What is West Virginia Known for? Discover West Virginia’s Famous Facts, Foods, and Landmarks

West Virginia is known for its prime location amongst the Appalachian Mountains and historic sites like Harpers Ferry. But there’s much more to know about West Virginia. So, what is West Virginia known for?

At Redfin, we’ve got the answers for you. Whether you’re looking for an apartment in Charleston or are buying a home in Morgantown, read on to find out what makes West Virginia famous.

Job opportunities and economy

West Virginia is known for its history in the mining industry, specifically in coal and natural gas. In addition to mining, major industries include healthcare and education. Some of the key corporations that contribute to the state’s economy are WVU Medicine, Charleston Area Medical Center, and West Virginia University. 

West Virginia’s top five employers

• WVU Medicine
• Charleston Area Medical Center
• West Virginia University
• Mylan Pharmaceuticals (Mylan Inc.)
• State of West Virginia Government

Historic tourist attractions

• Harpers Ferry National Historical Park preserves the historic town where the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers meet. You can explore Civil War battlefields, hike trails like the Appalachian Trail, and learn about the town’s role in American history.
• The Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs offers luxury accommodations, a historic golf course, and a casino. This spot is popular for enjoying spa treatments at the resort’s mineral spa, dining in elegant restaurants, and exploring the resort’s extensive grounds.
• Seneca Rocks, located in the Monongahela National Forest, is a popular destination for rock climbing and hiking. You can hike trails to the top of Seneca Rocks for panoramic views of the Potomac Highlands. Or you can explore nearby attractions like Smoke Hole Caverns.
• New River Gorge National Park and Preserve offers outdoor activities like whitewater rafting, rock climbing, and hiking along the New River Gorge. Be sure to explore the park’s scenic overlooks, visit the New River Gorge Bridge, and learn about the area’s history at the Canyon Rim Visitor Center.
• The West Virginia State Capitol in Charleston features a striking gold dome and offers guided tours of the Capitol building and its legislative chambers. Here you can learn about West Virginia’s government, history, and culture through exhibits and displays in the Capitol Complex.

Did you know? West Virginia is home to the New River Gorge Bridge, one of the longest steel arch bridges in the Western Hemisphere.

One-of-a-kind regional cuisine

West Virginia’s cuisine blends Appalachian and Southern influences, featuring hearty and comforting dishes. Pepperoni rolls, soft rolls filled with pepperoni and sometimes cheese, are a unique local specialty. Appalachian classics like ramps (wild leeks) and squirrel gravy over biscuits highlight the state’s culinary traditions. West Virginia also embraces Southern dishes such as biscuits and gravy, fried catfish, and buttermilk pie. 

Top restaurants in West Virginia

• Bricks & Barrels in Charleston
• 1010 Bridge in Charleston
• Oliverio’s Ristorante On The Wharf in Morgantown
• Cafe Cimino Country Inn in Sutton
• Kelley Farm Kitchen in Harpers Ferry

History and arts scene

West Virginia’s heritage is shaped by its Appalachian roots, natural beauty, and a deep connection to music and folklore. You can see this in museums like the Huntington Museum of Art and the Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences in Charleston, which showcase artistic works from local and international artists. In cities like Charleston and Morgantown, you’ll find theaters, galleries, and music venues.

Mountains, rivers, and forests

West Virginia’s natural land formations are dominated by the Appalachian Mountains, including the rugged peaks of the Allegheny and Blue Ridge Mountains. These areas offer scenic drives and outdoor recreation opportunities such as skiing and whitewater rafting. The state’s eastern panhandle features rolling hills and the Potomac River, while the central and western regions include deep river valleys and dense forests.

National and state parks in West Virginia

• Appalachian National Scenic Trail: Crossing several states, including West Virginia, this 2,190-mile trail offers challenging treks through a variety of landscapes.
• New River Gorge National Park and Preserve: Known for its rugged river gorge, whitewater rafting, rock climbing, and hiking trails along the New River.
• Blackwater Falls State Park: Known for its namesake waterfall, Blackwater Falls has hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and opportunities for camping and cross-country skiing in winter.
• Coopers Rock State Forest: This forest offers hiking trails, rock climbing, and scenic views of the Cheat River Canyon and surrounding areas.

Popular West Virginia phrases

In West Virginia, you’d discover expressions that reflect the state’s Appalachian heritage and scenic beauty. 

• “Holler,” is a remote area or road.
• “Poke,” a bag to carry your items.
• “Crick,” is a creek.
• “Spell,” an undetermined amount of time, “I’m going to sit for a spell.”

More things West Virginia is known for

• Mountain State: West Virginia’s nickname, the Mountain State, reflects its rugged terrain, scenic beauty, and the Appalachian Mountains that cover its landscape.
• Appalachian Culture: West Virginia embraces its Appalachian heritage through traditions like old-time music, square dancing, and artisan crafts. You can celebrate these traditions at festivals like the West Virginia State Folk Festival in Glenville.
• Coal mining history: West Virginia has a rich history of coal mining. Spots like Beckley’s Exhibition Coal Mine and the West Virginia Mine Wars Museum preserving the legacy of coal miners.
• Snowshoe Mountain: Snowshoe Mountain Resort in the Allegheny Mountains offers skiing, snowboarding, and winter sports activities. In the summer, you can mountain bike and explore the area.
• Bridge Day: Held annually on the New River Gorge Bridge, Bridge Day features BASE jumping, rappelling, and festivities celebrating the engineering marvel.

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