Weekend Getaway in West Virginia

A trip to Wheeling leads you to West Virginia Independence Hall, where the paperwork for statehood was signed. If you’re a golfer, check out the area's six courses, including Oglebay Park Golf Club. Stop at the Oglebay Good Zoo to see some endangered animals.

Situated on the Monongahela River, this hip destination hosts all sorts of outdoor activities. Hike the Cheat Lake Trail and encounter raccoons, deer, and a variety of birds. A visit in spring lets you experience the West Virginia Botanic Gardens in full bloom.

If you’re staying at a self-catering rental in West Virginia's capital, stop at Capitol Market and pick up fresh honey and cheese. Visit the West Virginia State Museum and delve into the state's history.

Head to this college town in the western part of the state and pop into the Museum of Radio and Technology to check out the vintage radio collection. Take an evening stroll around the Ritter Park Historic District and enjoy a picnic dinner from Fat Patty’s.

Escape to Parkersburg for a quiet weekend and take a boat ride on the river. Visit the Blennerhassett Island Historic Museum and browse local artifacts, and on a sunny day, stroll along one of the trails at Parkersburg City Park.

West Virginia is famous for its whitewater rafting and kayaking. Whether you’re an experienced rafter or want a guided tour, a trip down New River and the Gauley and will leave you with lasting memories.

Boasting some of the best off-roading trails in East Coast, West Virginia offers an opportunity for you to challenge yourself. Bring your truck to Capon Bridge and put your skills to test by navigating hill climbs and other rugged rock formations.

West Virginia is home to numerous ski resorts, such as Snowshoe and Canaan Valley. Ascend and descend the slopes amid comfortable and luxurious warm lodges. Complement your skiing with fine dining, massages, and enchanting nightlife.

If you’re an avid hunter, dewy mountain mornings and crisp, fresh mountain air await in West Virginia. Head into the wilderness for game hunting. Beforehand, make sure to get a license from the WV Division of Natural Resources.

With over 20,000 miles of streams and about 100 fishing lakes, West Virginia is every angler’s dream. Hop on a boat for a family fly-fishing trip north or south of Potomac River. Blackwater Falls State Park has some great fishing opportunities as well.

Bring plenty of comfortable and casual attire. Carry a sweatshirt to wear during cooler evenings, a bathing suit, and wool or synthetic socks if you’re heading to a boggy area. A hat and rain jacket also come in handy.

Above-the-ankle footwear is ideal for outdoor activities on land, and if you're partaking in watersports, one or two pairs of water shoes will do. Carry flip-flops for relaxing by the pool at your vacation rental.

A backpack, rope, insect repellant, snacks, and a dry bag for electronics is a must if you're heading out to nature. Consider taking a lightweight backpacking stove in case the wood is too wet to light a fire. Don't forget your fishing rod.

Carry some cash in small denominations in case you venture into cash-only eateries and shops, or if ATMs are unavailable.