Spend the weekend in the Beckley area and experience all that this part of Southern West Virginia has to offer. From exciting outdoor activities and breathtaking views to fascinating history and awe-inspiring architecture, there’s plenty to discover here. Find more about our top attractions and how you can make the most of your next trip.
Lake Stephens
Soak up the last few weeks of summer at Lake Stephens. The 272-acre mountain oasis is one of the best places to cool off and relax in the sunshine. Currently, the lake, splash pad, aqua park and kayak rentals are open with reduced capacity for certain features. For the most up-to-date information, visit Lake Stephens’ website or Facebook page.
Tamarack: The Best Of West Virginia
Tamarack is filled with unique items and handmade creations from West Virginia artisans. It is also known for its authentic Appalachian cuisine. Enjoy some fried green tomatoes or peanut butter silk pie during your visit. Tamarack is now open Tuesday–Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. with dining times available throughout each day. Check out the event calendar for gallery openings and other smaller, special events. More information, including details on current guidelines and hours of operation, can be found on Tamarack’s website or Facebook page.
Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine
Now in its 58th season, the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine provides a look at the area’s rich history. Although the underground mine tours are not being offered at this time, visitors can still experience the tour through a video recording with guides available to answer questions. The small mine museum, coal camp, Youth Museum and the Mountain Homestead are also open. In addition to its permanent displays, the Youth Museum is hosting the exhibition, “Curious George: Let’s Get Curious” at this time. The Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and Youth Museum is open Wednesday–Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Learn more by visiting its website or calling 304-256-1768.
Little Beaver State Park and Grandview
Get outside and explore the natural beauty of Raleigh County! At Little Beaver State Park, you can rent paddle boats or fish in the 18-acre lake. Over at Grandview, take in the amazing sights at one of the many overlooks, or explore miles of hiking trails along the rim of the gorge.
Mountain State Miniature Golf, Outside-In Climbing Gym and Chocolate Moose
Find plenty of family fun at Mountain State Miniature Golf and Outside-In Climb Gym. Putt around on the 18-hole, West Virginia-themed mini golf course or try your hand at bouldering or top-rope climbing on the indoor climbing walls (beginners welcome). Refuel with coffees, smoothies, floats or Hershey’s ice cream for the group at Chocolate Moose. Reservations are accepted for Mountain State Miniature Golf and Outside-In Climbing Gym. Capacity is limited due to current guidelines. Mountain State Miniature Golf is open from Monday–Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 1–8 p.m. Outside-In Climbing Gym is open Monday–Friday from 3–9 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 1–8 p.m. Chocolate Moose is open Monday–Friday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 1–8 p.m. Get more information on each of these attractions on the Chocolate Moose website.
Raleigh County Veterans Museum
Spanning two buildings housing more than 30,000 artifacts, The Raleigh County Veterans Museum features notable exhibits on WWI, WWII, the Korean War, Vietnam War, Iraq War and War in Afghanistan. The museum’s Navy area includes the 132ND model of an American battleship, the USS West Virginia BB-48, as well as the largest public display of the relics from the battleship. The Raleigh County Veterans Museum is open Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, visit the museum’s Facebook page.
The New River Gorge Bridge
Located 30 minutes from Beckley, the New River Gorge Bridge measures 3,030 feet long, 73 feet wide and stands 876 feet above the New River Gorge National River. Take a drive across the structure and stop at the Canyon Rim Visitors Center. Although the Visitors Center isn’t open at this time, the area has overlooks and picnic spots that are open to the public seven days a week. For extra adventure, schedule a Bridge Walk. This unique tour takes you underneath the bridge and across the catwalk.
What will you do during your weekend in Beckley?
