Being from West Virginia I take pride in all that my state has to offer and cool places to visit, so I’ve compiled a list of the 10 best cities to go to. Whether you are looking for a chance to learn some history, have a spa day, or do some intense hiking, this state has it all.

10. Huntington

A city that is always filled with something to do is what you’ll find here. Between all that is happening at Marshall University and the museums and the local amusement park this place has a lot to offer.

9. Point Pleasant

This unique little town has some tragic history focused around an unidentified creature called “Mothman” and has a nice museum and annual festival to remember the mystery it brought. In addition to that, this town has many other cute shops and a wonderful park along the Ohio River.

8. Wheeling

This city was actually the first state capital and still has some historical remnants for visiting. Its name is also interesting; it translates to “place of the head” since back in the day many Indians decapitated people here. Nowadays wheeling is place for many cultural events and having a lively waterfront on the Ohio River.

7. Charleston

The capital of this state and the largest city in the state. Touring the capital building is a must do, and if you’re lucky you might meet some of the state’s elected officials. There is always tons of events happening in this city between political rallies, festivals, and other live art performances.

6. Lewisburg

This town has been named the “Coolest Small Town in America” and it can live up to that name. Between all the live art performances, the nearby trails and caves, and the bustling downtown scene there is plenty to do here!

5. Buckhannon

A quaint little town in central WV and home to the very popular Strawberry Festival which draws in many tourist every year. Also is home to West Virginia Wesleyan College and not that far of a drive to many other destinations like Seneca Rocks.

4. Berkeley Springs

A peaceful town that has some delightful mineral springs which is used today as a spa resort. George Washington was known to visit a lot and spend his time relaxing here. In addition to the spa there is the Berkeley Castle which adds to the rich past this town has.

3. Morgantown

This town is famous for the state’s largest school: West Virginia University. Between the crazy tailgating, football games, and watching the Pride, plenty of people know this is the place to be on a Saturday. There’s also plenty to do when it comes to shopping and nearby is Cooper’s Rock which is a pretty popular outdoor destination.

2. Shepherdstown

There is a lot happening in this little town. Is argued to be the oldest city in the state, is one of the most haunted cities in the country and was the proposed location of the nation’s capital before D.C. was chosen. In addition to that this is where the first successful steamboat was operated. There is plenty of history here along with many shops to wander through.

1. Harpers Ferry

This is my favorite town in the whole state, and not just because it’s my hometown. This town is located on the Shenandoah River and in the Blue Ridge Mountains (this is where John Denver was signing about), has beautiful scenery along with tons of hiking trails and plenty of history. Harpers Ferry has played an important role in the Civil War, was a spot frequented by Thomas Jefferson, and is currently the location of the Appalachian Trail Headquarters. It also has some pretty awesome ice cream shops so make sure you check them out if you’re ever in town.

So no matter where you are, if you ever have a chance to visit any of these places make sure you sieve the opportunity and see all that West Virginia has to offer.