The Purple Fiddle in historic Thomas is a must-visit venue that combines good eats with incredible live music. Located inside the DePollo General Store, this unique space hosts over 300 live performances every year, from bluegrass to country, folk and indie bands (think The Avett Brothers, Sierra Ferrell and Afroman). Rock out to some of the best talent in the state paired with a local beer, glass of wine, or their must-try house turkey sandwich topped with homemade cranberry chutney.

Blackwater Falls Overlook is one of West Virginia’s most photographed spots, and for good reason. A short walk from the parking lot leads to the thundering amber-tinted cascade, which looks like a scene straight out of a movie. The park offers an accessible overlook, making it easy to view (and snap Instagram-worthy shots). Stay and explore the rest of Blackwater Falls State Park. You’ll find miles of hiking trails to explore, wildlife viewing, rafting, boating, and fishing.

After a day skiing the slopes, Siriani’s Pizza Cafe in Davis is the perfect spot to warm up. Known for delicious pies and shareable dishes, this cozy pizza joint is as much about atmosphere as flavor. Don’t miss the quirky memorabilia lining the walls (vintage postcards and more) while you enjoy a slice. It’s the ultimate throwback. And don’t skip the ooey and gooey spicy stuffed peppers loaded with cheese!

Canaan Valley Resort State Park in Davis is a year-round playground in the heart of West Virginia. Winter brings pristine slopes perfect for beginners and seasoned skiers alike (it’s a great place to learn), while summer transforms the park into a haven for hiking, golfing, and swimming. Overnight guests can choose from lodge rooms, cozy cabins, or scenic campsites, all with easy access to the resort’s family-friendly activities.

Once part of an ancient ocean floor, Seneca Rocks now rises dramatically from the mountainside, creating one of West Virginia’s most striking views. Adventurous visitors can tackle the steep hike to the summit or try rock climbing for an extra thrill. At the base, the discovery center offers engaging exhibits, souvenirs, and weekend programs in peak season, where Appalachian crafters and artisans demonstrate traditional skills. For a unique overnight stay, check out Fourth Moon Camp.

In the mountains of West Virginia, Smoke Hole Caverns gets its name from the days when Native Americans used the front chambers to smoke wild game. Today, it’s a cool (literally) underground escape that comes with an hour-long guided tour full of stunning rock formations and stories from the past. Don’t forget a jacket — it stays chilly down there — and sturdy shoes are a must. Need more time? Book one of the cozy cabins right on the property.

Enter the land of silence at Green Bank Observatory, where cell service disappears and the universe takes center stage. Home to the world’s largest fully steerable radio telescope, this site has been unlocking cosmic secrets since 1957. Start at the Science Center for hands-on exhibits, a short film, and a guided tour that ends with an up-close look at the massive GBT. Afterward, recharge at the Starlight Café with coffee, salads, or burgers.

There’s no better way to experience fall in West Virginia than aboard a steam-driven locomotive on the Cass Scenic Railroad! Hop aboard a piece of history with a ride on the Greenbrier Express for a scenic 15-mile journey through the mountains. Train rides operate May through October, and if you want the full experience, book an overnight stay in one of the restored company houses that once housed the loggers.

Need to warm up after a day on the slopes? Unwind with a frothy brew and good grub at Old Spruce Brewing on Snowshoe Mountain. This laid-back local favorite serves up craft beer, comfort food, and live music almost daily. Sip on a Scotch Ale with notes of raisins and molasses, and order a plate of their famous candied cayenne bacon, and some beef brisket tacos.

Snowshoe Mountain is where West Virginia brings the adventure year-round. In the winter, it’s all about skiing, snowboarding, and après vibes. Come summer, the mountain turns into a popular spot for mountain bikers with over 40 trails to explore. With restaurants, shops, and unique lodging options perched at the summit, you’ll find plenty of ways to fill your days (and nights). Just be sure to book early; this spot is buzzing in season.

Tucked in the Monongahela National Forest along the Highland Scenic Highway, the Falls of Hills Creek reward visitors with three stunning drops in a short 1.3-mile hike. The first cascade can be viewed from an ADA-accessible boardwalk, while stairs and forested paths lead deeper to 45- and 63-foot falls. In spring, rhododendrons bloom along the trail, adding bursts of color to the already lush setting. It’s a quick walk with a big payoff.

The Cranberry Glades cover 750 acres of high-elevation bogs, a rare landscape you won’t see anywhere else in West Virginia. A wooden boardwalk winds right through the wetlands, making it easy to wander past mosses, wildflowers, and the occasional curious critter. Each season changes the scene, but autumn might steal the show when the bog transforms into a ruby-hued wonderland.