdoor recreation to our rich history and performing arts. But one of our favorite and most delicious,…
Celebrate Black History Month in Southern West Virginia
As we celebrate Black History Month in Southern West Virginia, we’re taking a look at some of our most prominent Black leaders and historical sites where you can learn more…
Winterplace: Winter Fun For All
Snow isn’t just for kids; it’s magical for adults, too! And at Winterplace Ski Resort in Ghent, winter games have just begun. Peakside playtime With a base elevation of nearly…
Forget Black Friday…Shop Small Business Saturday
Small business Saturday is this weekend, just after the insane rush of Black Friday. Skip fighting the crowds and buy local. Why? Because it puts your money back into your community….
Shop Small Business Saturday in Southern West Virginia
Support your local businesses by stopping by the many unique, locally-owned stores throughout southern WV this weekend for Small Business Saturday (November 26). From WV-themed mementos to artisan crafts, Southern…
2022 Southern West Virginia Gift Guide
Give the gift of travel …. National Park travelers will want to check the 63rd National Park off of their bucket lists. Adventures Give the gift of adventure! Whether…
Vote in WV Living’s 2022 Best Of West Virginia
Join us in congratulating each nominee in WV Living’s 2022 Best Of West Virginia! We are super proud to have so many amazing southern WV attractions on the list! From…
Halloween Events Throughout Southern West Virginia
Whether you are looking for a spooky haunted house or a family-friendly pumpkin patch, Southern West Virginia has plenty of Halloween-themed events going on throughout the month of October. Visit…
Partner Spotlight
Beckley – Raleigh County
With plenty of things to see and do, Beckley-Raleigh County offers a convenient and accessible Southern West Virginia getaway. Explore the area and start planning your trip now.