Virginia
9 Ideal West Virginia Destinations for a 3-Day Weekend in 2024
Hidden deep within the Appalachian foothills, the small towns of West Virginia are practically begging for a three-day weekend escape in 2024. Imagine a place where the only rush hour anyone experiences is the gentle swirl of river rapids and the occasional flurry of fireflies. In these nine towns, rolling hills roll on forever, and charming main streets are less about retail therapy and more about swapping stories with locals over homemade pie. Whether you are excited to the museums of Shepherdstown or the tranquil trails in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia’s small towns offer a restful blend of adventure and relaxation waiting to make a much-needed long weekend unforgettable.
Shepherdstown
Most tourists should consider starting their journey at Shepherdstown, located along the Potomac River in the Eastern Panhandle. This charming town is home to Shepherd University, a center of educational excellence since 1871. Accommodations can be found at the Thomas Shepherd Inn, a cozy bed and breakfast conveniently situated off one of the town’s main roads.
History buffs will appreciate the extensive information available at the Historic Shepherdstown Museum, which delves into Civil War stories that helped shape the region. Meanwhile, outdoor lovers can explore the C&O Canal towpath for biking or hiking adventures. Or, when the sun is high, cool off with kayaking or tubing along the Potomac River, adding a sense of adventure to any trip.
Lewisburg
Try a venture to Lewisburg in the Greenbrier Valley, renowned for its quaint charm and the town’s vibrancy. Most people adore local culture and can visit Carnegie Hall, a focal point of music and theater, hosting performances that resonate through the valley. Visitors can stay at The Greenbrier, a nearby historic resort that has been serving patrons since 1778. For a different experience, one can explore the serene paths of the Greenbrier River Trail.
Those willing to journey beneath the surface adore Lost World Caverns. This set of caverns is a National Natural Landmark and displays nature’s artistry with stalactites and stalagmites. Apart from the static attractions, the town hosts the Annual Taste of Our Towns festival in October, beckoning food lovers from far and wide with a flavorful note to any Lewisburg experience.
Harpers Ferry
Harpers Ferry is where history and natural beauty converge at the meeting point of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers. This pivotal town witnessed John Brown’s raid in 1859, a moment etched in American history. Visitors can enjoy hiking a stretch of the Appalachian Trail or wandering through Harpers Ferry National Historical Park’s preserved 19th-century buildings. For more history, the Virginius Island Historic District invites exploration among old factories and crumbling ruins.
Outside of the paved streets, Jefferson Rock offers breathtaking views of the rivers and great moments for photos as travelers contemplate the town’s past. During summer, rafting and tubing activities provide thrilling escapes. After all the fun, The Town’s Inn is highly recommended and equipped with a restaurant serving comfort food.
Berkeley Springs
Berkeley Springs, situated in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia, invites all to unwind among its natural springs and rich heritage. Established in 1776, the town proudly claims the title of “America’s first spa town,” offering therapeutic experiences at Berkeley Springs State Park’s outdoor baths and spa services. History enthusiasts can explore Berkeley Castle, a 19th-century mansion that opens its doors to curious visitors year-round.
Art lovers can visit the Ice House to explore local creativity, while those looking to spend time outdoors can enjoy Cacapon Resort State Park’s trails and golf courses. As night falls, the Morgan County Observatory promises stellar views of the cosmos. Finally, consider staying at The Country Inn of Berkeley Springs, which delivers a comforting mix of historic charm with modern comforts.
Thomas
Tucked away among the Allegheny Mountains, the town of Thomas in Tucker County transforms from a simple coal mining center to a vibrant arts destination. Music fills the air at the Purple Fiddle, a beloved venue for live performances. Similarly, travelers can truly experience the town’s creativity at ArtSpring, a colorful gallery that celebrates the region’s arts and crafts annually.
Nature lovers enjoy drifting through Thomas City Park Trails, which wind around numerous shaded picnic spots, while photographers capture the beauty of Douglas Falls’ cascading waters. Back in town, history enthusiasts can explore local tales at the Thomas Volunteer Fire Department Museum, and the rustic charm continues to Buxton Common’s, where guests are met with warm welcomes and full rustic breakfasts.
Davis
Also in Tucker County, near Canaan Valley, Davis provides a great taste of West Virginia’s rugged beauty and is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Begin your exploration at Blackwater Falls State Park, where the stunning Blackwater Falls cascade over dark shale cliffs, offering a breathtaking view. For more adventure, head to Canaan Valley Resort State Park, which provides water skiing, golfing in the summer, and picturesque hiking trails. The Allegheny Highlands Trail and Mountain Trail Rides offer options for biking, walking, and horseback riding. After a day of adventure, unwind at Mountain State Brewing Co., where you can sample local craft beers in a relaxed setting. Complete your stay with cozy accommodations at The Billy Motel & Bar / ISH Kitchen, featuring nostalgic 70s-style decor that adds a touch of retro charm to your visit.
Martinsburg
Located in the Eastern Panhandle near Maryland, Martinsburg is the bustling heart of Berkeley County. Established during the American Revolutionary War, this town abounds with history, palpable at the Downtown Martinsburg Historic District. Many iconic landmarks tell tales of old, such as the Belle Boyd House, where one can dive into history where the legacy of a Confederate spy unfolds. Moreover, families can engage young minds at For the Kids, By George Children’s Museum, and the War Memorial Park, which invites sports fans with its fields and trails.
The Apollo Civic Theatre stages captivating plays and concerts for those with more artistic interests, while October’s Annual Apple Harvest Festival offers seasonal treats and festivities. After a day of historic activities, consider booking a comfortable stay at The Historic McFarland House, blending heritage with modern amenities.
Wheeling
Wheeling awaits with a bustling industrial past in Northern West Virginia along the Ohio River. Once a state capital, this town will bring all the fun needed for an event-filled yet relaxing three-day weekend. Start by marveling at the Wheeling Suspension Bridge, a National Historic Landmark and an engineering wonder. Dive into more history at Oglebay Park and Mansion Museum, where the town’s heritage comes alive. For a touch of excitement, head to Wheeling Island Hotel-Casino-Racetrack, where you can try your luck and experience the thrill of the races. It also offers amazing accommodation options for a convenient and luxurious stay in Wheeling. Culture lovers will enjoy performances at the Capitol Theatre and the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra, both of which bring a lively atmosphere to the city’s streets. Whether you’re seeking history, excitement, or cultural enrichment, Wheeling offers a well-rounded and memorable experience.
Elkins
Elkins offers a vibrant cultural scene and rich history in Randolph County’s Appalachian Mountains. Start by exploring the heritage at Davis and Elkins College, which has promoted higher education since 1904. Then, delve into local traditions at the Augusta Heritage Center or Stirrup Gallery, which showcases regional arts, crafts, and historical artifacts.
Nature lovers can take a scenic ride aboard the Durbin and Greenbrier Valley Railroad, offering stunning mountain views. Families will enjoy Elkins City Park, which has playgrounds and a swimming pool. For evening entertainment, catch a live performance at the American Mountain Theater, which brings the region’s music and stories to life. For accommodations, the Graceland Inn and Resort offers a stay in a beautifully restored Victorian mansion, perfect for those who appreciate classic decor and picture-perfect moments.
Conclusion
In the small towns of West Virginia, the most pressing decision to make is choosing between a mountain hike or a riverside nap. With a blend of rustic charm, breathtaking landscapes, and an openness that is as inviting as a warm embrace, these towns offer a getaway that is refreshing and enchanting. In 2024, there’s no need to settle for the ordinary when the opportunity to revel in the extraordinary simplicity of West Virginia. Leave the hustle and bustle behind, and let these Appalachian retreats show just how magical a 3-day weekend can be.
CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY) — West Virginia has plenty of state symbols, be it the black bear as the state animal, the cardinal as the state bird or the rhododendron as the state flower, but did you know that the Mountain State also has its own official gun?
The Hall Flintlock Model 1819 was first manufactured in Harpers Ferry by John H. Hall in 1811 and was adopted by the United States Army in 1819, making it the first breech-loading rifle ever adopted by a country’s military.
-
Model 1819 Hall Breechloading Rifle presented by Congress to Gustavous A. Bird for his participation in the Battle of Plattsburgh 9/11/1814 by John C. Bird via the Smithsonian Institution -
Model 1819 Hall Breechloading Rifle presented by Congress to Gustavous A. Bird for his participation in the Battle of Plattsburgh 9/11/1814 by John C. Bird via the Smithsonian Institution
All of this information is listed in Senate Concurrent Resolution 7, which was introduced and passed during the 2013 West Virginia Legislative session, and officially recognizes the Model 1819 as the official firearm of the State of West Virginia.
On top of being created in West Virginia, the resolution also points out that the rifle saw use during the Civil War, an event that directly led to West Virginia’s statehood.
While having an officially recognized state firearm may seem far-fetched, West Virginia is not the only state that has one. As a matter of fact, a fifth of the states in the country have officially designated a state firearm, including West Virginia’s neighbors in Kentucky and Pennsylvania.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — In this world of college football, with the transfer portal and recruiting battles, bad blood is present more than ever before between head coaches.
That’s not the case between the Virginia Tech head coach and Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney, however. In fact, Franklin revealed at ACC Kickoff on Thursday that the two are actually close friends, dating back to their time at the Nike trip that various coaches take over the summer.
“Dabo’s my guy,” Franklin said on Thursday. “We go way back. We’ve been on the Nike trip for a long time. His wife and my wife are friends.”
The long-time Penn State head coach is making the move to the ACC after being fired from the Nittany Lions in October. 12 seasons of being with the program had Franklin hold a 44-21 record against top 10 opponents, an impressive record for a new conference foe of Swinney’s.
But when that trip comes around, there’s a camaraderie between Swinney and Franklin and both of their wives. In fact, the two hang out with each other instead of the other coaches at times. It simply comes to an “edgy” time in college athletics that raises tempers.
“I’m going to be honest, I wouldn’t say we’re necessarily like the type of people that love a lot of other coaches and a lot of other programs,” Franklin said. “It’s hard when you just compete year-round.”
On Swinney’s end, there are a few who could immediately come to mind among Clemson fans. Perhaps the most recent would be Ole Miss coach Pete Golding, who played the most significant role in the tampering of former linebacker Luke Ferrelli.
It’s a select list of coaches who make the good side of the Tigers’ head coach, and Franklin is certainly on that list. On the other hand, Hokies’ head coach has Swinney on his own shortlist.
“Obviously, tremendous respect for what he has built at Clemson and what he’s done at Clemson, and what he’s done for the ACC,” he said.
The two will see that close relationship face off at Memorial Stadium this upcoming season. Clemson will host the Hokies on Oct. 24 in what could be a potential title-eliminator for the ACC Championship.
Of course, the last game that we’ve seen the Tigers play in was against Franklin’s former team in Penn State at the Bad Boy Mowers Pinstripe Bowl. That game ended in a 22-10 contest that saw a foundation of Franklin players end Clemson’s season in disappointment.
Swinney will see many of those players once again in October, including starting quarterback Ethan Grunkemeyer, in that contest. The anticipated Hokie starter recorded 260 yards and two passing touchdowns on the Tigers in the Bronx that day.
Although friends become foes, another ACC coach has given Swinney his flowers for what he’s been able to do for the conference. In the upcoming moments, Franklin will look to prepare his team to prove itself on one of the biggest stages in the ACC, while Swinney looks to put his team back at the top of a conference he’s dominated for over 15 years.
Follow
MARTINSVILLE, Va. (WSET) — Extreme drought conditions in parts of Virginia have prompted an emergency drought warning for a wide swath of the region, including Bedford, Campbell, Charlotte, Franklin, Halifax, Henry, Mecklenburg, Patrick, Pittsylvania and Roanoke counties, along with the cities of Danville, Roanoke, Salem and Martinsville.
The governor has warned that if conditions worsen, she will activate mandatory nonessential water-use restrictions.
In Martinsville, city leaders have issued a voluntary water conservation notice and are urging residents and businesses to cut back where they can. The request comes as local businesses that rely heavily on water say the drought is already affecting day-to-day operations.
SEE ALSO: Botetourt County residents adjust daily routines as voluntary water restriction continues
John Hughes, owner of John’s Car Wash, said the dry conditions have hit his business hard in recent weeks. “For the last 3 weeks, it’s been hitting pretty hard. We done three yesterday and haven’t done anything today with the drought and hot weather. Yeah, I’m really concerned about it,” Hughes said.
Restaurants are also feeling the strain. David Kitzmiller, an owner of Be Wiched, said water is essential for routine tasks such as washing dishes and preparing some menu items.
“We use a lot of water for washing dishes and some of our recipes if they limit us in anyway defiently can’t produce and its a scary aspect,” Kitzmiller said.
Kitzmiller added that cutting back is not always realistic for businesses that must meet sanitation needs. “Not really feasible for a business that depends solely relies on water to wash their dishes, so that can’t definitely be an impact there,” he said.
City leaders emphasized that the conservation request is voluntary for now, but they are encouraging everyone to do their part by taking shorter showers, turning off the faucet when it is not in use, washing only full loads of laundry, and limiting outdoor watering whenever possible.
-
Missouri3 minutes ago
Missouri Lottery Pick 3, Pick 4 winning numbers for July 16, 2026
-
Montana9 minutes agoMissoula and Western Montana neighbors: Obituaries for July 17
-
Nebraska15 minutes agoObituary | Stephen C. Mason
-
Nevada21 minutes agoNevada Attorney Gen. Aaron Ford responds to what he calls President Trump’s ‘misleading speech on elections’
-
New Hampshire27 minutes agoWoman Taken To Concord Hospital On A Trauma Alert After A Rollover Crash On South Main Street
-
New Jersey33 minutes agoNY-NJ World Cup host group failed to register with state | Exclusive
-
New Mexico39 minutes agoExpectations Have Changed: UNM enters 2026 as a Mountain West title contender
-
North Carolina45 minutes agoNorth Carolina’s Republican-led election board makes it easier to reject ballots
