On site · downtown
Capitol Complex & Cultural Center
The 1932 Capitol building is a National Historic Landmark with a 293-foot gold-leaf dome. The adjoining Cultural Center houses the state museum and archives, both free to visit.
Nearby Guide
Things to Do Near Charleston, WV
West Virginia's capital sits where the Elk and Kanawha rivers meet, giving visitors culture, food and forest all within an hour's drive of the Capitol dome.
The Capital Region at a Glance
Charleston is the largest city in West Virginia and the cultural center of the Kanawha Valley. You'll find the gold-domed State Capitol, the Clay Center for the arts and sciences, the Capitol Market food hall and the historic East End — all walkable or a short ride apart.
Beyond downtown, the region opens into forest and river valley. The times below are approximate from downtown Charleston and assume normal traffic.
In and Around Downtown
About 15 minutes
Kanawha State Forest
Nine thousand acres of hardwood forest with more than 25 miles of trails, picnic shelters, a swimming pool and mountain-bike routes just minutes from the city.
Hawks Nest & the Upper Gorge
About 45 minutes east along the Midland Trail, Hawks Nest State Park overlooks a tight bend in the New River. Ride the aerial tramway to the riverside, take a jetboat tour, or eat at the lodge as the sun drops behind the gorge.
Just beyond it, Gauley Bridge and Cathedral Falls are quick stops, and the Kanawha Falls at Glen Ferris make another easy roadside waterfall worth the pull-off.
New River Gorge Day Trip
About an hour southeast, the New River Gorge Bridge and the town of Fayetteville anchor America's newest national park. Walk the Canyon Rim boardwalk, drive the winding Fayette Station Road under the bridge, or book a rafting trip.
On the way, the town of Montgomery and the old coal camps of the Kanawha Valley offer a glimpse of the region's industrial past.
Huntington & the Ohio Valley
About an hour west, Huntington sits on the Ohio River with the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center, the Huntington Museum of Art and a lively college-town restaurant scene around Marshall University.
Farther down the Ohio, Point Pleasant is a small river city famous for its Mothman lore and the annual Mothman Festival, a fun and quirky afternoon stop.
Top Nearby Attractions at a Glance
Charleston
Capitol, museums and food.
On site
Kanawha State Forest
Trails, pool and picnics.
15 min
Whitewater Rafting
New and Gauley river trips.
1 hr
New River Gorge
Bridge and national park.
1 hr
Huntington
Ohio River culture and arts.
1 hr
Historic Sites
Capitol and valley heritage.
Varies
Food & Restaurants
Where to eat in the valley.
On site
Gorge Overlooks
Rim views near the city.
Varies
Map of Charleston
Frequently Asked Questions
What is there to do in Charleston for free?
Walk the Capitol grounds, tour the free West Virginia State Museum, browse Capitol Market, and hike Kanawha State Forest. Many downtown festivals are free as well.
How far is Charleston from New River Gorge?
About an hour southeast via I-64 and US-19. The drive passes the Kanawha Falls and Hawks Nest area.
Is Charleston a good base for exploring the state?
Yes. It's centrally located with an airport, interstate access and the widest choice of lodging and dining in West Virginia.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring and fall are ideal for outdoor activities. Summer brings riverfront festivals, and winter is quiet but the Capitol holiday lights are worth seeing.
About Discover WV Today
Discover WV Today is an independent travel guide to West Virginia's cities, mountains, rivers and state parks. We help you plan trips that go beyond the interstate. Learn more about us.