Charleston Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Charleston is a city that exudes charm and rich history. As the capital of West Virginia, it offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and a warm hospitality that is hard to find elsewhere.
For nature enthusiasts, Charleston is a gateway to outdoor adventures. Just a short drive from the city, you can explore the stunning landscapes of Kanawha State Forest. With its miles of hiking trails, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic vistas, this forest is a haven for outdoor lovers. You can also take a leisurely stroll along the Kanawha River, where you'll be treated to breathtaking views and a peaceful ambiance.
History buffs will be delighted by Charleston's rich heritage. The West Virginia State Capitol stands proudly in the city, showcasing its grand architecture and serving as a symbol of the state's resilience. Take a guided tour of the Capitol to learn about the state's political history and admire the stunning interior design.
If you're interested in the arts, Charleston has a vibrant cultural scene. The Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences is a must-visit destination, featuring a performing arts center, art galleries, and a science museum all under one roof. Catch a live performance at the Maier Foundation Performance Hall or explore the interactive exhibits at the Avampato Discovery Museum.
No trip to Charleston would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. The city boasts a thriving food scene, offering a variety of cuisines to satisfy every palate. From farm-to-table eateries to upscale restaurants serving Appalachian-inspired dishes, there's something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to sample the local delicacies, such as pepperoni rolls and West Virginia's famous hot dogs.
Charleston Attractions - What to See and Explore
Charleston offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: West Virginia State Capitol, West Virginia Governor's Mansion, Craik-Patton House, Clay Center. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Things to See and Do in Charleston by Category
Sights, interesting and unusual places and attractions valued by most tourists. See the list of places to visit in Charleston.
Culture
Clay Center
CharlestonMusic and shows Nightlife Art museum Downtown Charleston 
Charleston Municipal Auditorium
CharlestonConcerts and shows Theater Downtown Charleston 
Plaza Theatre
CharlestonConcerts and shows Theater Downtown Charleston
Active
Appalachian Power Park
CharlestonOutdoor activities Baseball Sport venue Downtown Charleston 
University of Charleston Stadium at Laidley Field
CharlestonSport venue Sport Arenas and stadiums East End 
Schoenbaum Stadium
CharlestonSport venue Sport Arenas and stadiums Oakridge
Museum
West Virginia State Capitol
CharlestonMuseum History museum Architecture East End 
West Virginia Governor's Mansion
CharlestonMuseum History museum Historical place East End 
Craik-Patton House
CharlestonMuseum History museum Historical place Oakridge Clay Center
CharlestonMusic and shows Nightlife Art museum Downtown Charleston
Historical place
West Virginia Governor's Mansion
CharlestonMuseum History museum Historical place East End Craik-Patton House
CharlestonMuseum History museum Historical place Oakridge 
Charleston City Hall
CharlestonHistorical place City hall Downtown Charleston 
Charleston Baptist Temple
CharlestonHistorical place Church Georgian architecture Downtown Charleston
Church
Basilica of the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart
CharlestonChurch Romanesque architecture Downtown Charleston 
Simpson Memorial United Methodist Church
CharlestonChurch Gothic Revival architecture Downtown Charleston 
St. John's Episcopal Church
CharlestonSacred and religious sites Church Gothic Revival architecture Downtown Charleston Charleston Baptist Temple
CharlestonHistorical place Church Georgian architecture Downtown Charleston
Charleston – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Charleston, it's worth seeing attractions such as: New River Gorge Bridge (Fayetteville), Joan C. Edwards Stadium (Huntington), Heritage Farm Museum & Village (Huntington).
Best Time To Visit Charleston
Learn when is the best time to travel to Charleston weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the City
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Cupcake
A cupcake is a delightful, single-serving cake typically baked in a small, thin paper or aluminum cup. These tasty treats have a rich history dating back to the late 18th century, with the term "cupcake" first appearing in the early 19th century.
Cracker
Crackers are beloved for their flat, crispy texture. Primarily made from flour, they are often enhanced with a touch of salt, herbs, seeds, or cheese for added flavor. You can enjoy them straight from the package or pair them with cheese, dips, or spreads.
Cracker
Fajita
Fajitas are a delectable staple in both Tex-Mex and Mexican cuisine, characterized by grilled meat served on a warm tortilla. While they were originally prepared with skirt steak, today's fajitas feature a variety of meats including chicken and offer vegetarian...
Dish
Crab cake
Crab cakes are a cherished dish in the United States, particularly in regions surrounding the Chesapeake Bay, such as Maryland and Virginia. These delectable treats are crafted from crab meat blended with ingredients like bread crumbs, mayonnaise, mustard, eggs, and a...
Hot dog
A hot dog is a delectable treat consisting of a grilled or steamed sausage nestled in a partially sliced bun. The sausage is typically a wiener or frankfurter. What makes hot dogs especially enjoyable and versatile is the wide variety of condiments and toppings you can...
Dish
West Virginia