Beckley, West Virginia

Beckley, West Virginia

Beckley, West Virginia, located in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, offers visitors a unique blend of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and Appalachian hospitality. While Beckley itself is a small city, it serves as an excellent base for exploring the natural beauty and cultural heritage of southern West Virginia. Here are some highlights for tourists visiting Beckley:

1. Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and Youth Museum: Step back in time at the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, where visitors can take an underground tour of a vintage coal mine led by experienced miners. Explore the Youth Museum, which showcases the history and culture of coal mining communities in Appalachia.
2. Tamarack: The Best of West Virginia: Discover the craftsmanship and creativity of West Virginia artisans at Tamarack, a renowned arts and crafts center located just outside of Beckley. Browse a diverse selection of handmade goods, including pottery, jewelry, woodwork, and textiles, and sample regional cuisine at the food court.
3. Raleigh County Veterans Museum: Pay tribute to the men and women who have served in the U.S. armed forces at the Raleigh County Veterans Museum. Explore exhibits featuring military artifacts, memorabilia, and stories of local veterans’ service and sacrifice.
4. Outdoor Adventures: Experience the natural beauty of southern West Virginia with outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and whitewater rafting. Nearby attractions like the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve offer opportunities for outdoor recreation amidst stunning landscapes and scenic overlooks.
5. Grandview Park: Enjoy picnicking, hiking, and wildlife viewing at Grandview Park, part of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Take in panoramic views of the New River Gorge from overlooks like Turkey Spur and explore hiking trails that wind through lush forests and along sandstone cliffs.
6. Wildwood House Museum: Visit the Wildwood House Museum, a historic mansion dating back to the early 20th century. Tour the beautifully preserved home and learn about the history of the Beckley area, including its coal mining heritage and cultural traditions.
7. Winterplace Ski Resort: Hit the slopes at Winterplace Ski Resort, located just a short drive from Beckley. Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing on 27 trails and slopes of varying difficulty levels, as well as amenities like rental equipment and ski lessons.
8. Theatre West Virginia: Experience live outdoor theater at Theatre West Virginia’s Cliffside Amphitheatre, located in Grandview Park. Enjoy performances of classic plays and musicals against the backdrop of the New River Gorge, a unique and memorable theatrical experience.
9. Local Dining and Shopping: Sample Southern and Appalachian cuisine at local restaurants in Beckley, where you can savor comfort foods like biscuits and gravy, fried chicken, and homemade pies. Explore downtown Beckley for boutique shops, antique stores, and art galleries showcasing the work of local artists and craftsmen.
10. Beckley Events and Festivals: Experience the vibrant culture and community spirit of Beckley at annual events and festivals celebrating everything from Appalachian music and heritage to outdoor adventure and local cuisine. Check the events calendar for happenings like Appalachian arts and crafts fairs, food festivals, and live music performances.

While Beckley may be a small city, it offers a wealth of attractions and activities that highlight the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality of southern West Virginia. Whether you’re exploring underground coal mines, adventuring in the great outdoors, or immersing yourself in the arts and culture of Appalachia, Beckley promises a memorable and authentic experience for visitors.