We’ve all heard it at least once-if not a hundred times-in our lives. And for those of us who are parents, we’ve probably said it at least that many times since school let out and summer break began: “Go Outside and Play.”
 It’s something we should all do-even as adults. That is why the West Virginia Division of Tourism recently kicked off its new campaign: “Go Outside and Play: Wild Wonderful Wednesdays.” The campaign challenges West Virginians to “Go Outside and Play” and targets specific activities ranging from outdoor recreation and festivals to culture and history. It also calls attention to some of the Mountain State’s hidden gems-quirky, off-the-beaten-path attractions that capture both the wild and wonderful qualities of West Virginia.
First in the series of themed events scheduled to take place throughout West Virginia, the “Go Outside and Camp” event at Coopers Rock State Forest provided West Virginians and visitors to our state with the opportunity to bike, hike, fish and spend some time getting to know the staff at the Division of Tourism. More importantly-everyone made new memories. A West Virginia University grad surprised her great aunts with a trip to Coopers Rock. A little boy enjoyed roasting marshmallows and blowing out the flames. A New York family experienced Wild Wonderful West Virginia. Kuyani, a golden retriever, even enjoyed some great hiking and spectacular views while visiting from Ohio. Overall, everyone enjoyed the company of new friends.
For those who were unable to participate in the “Go Outside and Camp” event, there will be more opportunities in the coming months to “Go Outside and Play,” including an event centered on the West Virginia State Fair and another on the start of Gauley Season.
The Division’s “Wild Wonderful Wednesday” activities provide unique venues for family fun and showcase the exciting adventures available close to home-many of which are vital and significant contributors to West Virginia’s economy. In fact, travel spending by visitors in West Virginia surpassed $5 billion in 2012. This spending-the equivalent of approximately $13.9 million per day-directly supported more than 46,000 jobs with earnings of more than $1 billion. Travel spending also generated more than $700 million in state and local government revenues.
Not only does tourism benefit our state’s economy it also provides added benefit to us individually. According to the U.S. Travel Association, taking regular vacations can improve a person’s health in several measurable ways, including lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart attack. Couples and families who travel together reported an increased feeling of closeness. And finally, spending time away from the office has been linked to a decrease in stress and an increase in creativity and work performance.
So, before the kids go back to school and evenings become filled with homework and sports practices, plan a weekend getaway and “Go Outside and Play.” There’s still time to go camping or backpacking, take the kids to a local fair or festival and even spend the weekend fishing at the lake. Take this time to put your technology away and reconnect with your family and friends by spending some quality time enjoying West Virginia’s natural beauty.
