Discover WV

For centuries, talented writers have been capturing the imaginations of readers with their fictional worlds, diverse characters and elaborate stories. This is especially true when it comes to tales of magic and the witches and wizards who wield it. This love of all things magic has inspired everything from book clubs to sports clubs and cosplay to culture, and West Virginians are no exception. Across the Mountain State, festivals devoted to celebrating the magic of the wizarding world can be found for casual fans to the most devoted enthusiasts alike.

Contrary to TLC’s popular song, we hope you’ll find the time to chase some of Almost Heaven’s 200+ awe-inspiring waterfalls this year. To help you get started on your waterfall-chasing adventure, here is an exclusive trail map that highlights 29 must-see waterfalls throughout the state. To keep track of each visit, head over to wvtourism.com and fill out the required information to download your free West Virginia Waterfall Trail Passport that allows you to check in at different locations and earn prizes.

There is no shortage of activities for an adventure seeker in West Virginia. From whitewater rafting and rock climbing to backpacking and mountain biking, the state is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. While some adrenaline junkies may love the thrill of cascading down class 5 rapids at the New River Gorge, others may feel a propensity toward taking to the sky.

Mountaineers take their winter sports seriously. Although West Virginia is no stranger to the blazing heat and humidity of summer, this four-season state knows how to indulge in the winter activities coinciding with cooler temperatures and snowfall, which is why six West Virginia organizations have made it their mission to provide access to the great outdoors when the weather is frosty. From snowboarding and skiing to snowmobiling, tubing and ice skating, locals and visitors alike will never find themselves at a loss for fun, snowy adventures.

In 2018, Drew and Amber Johnson saw that Martinsburg, WV, needed a fine dining establishment with a little flair, and they both liked the functionality of the automated wine machines. Once they did some research and planning, the concept for Brix 27 was born.

A beautiful golden-brown bun stuffed with spicy pepperoni is the perfect West Virginia snack. Maybe add in some melted cheese or sweet peppers, too. The pepperoni roll, the unofficial state food of West Virginia, is a shelf-stable, meat-stuffed roll that can be found in pockets all across the state. But its roots—much like those of the state itself—are traced back to the coal mining industry less than 100 years ago.

There is one thing folks learn pretty quickly when visiting the Mountain State: West Virginians are kind, generous and helpful. This selfless nature was recognized by John F. Kennedy when he visited the state during the 1960 presidential primary election campaign and said, “The sun does not always shine in West Virginia, but the people always do.” Despite a long history of economic challenges, West Virginians are known for offering a hand up to those in need—especially strangers.

When West Virginians think about frontline heroes—those fighting for our physical, mental and emotional well-being and keeping us safe from all types of harm—most minds immediately jump to thoughts of the brave men and women serving our state. However, what some Mountaineers may not realize is that not all the state’s heroes are human—some have paws.

A group of entrepreneurial friends is at the center of the revitalization taking place in Greenbrier County. When Clay Elkins, J.W. Groseclose and David Bostic came up with an idea for a new brewery, they decided from the start that they always wanted it to be more than just a place that crafted and served beer. They wanted it to be a place that brought people together.

All-terrain vehicle (ATV) trails offer a unique recreational opportunity for thrill seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. In West Virginia, this industry draws in visitors from across the country. With its diverse terrain, gorgeous views and thriving hospitality industry, the Mountain State is a natural home for a variety of ATV trail locations and businesses. What are you waiting for? Use this map to plan your next adrenaline-inducing adventure.

What has long been recognized by West Virginians as a southeastern gem has officially received the designation it deserves. Effective December 27, 2020, the New River Gorge became the U.S.’s 63rd national park. The new status for this stunning destination has significant implications for the Mountain State.