Charleston Travel Guide

Charleston, the state capitol of West Virginia, is full of fun, events, and adventures. The city offers everything visitors could possibly want -- good entertainment, historical value, and lots of places to eat. Whether you're traveling solo, with friends or family, you're bound to fall in love with the city's charm. The town mesmerizes visitors with its stunning 20th-century architecture, such as the gold domed State Capitol and the state museum. If you prefer to spend most of your getaway outdoors, Charleston has over a hundred square miles of natural scenery to enjoy, while the Kanahwa Forest boasts beautiful plants and trails.

Things to Do in Charleston

Charleston is rich with history and culture, so the top things to do include the Culture Center, which houses a wide range of interesting sites, such as the wonderful State Museum (which showcases a variety of art), the Reference Library, and a theater. Most of the cultural attraction are around the State Capitol -- which also offers tours for politically-inclined travelers. West Virginia Veterans Memorial is a very popular attraction for visitors to pay their respects and learn about history.

The Capitol Street is the perfect place for a stroll and to enjoy the lovely shops and boutiques. The large trees give the street a classic feeling, while the new shops help history and modern-day collide. The Capitol Market, Clay Center of Arts and Science, and the Charleston Civic Center are also busy attractions.

If you're traveling with children or want to do something other than historical strolls, there are great outdoor areas to explore with the little ones. Walk around Kanawha State Forest, enjoy the views of Haddad Riverfront Park or visit one of the many game rooms in Charleston. There is even an underground cinema for when the weather turns.

After a long day exploring, treat yourself to some R&R at one of the many spas and wellness centers that are open all year, offering relaxing massages and treatments.

Best Places to Stay in Charleston

The best area to stay is the downtown area, where many vacation rentals are available and are easily accessible from the State Capitol area. Downtown has the most museums, sightseeing points, and tours. If you prefer spending more time outdoors, choose a condo or apartment rental near the State Forest, meaing hiking and adventure is just right around the corner.

Charleston has hundreds of amazing properties to rent, including pet-friendly places where the whole family can stay.

Best Time to Visit Charleston

The best time to visit Charleston is either in the late spring months or October, when the weather is warm, and there isn't much rain. During the summer the weather is hot with an average of 80 degrees but you can expect a lot more rain than in the other months. This weather is particularly great for tours and hiking.

Best Events in Charleston

Charleston is full of fun events and many festivals are celebrated here. The annual dance festival, Symphony Sunday, and the West Virginia International Film Festival all take place in Charleston and draw large crowds. It doesn't matter what time of the year you visit, there's bound to be something to keep you entertained.