The Best Experiences in West Virginia: Top 10 Must-Do Activities (Currently Open)
West Virginia is a land of wild rivers, rolling mountains, and deep-rooted Appalachian charm. Known as the Mountain State, it’s where adventure meets authenticity—where winding country roads lead you to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders and historic towns in the eastern United States. Whether you’re drawn to adrenaline-pumping outdoor excursions or quiet getaways filled with scenic beauty and small-town warmth, West Virginia offers unforgettable experiences for every kind of traveler.
From whitewater rafting through the New River Gorge to exploring historic landmarks, sipping local craft brews, and walking across a bridge nearly 900 feet above the ground, this state proves that adventure and hospitality can coexist beautifully. Let’s explore the top 10 must-do experiences in West Virginia that are currently open and welcoming visitors.
Soar Above It All at the New River Gorge Bridge (Fayetteville)
There’s no better place to start your West Virginia adventure than at the New River Gorge Bridge, one of the most iconic landmarks in the state—and one of the highest bridges in the world.
Every October, thousands gather for Bridge Day, when daredevils BASE jump and rappel from the 876-foot-high bridge into the gorge below. But you don’t need to be a thrill-seeker to enjoy it year-round. The Bridge Walk Tour offers a safe, guided experience where you can stroll across a catwalk suspended beneath the bridge, giving you panoramic views of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, America’s newest national park.
Whether you’re snapping photos, walking across the bridge, or simply soaking in the views, this is a must-see experience that perfectly captures West Virginia’s wild beauty.
Conquer the Rapids with New River Gorge Rafting Adventures
If adventure runs through your veins, few experiences can top whitewater rafting in the New River Gorge. The New River and Gauley River are two of the best rafting destinations in the country, offering challenges for both beginners and seasoned paddlers.
The Lower New River features thrilling Class IV and V rapids surrounded by stunning canyon views.
The Upper New River provides gentler waters perfect for families and beginners.
Outfitters like Adventures on the Gorge, River Expeditions, and ACE Adventure Resort operate year-round with guided tours, equipment rentals, and cozy cabins for overnight stays.
Rafting the New River isn’t just about adrenaline—it’s about experiencing West Virginia’s natural power and serenity in one unforgettable day.
Explore the Historic Cass Scenic Railroad (Cass)
Step back in time at Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, where vintage steam locomotives still chug through the Allegheny Mountains just as they did over a century ago.
The scenic train ride takes you up to Bald Knob, one of the highest points in West Virginia, offering sweeping views of the mountains and valleys. Along the way, you’ll learn about the state’s logging history and see preserved company houses from the early 1900s.
Visitors can:
Ride authentic Shay steam locomotives
Stay overnight in restored company houses
Visit the Cass Historical Museum
This is one of West Virginia’s most family-friendly historic experiences, open seasonally and perfect for anyone who loves history, trains, or simply scenic views that make time stand still.
Take in the Views at Seneca Rocks (Pendleton County)
For hikers and sightseers alike, Seneca Rocks is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in West Virginia. Rising nearly 900 feet above the North Fork River, these dramatic rock formations attract climbers from around the world.
The Seneca Rocks Trail, a 3.2-mile round trip, rewards hikers with breathtaking views from an observation platform. The area is also home to the Seneca Rocks Discovery Center, where you can learn about the geology and cultural history of the region.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, local outfitters like Seneca Rocks Climbing School offer guided rock-climbing experiences for all skill levels. This site beautifully blends natural wonder, challenge, and education—a hallmark of West Virginia’s best outdoor destinations.
Ride the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad (Elkins, Cass & Durbin)
Train enthusiasts and families will love the Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad, which operates scenic excursions through some of the most picturesque landscapes in the state.
Current routes include:
The New Tygart Flyer from Elkins – featuring a 46-mile round trip with waterfalls and deep mountain gorges.
The Durbin Rocket – powered by a 1910 steam locomotive along the Greenbrier River.
The Cheat Mountain Salamander – offering access to remote backcountry areas rarely seen by car.
This is one of the best heritage railways in the U.S., and each ride is a journey through both nature and history.
Marvel at the Wonder of Blackwater Falls State Park (Davis)
Few places capture the rugged beauty of West Virginia like Blackwater Falls State Park in Tucker County. The park’s namesake waterfall, which drops 57 feet into a gorge below, gets its distinctive amber color from the tannic acid of fallen hemlock and red spruce needles.
The park offers:
Year-round hiking trails with scenic overlooks
Cabins and lodges for overnight stays
Winter activities like sledding and cross-country skiing
Blackwater Falls is open year-round, making it one of the state’s most photographed natural wonders and a top destination for both adventure and relaxation.
Wander the Charming Streets of Harpers Ferry (Jefferson County)
Where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers meet, you’ll find the historic town of Harpers Ferry, a national treasure filled with stories of Civil War history, natural beauty, and cultural preservation.
Visitors can explore:
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park – with museums, preserved buildings, and living history demonstrations
Jefferson Rock – for sweeping river and mountain views
The Appalachian Trail Visitor Center, where you can hike a scenic stretch of the legendary trail
The town’s quaint shops, bakeries, and art galleries make it the perfect place for a day trip filled with charm and discovery. Harpers Ferry is one of the most walkable and photo-worthy destinations in West Virginia.
Relax and Rejuvenate at Berkeley Springs State Park (Berkeley Springs)
For a more tranquil experience, Berkeley Springs State Park offers a unique combination of history, wellness, and small-town hospitality. This charming spa town—famed for its natural warm springs—has been attracting visitors since George Washington’s era.
Today, you can still soak in the mineral-rich waters at the historic Roman Bathhouse, or enjoy a full spa treatment in the Main Bathhouse. The waters remain a steady 74°F year-round, perfect for relaxation.
The surrounding town of Berkeley Springs offers boutique shops, art galleries, and farm-to-table dining, making it a rejuvenating retreat that blends old-world charm with modern comfort.
Tour the Greenbrier Resort and Its Secret Cold War Bunker (White Sulphur Springs)
Few places in the country combine history, luxury, and intrigue like The Greenbrier Resort. Known as “America’s Resort,” this historic landmark has hosted presidents, royalty, and celebrities since 1778.
While guests come for the world-class golf, fine dining, and spa, the most fascinating attraction might be the Cold War Bunker—a once-secret facility built to house Congress in case of nuclear attack.
The Bunker Tour, which is currently open, takes you underground to explore a piece of Cold War history hidden in plain sight. Add in the stunning architecture, lavish interiors, and surrounding mountain views, and The Greenbrier becomes a must-see experience for anyone visiting West Virginia.
Go Underground at Seneca Caverns (Riverton)
Discover the wonders beneath the mountains at Seneca Caverns, one of the most spectacular cave systems in the state. Formed millions of years ago, the caverns stretch deep into the limestone, revealing stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and underground chambers.
Visitors can enjoy:
Guided cave tours available seasonally
Gem mining experiences for kids and families
Scenic picnic areas in the surrounding countryside
Seneca Caverns provides an exciting look at the geological history of Appalachia and offers a fun, educational outing for families and adventure-seekers alike.
Bonus Experience: Visit Snowshoe Mountain Resort (Pocahontas County)
If you love the great outdoors, no trip to West Virginia is complete without a visit to Snowshoe Mountain Resort. Known for world-class skiing in the winter and mountain biking in the summer, Snowshoe is a year-round adventure destination.
Highlights include:
Over 250 acres of skiable terrain
Mountain biking trails and zipline adventures
Luxury lodging and fine dining
Whether you’re carving down snowy slopes or hiking in the summer sun, Snowshoe offers the perfect balance of thrills and relaxation in a stunning mountain setting.
Why West Virginia Is a Hidden Gem for Adventure Seekers
What makes West Virginia truly special isn’t just its mountains—it’s the sense of freedom and discovery that flows through every experience. The state’s slogan, “Almost Heaven,” perfectly captures that magic.
Here, you can stand on a bridge nearly a thousand feet above a river, wander through Civil War history, or relax in the same mineral springs that once soothed America’s founding fathers. Whether you crave adventure, history, relaxation, or natural beauty, West Virginia delivers it all with an authenticity that few places can match.
Conclusion: Discover Your Own Piece of “Almost Heaven”
From the rushing waters of the New River Gorge to the peaceful streets of Berkeley Springs, every corner of West Virginia offers something extraordinary. The state’s best experiences remind us that true adventure doesn’t always mean going far—it means going deeper, into the heart of the mountains and the spirit of the people who call them home.
So pack your hiking boots, your sense of wonder, and your appetite for discovery. The must-do activities in West Virginia are open, welcoming, and waiting to show you why this is truly one of America’s best-kept secrets.
Experience the wild beauty, the heartfelt hospitality, and the unforgettable moments that make West Virginia “Almost Heaven.”