Visit Charleston West Virginia: Free Travel Guide Discover History, the Arts and the Capital City with a Small Town Feel

Charleston is the capital of West Virginia and the state center of commerce and industry. The economy was built on abundant natural resources. First salt, then natural gas, and finally coal are the commodities that brought prosperity to Charleston. In the early 19th century the Kanawha Salines were the largest salt producer in the world. Natural gas was discovered accidentally in 1815, and later became a second pillar of the local economy.

Coal deposits were visible at the surface and well known throughout West Virginia as early as the middle of the 18th century. Coal mining developed rapidly in the 19th century and coal became the third pillar of the Charleston economy. Production peaked in 1947, when West Virginia produced over 25% of the coal mined in the United States.

Today Charleston is a hub for trade, government, healthcare and education. The city enjoys a vibrant arts scene, excellent nearby recreational opportunities, and hosts a broad calendar of cultural activities and annual events.

Visitors should tour the WV State Capitol Complex. The state capitol building is a classical masterpiece whose gilded dome reaches a height of 293 feet. The West Virginia State Museum traces state history and culture. The Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences includes performance venues and museums offering activities for all ages.

Historic Charleston displays many architectural styles. About 50 Charleston buildings are listed in the National Register of Historic Places, including many late 19th and early 20th century residences in the East End Historic Neighborhood.

Music lovers may want to coordinate a visit with Live on the Levee, an outdoor summer music event overlooking the Kanawha River downtown. More culture can be had during the West Virginia Dance Festival, Symphony Sunday, and FestivAll. The annual Vandalia Gathering celebrates West Virginia mountain culture over Memorial Day weekend.

These are our top recommendations for visitors to Charleston, West Virginia. Why the Faber dozen?

West Virginia State Capitol Complex Tour the state capitol building and Governor’s mansion.

Vandalia Gathering Annual celebration of West Virginia mountain culture. Music, dancing, food, and crafts keep the traditions alive. Held Memorial Day weekend.

West Virginia State Museum Extensive exhibits tracing the history of West Virginia. Located in the Cultural Center.

FestivAll This multi-faceted 10 day festival turns Charleston into a giant work of art! Music, dance, theatre, visual arts. Performances, family fun. Over 90 community partners and over 600 artists participate. Look for it in June.

J.Q. Dickinson Salt Works Malden Learn how Charleston was built on salt. Family owned salt producer for over 200 years. Events, Shop, Tours. 4797 Midland Drive, Malden, WV 25306, +1 (304) 925-7918.

Hungry? We can help you with food and drink recommendations for San Juan Capistrano, California. Choose from traditional Korean food, international and other ethnic cuisines, or our atmosphere recommendations to find that perfect place for your next meal. If all you want is a place for drinks, check out our recommended watering holes.

Local Landmarks

Watering Holes

Exceptional Places to Stay

Brass Pineapple Bed & Breakfast Stay in this remarkable National Historic Register listed home close to the WV State Capitol Complex. 1611 Virginia Street East, Charleston, WV 25311, +1 (304) 344-0748.

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Kanawha State Forest A four season wooded oasis. Escape the urban bustle to enjoy mountain biking, hiking, cross country skiing and bird watching in this 9,300 acre national forest. Picnic area. 7 miles from downtown.

Sunrise Carriage Trail Hike up the hill to Sunrise Mansion on an old road built to carry building materials to the site. Be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the city.

Coonskin Park Lot’s of outdoor recreational activities available including hiking, biking, disk golf, an 18-hole golf course, olympic size pool, tennis, horseshoe pits and soccer stadium. Playground and Picnic Area. 10 miles from downtown.

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