Hike in the national park & forests
New River Gorge National Park, the Monongahela National Forest and Dolly Sods all have free trails. Long Point, Endless Wall and the Cranberry Glades boardwalk are standout free walks.
Hiking guide →
Budget Travel
Free Things to Do in West Virginia
Some of the very best of the Mountain State costs nothing: overlooks, waterfalls, hiking trails, small-town festivals and a world-class state museum.
West Virginia is one of the most budget-friendly travel destinations in the East. Entrance to most state park day-use areas is free or by small donation, national forest trails cost nothing, and several of the state's best museums charge no admission at all. Even the famous New River Gorge National Park is free to enter.
Here's how to fill a whole trip without spending much beyond gas and a meal.
Free outdoor adventures
The mountains are the attraction, and access is nearly always free.
Chase waterfalls
Many of the state's best cascades — Cathedral Falls, Sandstone Falls, Douglas Falls and the Falls of Hills Creek — require no ticket, only a short walk and a parking spot.
Waterfalls guide →State park day use
Pools and golf cost extra, but picnicking, playgrounds, easy trails and nature centers at most state parks are free. Hawks Nest and Babcock have especially rewarding free overlooks.
Parks guide →Scenic overlooks
The New River Gorge Bridge overlook, Grandview, Coopers Rock, Bear Rocks and the Highland Scenic Highway turnouts deliver million-dollar views for zero dollars.
Overlooks guide →Scenic drives
Driving a byway costs only fuel. The Highland Scenic Highway and the New River Gorge rim loop are full-day attractions in themselves.
Drives guide →Fish public streams
A West Virginia fishing license is inexpensive, and bank access on the Greenbrier, Elk, Cheat and New rivers is free once you're licensed.
Fishing guide →Free culture & history
West Virginia State Museum
Admission is free at this walk-through museum and the adjacent Cultural Center in Charleston. The Capitol grounds and its gold dome are open to stroll, and guided tours are often free by request.
Walk historic town streets
Wandering is free in Lewisburg, Thomas, Shepherdstown, Point Pleasant and Harpers Ferry's lower town. Look for public art, historic markers and riverfront trails along the way.
Town festivals & live music
Many West Virginia festivals are free to enter, from hometown parades to folk and bluegrass gatherings. Summer concert series in town parks are almost always free.
Festivals guide →Free fun in every season
Spring
Wildflower hikes, waterfall chasing and the first free outdoor markets of the year.
Summer
Swimming holes, free concerts in the park, farmers markets and firework displays.
Fall
Foliage drives, free pumpkin patches and heritage festivals in nearly every county.
Winter
Free holiday light displays, sledding hills and snowy overlooks if roads are clear.
Free attractions to add to your list
Free things to do FAQ
Is New River Gorge National Park really free?
Yes. There is no entrance fee for New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, and most trails, overlooks and visitor centers are free to use.
Are there free museums?
The West Virginia State Museum and the Grave Creek Mound Archaeological Complex are free, and many small county museums accept donations instead of admission.
Do state parks charge entry?
Most West Virginia state parks do not charge general entry. Fees apply for camping, cabins, pools, golf and some special attractions.
Any free advice for a cheap weekend?
Base in a small town, spend the days hiking and chasing overlooks, and eat at farmers markets and local diners. Gas and food will be your only real costs.
About
Discover WV Today is an independent travel and outdoor guide dedicated to helping visitors discover the best places, outdoor adventures, small towns, state parks, historic sites and hidden gems throughout West Virginia. Learn more about us →