Discover WV

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.

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.