West Virginia State Capitol
Gold-leafed dome and free tours.
Charleston
West Virginia's small capital on the Kanawha River, under a gold dome that's taller than the one in Washington.
Set between steep Appalachian hills, Charleston has a gracious riverfront boulevard and one of the country's most handsome state capitols, designed by Cass Gilbert. The New River Gorge is about an hour away.
- Best Time
- Spring and fall
- Time Needed
- Half a day
- Cost Level
- $$$$
- Open
- Year-round
- Getting There
- Yeager Airport is 10 minutes from downtown.
What to See
2 of 3 are freeCapitol Market
A train depot turned year-round food market.
Clay Center
Science and art under one roof, with a planetarium.
Know Before You Go
- Check opening hours before you go, especially on weekends and at state buildings.
Where to Stay
Stay downtown.
Where to Eat
Our picks are on the way.
Editor's picks. Nobody paid to be on this list.
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Traveler Reviews
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Go Next
If You're NearbyNew River Gorge
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America's newest national park: a deep gorge with whitewater rafting and a famous arch bridge.
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If You're NearbyPittsburgh
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Three rivers, old inclines up Mount Washington for the view, and the Andy Warhol Museum.
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Worth a DetourShenandoah National Park
Virginia
Skyline Drive runs 105 miles along the Blue Ridge, with waterfalls and summit views just off the road.
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Last checked 2026-11-01. Part of the Mid-Atlantic list.