Almost Heaven
Discover the Beauty of West Virginia
From river gorges and highland forests to museums and historic towns, West Virginia rewards curious travelers in every season.
Outdoor Adventures
Mountains Made for Exploring
West Virginia’s Appalachian landscape supports whitewater rafting, hiking, mountain biking, climbing, fishing, skiing and scenic drives. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve protects more than 70,000 acres along 53 miles of the New River, while the Monongahela National Forest spans more than 900,000 acres across the highlands.
- Hike to overlooks and waterfalls
- Raft the New, Gauley or Cheat rivers
- Climb at New River Gorge
- Explore state parks and national forest trails
History & Culture
Stories Shaped by Rivers, Railroads and Resilience
West Virginia became the 35th state in 1863. Its history is preserved in places connected to the Civil War, coal and timber communities, railroads, Appalachian music, glassmaking and mountain farming.
Walk the preserved streets of Harpers Ferry, tour the State Capitol in Charleston, visit old railroad towns or listen to traditional music in communities where local culture remains part of everyday life.
Museums
Learn the Mountain State’s Many Stories
Museums throughout West Virginia interpret state history, Appalachian culture, industry, art and science. Notable stops include the West Virginia State Museum, Heritage Farm Museum and Village, West Virginia Independence Hall, the Museum of American Glass and the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine.
- State and regional history
- Appalachian crafts and music
- Coal, railroad and industrial heritage
- Family-friendly science and discovery
Mountain Views
Scenery Worth Slowing Down For
From Spruce Knob, the state’s highest point at 4,863 feet, to the rugged overlooks of Dolly Sods and New River Gorge, West Virginia offers expansive views in every direction.
Fall foliage is famous, but spring wildflowers, summer sunsets and snow-covered ridgelines make the mountains compelling year-round.
Pair your adventure with a welcoming place to stay.
Browse featured inns near historic towns, mountain trails and memorable scenic drives.