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Charleston is the capital and most populous city of West Virginia, located at the confluence of the Elk and Kanawha rivers. Learn about its history, economy, culture, and attractions from this comprehensive encyclopedia article.
Find out the best attractions, activities and tours in Charleston, West Virginia, from history museums and parks to shopping malls and sports venues. Compare ratings, prices and reviews from travelers and book online with TripAdvisor.
Learn about Charleston, the largest city and state capital of West Virginia, U.S., located in the Allegheny Mountains. Explore its geography, economy, culture, and historical events, from its founding in 1787 to its role in the Civil War and beyond.
- The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Charleston is the capital city of West Virginia with small town charm and a rich heritage of arts, food and recreation. Find out what's happening in CWV, get the 2024 festival and events guide, and share your photos with #CWV.
- Clay Center
- West Virginia State Museum
- South Hills
- Capitol Market
- Mountain Stage
- West Virginia State Capitol
- Local Eateries
- Historic Capitol Street
- West Virginia Power
- Kanawha State Forest
When the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences of West Virginiawas being built, thanks to a generous donation from the Schoenbaum (Shoney’s restaurant) family, Charlestonians were thrilled and scared at the same time for its success. Twenty years later, the emotion we mostly feel is pride for our beloved event center, art museum, Avampato Discovery...
The West Virginia State Museum, still referred to as The Cultural Center by locals, is an excellent Charleston attraction where you can learn about the history and progress of The Mountain State. It is enjoyable for all ages, and admission is free. Displays run the gamut from products made in West Virginia (Blenko glass and Fiestadinnerware, part o...
A beloved neighborhood in Charleston is South Hills, which partially overlooks downtown Charleston and the Kanawha River. The Bridge Road Shops feature high-end boutiques such as Geraniums, Eggplant (a personal favorite for 20 years), Petit Jewelry Designs, and Yarid’s Shoes. Pick up a mouth-watering sweet treat from Sarah’s Bakery or a tasty bite ...
An old train station found its rebirth with the conception of Charleston’s Capitol Market. This year-round offering attracts visitors and locals to shop for West Virginia made products, excellent cheeses and wines, and sushi. It also offers a coffee and butcher shop. You will find fresh produce inside and outside at the market stalls (weather permi...
The pride of Charleston is and will forever be Mountain Stage, in my eyes. In 1983, West Virginia Public Broadcasting launched Mountain Stage, a live performance radio show that quickly shot to national distribution within a couple of years. Thirty-plus years later, Mountain Stage, filmed at the Culture Center Theater with host Larry Groce, records...
The West Virginia State Capitolis the most beautiful of all the states. Perhaps I am biased since I lived there most of my life, but even first-time visitors have told me they concur. Its 293-foot gilded dome shimmering in the sun and moonlight is a beautiful sight. You can also tour the state capitol, a free attraction offering a fantastic look at...
Charleston is known for some great local restaurants. When I visit there, I always have my wish list of old favorites or new places that have recently sprung up that I want to visit. The restaurants I recommend in downtown Charleston are Sitar of India (the best Indian food anywhere), Pies and Pints (delicious pork nachos and gourmet pizzas), and B...
Historic and scenic Capitol Street along with neighboring Hale and Lee Streets make up downtown Charleston’s centerpiece. Here, you’ll find excellent local eateries, boutiques, art galleries, antique stores, and the public library on tree-lined streets. You can’t come to Charleston and miss this important address. If you are craving a quick bite, G...
The West Virginia Poweris a Class-A affiliate minor-league baseball team in the South Atlantic League that plays at Appalachian Power Park in downtown Charleston. They are a farm team for the Seattle Mariners. I may be biased, but this is one of the most gorgeous minor league baseball stadiums in the country. With 4,500 seats, you’ll find fun thing...
A few minutes outside of Charleston brings you to Kanawha State Forest, a perfect address with 25 miles for hiking, biking, walking, or just getting outdoors. Pack a picnic or pick up to-go food and enjoy eating amidst the massive tree canopies. The drive to get there is pretty thrilling if you live somewhere that doesn’t have curvy roads as West V...
Charleston is the historic and lively capital of West Virginia, with a scenic riverfront and a gold-leaf dome. Explore its museums, parks, festivals, shopping and nearby skiing, rafting and rock climbing.
Enjoy the eclectic music scene, bountiful shopping, unique dining and four seasons of changing mountain landscape – all earning Charleston a mention from Travel + Leisure for being one of the most affordable vacation destinations in the United States. Come see what West Virginia’s beautiful capital city is all about.
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