With the motto of "Wild and Wonderful," beautiful rolling hills and misty mountains make West Virginia an enigmatic spot to explore for families of all interests. Dig deep into the state's history, wander through its beautiful preserved... see more »
With the motto of "Wild and Wonderful," beautiful rolling hills and misty mountains make West Virginia an enigmatic spot to explore for families of all interests. Dig deep into the state's history, wander through its beautiful preserved lands, or discover some of the state's best museums.
Transport back into time at Droop Mountain, where a Civil War monument will really give your kids a sense of history. Reenactors in confederate and union war costumes arrive in October, and the area comes back to life with powder cannons and sounds of battle. Head over to the Exhibition Coal Mine and excite your children with an enthralling ride through the dark tunnels of the mine. Tours will also take a look at the one-room Coal Camp School and formerly bustling town. The Cass Scenic Railroad will be sure to delight, as a steam-driven locomotive will puff and chug your little ones along several points of interest by the track.
Explore the wild and wonderful beauty at Beartown State Park, where 107 acres of stunning land provide the backdrop for scenic hikes around the greenery and mist. Your kids will love to roast some marshmallows on the fire or even learn how to swing their first round of golf. If they're looking for an even more daring adventure, take them to the Lost World Caverns 120 feet below the Earth's surface. These caverns feature stalactites and sparkling gems throughout the interior, and prehistoric cave bears and dinosaurs also make it onto the scene. Kids who like to get wet and wild can enjoy river adventures by kayak and raft, an adventurous way to explore the scenery.
Whisk your children off to some of West Virginia's best museums, starting at the Clay Center. The museum offers science galleries that will blast them into space or bring them down to earth for some practical gardening. Budding artists will enjoy the drawing and painting classes available, and theatrical performances will be sure to delight as well. Take them to The Good Zoo in Oglebay, where close animal encounters and horse-lovers camp summer camps await. Whether your kids learn about rainforest ecosystems or train to become the next veterinarian, you may have to come back more than once to enjoy everything.
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