West Virginia makes you fall in love. At least, that’s the story I heard again and again during my short trip there this winter. I met many people who had moved there from other states after visiting and falling in love with the bucolic landscape and friendly people. There were city natives who never imagined they’d be drawn in by the slow pace of life. There were older folks who decided West Virginia was the perfect place to settle down. On this trip, I got a taste of what West Virginia has to offer during the winter season. If you’re looking for a short weekend getaway, West Virginia should be on your list!
Read on for a curated list of the best things to do, places to eat, and where to stay and find out why they call West Virginia “Almost Heaven!”
Disclaimer: I was invited on this trip by the West Virginia Tourism Board.
Things to Do
Learn to ski or snowboard at Winterplace Ski Resort
Whether you’re a total beginner (like me!) or just want to brush up on your skills, Winterplace Ski Resort is the perfect place for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. They offer lessons daily for children and adults of all ages. I had only snowboarded once before, 6 years ago, and never got a proper lesson so it was great to learn the right techniques from a professional instructor. If you’re not into snowboarding or skiing, head over to the region’s largest Snowtubing park. Just take the lift up to the Mountain House and grab a tube for an adrenaline rush that will make you feel like a kid again!
Go ATV riding on endless miles of trails
Southern West Virginia is home to hundreds of miles of off-road trails. We get to experience a part of the Hatfield-McCoy Trail System, one of the largest off-road vehicle trail systems in the world. Over 500 miles of the trails wind through the Appalachian mountains, and they’re still working on expanding the trail system. The trails are all connected to ATV-friendly towns throughout the state, like Bramwell, where riders can have lunch and experience small town charm. Your clothes will get muddy, but that’s all part of the fun!
Taste wine at a family-owned winery
Lambert’s Winery in Stonewall County was established in 1992 by a Jim and Debbie, who didn’t know much about making wine but loved it nonetheless. The family business is now mostly run by their son and daughter, and now encompasses weddings, catering, and other events on top of making and selling their wine. The dedication and passion they’ve put into the business can be seen in every nook and cranny of the winery. My favorite part was the main fireplace and the wall built of hand-cut stones collected from all over West Virginia.
Admire street art and sip organic coffee in Princeton
Princeton, West Virginia was once a thriving railroad town, but fell hard when the coal industry declined. A formerly seedy area, locals took it upon themselves to revitalize the downtown streets. Young artists formed the RiffRaff Arts Collective. The group has since hosted art shows, musical performances, workshops, and more. The city officials followed suit with the Princeton Renaissance Project, where artists were commissioned to paint wall murals all over downtown. Businesses started opening up and the town’s historic theater underwent renovation. We visited a local cafe, the Appalachian Coffee House, which serves organic coffee and a variety of homemade pastries. Such a cozy spot!
Shop artisanal goods at Tamarack
Tamarack proudly houses “The Best of West Virginia,” as their tagline suggests. The multi-use shopping, food, and events center has some very unique artisanal products from local makers and crafters. We even saw a glass blowing demonstration! If you’re looking for a really thoughtful, high-quality souvenir then this is the perfect place to buy it. I just wish I had more room in my suitcase for some of the beautiful pottery items! Tamarack is also used as a conference and events space, and they host a variety of workshops and theater performances.
Tour Millionaire Row in Bramwell
In the height of the coal industry, Bramwell was once a super wealthy town. There were more millionaires there per capita than anywhere else in the US. Coal barons and their families built beautiful mansions right in the heart of Bramwell for its proximity to the Pocahontas coalfields. You can still admire the opulent and well-preserved Victorian and Tudor style mansions on walking tours of Millionaire Row. We were lucky enough to be invited into some of these homes during the tour, which are usually only open to the public during the annual Spring and Christmas Tour of the Homes (held on the second Saturday of June and December, respectively).
Places to Eat
Glade’s Grill & Bar
Glade’s Grill & Bar is the signature restaurant at The Resort at Glade Springs, where we stayed for the first two nights of our trip. It was a really memorable fine dining experience. The chef made a special set menu so we could try the best local flavors of the West Virginia region. West Virginians are big on foraging and eating off of the land, which I love. It’s so much more fresh and sustainable that way. I don’t usually eat red meat, but had to try the venison and it was delicious! If you go during the day, you’ll even get treated to amazing views of the Cobb Course below.
The Dish Cafe
The motto at The Dish Cafe is “Whole. Fresh. Local.” and that’s exactly what the welcoming and passionate team at the restaurant offers. The restaurant’s focus is on using natural and whole ingredients with healthy choices that don’t sacrifice on taste. The result is fresh comfort food that’s actually better for you. The restaurant also sources ingredients from local farms, so they can keep money and the food system local while supporting families in the region. There were so many tasty options on the menu, and something catering to all food preferences from vegetarians to gluten-free. I really wanted to try the avocado brownie but it was so popular that it sold out, so I’ll definitely be back for it!
Bramwell Soda Fountain and Corner Shop
This famous soda fountain in the historic town of Bramwell is a must-see! Step back in time and try one of the dozens of ice cream flavors or the famous burger, and admire the retro memorabilia.
The Blue Spoon Cafe
We made a stop at The Blue Spoon Cafe in Bluefield, West Virginia, to try their specialty doughnuts and fresh breakfast. The interior was colorful and quirky, and the entrees were super affordable! We met the owner, Nicole, who chatted to us about her background and how she came to own the cafe. Meeting the local business owners and hearing their stories was definitely one of my favorite parts of the trip.
Where to Stay
The Resort at Glade Springs
The Resort at Glade Springs is the perfect place for families at any time of year. It’s close to Winterplace, but also has a host of activities on its own property (from a bowling alley to escape rooms!). There are also many dining options including the Grill, mentioned above, and Bunker’s Sports Bar for something more casual. The resort has its own charter bus which will take you to the golf course, the hot tubs, the archery course, and more.
Buffalo Trail Cabins
We had a more rustic experience at Buffalo Trail Cabins. Guests can choose from cozy cabins and comfortable cottages, to treehouse-style campsites. There are also camping spots for RVs. There is also a full service restaurant and bar on site. The property is also the perfect jumping ground for ATV adventures since it’s close to the Hatfield-McCoy Trails System.
Stonewall Resort
Stonewall Resort is an elegant lakeside destination that puts you at the heart of that natural wonders of West Virginia without sacrificing luxury and comfort. The resort is surrounded by 1,900 acres of parkland where guests can enjoy hiking, golfing, kayaking, fishing, and more. Aside from the outdoor activities, there is also a spa, an indoor/outdoor heated pool, an escape room, and delicious dining options. The resort is a highly coveted wedding venue, but also hosts conferences and meetings throughout the year. I was amazed by how friendly and accommodating the staff were, and loved exploring the hotel grounds.
There are infinitely more things to do in West Virginia than listed here, even in the wintertime. I really wish I had time to go on a hike, or visit the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum near Stonewall Resort. It’s safe to say that whatever your’e interested in – whether that be fine food, outdoor adventure, rest and relaxation, or family fun – you’re bound to find it in West Virginia!
