Discover WV

From the small screen to the silver screen, and probably on your smartphone screen, the state of West Virginia is amping up its push for more high production film projects to be shot within the Mountain State. The film industry has created an unprecedented creative economy across neighboring Appalachian regions from Pittsburgh and Cincinnati to Wilmington and Atlanta, says Dave Lavender, apprenticeship program coordinator with the West Virginia Department of Economic Development. Lavender works within the West Virginia Film Office, which assists crews looking to film in the state and helps promote the state’s potential as a location for filming.

The Mountain Lakes region is a top destination for anyone looking for a good bite to eat. From everyday Appalachian comfort food to upscale, modernist cuisine, this region has a little bit of everything. While there are many must-visit restaurants in this region, we have selected three that you’ll certainly want to check out as you’re enjoying your stay in this special part of Almost Heaven.

Every season in West Virginia has something special to offer, and summer is no exception. Whether it’s catching fireflies in mason jars, drinking lemonade on the front porch, pitching a tent beneath the stars or picking wildflowers on the side of winding country roads, most of us would agree that summertime in the Mountain State is almost heaven.

With prime topography in the mountains of Appalachia, mountain biking is growing exponentially in West Virginia as it becomes an international destination for the sport. There are miles of trails throughout the state and new ones continuously popping up to meet the increasing demand. The diverse mountain biking trails allow novices and experts alike to find their perfect ride. Compiled here are some of the best trail systems in the state.

Culture is an invaluable part of our world and always has been. It creates a united identity and binds communities and people together in a profound manner. The preservation of culture is essential to continually transform our world for the better and generate new, unique ideas for solving complex problems. Culture brings together diverse voices and experiences, which is necessary for growth and lifelong learning as well as for preserving heritage.

With big city amenities wrapped up in small-town charm, eye-catching views, outdoor recreation and plenty of southern hospitality, Almost Heaven is the picture-perfect place to host your next meeting or event. With ample budget-friendly options and an easy drive to some of the biggest cities on the East Coast, you’ll quickly see why the state is becoming a primary destination for those looking to gather in a place of convenience, generosity and natural beauty.

Most people recognize West Virginia as a destination for those seeking adventure; rafting, hiking, biking and climbing are all popular throughout the year. What many may not know is that West Virginia is also a great wedding destination for all seasons. For couples looking to tie the knot, the natural beauty of the state shines in spring, summer, fall and winter.

One of the very first steps in planning a wedding is determining the venue for the ceremony and reception, and choosing a venue with an on-site wedding planner and coordinator offers many benefits for soon-to-be-wed couples. West Virginia is home to a few wedding venues that offer wedding planning and event coordinating services—just one perk among many others of tying the knot in Almost Heaven.

As our world continues to expand its urban developments to fit the needs of an ever-growing population, it is taking a toll on our skies due to a lesser-recognized type of pollution: light pollution. Artificial light leaves millions worldwide with starless skies. The unnatural brightening of the night sky causes a myriad of negative effects, like the disruption of both the natural ecosystem and humans’ innate circadian rhythm, for example.

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.