I encourage you to travel West Virginia. From majestic landscapes to vibrant downtowns, the Mountain State has something for all ages to enjoy. West Virginia indeed has it all – it is centrally located, has a low cost of living and is a fun place to live, work and play. That is why people are attracted to what our little state and its people have to offer.

While vacationing in West Virginia, you can learn about our many historical locations such as West Virginia Independence Hall, Harpers Ferry or Blennerhassett Island. While the recently renovated West Virginia State Museum, located at Cultural Center in Charleston, displays our state’s history with great pride, it is still just a sampling of our beautiful landscapes and the individuality of our people. For a lesson in Appalachian culture, you are welcome to visit the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, the International Mother’s Day Shrine, in Grafton, or one of our state’s more than 130 fairs and festivals. 

Of course, West Virginia is renowned for its vast outdoor recreation. You can fish or hunt. For thrill seekers, enjoy a long hike or test your agility by whitewater rafting or zip lining through the wilderness. One of my favorite summertime activities is fly fishing for an elusive trout in one of the hundreds of tumbling mountain streams. Exploring the outdoors truly gives your family an exciting opportunity to experience the best of West Virginia. 

The Mountain State offers unique shopping experiences as well, and shopping is continually ranked as one of the favorite activities for vacationers. I recommend a visit to the Tamarack where you get to view various products from talented West Virginia artisans and small business owners. Downtown shops in Lewisburg to Shepherdstown to Wheeling to Huntington offer distinctive, locally owned shops that have the perfect gift. 

Where to spend a couple of days? West Virginia has ample lodging choices - bed and breakfast inns, rustic state park cabins and the luxury hotels.  There is a choice to fit every budget and plan, while giving your family a complete “wild and wonderful” vacation. 

Our tourism industry is made up mostly of small business owners who are committed to making West Virginia an unforgettable vacation destination. The state is truly fortunate to have so many dedicated people in the travel industry, who work hard to showcase our many unique destinations, while also offering our guests the best in hospitality.

I personally invite you to explore what West Virginia has to offer, because you won’t be disappointed. 

Call 1-800-CALL WVA or visit www.gotowv.com for more vacation ideas. 

Senator Joe Manchin III