Map Of Southern West Virginia Travel Guide

Top Attractions

When visiting Southern West Virginia, be sure to check out the New River Gorge Bridge, the longest steel arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere. Take a scenic drive on the Highland Scenic Highway, or explore the historic town of Lewisburg.

Hidden Gems

Discover the beauty of the Lost World Caverns, or take a hike through the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area. Visit the abandoned town of Thurmond, a National Historic Landmark, or explore the Greenbrier River Trail.

Food Scene

West Virginia is famous for its pepperoni rolls, a delicious bread filled with pepperoni and cheese. Be sure to try some while visiting. Other local favorites include biscuits and gravy, fried chicken, and ramp dishes.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Save money by camping at one of the many state parks or national forests in the area. Take advantage of free attractions like the West Virginia State Capitol or the Capitol Market. Visit during the off-season for lower prices.

Outdoor Adventures

Explore the New River Gorge by whitewater rafting or ziplining. Go hiking in the Monongahela National Forest or fishing in the Greenbrier River. Take a scenic drive through the West Virginia mountains.

Historical Landmarks

Visit the West Virginia State Capitol, the Greenbrier Resort, or the famous Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum. Learn about the coal mining history of the region at the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine.

Family-Friendly Activities

Take the kids to the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences, or explore the Children’s Museum of the Ohio Valley. Visit the West Virginia State Museum or the Summersville Lake Lighthouse for family fun.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Discover the beauty of the Bluestone National Scenic River, or explore the historic Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park. Take a tour of the Smooth Ambler Spirits distillery or visit the West Virginia Penitentiary.

Natural Wonders

Explore the beauty of the New River Gorge National River, or hike through the Seneca Rocks area. Visit the stunning Blackwater Falls State Park or take a scenic drive through the Canaan Valley.

Vibrant Nightlife

Enjoy live music at the Empty Glass or the V Club, or check out the local craft beer scene at the Bridge Brew Works. Take a ghost tour of Charleston or explore the downtown nightlife scene.

Local Markets

Visit the Capitol Market in Charleston for fresh produce and local goods, or explore the Morgantown Farmers Market for handmade crafts and artisanal foods. Check out the West Virginia Chocolate Festival in Lewisburg for sweet treats.

Beaches and Mountains

Visit Summersville Lake for swimming, boating, and fishing, or explore the stunning Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area. Take in the views from the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center or hike the Appalachian Trail.

Cultural Immersion

Experience the culture of Southern West Virginia at the Tamarack, a showcase of local arts and crafts. Visit the West Virginia Music Hall of Fame or explore the African American Heritage Trail.

Art and Music Scene

Discover the vibrant arts scene in Charleston, including the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences and the Contemporary Art Center. Enjoy live music at the Mountain Stage radio show or the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra.

Walking Tours

Take a walking tour of the historic town of Lewisburg or explore the architecture of Charleston on foot. Visit the West Virginia Veterans Memorial or take a ghost tour of the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum.

Architectural Marvels

Explore the stunning architecture of the West Virginia State Capitol or the Greenbrier Resort. Visit the historic St. John’s Episcopal Church or the impressive Bunker Hill Mill.

Historical Sites

Discover the history of the Civil War at the Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park or visit the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. Explore the historic town of Parkersburg or visit the Grave Creek Mound Archaeological Complex.

Biking Routes

Take a scenic bike ride on the Greenbrier River Trail or explore the trails at Snowshoe Mountain Resort. Discover the beauty of the North Bend Rail Trail or take on the challenging hills of the Highland Scenic Highway.

Wellness Retreats

Relax and rejuvenate at the Greenbrier Resort’s world-renowned spa or take a yoga class at the J.Q. Dickinson Salt Works. Explore the natural beauty of the area on a guided meditation hike or a forest bathing experience.

Adventure Sports

Take on the rapids of the New River Gorge by whitewater rafting or kayaking. Explore the stunning cliffs of the Seneca Rocks area by rock climbing or rappelling. Go caving or spelunking at the Lost World Caverns.