Discover WV

The Mountain State is well-known for its incredible beauty and outdoor adventures. While in Almost Heaven, visitors will find cozy mountain escapes among the rolling hills of Appalachia. Many have enjoyed West Virginia’s beauty through photographs and paintings for generations. However, West Virginia’s beauty is now more available to view than ever through social media.

Not commonly thought of as a destination for weekend getaways, West Virginia is becoming a hub for outdoor exploration. Adventurers are flocking to the state to experience its unending beauty. While many decide to pitch a tent during their travels, others may feel the need for something a bit more luxurious, and glamping is the solution. Simply put, glamping is where nature meets the comfort and convenience of modern amenities.

While the COVID-19 pandemic took a record-breaking toll on the hospitality industry, West Virginia’s event spaces are open and ready for business. Whether you are planning a meeting, conference, seminar or retreat, you can feel confident that these locations offer clean spaces, safe facilities, top-notch equipment and five-star service on top of scenic Almost Heaven backdrops.

Located in Huntington, WV, Christopher’s Eats is an upscale American restaurant fueled by its community. Christopher’s serves fresh, homemade cuisine with a mission of bringing people together. A relaxed and eclectic atmosphere creates a beautiful yet approachable space that lets customers lose themselves in their culinary experience.

In the winter of 2018, I purchased a state parks poster from Charleston print shop, Basecamp Printing Company. The poster features an outline of West Virginia and numbered pins where all the state parks are located. There are 34 state parks, nine state forests and two rail trails that make up the state parks system. As a lifelong West Virginian, I had no idea there were so many places that fell under the state parks umbrella. This poster purchase set in motion the idea of trying to visit all 45 destinations.

West Virginia is well-known for its picture-perfect views of majestic mountains and rolling hills highlighted by the rising or setting sun. However, what many don’t know is that, to a small community of photographers, it is also known for unmatched celestial views that can only be found by the dark cover of night.

The arrival of autumn in West Virginia is marked by a chill in the air, changing leaves and the celebration of harvests and haunts. This year, it will also be marked by the return of some of the Mountain State’s best seasonal events. After a year of cancelations, residents and visitors alike are looking forward to the fairs, festivals and attractions that characterize fall in Almost Heaven.

The year 2020 was supposed to be a year of great adventure for my family. It happened to be the singular year where several life events collided, including my 25th wedding anniversary with my wife, Lori; my 50th birthday; my son, Alex, turning 18; and his graduation from high school. Instead of parceling out small celebrations and purchases, we discussed and decided upon a large, encompassing visit to Ireland to bring the variety of our milestones together into one wonderful trip abroad in July.

Interest in the Mountain State is growing. West Virginia is becoming more well-known for the beauty of its hills and hollows and the kindness and hospitality of its people. These factors are a big draw when it comes to attracting new tourists, residents, events, jobs and ideas to the state. With stunning outdoor scenery and historic and impressive resorts and hotels, West Virginia is open and ready for people to visit, explore and return.

Located in an old, historic bank lobby built in 1922, The Vault Downtown in Bluefield strives to give each of its patrons an unforgettable fine dining experience. Sitting in the center of the Bluefield Downtown Commercial Historic District, The Vault Downtown is rich in history and elegance. The space has a classic feel with black and white detailing and touches of gold throughout the restaurant, helping guests take a trip back in time to create a memorable evening out.

West Virginia was made for social distancing. With its rolling hills, tucked away hollows and flowing rivers and streams, the terrain of the Mountain State enables residents and visitors alike plenty of room to roam and enjoy its beauty while being safely distant from others. Much like many other industries, tourism took a hit in West Virginia in 2020.

The Wonder Bar Steakhouse has been a Clarksburg, WV, staple for more than 70 years. The restaurant’s rich history in the community began on February 14, 1946, when John and Betty Folio first opened its doors. The establishment remained in their family for many years as new generations continued in the tradition of creating a unique dining experience that became widely loved throughout West Virginia. In 2012, Daniel Watts, Manny Alvarez and David Alvarez decided to purchase The Wonder Bar Steakhouse to keep that unique experience alive.