From a chrome-winged cryptid to riverside mansions, fiery glass studios, and string-lit brewery alleys, these West Virginia local favs are your ticket to quirky stops, bold flavors, and small-town magic along the Ohio River.
The Blennerhassett Hotel
Built in 1883 to host millionaires from Parkersburg’s oil and gas boom, The Blennerhassett Hotel is a striking piece of 19th-century luxury. JFK even stayed here during his 1960 campaign. Today, the hotel features elegant boutique guest rooms, an on-site spa, and a restaurant and lounge serving upscale cuisine like cider-glazed pork chops and steaks served with bleu cheese butter. Ask about the ghost tours (if you dare).
Blennerhasset Island Historical State Park
Hop aboard a sternwheeler ferry and cruise across the Ohio River to this dreamy, history-soaked island. Blennerhassett Island is home to a grand Palladian mansion, peaceful gardens, and stories dating back to Aaron Burr’s infamous military expedition. Tour the restored home, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, or rent a bike to explore the island’s shaded trails.
Mothman Statue
Half urban legend, half town mascot, the Mothman looms large in Point Pleasant (literally). This 12-foot-tall chrome statue commemorates the 1966 sightings of a winged creature with glowing red eyes, said to haunt the town’s backroads. Snap a selfie with the statue, then pop into the world’s only Mothman Museum just steps away for eerie exhibits, newspaper clippings, and enough tinfoil lore to make you believe… maybe.
Heritage Station
This repurposed B&O train depot has morphed into one of Huntington’s coziest community hubs and is home to the Huntington Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. Here, you’ll find a variety of artisan shops, sweet treats and tons of vintage vibes. Stop by Nomada Bakery for something flaky and delicious, browse retro treasures at The Historic Hippie, or pick up handmade Appalachian crafts at The Red Caboose. Outside, check out the vintage trains and caboose.
Huntington Museum of Art
Art meets the outdoors at the Huntington Museum of Art. Located on 40 acres, this space features two sculpture gardens, six hiking trails, and the state’s only subtropical plant conservatory (complete with a coral reef aquarium!). Inside, discover an expansive collection of unique pieces, from British silver to antique firearms and exquisite glasswork. Don’t miss the hands-on Discovery Room, especially if you’ve got curious kids in tow.
Backyard Pizza & Raw Bar
Oysters and pizza may sound like an odd couple, but Backyard Pizza & Raw Bar makes it work (really well). Started by a local couple in 2012, this creative eatery brings wood-fired pies to the next level with toppings like crab rangoon, grilled pears or kale and pesto. Begin your meal with fresh oysters from Prince Edward Island, and don’t skip dessert – the Backyard Hay Stack (deep-fried dough tossed in cinnamon and sugar) served with cinnamon ice cream is a must.
Blenko Glass Company
Watch fire turn to art at Blenko Glass, a fifth-generation, family-owned company that’s been crafting vibrant glassware since 1921. On a factory tour, you’ll see artisans blowing, spinning, and shaping molten glass into the colorful carafes and vases you might see at restaurants around town. Their onsite store boasts plenty of one-of-a-kind pieces that will look perfect on your kitchen table!
Kin Ship Goods
Part boutique, part design studio, Kin Ship Goods is a celebration of all things West Virginia. Founded by two local artists, this indie gift shop is packed with playful apparel (think cozy hoodies and clever graphic tees), Appalachian-themed candles and soaps, and fun finds like vintage toys and pet accessories. Celebs like Mindy Kaling and Jennifer Garner have rocked Kin Ship’s wares, and now you can, too.
Capitol Market
Capitol Market is a feast for the senses inside a local railyard in Charleston. Browse stalls bursting with fresh local produce, grab lunch at the indoor eateries (hello, sushi and sandwiches), and check out seasonal goods from Appalachian makers. The outdoor market blooms with flowers in spring and summer, while fall brings pumpkins and cider. Year-round events add to the fun, with farm-to-table dinners and holiday celebrations a highlight.
West Virginia State Capitol
With its gleaming gold dome and stately riverfront location, the West Virginia State Capitol is a must-stop in Charleston. Tour the marble-floored interior, peek into the grand rotunda, and explore the adjacent West Virginia State Museum, home to immersive exhibits and more than 6,000 artifacts. You’ll find everything from coal mining history to Civil War relics to vintage toys. For a tour of the Governor’s Mansion, reservations are required.
Brewers Row
Three breweries, one walkable alley, and endless options for a pint? Yes, please. Brewers Row in Charleston connects three local favorites via a string-lit path: Start at Fife Street Brewing for small-batch beers and a cozy, family-friendly vibe. Next, head to Bad Shepherd Beer Company, the city’s longest-running brewery, for IPAs and wings. Finish strong at Short Story Brewing, known for juicy hazy beers and Detroit-style pizza so good you’ll want seconds. Or thirds.
