Explore > West Virginia > West Virginia Spotlight
Charleston
Charleston proudly bears the legacies of the pioneers and statesmen who helped West Virginia become an independent state. The city’s free West Virginia State Museum exhibits artifacts telling the story of the area’s prehistoric era, early settlement days and the region’s economic and cultural development.
Superb WV City
State Capitol in Charleston West Virginia
Head to neighboring South Charleston to see the Criel Mound, a burial site of the Adena people, who lived in the area thousands of years ago. Travel forward in time to the 1800s and 1900s in Charleston’s East End. Architectural gems of the city’s oldest neighborhood include Greek Revival, Queen Anne and Georgian buildings. The nearby State Capitol, built in three stages during the early part of the 20th century, is topped with a stunning golden dome and is open to the public during business hours. Break out the golf clubs for a day on the fairway at the Cato Park Golf Course, a nine-hole course featuring a 1,719-yard fairway from the longest tee. The 18-hole course at the Little Creek Country Club in South Charleston boasts 6,096 yards from the longest tee.
West Virginia Wilderness
An afternoon photo of the New River Gorge Bridge with a beautiful cloud cover
Charleston’s natural beauty and ecological heritage are prized features, and the Wallace Hartman Nature Preserve entices guests to enjoy nature up close. More than 50 acres are traversed by hiking and biking trails, and attractions include small waterfalls along Lick Creek and its tributaries. Just outside the city lies Kanawha State Park, an outdoor lover’s dream destination. Cross-country skiing is a popular winter pastime, while the warmer months beckon guests to the hiking trails. Settle in for days of spotting some of the 19 species of warblers that call the 9,300-acre forest home. Licensed fishermen can drop a line in Ellison Pond for the chance to snag bluegill, bass or trout. In season, hunt for deer, grouse, turkey and rabbit.
For More Information
Charleston WV
304-344-5075
West Virginia Division of Tourism
800-225-5982