Things To Do
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Our nation's newest National Park is only about 55 miles from Charleston (a little more than a hour drive). If you have extra time before/after coming in for the wedding we can not suggest this enough. At New River Gorge NP you will find amazing hiking, overlooks, and tons of adventure sports (climbing, zip-lining, white water rafting, etc...). If you happen to take the drive from Charleston to the National Park via US-60 you will pass Patrick's hometown of Montgomery, multiple waterfalls, and end up going on a very scenic windy drive with significant elevation change. Also, we happened to get engaged at New River Gorge National Park while hiking on the Long Point Trail, so this place is extra special to us!
West Virginia State Museum
This is a a really fun, free museum located in the Cultural Center of the WV State Capitol Complex.
Pies & Pints - Charleston, WV
Pies and Pints is right on Capitol Street in downtown Charleston and next to Taylor Books, close to great art galleries, cafes, and shops. Super fun spot to eat with a lot of unusual, but delicious pizzas (among other things).
Capitol Market
Charleston’s year-round Capitol Market is a vibrant part of West Virginia’s capital city. Tucked in a turn-of-the-century train station, the indoor-outdoor market offers an exciting mix of farm goodness and specialty shops. Pick up seasonal goods to enjoy now and WV-made gifts to take home. Enjoy seafood, sushi or just-carved meat from the butcher. Grab a coffee while you shop and artisan chocolates, exotic cheeses and wine to enjoy later at home. We would highly suggest the fish sandwich from the Fresh Seafood Co. in the interior portion of the Market.
West Virginia State Capitol Complex
The WV Capitol complex is worth a visit! The building itself is beautiful to walk through and (fun fact) is the tallest domed capitol in the US. If you walk through the grounds you will see the Governor's Mansion, the Cultural Center (mentioned above), and some statues/war memorials, which Laura is especially fond of.
Mea Cuppa Coffee Lounge
Really good coffee shop with good local art and mid century decor. Try the Sakura Latte, it has cherry blossom syrup and is really different in the best way possible.
Lola's Pizza
Lola’s Pizza is located inside of a cute little house in the South Hills area of Charleston. It is great place away from the downtown area and they specialize in Neapolitan-style pizza.
Tudor's Biscuit World
Tudor's is a West Virginia staple, they specialize in homemade biscuit sandwiches filled with everything from bacon and eggs to fried apples.
Black Sheep
Very fun, outside the box, burrito (and more) restaurant.