Did you know that the southern part of West Virginia is only within a day’s drive from 50% of the United State’s population? This makes Charleston a great vacation destination for the whole family.
The area’s distinct seasons gives visitors a new experience when they visit in each of the four seasons. Be it winter, spring, summer or fall, West Virginia has plenty of indoor and outdoor activities that you can partake and enjoy.
Nature lovers can come to appreciate the stunning landcape of the Kanawha Valley. There are ten West Virginia …

The Kanawha River running through Charleston, WV is a perfect avenue for having a different view of Charleston. Relive life in the early days of the state, as you ply the route taken by major industries in ferrying materials into the city through this historical river.
If you’re into sailing, Charleston Marine is here to help. Founded by marine industry veterans, Charleston Marine supplies the Kanawha Valley’s boating enthusiasts a one-stop shop for all their hobby needs. From boat sales to equipped service, 100-space marina to dry storage, Charleston …

West Virginia is a host to numerous bird species through out the year, thanks mainly to its topography, vegetation and climate. At certain times of the year, there are over 300 species of birds in the state, 75 of which are known to breed locally, while the remainder are only migratory.
The temperate climate of the state means that you can go birding in West Virginia throughout the year. Birds flock to WV in late spring in early fall. This is the optimal time for bird watching, as these are the …

The Southridge Grand Prix in Charleston, WV is a complete avenue for awesome family fun. Featuring an indoor Go Kart track and Lazer Tag arena, and a mini golf course you and your kids can have a great time together anytime of the year in any weather.
For only $44 (plus tax), you get a Family Fun Package with 4 go-kart rides, 4 laser tag sessions, 44 tokens, a large 4 topping pizza and 4 drinks. Kids can also get free tokens for their good grades. Report cards with Straight A’s …

Touted as one of West Virginia’s oldest metal railway bridge, the Whipple Truss, or the rusting railroad bridge over the Elk River will be getting a second lease in life. Abandoned when locomotives started getting bigger and faster, the City of Charleston is making efforts to rehabilitate the old truss bridge for pedestrians and bikers, as part of a citywide trail system.
The Whipple Truss got its name from a New Yorker, Squire Whipple. He was the first engineer to use scientific principles to analyze the stresses in iron bridge beams. …

Health buffs in Charleston, WV go to Capitol Fitness, the city’s Premiere Fitness Facility. Members of the club enjoy a range of benefits, including the use of the fitness center with top of the line free weights, cardiovascular and dynabody fitness equipment. Capitol Fitness also feature luxury shower facilities, stocked with soap, shampoos, lotions and styling equipment. Freshly laundered towels are available for member’s use.
Members can join a range of group workout sessions and classes, ranging from Nothing but Abs, Pilates, Total Body Aerobics to Belly Dance. Or if …

If you’re looking for a nature break from the hustle and bustle of the city, drive 35 miles out of Charleston to the Kanawha Falls. Located two miles below the western terminus of the New River Gorge in Fayette County, it is a great stopover if you’re traversing the Midland Trail.
Kanawha Falls one of the popular fishing spots in the Kanawha Valley, and many anglers test their skills in the Kanawha river, with the majestic cascading of the falls in the backdrop. Downstream the Gauley Bridge, there’s a small …

Charleston and its surrounding areas are blessed with pristine natural beauty that makes it a joy to explore, whether you’re setting off on foot or on a bicycle. The mountains around the Kanawha Valley is an ideal place for mountain biking. Whether you’re a first time mountain biker, a weekend biker or an experienced rider, there’s sure to be a trail that would suit your riding style.
Some things to remember when mountain biking in West Virginia:

Don’t ride alone. It’s always best to travel with a buddy — if you get …

Located in Meadow Bridge, the Spirit Sanctuary is well worth the hour and a half drive from Charleston, West Virginia. It is indeed a mountain oasis, as they proudly proclaim. With spectacular mountain views atop the Irish Mountain, Spirit Sanctuary is the ideal venue for group development activities, family rejuvenation, healing or spiritual conferences or holistic retreats.
Started in 1990, it is owned and developed by an African American. What started as a single glass house is now has multiple buildings spread on a 120 acre property. There are facilities for …

Visitors to Charleston, WV who are looking for excitement and adventure on land can head out to the Hatfield-McCoy Trails. Located in 9 counties in West Virginia, the trail totals several hundred miles of off-road trails. The trail is open 365 days a year for All Terrain Vehicles (ATV), dirt bikes, utility vehicles, mountain bikes, horses and hikers. There are also trail systems that links communities, so visitors can experience the charm of southern West Virginia.
The six trail systems of the Hatfield-McCoy are the Rockhouse, Buffalo Mountain, Bearwallow, Indian Ridge, …