The 200-year-old state capital of West Virginia, Charleston, is the largest city in the state and rich in history and culture. The town also has some great shopping and eating in the tree-lined streets in the downtown area, but is thankfully not overrun with tourists, due to its relative remoteness.****
Charleston is well located in the southwest of West Virginia at the junction of Interstates 77, 79, and 64, and the Elk and Kanawha Rivers. The region is rich with an abundance of natural beauty, giving visitors the chance to enjoy outdoor activities in the form of manicured golf courses and lush parks.
In addition, Charleston has the best food in the state with many four and five star-rated restaurants and quaint cafes. The usual TGI Fridays and Olive Garden are represented, yet there are few tourist eatery traps and many unique restaurants. Charleston Town Center Mall is the center of shopping in the city.
Highlights
The West Virginia State Capitol: well-positioned on Kanawha Boulevard, Charleston’s state capitol boasts a huge, gold-plated dome, the Cultural Center, Governor’s Mansion and gorgeous grounds.
West Virginia Cultural Center: is a must-see while inside the Capitol building, featuring three floors of quality exhibitions along with the West Virginia State Museum.
Avampato Discovery Museum: on Leon Sullivan Way, features two floors of hands-on science exhibits, a giant-screen and planetarium, and an art gallery.
West Virginia Power: is the Charleston baseball team, with games played at Appalachian Power Park, in season.
The City Market: occupies part of Charleston’s historic public market and features great shopping 365 days a year for residents and tourists alike.