Discover WV

The Mountain State has a wealth of history, scenic beauty and outdoor adventures to explore, and in 2020, there’s even more available to experience. From new accommodations on the Hatfield-McCoy Trail System, which will make ATV adventures a weekend getaway, and the opening of Snowshoe Highlands, one of only 40 International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) ride centers in the world, to Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center’s $100 million renovation and expansion, the Aquatic Center at Mylan Park’s construction and Pipestem Peaks Zipline Tour, Adventure Lake and Splash Park’s grand opening, this year promises new adventures for all ages in West Virginia.

Many people fall in love with the Mountain State after just one visit, thanks to its natural beauty. What better way is there to say “I do” than in a rustic West Virginia venue surrounded by breathtaking views of hills and hollows? These four farm and barn properties offer the bride and groom a unique countryside location to exchange vows as well as assistance in making the day go as smoothly as possible and support in ensuring the day is as unique as Almost Heaven.

Whether you are looking for European-inspired fine dining, rustic outdoorsy meals to fuel up for a day of adventure, beautiful views, creative cuisine or all of the above, West Virginia’s resort restaurants have it covered. The state’s resorts work tremendously hard to give their guests—whether from just across town or from out of the state—a meal and an experience to savor.

Among the hills and hollows of the Mountain State live the legends of creatures from another realm. Two that have earned worldwide fame are the Flatwoods Monster, which is believed to have arrived in Flatwoods, WV, in 1952, and the Mothman, a terrifying presence that showed up in Point Pleasant, WV, in 1966.

There’s something about friendly competition that gets the blood pumping, and nowhere is there more opportunity for sportsmanship than West Virginia. In addition to endless outdoor adventures, the Mountain State is also host to a variety of activities sure to inspire a healthy matchup between friends, family members or even coworkers.

The Mountain State might be land-locked, but it is home to a host of beautiful lakes, rivers and waterfalls that can wow even the most zealous water lovers. In an effort to show off these stunning waterways, the staff at Discover West Virginia reached out to its readers for their best water destination photos, and, as always, they delivered. These photos showcase some of the state’s most striking scenery while also offering adventure lovers the chance to find their next destination for kayaking, swimming, fishing and boating. Grab your swimwear and your sunscreen and get out on the water in West Virginia.

Camping means different things to different people, and West Virginia’s accommodations do not discriminate. Whether you’re looking for a secluded tent site, a hookup for your RV or a comfortable cabin with all the amenities, there’s an ideal camping accommodation waiting for you in the Mountain State. Whether you’re camping or glamping, these five accommodation options will inspire you to get outside and explore wild, wonderful West Virginia like never before.

The Mountain State’s towering mountains, steep valleys and panoramic vistas are a major draw for both locals and out-of-state visitors who want to experience the wonders of Almost Heaven. Adventure seekers can find trails and scenic overlooks at every turn. For a unique taste of wild and wonderful, though, step off the beaten path and make your West Virginia experience unlike any other.

In July, Glen Jean, WV, played host to the 2019 World Scout Jamboree, which allowed scouts from across the globe to experience everything wild and wonderful about the Mountain State.

The holiday season is one of gathering with family and friends to celebrate traditions and blessings. In honor of the many Thanksgiving get-togethers, Christmas parties and New Year’s Eve countdowns that will take place in the coming months, West Virginia Executive magazine reached out to The Junction Restaurant and Saloon, Snowshoe Mountain’s most unique dining experience, for some seasonal cocktails that will give your upcoming event an extra special dose of holiday cheer.

The growth of the Bavarian Inn in Shepherdstown, WV, has always been driven by its guests. In 1984, owners Erwin and Carol Asam added the inn to their restaurant so guests from Maryland and Washington, D.C., could enjoy dinner without worrying about driving home after.

Meet any native of Lisbon, Portugal, and they will quickly recall November 1, 1755. Known as All Saints’ Day, that is the day Lisbon experienced a sequence of three earthquakes ranging from 8.5 to 9.1 in magnitude, one of which was one of the deadliest in history. While the earthquake brought destruction through both a tsunami and fires, one area remained untouched from the devastation: Alfama.