Explore The Best Of West Virginia Turnpike With Our Comprehensive Travel Guide

West Virginia Turnpike is a scenic route that winds through the Appalachian Mountains, offering breathtaking views of nature, rich history, and vibrant culture. If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful state, our travel guide will help you discover the top attractions, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences that make West Virginia Turnpike a must-visit destination.

Top Attractions

West Virginia Turnpike has plenty of attractions that cater to all interests. The most popular attractions include the Greenbrier Resort, New River Gorge Bridge, Tamarack, and Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine.

Greenbrier Resort

Greenbrier Resort is a luxury resort nestled in the Allegheny Mountains, surrounded by lush landscapes and natural beauty. The resort offers world-class amenities, including golf courses, spa treatments, fine dining, and outdoor activities. It’s a perfect getaway for couples and families who want to relax and unwind amidst nature.

New River Gorge Bridge

The New River Gorge Bridge is a steel arch bridge that spans over the New River Gorge, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls. It’s a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and whitewater rafting.

Hidden Gems

If you want to explore the lesser-known attractions of West Virginia Turnpike, here are some hidden gems that you shouldn’t miss.

Lost World Caverns

Lost World Caverns is an underground cave system that boasts a variety of stunning rock formations, including stalagmites, stalactites, and flowstones. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the cave, which is also home to rare species of bats and salamanders.

Pipestem Resort State Park

Pipestem Resort State Park is a hidden gem that offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and horseback riding. The park also features a stunning lodge that overlooks the Bluestone River Gorge.

Food Scene

West Virginia Turnpike has a diverse food scene that reflects its cultural heritage. From traditional Appalachian cuisine to modern fusion dishes, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds.

Hillbilly Hotdogs

Hillbilly Hotdogs is a quirky roadside diner that serves up delicious hot dogs, burgers, and sandwiches. The menu features unique creations like the “homewrecker” hot dog, which is piled high with chili, cheese, onions, and jalapenos.

The Dish Cafe

The Dish Cafe is a cozy cafe that serves up a variety of comfort foods, including soups, salads, sandwiches, and baked goods. The cafe also features a small market that sells locally sourced products like honey, jam, and artisanal cheese.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to compromise on the quality of your experience. Here are some tips to help you save money while exploring West Virginia Turnpike.

Visit State Parks

West Virginia Turnpike has several state parks that offer free or low-cost activities, including hiking, camping, and swimming. Some popular state parks include Babcock State Park, Kanawha State Forest, and Chief Logan State Park.

Eat Local

Many of the local restaurants in West Virginia Turnpike offer affordable meals that reflect the region’s culinary traditions. Look for restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients, which are often fresher and cheaper than imported foods.

Outdoor Adventures

West Virginia Turnpike is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with a variety of activities that cater to all skill levels. Here are some of the best outdoor adventures you can experience in this region.

Whitewater Rafting

The New River Gorge is one of the most popular destinations for whitewater rafting in the country. The rapids range from Class I to Class V, offering a thrilling experience for both beginners and advanced rafters.

Hiking

West Virginia Turnpike has a plethora of hiking trails that offer stunning views of nature and wildlife. Some popular hiking trails include the Cranberry Wilderness Trail, the Seneca Creek Trail, and the Coopers Rock State Forest Trail.

Family-Friendly Activities

West Virginia Turnpike has plenty of family-friendly activities that cater to all ages. Here are some of the best activities that you can enjoy with your family.

West Virginia State Museum

The West Virginia State Museum is a great place to learn about the region’s rich history and culture. The museum features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and dioramas that showcase the state’s past and present.

Snowshoe Mountain Resort

Snowshoe Mountain Resort is a family-friendly destination that offers a range of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and mountain biking. The resort also features a village with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you want to explore the hidden corners of West Virginia Turnpike, here are some off-the-beaten-path experiences that you shouldn’t miss.

Cass Scenic Railroad

The Cass Scenic Railroad is a historic train ride that takes you through the mountains, offering stunning views of nature and wildlife. The train also stops at several stations where you can explore the local history and culture.

Organ Cave

Organ Cave is a unique natural wonder that features a variety of underground rock formations, including stalagmites, stalactites, and draperies. The cave also has a rich history, having served as a hideout for Civil War soldiers and moonshiners.

Natural Wonders

West Virginia Turnpike is home to several natural wonders that will take your breath away. Here are some of the best natural landmarks that you can explore.

Seneca Rocks

Seneca Rocks is a towering rock formation that rises 900 feet above the surrounding landscape. The rock offers stunning panoramic views of the mountains and valleys, making it a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing.

Blackwater Falls State Park

Blackwater Falls State Park is a scenic wonderland that features a waterfall, rock formations, and wildlife. The park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and skiing.

Vibrant Nightlife

West Virginia Turnpike has a vibrant nightlife scene that caters to all tastes. Whether you’re looking for a cozy pub or a trendy nightclub, you’ll find plenty of options to keep you entertained.

The Boulevard Tavern

The Boulevard Tavern is a popular spot for live music, featuring local and national acts. The tavern also serves up a variety of craft beers, cocktails, and pub fare.

The Empty Glass

The Empty Glass is a cozy bar that features a variety of local and imported beers, wines, and spirits. The bar also hosts open mic nights and live music events that showcase the region’s music scene.

Local Markets

West Virginia Turnpike has several local markets that offer fresh produce, crafts, and artisanal products. Here are some of the best markets that you can explore.

Capitol Market

Capitol Market is a year-round indoor market that features a variety of vendors, including farmers, bakers, and artisans. The market offers fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods, as well as live music and entertainment.

Lewisburg Farmers Market

Lewisburg Farmers Market is a seasonal market that runs from May to October, offering a variety of fresh produce, flowers, and crafts. The market also features live music, cooking demos, and educational programs.

Beaches and Mountains

West Virginia Turnpike is a unique region that offers both beach and mountain experiences. Here are some of the best beaches and mountains that you can explore.

Summersville Lake

Summersville Lake is a man-made lake that offers a range of water activities, including swimming, boating, and fishing. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and cliffs, offering stunning views of nature.

Snowshoe Mountain

Snowshoe Mountain is a popular ski resort that offers a range of winter activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The mountain also has several hiking trails and scenic drives that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Cultural Immersion

West Virginia Turnpike has a rich cultural heritage that reflects its diverse history and traditions. Here are some of the best cultural experiences that you can have in this region.

West Virginia Cultural Center

The West