Introduction
Welcome to West Virginia, where rugged mountains, scenic rivers, and rich cultural heritage await your discovery. In this 5-day itinerary, we’ll guide you through a diverse range of experiences, from outdoor adventures to historical explorations, showcasing the best of what the Mountain State has to offer.
Day 1: Charleston – Capital City Delights
Morning: Arrival in Charleston
- Arrival: Land at Yeager Airport and check into your Charleston hotel.
- Breakfast at Black Sheep Burritos: Kick-start your day with delicious burritos.
- Capitol Building: Take a guided tour of the impressive West Virginia State Capitol.
Afternoon: Cultural Immersion
- Cultural Center: Explore exhibits at the West Virginia Culture Center.
- Lunch at Bluegrass Kitchen: Indulge in farm-to-table cuisine in downtown Charleston.
- Shopping on Capitol Street: Browse boutiques and art galleries for unique finds.
Evening: Sunset at Haddad Riverfront Park
- Dinner at Bridge Road Bistro: Enjoy fine dining with river views.
- Stroll along the Riverfront: Relax and catch the sunset at Haddad Riverfront Park.
Day 2: New River Gorge – Outdoor Adventure Paradise
Morning: Drive to Fayetteville
- Breakfast at Cathedral Cafe: Fuel up with breakfast in Fayetteville.
- New River Gorge Bridge: Visit the iconic bridge for panoramic views and photo ops.
Afternoon: Whitewater Rafting or Hiking
- Whitewater Rafting: Experience adrenaline-pumping rafting on the New River.
- Bridge Walk Tour: Walk beneath the New River Gorge Bridge for a unique perspective.
- Lunch at Secret Sandwich Society: Enjoy gourmet sandwiches in Fayetteville.
Evening: Campfire Dinner
- Dinner at Adventures on the Gorge: Have a campfire dinner at this adventure resort.
Day 3: Beckley – History and Heritage
Morning: Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine
- Breakfast at King Tut Drive-In: Begin your day with a hearty breakfast.
- Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine: Learn about coal mining history with a guided tour.
Afternoon: Tamarack and Beckley Arts
- Lunch and Shopping at Tamarack: Sample local cuisine and shop for crafts.
- Visit Beckley Art Center: Explore local art and exhibitions.
Evening: Dinner and Entertainment
- Dinner at The Char: Enjoy a fine dining experience in downtown Beckley.
- Live Music or Theater: Catch a show or live music performance.
Day 4: Canaan Valley – Nature’s Playground
Morning: Drive to Canaan Valley
- Breakfast at Hellbender Burritos: Grab breakfast for the road.
- Canaan Valley Resort State Park: Arrive and check into your lodge.
Afternoon: Outdoor Activities
- Hiking or Mountain Biking: Explore scenic trails in Canaan Valley.
- Lunch at White Grass Cafe: Refuel with healthy and organic options.
Evening: Sunset at Bald Knob
- Dinner at the Lodge: Enjoy dinner with mountain views.
- Sunset at Bald Knob: Witness a spectacular sunset from this viewpoint.
Day 5: Harpers Ferry – History and Scenic Beauty
Morning: Drive to Harpers Ferry
- Breakfast at Battle Grounds Bakery & Coffee: Start your day with a delicious meal.
- Harpers Ferry National Historical Park: Explore Civil War history and hiking trails.
Afternoon: River Activities and Shenandoah Views
- Lunch and River Fun: Enjoy lunch and river activities like tubing or kayaking.
- Jefferson Rock: Hike to Jefferson Rock for stunning views of the Shenandoah River.
Evening: Farewell Dinner
- Dinner at Potomac Grille: Conclude your trip with a riverside dinner.
- Reflection and Departure: Reflect on your West Virginia adventure before heading home.
Conclusion
Your 5-day adventure in West Virginia has taken you through a whirlwind of experiences, from exploring vibrant cities to immersing yourself in nature’s beauty and learning about the state’s rich history. As you bid farewell to the Mountain State, carry with you the memories of scenic landscapes, outdoor adventures, and warm hospitality. West Virginia’s charm and allure will stay with you, inspiring future travels and adventures. Until next time, keep exploring and embracing the wonders of this wild and wonderful state.