Search Results for Restaurant Week

Your end-of-August weekend guide

August is slipping away, but there’s still some excitement left to catch in Southern WV! Spend your sunny weekends at jazzy music festivals, art displays and Appalachian celebrations! The sound of soul Listen to award-winning funk by Biscuit Miller & The Mix and other favorites at the Bluefield Blues Festival. Other bands include One Eyed Jack, the Jamal Millner Trio and the Tommy Cox Band. Come early in the day for the Bluefield Lemonade Festival, too! If the weather gets hotter than 90 degrees, the town will make free citrusy drinks! Block parties, Appalachian style For 8 days, join Oak Hill for live music, pageants, nocturnal bowling and fireworks at the Oak Leaf Festival. Hear coastal tunes by Beach Nite Band and acoustic bluegrass by Joseph Hott and the Short Mountain Boys! Mix n’ match your way through crafts, live music and local delicacies at the Beckley Appalachian Festival. More than 100 artists will show off their talent at the 52nd Appalachian Arts and Crafts Fair. You also can find live entertainment, quilts, tasty meals and shows.  And over at Tamarack, the “Best of West Virginia” art gallery, Marty Schaerer will demonstrate how to make jewelry. Visit Poets’ Cafe at Cynthia Bickey Art Gallery for an evening of music, songs and poems.  Lost Cannon Bluegrass Band and Shane Ingram & Friends, a folk and bluegrass group, will make the night festive. Hankering for lovin’ spoonfuls of comfort food? Get some Appalachian flavor at Taste of Beckley! Local restaurants will fill your plate at this casual outdoor block party. While you’re in the area, head underground for a tour at Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine. A veteran miner will cart you deep under the earth and share fascinating stories. Kids can also create their own Appalachian craft at the Youth Museum of Southern West Virginia, right on the surface. For another West Virginia experience, check out the Summersville Lake Lighthouse Festival. The Mountain State’s only nautical beacon hails all sorts of entertainment Aug. 27. Listen to eclectic Appalachian music by the Lickety Split Band or rock to groovy classics by tribute artist Rudy Elvis. You won’t believe how much he resembles The King! Browse rows of gleaming autos at the Classic Car Show, and vote for your favorite entry! Trophies and prizes go for Best Classic, People’s Choice and more. You can also adopt a cat or dog or enter a corn hole competition. Who knows, you and your buddies could scoop up $100! Make your day complete with a spectacular tour of the lighthouse. For $5, you can climb the former wind turbine and walk its circular deck. Have you ever seen Summersville Lake from 104 feet above the ground? It’s worth the stair climb, trust us. How are you going to spend your weekend in Southern West Virginia?

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 to celebrate with your loved one in our area.  Book a Private Stay Whether you are looking for a weekend of relaxation or a daring escapade with your valentine, there’s an accommodation for you in Southern West Virginia. Curl up next to a fireplace in a secluded cabin, or enjoy the small-town charm at a local bed-and-breakfast. If adventure is more your speed, book a weekend activity like ziplining or skiing with one of our outdoor resorts. For the ultimate romantic experience, treat your loved one to a special overnight stay at the Resort at Glade Springs. The resort is currently offering a Sweetheart Package which includes overnight lodging, a three-course dinner with champagne, and breakfast for two.  Relax with a Spa Day  Treat yourself and your partner to a luxurious self-care day at one of our local spas. Indulge in the five-star treatment including couple’s massages, facials, and body wraps. Unwind with a Valentine's Day special at The Salt Cave and Spa in White Sulphur Springs. This offer includes an 80-minute couples firm Swedish massage, halotherapy session, dessert, and more.  Enjoy a Beverage Tasting  Cheers to the long weekend ahead with one of our award-winning locally crafted spirits. Southern West Virginia is home to some of the best wineries, distilleries, and breweries in the state. Spend the afternoon at a private or limited tasting, or tour a local vineyard with your sweetheart. Plan ahead and make a reservation. Many of our breweries are also offering curbside pickup and shipping so you can enjoy your beverages at your lodge.   Spend the Weekend at Winterplace  Get your heart racing out on the slopes with your beloved! Spend your three-day weekend skiing, snowboarding, and tubing at Winterplace Ski Resort. With over 90 acres of terrain and 27 trails, Winterplace is the ultimate winter destination. If you aren’t as experienced, don’t worry! More than a quarter of the slopes are geared toward beginners, and the resort offers a great ski instruction course. Winterplace offers cozy cabin rentals and several dining options to complete your getaway!  Visit the Newest National Park Celebrate this dreamy holiday in America's 63rd National Park! The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Explore the outdoor recreation opportunities that exist across the park’s 73,000 acres. Add our favorite hiking and biking trails to your weekend itinerary! Along the way, stop at some of our other scenic national and state parks, which all offer sweeping views and the history of the local area. Dinner on the Town or Order Take-Out  Food is arguably one of the best ways to show your love, and the restaurants in Southern West Virginia can help you with that! From upscale dining to charming Appalachian cuisine, find what works for your tastebuds and wallet here. Order your food to-go and enjoy an intimate meal in private. Or reserve a spot at one of our area’s sweetheart dinners for a five-star Valentine’s Day experience. Visit our events calendar for more information about these special dining options.  Go for a Scenic Drive Get off the beaten path this Valentine’s Day and explore picturesque routes through Southern West Virginia. Along the way enjoy peaceful mountain overlooks and tumbling roadside waterfalls with your loved one. Delve into West Virginia coalfield history on the Coal River Route or marvel at the pristine country fields from Peterstown to Sweet Springs.  Can’t get away this Valentine’s Day weekend? Luckily, you can enjoy a Southern West Virginia getaway with the one you love whenever the time is right for you! Start planning your trip now!

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 to the “Hub of Southern West Virginia.” Raleigh County’s convenient roads and interstates make road trips a snap. Prime whitewater rivers and climbing mountains are minutes away. It’s also an easy drive to Fayetteville and Lewisburg. Raleigh County is more than just a connector, though— much more. It has stylish, innovative restaurants, unusual attractions, including The Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine - a once operating mine with trips guided by WV Coal Miners, and natural beauty. Nowhere else will you find urban entertainment, history, the arts and outdoor scenery so compatible. With those pointers in mind, Raleigh County makes resolutions so much better than your typical workout. Here’s what you can do instead: Go “rock” climbing. At the Outside In Climbing Gym in Beckley, you can clamber over 18 color-coded routes, 35 feet off the floor! Beginners and experts are welcome. Afterwards, relax at the Chocolate Moose cafe, the on-site coffee shop. Hike, fish, explore. Refresh your spirits— and your resolutions— at Little Beaver State Park in Beaver. The 562-acre refuge has more than a dozen trails and a placid 18-acre lake. Treat yourself to one of the most spectacular views in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve at Grandview.  The Main Overlook stands 1400 feet above the river, views include 7 miles of the New River and an active railway. 2. Fayette County Outdoor recreation rarely gets as good as this. Home of the lower section of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, Fayette County boasts outstanding whitewater rafting, hiking, and sandstone climbing. It’s also spectacular. Mountains, rapids, and old-growth forests form the backdrop of any activity, mild or wild. Do you know what else comes naturally? New Year’s resolutions! If you’ve pledged to push those boundaries, come to Fayette County. It’s easy to keep those promises when you’re having fun. Try outside-the-box adventures like: Bridge Walk. At 876 feet high and 3,030 feet long, the New River Gorge Bridge certainly draws the eye. It’s America’s third-highest span— and you can hike the catwalk! Bridge Walk tours are open all year. The views are simply spectacular! Hiking and biking. The New River Gorge has numerous trails for casual and serious explorers alike. Historic mines, awe-inspiring overlooks, and lovely waterfalls are just some of the surprises in store for you. Stacked-loop paths up the ante for bikers. Escape rooms. Sharpen those critical thinking skills for 2018. Fayetteville’s Escape -A-Torium has interactive mysteries that need solving. Bring a friend and see how many clues you can crack before time’s up! 3. Mercer County When it comes to off-road driving, this county ranks towards the top. A portion of the Hatfield-McCoy Trails, America’s largest ATV network, is located in Mercer County. Its Pocahontas Trail is one of the longest contiguous paths within the system. Mercer County also has a rich past. Bramwell, a Victorian town, once had more millionaires per capita than anywhere else in the country. That wealth is still evident today, thanks to the many coal baron mansions on display. Other historic places include Bluefield and Princeton; both are certified artistic communities. Spice up 2024 with: ATV driving. You don’t need to be a pro behind the wheel; Hatfield-McCoy Trails has paths for beginners as well as advanced drivers. ATV-friendly communities also help with guides, rentals, lodging, and supplies. On-stage performances. Add some culture to your new year! Princeton’s Chuck Mathena Center has interactive entertainment, comedians, and singers all year. 4. Monroe County In this quiet patch of Southern West Virginia, time seems slower. It’s a land of gentle farmland, covered bridges, and grain mills. Hikers on the Appalachian Trail often ramble through on their way to Georgia or Maine. Historic sites riddle the area, too. There’s Rehoboth Church, which dates to 1784; Alderson Depot, a C&O station; The Alderson Store, operated by the Alderson Family since 1887, and early 19th-century mineral springs and spas. Because Monroe County is so well preserved, natural beauty abounds. The dramatic landscape is punctuated with caverns, sandstone formations, and old forests. It’s a worthy setting for those resolutions, too! Not sure where to start? Check out Hanging Rock Observatory in Union. Located on Peters Mountain, the former fire tower sits almost 2,000 feet above the forest. Birds of prey swoop past during winter and spring. If your timing is right, you can see eagles, falcons, and hawks at eye level! 5. Greenbrier County This gracious region has attracted guests since colonial times. Not much has changed over the centuries. Greenbrier County still charms visitors with its warm hospitality, fine restaurants, and old-fashioned towns. If your time is limited, visit Lewisburg’s historic district. Brick antebellum homes, interspersed with cheerful gardens and boutiques, color the narrow streets. The venerable city doesn’t lack for entertainment, either. Look forward to imaginative cuisine and attractions— the kind that veer from the ordinary. Here’s how you can spice up 2024: Authentic Appalachian spirits. Get handcrafted bourbon, gin, whiskey, and vodka at Smooth Ambler Spirits in Maxwelton. You can also tour the facility and try samples in the cozy tasting room.  At Hawk Knob Appalachian Hard Cider in Lewisburg, heirloom ingredients enhance every drink. Specialties include classic, elderberry-infused, and wild-fermented ciders, plus honey mead and melomels. Greenbrier brews. These aren’t your typical beers. Maxwelton’s Greenbrier Valley Brewing Co. gets its inspiration from quirky West Virginia legends: Mothman, Devil Anse, and a local ghost, among others. Pale ales and stouts are specialties. Historic performances. Only 4 continuously operating Carnegie Halls exist in the world. Lewisburg has one of them. Visit the 1902 performance hall for year-round concerts, plays, workshops, and more! Caving. Lewisburg’s Lost World Caverns is a spellbinding treat for old and young alike. Go on a leisurely walk and see enormous chambers and odd rock formations, or take a Wild Cave Tour— a 4-hour trek with mysterious crannies and passageways. 6. Nicholas County Civil War history and exotic landscapes add plenty of drama to this northern county. Summersville Lake, West Virginia’s largest impoundment, is one of Nicholas County’s most striking features. Hailed by many as the “Little Bahamas of the East,” its aquamarine depths fill 60 miles of shoreline. That’s plenty of room for adventure. In fact, scuba diving and stand-up paddleboarding are especially popular. Make 2024 special with: Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park. History and scenery combine at this dramatic 156-acre refuge, where Union soldiers defeated Confederate forces in 1861. The park has stellar views, too; set above the Gauley River, it overlooks wild rapids and waves. Lakeside recreation. Rain or shine, winter or spring, Summersville Lake deserves a visit. The breathtaking shores are worth a hike any time! Fishing and boating are worthy resolutions, too. 7. Wyoming County With its wild mountains and valleys, this county has lots of rugged personality. You can hop on an ATV and disappear into the woods; climb Castle Rock, a sandstone formation; or look for mining ruins. One of Wyoming County’s best attractions, though, is Twin Falls State Park. Located near Mullens, the tranquil retreat is a great place to escape for the day or weekend. In fact, you might want to set your New Year’s resolutions right here! The park has more than 25 miles of trails and an 18-hole golf course, which is open all year. Make time for Pioneer Farm, too; it’s a recreated homestead with animals and crops. 8. McDowell County At one time, this region supplied most of the world’s coal. One of McDowell County’s most prolific mines was located in Coalwood, the childhood home of author Homer Hickam. His memoir, “Rocket Boys,” made the region famous. McDowell County’s current draw is outdoor recreation. Much of the county is covered with forest— a lure for hikers and ATV drivers. If your New Year’s resolution involves tranquility or exploration, McDowell County is the place for it! On a similar note, you might want to search for the “Luther Elkins Petroglyph.” These ancient rock carvings are found near the town of Oceana. They’re well worth a hike! However, please look but don’t touch. 9. Summers County This southern gateway to the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve captures the imagination with its romantic parklands. Enormous cascades— some of the New River’s biggest— pour through the wide canyons. Diverse forests grow thickly along the mountains, too: hickory, hemlock, oak, and dogwood, among many others. Summers County attracts many visitors to the historic railroad town of Hinton where you can dine, lodge and shop. Everybody needs beauty. Why not start 2024 with an awe-inspiring trip? You won’t go wrong with Sandstone Falls, the New River’s widest cascade at 1,500 feet. It’s one of West Virginia’s most photographed subjects. An overlook on State Route 20 gives you a long-distance view (the thunderous noise is really impressive). To get closer, continue on County Route 26. You’ll see signs for the boardwalk. The short hike leads to dramatic bridges and an observation platform. Happy New Year! Which adventure are you going to try for 2024?

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 known to grow on the East Coast from South Carolina to Canada, but are extremely thick in Southern West Virginia. Every spring, the green leaves pop up from the freshly softened soil, delighting those waiting for their return. Ramps have a very limited season (typically April to May), causing a frenzy from locals to chefs across the country. You’ll know you’ve found allium tricoccum (the scientific name) by these characteristics: The leaves: Look for smooth, broad, green leaves that lead to a reddish-pink stem. A distinct aroma: Ramps have a smell and taste similar to a cross between garlic and shallots. If you can’t smell it, that probably means it isn’t a ramp! Where Can I Find Ramps? Want to harvest your own? Many West Virginians head to our state’s public lands to find ramps of their own. Ramps prefer shade and will grow in large patches along the forest floor. If you’re hunting in the woods, look under trees like oak, sugar maples, buckeyes or birch. It’s also important to note that while ramps are a wild plant, they can be over-harvested. If you find a patch, practice sustainable harvesting by snipping off the roots of the original plant. Then, replant the roots where you found them. And remember – only take what you need. But lucky for you, you don’t have to dig around the forest to find these Appalachian delicacies (unless you want to!). Ramps are native to Southern West Virginia, and are featured every spring in dishes across our area. Local restaurants get creative each year with how they incorporate ramps into their seasonal dishes. You can enjoy everything from a ramp burger and ramp pizza to ramp pimento cheese and other ramp garnishes.  You can also try out other ramp delicacies May 6th at the Ramp it Up Festival!! The fourth Annual Ramp Festival in the Lost Paddle at ACE Adventure Resort. J Menu items include Wood-Fired Ramp & Potato Pizza, Ramp O’roni Rolls, Ramp Quiche, Ramp Meatloaf & more. Plus live music featuring Into The Fog & Andrew Adkins. Want to try an easy ramp recipe at home? Check out our Ramp Butter recipe below.  Ramp Butter One of the best ways to preserve ramps and add their unique oniony/garlicky flavor to foods is to make ramp butter. Once you’ve made the butter, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 4 months. The butter can be used as a spread on crackers or breads, or added to recipes and used for sauces or cooking. Ingredients: 2 Sticks of butter, softened A handful of ramps, cleaned and sliced Salt and pepper Before you use the ramps, you will need to trim and clean them. Soak the ramps in cold water and use your fingers to gently pull the leaves back to rinse out any dirt. Allow the ramps to drain and dry before using. Once the ramps are dry, finely slice or mince them. Place the butter in a mixing bowl, and beat until creamy, then add the ramps and a pinch or two of salt and pepper. Mix for 1 minute and scrape down the sides of the bowl and mix again until all the butter and ramps are combined. You can store the butter in a container, or scoop it out onto a piece of parchment paper and roll it into a log.

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 3,000 feet, Winterplace Ski Resort is Southern West Virginia’s premier winter destination. For one thing, it’s vast. More than 90 acres of skiable terrain carpet the mountains. Winterplace also boasts 27 slopes; the longest, Panorama, is 1.25 miles long. Not surprisingly, you get a lot of options with that territory. More than a quarter of the slopes are geared for beginners. Roughly 40 percent are for intermediate adventurers, while another 23 percent are for experts. You can also go snowboarding and tubing. Winterplace has a terrain park and West Virginia’s largest snow tube park: an 18-lane showstopper. No experience required! After zooming to the bottom of the slope, just hop on the carpet lift for a swift return to the top. The enchantment continues late into the evening with nighttime sports (night skiing not available on Tuesday and Wednesday). All but one of the slopes are open. Winterplace’s terrain parks and snow tube lanes have extended hours, too. It’s such a blast, you might want to stay for the weekend. The resort has cozy cabins and several restaurants. There are also plenty of hotels  and vacation rentals nearby. Learn the ropes on the slopes Don’t know anything about skiing or snowboarding? Winterplace has lessons for both! Terrain-based lessons expose you to fun obstacles, so learning comes naturally. Winterplace also trains kiddies. The SkiWee and Snow Explorers Program is for anyone aged 6-12. With an enthusiastic, encouraging teacher, tykes learn basic skills in no time. You don’t have to spend a fortune on equipment, either. Winterplace’s rental shop has brand-name skis and snowboards, boots, helmets, and bibs for adults and kids. Got your own gear? Get everything tuned up and serviced by skilled staff. Come on out and enjoy your snow day(s)!

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 West Virginia is filled with local shops that have the perfect present for this holiday season. Shop Local, Buy Local A number of towns in Southern West Virginia have rallied behind their local businesses and are helping promote different deals and discounts this weekend.  Fayetteville  From gifts for your favorite “foodie” to local art, check out the historic town of Fayetteville! Stop by the Shop Small Saturday Welcome Station for a map and make sure you step up your shopping fun by participating in the Gnomevember Scavenger hunt! On your way to Oak Hill from Fayetteville make sure to make a stop at Dove's Village for great coffee and shopping options! Oak Hill - Stop by Blooms by Bessie's or visit their website for a selection of gift items from local businesses. The sprays, melts, and candles come in a variety of scents. Stay tuned as we will be adding more to our selection over the coming weeks! Summersville - Visit Clark's Antiques, you never know what type of treasure you'll find to finish off your holiday shopping list! With new inventory in stock, there are plenty of fresh finds from antiques, home decor, and collectibles. You may find something you never knew you were looking for! Lewisburg - Lewisburg will be celebrating the Magic of Christmas from November 19-26! This cool small town features many restaurants, unique shops, boutiques, and galleries, and offers plenty of arts opportunities. Can’t decide on what to get that special someone in your life? You can never go wrong with a gift card for a local shop, restaurant, or brewery! A unique addition to this year's Lewisburg selection is a new line of gifts designed for Harmony Ridge Gallery showing love for "Route 60" one of the first roads one could travel from Virginia Beach to Los Angeles.  Alderson - Alderson’s Store, located in downtown Alderson, has a little something for everyone. Blenko glass, local pottery, home decor, and vintage games are all great gift ideas!  Hinton - Located near Bluestone Lake and the New River in Hinton, Otter and Oak has everything for your next excursion. Find outdoor gear, clothing, and more from top brands. Get your outdoor lover the essentials here before they head out on their next adventure!  Beckley - Find that unique gift for someone on your Christmas list at Beaver Creek Antiques on Shop Small Saturday or during their open house on December 3rd! Find handmade primitives, scents, and decor' at The Carpenters Loft Primitives and More. Don't forget to refuel while shopping by visiting The Chocolate Moose, a quaint coffee shop that will warm you up and put you in the holiday spirit - don't have time to slow down? They have an app and you can order ahead! Downtown Beckley's tree and lights are decorated and lit making for the perfect Small Business Saturday experience in downtown Beckley. Stop by the Beckley Art Center for the Holiday Gift Show on November 26 - December 17 for an array of gifts created by local artisans.   Outdoor Gear Do you have an outdoor enthusiast in your family? Then we have the perfect place for you. The outdoor shops in Southern West Virginia are always stocked with the latest products. Check out the climbing gear at Water Stone Outdoors or the bike equipment at Arrowhead Bike Farm. For your whitewater gear, be sure to stop by the ACE gear shop – they’ve got everything you’ll need to get on the water! The knowledgeable staff will definitely steer you in the right direction for your gear purchase. Fine Art and Unique Gifts If you’re looking to add a new piece of art to your collection, then Southern West Virginia has a number of art galleries that are worth checking out. Be sure to factor in a stop at Tamarack on your Small Business Saturday shopping tour – it’s filled with some of the best art in the area! And from noon until 3 pm you can get 20% off of Retail Shopping and enjoy demonstrations by Live Painting Artist Misty Murray, sample chocolates by Kevbot Chocolates, watch Gayle Rancer construct wire-wrapped jewelry, and chat with Nancy O’Farrell as she designs jewelry from reflective and molded glass, known as dichroic glass. Plus, Clinton Scott will perform acoustic guitar as you shop and dine. Antiques and Oddities For a unique gift with a little bit of history, then you’ve got to stop by one of the many antique stores in Southern West Virginia. From furniture to knick-knacks, browsing our antique stores is a great way to spend your day – you never know what you’ll find! All that shopping is surely going to make you hungry. So be sure to stop by the unique restaurants and coffee shops in our area for a pick-me-up or sweet treat!    

Heart-pounding excitement awaits: this is Bridge Day

Are you ready? West Virginia’s biggest, most exciting one-day festival is almost here! Bridge Day 2022, one of the largest BASE jumping festivals in the world returns and will be held on October 15 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the New River Gorge Bridge in Lansing. What is Bridge Day? Bridge Day is held every third Saturday in October, and is one of the largest extreme sports festivals in the world. It’s the only chance each year where hundreds of serious BASE jumpers from around the world get to fly 876 feet off the Bridge and into the Gorge below. Rappelling teams will ascend and descend from the catwalk, too. It’s also the only day out of the year that the Bridge is completely closed to traffic, meaning you can walk across and take in the view from 876 feet above the New River Gorge! Fall color is finally starting to show here, meaning the Bridge is the perfect overlook to view vibrant foliage in the New River Gorge. Curious about the history of this unique event? It all began when the New River Gorge Bridge was opened on October 22, 1977. Ever since its opening, the Bridge has become an iconic West Virginia landmark. The first Bridge Day was held in 1980, when two people parachuted from a plane onto the bridge and 5,500 people walked across the bridge. Festival Details Never been to Bridge Day before? No worries, here are all the festival details you need! Start your fun-filled weekend at Taste of Bridge Day. Local restaurants will go all out Friday night at Adventures on the Gorge, serving up special dishes for your tastebuds. Buy tasting tickets at the event to taste your way around the Gorge! Kick off your Saturday morning with an adrenaline rush at the Bridge Day 5k! This unique 5k is the only race across the New River Gorge Bridge and begins at 8 a.m. Registration is still open! You’ll get 6 full hours of adrenaline fueled excitement at Bridge Day. The New River Gorge Bridge closes at 7 a.m and reopens to traffic at 5 p.m. Spectators are welcome from 9am to 3pm.  Check out the rules for Bridge Day and make sure you know where to park and catch a shuttle! When you’ve had your fill of excitement, head to downtown Fayetteville for the Bridge Day Chili Cook-off! Taste samples of some of the best chili recipes from local community members, then vote for your favorite. Whether it’s your first Bridge Day or your 40th, get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. What’s your favorite part about Bridge Day?

Best of WV 2022

Discover the Best of Southern West Virginia Southern West Virginia is home to incredible businesses, from restaurants and breweries to art galleries and unique attractions. Join us in celebrating this year’s nominees for the Best of West Virginia! Learn more about those who made the 2022 Best of West Virginia ballot and place your vote! Nominees for the Best of West Virginia Adventure Outfitter: Adventures on the Gorge ACE Adventure Resort Bed & Breakfast: The Guest House Inn on Courthouse Square The Historic Morris Harvey House Campground: Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins Summersville Lake Retreat & Lighthouse Arrowhead Bike Farm The Best Place to take Kids: ACE Adventure Resort  Lost World Caverns Best Unique Attraction: Bridge Walk Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine Wild Blue Adventure Company Mystery Hole Best Vacation Rental: Country Road Cabins Summersville Lake Retreat & Lighthouse Lafayette Flats Boutique Vacation Rentals Mountain Lake Campground & Cabins Best Resort: Adventures on the Gorge Best Ski Resort: Winterplace Ski Resort Best Spa: POMONA Salt Cave Best Live Music Venue: The Burrito Bar at Breeze Hill Best Brunch: The French Goat  Wood Iron Eatery Cathedral Cafe' & Bookstore Best Drive-In: King Tut Drive-In Best Fine Dining: The French Goat The Char Best Pizza: Pies & Pints Pizzeria Best Food Truck: The Big Lebowlski Best Appalachian Cuisine: The Dish Cafe' Tamarack Marketplace Tudor's Biscuit World Best BBQ Joint: Firecreek BBQ & Steaks Best Italian Restaurant: Pasquale's Best Sandwich: Wood Iron Eatery Best Wings: Pies & Pints (Fayetteville) Best Convention & Visitors Bureau: Historic Fayetteville CVB Visit Southern West Virginia Best Brewery: Weathered Ground Brewery Greenbrier Valley Brewing Company Best Coffee Shop: Cathedral Cafe & Bookstore Best Distillery: Kirkwood Winery & Isaiah Morgan Distillery Best Winery: Kirkwood Winery & Isaiah Morgan Distillery Daniel Vineyards Old World Libations Best Cidery: Hawk Knob Hard Cider & Mead Smooth Amber Spirits Distillery Best State Park/Forest/Nature Attraction Summersville Lake Hawks Nest State Park New River Gorge National Park & Preserve Babcock State Park Greenbrier River Trail Best Golf Course: The Resort at Glade Springs Twin Falls State Park Best Place for Outdoor Adventure: Hatfield & McCoy Trails New River Gorge National Park & Preserve Ace Adventure Resort Adventures on the Gorge Shopping & Services: Best Antique Shop: Alderson’s Store Best Bank: City National Bank Best Gift Shop: Tamarack Marketplace Alderson's Store Best Local Floral Shop: Bessie’s Floral Design  Best Place locally place to BUY WV-Made Products: Tamarack Marketplace  Alderson's Store Best Outdoor Gear Shop: The Ski Barn Waterstone Outdoors Otter & Oak Adventures on the Gorge Best Independent Bookstore: Alderson's Store Best Charity/Non-Profit: Active Southern West Virginia Best Local Newspaper: The Register-Herald Best Towns: Best Adventure Town: Fayetteville Summersville  White Sulphur Springs Hinton Lewisburg Best Downtown: Fayetteville Hinton Lewisburg Princeton Best Town for a Weekend Getaway: Fayetteville Summersville Lewisburg White Sulphur Springs Best Town for Foodies: Fayetteville Lewisburg White Sulphur Springs Culture: Best Art Gallery: Tamarack Marketplace Beckley Art Gallery Best Fair/Festival: The State Fair of WV Bridge Day Alderson 4th of July Celebration Best Museum: The Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine Greenbrier Historical Society West Virginia Mine Wars Museum Best Town for the Arts: Princeton Lewisburg Best Town for Snowy Adventure: Ghent Richwood Quinwood Best Leaf Peeping Town Fayetteville Alderson Lewisburg Best of WV 2021 Partners: Nicholas Co. Commission

Adventure, Shop, Dine — Make the most of your wintertime getaway to Southern West Virginia.

From family-friendly snow tubing at Winterplace Ski Resort to dazzling hikes through the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, there’s an activity for every adventurer in Southern West Virginia. Fuel up after a day of winter fun at one of our award-winning restaurants. Whether you are craving a fine dining experience in the mountains or a flavorful meal on the go, there are plenty of options to discover here.  And don’t forget to bring home a souvenir! Our area is home to Appalachian specialty shops, renowned art galleries, outdoor outlets, historic boutiques and more. Find a special treasure to remember your trip.  Fill up your winter itinerary with our favorite seasonal activities, local businesses and delicious dining options to create your perfect weekend getaway. Nicholas County Fayette County Greenbrier County Raleigh County Summers County Monroe County Mercer County McDowell County Wyoming County

2021 Bucket List

2021 — a new year for thrilling adventures and unique experiences. And there’s no better place to achieve your new goals than in Southern West Virginia! We’ve created a bucket list of some of our favorite activities that we think you should try this year.    Raft the New River Head to the New River Gorge, the newest National Park, for an unforgettable adventure down the New River. From mild, rolling waves on the Upper New to wild Class IV rapids on the Lower New, there is a trip for everyone! Every amazing tour includes scenic landscapes, unique history and unforgettable whitewater. Book a trip with one of our rafting outfitters to experience it for yourself!    Hike to an Epic View Hiking is a great four-season activity here! Search for spring wildflowers on the Little Laurel Trail at Grandview. Find the best glimpse of Summersville Lake on the Long Point Trail. Take in autumn’s natural beauty on the Endless Wall Trail in Fayette County. Or walk through a winter wonderland on the Greenbrier River Trail. No matter which season you visit, you’ll be sure to find a scenic view of Southern West Virginia.   Explore our Local Shops Remember your 2021 adventures with a one-of-a-kind keepsake from a specialty shop! Our area is marked by local outdoor outlets, unique boutiques, art galleries, antique stores and more! From handmade pottery to primitive collectibles, find the perfect souvenir to take home.   Cheers to the New Year Take a sip of some of Southern West Virginia’s best locally crafted spirits. Spend a weekend exploring our award-winning vineyards, distilleries and craft breweries. From hard cider and mead to pale ale and stouts, there are plenty of options to enjoy.   Find all our Favorite Waterfalls  For a peaceful activity for your new year, take a driving tour of Southern West Virginia and discover some magnificent waterfalls around every curve. From the majestic Cathedral Falls off of Route 60 to Sandstone Falls that stretches 1,500 feet across the New River, our area’s waterfalls are perfect for your bucket list!    Take a Walk Under the Bridge  Ready to see the New River Gorge from 851 feet above the New River? Take a Bridge Walk tour and experience an aerial view of the breathtaking landscape surrounding the Gorge. The catwalk is over a mile long and 24 inches wide. The tours last about two to three hours in length and move at a leisurely pace — so there’s plenty of opportunities for photos!    Take to the Trails on an Off-Road Tour Southern West Virginia has three great options to get off-road! First, check “riding the largest contiguous trail system in the United States” off your bucket list this year! Explore the Hatfield-McCoy Trails on an off-road excursion. Next, visit Burning Rock Outdoor Adventure Park. This park offers over 100 miles of trails on 8000 acres. Bring your own ATV or rent one on-site. This park also offers Jeep trails! Last, but not least, for a guided adventure check out New River ATV which will take you on trails in the New River Gorge region. These outfitters offer great options for beginners, families and experts!   Enjoy a Foodie Tour  Our towns may be small, but they are full of flavor! Spend a few days taste-testing all the exceptional cuisine available in Southern West Virginia. From fine dining in the mountains to charming local restaurants, there’s a lot for food fans to discover here! To get you started, browse our Raleigh County, Downtown Fayetteville and Italian Restaurants dining guides.    Plan a Camping Trip Get off the grid this year and plan a remote camping trip. Reconnect with yourself and nature while you enjoy the great outdoors in the mountains of Southern West Virginia. Pitch your tent at a state park to enjoy modern amenities like electric hookups and hot showers or set up a rustic campsite close to all the adventure.    Climb to New Heights Scale the cliffs and see our spectacular sights from above on a climbing trip! You don’t have to be an expert climber to enjoy this sport. Our local outfitters and experienced guides will help you every step of the way.     What Southern West Virginia activity are you adding to your 2021 bucket list?