Have you found yourself in Charleston, WV for the USA Cycling Pro Road National Championship? If so, take advantage of the breaks in the races to explore and make the most of your time here.
Charleston has much to offer, everything from quirky shops to a variety of culinary experiences. Continue reading this article to find out places that you do NOT want to miss!
@hale_house_212
Friday’s Criterium race is going to be an exhilarating event that will have thousands lining the streets of downtown. After the excitement of the race, you will likely be ready to grab some dinner and maybe a few drinks. There is no better place to go than Hale House located on the same street as the crit race.
If you aren’t ready for the party to stop there venture back over to Capitol Street and visit Sam’s Uptown Cafe for an assortment of live music, cocktails, beer, and late-night snacks.
@barkadasrestaurant
After a night out on the town, you may have overslept on Saturday morning. Don’t worry, you still have time to grab a great breakfast/brunch at Barkadas. This American and Filipino influenced restaurant is located slightly off the beaten path but still close to the action.
After breakfast, jump in the car and get ready to check out some of the town’s most unique stores. Spend the afternoon shopping around the city. If you are looking to grab some funky West Virginia souvenirs Kinship Goods will have everything you want and more. The shop has a range of apparel, accessories, and cozy home items featuring quirky designs that highlight life in Appalachia and West Virginia. If you’re on the hunt for something that you can’t find anywhere else then head on over to Summers Street to Buck & Bette where you can find “fancy and staple goods and apparel for Appalachian life.” Another local favorite is the Capitol Market, this turn-of-the-century train station is now the home of many indoor and outdoor vendors where you can find anything from sushi, specialty wines, plants, fresh fruits and vegetables, and many other locally produced goods.
After a long afternoon of shopping, it may be time for a pick me up. Head over to Taylor Books where you will find an independent bookseller with a coffee shop and art gallery.
Now that you are caffeinated it’s time for lunch! If you are looking for a heavier lunch to carry you throughout the day sit down for gourmet brick oven pizza and sangria at Lola’s, a charming South Hills pizzeria located. If you are looking for something on the lighter side drive over to Charleston’s Elk City to Dancing Dog Ice Cream Cafe. This fun lunch spot has a menu full of classic sandwiches, smashed burgers, hot dogs and onion rings. After you’re done, if you are in the mood for something sweet top off your lunch with their super premium handmade ice cream.
If you want to get moving after filling up, get outside and visit one of Charleston’s amazing, forested areas. Just moments from downtown, Kanawha State Forest offers a wide selection of trails that range in difficulty. If you are looking for a bike or stroll along the riverside visit Coonskin Park. Lastly, in case you want to keep your hike short walk on to Charleston’s 0.65-mile Carriage Trail that sits directly across the river from downtown.
@1010Bridge
After a fully filled day of exploring the city, it is time to cap off the night with one of Charleston’s favorite restaurants. Head up the hill to Bridge Road where you find Bridge Road Bistro and 1010 Bridge. 1010 Bridge is the home of Chef Paul Smith, a two-time James Beard Foundation Award nominee. He cooks up New American cuisine with the essence of Appalachian traditions. Bridge Road Bistro is an award-winning restaurant that specializes in serving locally grown vegetables and grain-fed protein. You can’t go wrong with either option!
If you are feeling on the wild side and not quite ready to head back to the hotel grab your friends and go to the epicenter of Charleston’s music scene, The Empty Glass. The Glass offers music seven days a week and always has a range of different performers.
To wrap up the weekend before you travel back home make a pit stop at Vandalia Co. This family-owned restaurant offers breakfast and lunch options including scones, and other pastries, soups, and sandwiches.
***Special Tip for Bikers
If you find yourself in need of any supplies while in town, check out these local bike shops!
Charleston Bicycle Center is the largest handle horn, sparkle chain, main drive, and axle extenders dealer this side of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Here you’ll also find a huge selection of apparel, repair items, helmets and more.
Elk City Cycles is a full-service bicycle shop combined with Elk City Skate Shop located at 612 & 613 Tennessee Avenue.
The city of Charleston, West Virginia, is set to become the epicenter of American professional cycling for the next five years. The USA Cycling Pro Road National Championships bring together elite and up-and-coming cyclists from across the nation who compete for coveted national titles. The winner of the Elite Men’s and Women’s Time Trial events at the 2024 Pro Road National Championships will automatically qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
The qualifier in Charleston will closely mimic the course riders will face in Paris. The 2024 Olympic Time Trial Course is 32.4 kilometers in length and is predominately flat. The 2024 Charleston event is expected to draw top-tier riders, including Olympians, World Tour professionals, and rising stars just two months prior to the Summer Olympic Games.
Athletes will vie for gold on the formidable roads and picturesque landscapes of Charleston and its surrounding areas, providing the best-in-class racing while showcasing West Virginia’s natural beauty.
The first event in Charleston takes place May 15-19, 2024.
Fall is possibly the most fun season in Charleston. There are so many things to do around town while enjoying the fall foliage and pumpkin-flavored everything. From special events and concerts to sports and everything in between, you will fill your calendar. Check out some of the highlights! For a full listing check out the CWV Events calendar.
Concerts
There are so many artists coming to #CWV this fall, it is hard to pick just a couple to go see. Whether you are into rock or country or something in between, we have you covered on concerts!
Blue October performs at the Charleston Coliseum on Sept. 27. These rockers from Texas emerged during the mid-90s. Their music is an emotionally charged combination of heart-heavy post grunge and slick modern rock. Hits include Hate Me and Into the Ocean.
If country is more your taste, the inaugural Salango Law Down & Dirty Music Festival, where music is a home run, is made for you. This two-day festival, Oct 14 & 15, features Nashville recording artists David Nail, Jameson Rodgers, Love & Theft, and more. Plus, WV natives Kate Boytek, Josh Pantry and Restless Road all perform. Weekend passes and VIP tickets are still available.
Charleston is home to the only 15-mile race in the U.S., the Charleston Distance Run. Celebrating its 50th running this year, CDR boasts a scenic and challenging course through the Capital City. In addition to the 15-miler, there’s a 3-person relay, 5k race, 5k walk and a children’s fun run. The race is on Saturday, Sept 2.
Break out the red, white, and blue and head to the Charleston Coliseum to cheer on Team USA Men’s Volleyball as they face teams from seven countries. The Continental Men’s Championship takes place Sept 5 – 10. Watch teams from Canada, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and Suriname in their last competition before the 2024 Paris Olympics. All-tournament passes, weekend passes, and individual match tickets are available.
Regatta Pro Wrestling will be taking over Slack Plaza on Sept. 8 for the second annual Slam Plaza! Eight matches and free admission make this a can’t miss Friday night throwdown. You still have time to brush up on your wrestling lingo before the bell rings at 6pm.
Special Events
Goodwill introduces a new event to Charleston’s calendar Sept 29! The inaugural A Night in Monte Carlo at Berry Hills Country Club celebrates the mission of Goodwill with glitz and glamour. Enjoy raffle games, silent auction, DJ Bausley, Hot Jazz of Charleston, an open bar and more. Individual tickets and VIP experience available.
Charleston celebrates OktoberWest on Sept 30. Experience a traditional German-style Oktoberfest celebration with beer, food, and music. This year’s performers include Southern Avenue, LowDown Brass Band and Joshua Runyon. Tickets prices start at $40.
Grab your wands! The 2nd annual Charleston Wizarding Weekend takes place Oct 20-22. This Harry Potter adjacent themed event is free to attend and includes activities, classes, and themed treats. An artisan market will be set up at Capitol Market and an all-ages dance party takes place at Rock City Cake Company.
FestivFALL returns to the Capital City starting Friday, October 13 through Sunday, October 22 with ten days of events and activities highlighting music, theatre, art, dance, and much more. Highlights of the festival include the Carriage Trail Leaf Walk, Harvest Art Fair, City Center Dead – Grateful Dead Tribute Show, and An Evening with the West Virginia Dance Company.
Josh Williams is the firecracker of The Working Class. The east Kentucky native is explosive like a bottle rocket but his tactics also resemble that of a sidewinding black snake. His short time in the profession has already been paved with championship gold, and the ASW X Division Champion has been an antagonizing thorn in the side of his opponent, Troy Parker. The ACE of the Powerslam Academy, Parker himself boasts a waist of gold, as the well-travelled vet of the tri-state’s regional scene became the first ever Powerslam Pro Wrestling Grand Champion. Both competitors’ potential is limitless, and the disparity in their styles makes this a must-see match-up. The disgust between these two competitors has been evidenced on a few occasions, yet neither seems to gain ground against the other enough to satisfy their continued disdain. Both men see themselves at the top, but there is only room there for one.
Women’s Division
Sydney Powers vs Nurse Mika
Nurse Mika retains the mental and physical tenacity it takes to rise to the top of the nursing profession, and that same tenaciousness informs her in-ring work between the ropes. There’s no more brutal treatment plan for her opponents should this nurse be paged to address their bad attitudes. She’s the most loved attendant in her specialized unit, and equally beloved by wrestling fans in the many states in which she’s appeared.
Sydney Powers emerges at the Sternwheel Slamboree with a chip on her shoulder and she’s had enough of medical professionals dictating her course. While Nurse Mika has been building her reputation, Powers has been through intense rehabilitation after an injury that stalled her promising young career. Forced to watch her peers realize their dreams the Martinsburg, WV native lived her own nightmare in real time. Motivated by six months of physical therapy and a relentless training schedule, Powers is back in record time, looking to make a statement at the healing hands of Nurse Mika.
Stay up to date with the matches at this year’s Sternwheel Slamboree!
The Main Event
Current star of Impact Wrestling, Pineville-raised Heath has been a tag team champion on numerous occasions in every company he’s worked. From his stint with the Nexus, to his recent record title reign with the war machine Rhino, Heath has forged a legacy that has lead him to challenge for the prestigious All Star Wrestling Heavyweight title just 2 weeks ahead of the Sternwheel Slamboree. Whether or not the Red Headed Rebel topples the Indy God Matt Cardona, there is another West Virginia native, Cole Karter, standing by for a chance to make a name for themselves at the hands of the veteran.
Poised to become the next West Virginian to shine on the national scene, Karter has made high profile TV appearances on BOTH of the major wrestling companies in the last few years and sees a clear path to stardom that runs through Heath. The frequent Pro Wrestling Conquest competitor arrives at Sternwheel Slamboree looking to solidify his burgeoning legacy.
ASW Title Tag Team Match
Since winning the ASW tag team titles last year, the lovable underdog duo of DDTRash have been the most wildly captivating tag team in the entire region. With their Smash Mouth style and unhinged energy bolstered by the assistance and aesthetics of their manager, glamorous Gary, DDTrash seem to be on an unstoppable winning streak.
But The Working Class claims they see through the endearing aura of the tag champs. Bishop Baylor and Griff Gatlin boast blue collar credentials they display boldly along with the chips on their shoulders. They’re not out to make friends, but to steal championships at all costs. With their compatriot Josh Williams in the hunt to become the first ever Regatta Champion, the SternWheel Slamboree could be an afternoon paved in gold for The Working Class.
Live on the Levee is an annual concert series held in Charleston, West Virginia. The event takes place on Friday evenings throughout the summer and features a variety of musical genres. What sets Live on the Levee apart from other concert series is that it is completely free and family-friendly, making it the perfect event for those looking for a fun and affordable night out.
The concert series is held at Haddad Riverfront Park, which is situated along the Kanawha River.
The concert series features a diverse lineup of performers, including local and regional musicians, as well as nationally recognized acts. From rock to country to blues, there is something for everyone. Highlights of this year’s schedule are:
HAIR SUPPLY – May 26
Southern West Virginia-based 1980s rock tribute act Hair Supply formed in 2018 as a vehicle for paying homage to the rock hits and anthems of the most decadent decade in popular music history.
Hair Supply enjoys recreating the mega-hits of artists like Poison, Warrant, Bryan Adams, Foreigner, Billy Squire, Journey, and Loverboy, among others. You will be singing along during the entire show. Check out their videos on Facebook.
John Inghram presents: A Tribute to The Who – June 9
For the 5th year, the John Inghram Band and friends take over Live on the Levee with a special tribute. Rock out to songs from one of the most influential rock bands of the 20th century at the Tribute to the Who. Bring the family down, make it a date night.
Aristotle Jones – June 16
Known as the Appalachian Soul Man, West Virginia native Aristotle Jones has become a fan favorite in West Virginia, Central Appalachia and beyond. With engagement, connection, and passion, Aristotle Jones leaves it all on the stage with uplifting music influenced by artists like Bill Withers, Leon Bridges, Ray Charles, Darius Rucker, and other genre-blending musical pioneers. When he is performing as a one-man acoustic singer songwriter, Aristotle delivers a heartfelt folk-and-gospel-inspired repertoire that includes many entertaining anecdotes about life growing up in rural Appalachia, and spending time on his Granddad’s (Robert Jones) Farm.
On stage with his 9-piece “Amazing Appalachian Soul Band”, Jones captivates audiences with his range, emotion, authenticity, and originality. With his full band, Aristotle expands the arrangement to include a stellar horn section, a solid rhythm section, and feature soloists. The music is modern but the feeling of Aristotle’s full-band shows transport the audience with the nostalgic energy of Juke Joints found throughout rural Appalachia.
Jones’ music reflects the values of courage, fortitude, and determination that were taught to him while porch picking with his grandfather, a regional gospel and soul singer who traveled to segregated coal camps performing for black coal miners in the mid 20th Century. Aristotle is proud to carry on the legacy of Soulful Folk music inspired by Doo Wop, Gospel, and Blues in Appalachia.
Rasta Rafiki – June 16
Rasta Rafiki strives to produce music that is equally appealing to the mind and body. Their music promotes peace, equality, and understanding in an ever-desensitized world. Rasta Rafiki also supplies a healthy dose of fun! Featuring Derrick McDonald on lead vocals and percussion, John Schmitt on lead guitar, Thomas P. Batchelor on rhythm guitar and vocals, Andy Lindsay on bass, Steven Markle on drums, and David Lloyd on keyboards.
Shelem – August 18
Isaac Shelem Fadiga, known by his mononym Shelem (pronounced shuh-lem) is a young hip-hop artist and producer. A self-proclaimed true entertainer, his primary focus has always been to bring levity and good times into the lives of his audience. He strives to create a magnificent experience with every song, performance, video, and interaction. Born in Silver Spring, MD, to parents from the Ivory Coast in West Africa, he began producing, writing, and recording his own songs at age 14. After graduating from Marshall University in Huntington, WV, with a degree in Civil Engineering in 2018, he moved to Charleston, WV, to begin his engineering career as he developed a plan to launch his music career.
Shelem’s debut album, The Jaunts, was released September 2018. The following year, he launched his “Delivery Man” campaign in tandem with the release of his song of the same name. For a month, he personally delivered all merchandise orders within a 100-mile radius of Charleston. Later that year, he released a series of 25 one-minute freestyles on social media titled Lemme Rap (Season 1) that showcased his lyrical prowess in unforgettable bite-sized bops. Three of those tracks were released as a packaged single bearing the same name on streaming platforms.
One of the best things about Live on the Levee is that it is a family-friendly event. There is a playground for children to enjoy, as well as plenty of space for families to spread out and enjoy the music. Food vendors are also on site, so you can grab a bite to eat while you listen to the music.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting Charleston, Live on the Levee is a must-see event.
As a youth, Paul Smith wanted to explore the world. But after much travelling, he ended up right back where he belonged: Charleston, West Virginia.
A graduate of Charleston Catholic, Chef Paul Smith has experienced culinary highs – from Hyde Park and Napa Valley to Asheville and the Gulf Coast. He trained at the CIA – Culinary Institute of America – and saw firsthand what world-class hospitality looked and felt like. The more he saw and experienced, the more he knew he wanted to come home to Charleston and bring that experience and knowledge back to his hometown. He wanted to make a difference, and, he is.
Chef Paul is a familiar face around Charleston, and while his Beard Award nominations are for his work at 1010 Bridge Restaurant, he’s also part owner of local hotspots Ellen’s Homemade Ice Cream and The Pitch at Shawnee Sports Complex. Smith is a Chef Partner at Barkadas in Charleston and The Humble Tomato in Lewisburg, and he conducts cooking exhibitions at Capitol Market May through October during the free “Let’s Get Cooking” series.
Smith’s work within the Charleston community and travel throughout the state promoting West Virginia’s culinary scene made him a “no-brainer” for a new role as Ambassador for Charleston.
CWV Q&A
1. Favorite thing(s) about Charleston: Charleston is a great place to raise a family. Charleston is a place where one person can make a difference.
4. Favorite venue for live performance or live music in #CWV: Clay Center
5. Favorite Charleston memory: Coming home to Charleston.
6. What do you wish people knew about CWV? Vibes are high! Artwalk night, new Sternwheel Regatta vibe, come out and explore not only the culinary scene, but also all the great things Charleston has to offer.
Known as the Appalachian Soul Man, West Virginia native Aristotle Jones has become a fan favorite in West Virginia, Central Appalachia and beyond. With engagement, connection, and passion, Aristotle Jones leaves it all on the stage with uplifting music influenced by artists like Bill Withers, Leon Bridges, Ray Charles, Darius Rucker, and other genre-blending musical pioneers. When he is performing as a one-man acoustic singer songwriter, Aristotle delivers a heartfelt folk-and-gospel-inspired repertoire that includes many entertaining anecdotes about life growing up in rural Appalachia, and spending time on his Granddad’s (Robert Jones) Farm.
On stage with his 9-piece “Amazing Appalachian Soul Band”, Jones captivates audiences with his range, emotion, authenticity, and originality. With his full band, Aristotle expands the arrangement to include a stellar horn section, a solid rhythm section, and feature soloists. The music is modern but the feeling of Aristotle’s full-band shows transport the audience with the nostalgic energy of Juke Joints found throughout rural Appalachia.
A central theme of Aristotle’s music and community projects is shedding light on the contribution to art in culture provided by Black Americans living in the Appalachian Mountains. He is the descendant of coal miners and farmers, who against all odds, made a life in the poor coal town of Osage, West Virginia.
Jones’ music reflects the values of courage, fortitude, and determination that were taught to him while porch picking with his grandfather, a regional gospel and soul singer who traveled to segregated coal camps performing for black coal miners in the mid 20th Century. Aristotle is proud to carry on the legacy of Soulful Folk music inspired by Doo Wop, Gospel, and Blues in Appalachia.
You can find music from Aristotle Jones on Apple Music, Spotify, CD Baby, as well as other major platforms, and at www.AristotleJones.com
CWV Q&A
What is your favorite thing about Charleston?
Downtown Charleston has a lot to offer in a cozy and organized footprint, plus it is flat, so you can easily walk between the restaurants and shops, all of which are totally accessible during events like Live On The Levee, FestivALL, and other fantastic events.
Favorite CWV restaurant?
Depending on my mood, for a fun evening meal in a great setting it’s a toss-up between Pies & Pints and Black Sheep Burritos and Brews both have a lot to offer and it’s hard to make a bad menu selection. For breakfast, on the go… I have to go with Tudor’s Biscuit World, it’s always fun to start my day the “homemade way.” When I have a little more time to savor the mornings I love stopping by First Watch for a sit-down hearty meal..
Favorite CWV shop?
My style is a bit of vintage mixed with a bit of modern so there’s one place in town that is a must-go-to shop for me… and that’s Sullivan’s Records. If you are into collecting vinyl, or just into having great conversations, Sullivan’s Records owner Sam Lowe has the best selection of new and used records in the state.
Another great shop that adds to the character of Charleston, WV, is Taylor Books. It’s a great bookstore mixed with an art gallery and a coffee shop. It’s also a great place to see local singer songwriters perform in an intimate, warm and fun setting.
Favorite CWV venue to see live music?
The Clay Center is really making a name for itself as a great place to catch a show in Charleston, WV. It’s a really beautiful venue and there are literally no bad seats in there. Of course when I get a chance to catch the Mountain Stage Radio Show at the Culture Center on the State Capitol Complex I jump at the chance to watch the top notch national talent they bring to Charleston. Charleston also has many tavern and pub sized music venues, like the legendary Empty Glass,Sam’s Uptown Cafe, and The Blue Parrot. All great places to see up-and-coming regional talent take the stage.
What is your Favorite CWV Memory?
Growing up in West Virginia I have many memories of school field trips to the State Capitol Complex. I can still remember the feeling of seeing the golden dome growing larger on the horizon out of a yellow school bus window. But while my favorite memory in Charleston happened on the State Capitol Complex and involved an educational moment that shaped my life, it had nothing to do with a school field trip.
I was in my early 20’s and had recently returned to West Virginia for summer vacation from my studies at Berea College in Kentucky. I was spending time with my parents at the Multi-Cultural Fest waiting for the 70s funk band WAR to take the stage (think “Cisco Kid”, “Low Rider” now you’re groovin’) Before the concert I spotted a handmade Djembe style drum for sale for $40, and I knew I had to have it.
After purchasing my new drum I found a seat on the ledge of a raised tree bed and as the legendary funk ensemble delivered a high energy concert to the crowd of thousands, I jammed along with them on my new drum completely in the zone. There were no complaints from the other audience members near me and I felt free, connected, and inspired. At that point my music career had not yet started. I wasn’t in a band, but in my own way, In my mind I was part of the band, along with the whole city. Seeing and feeling how music brought the community together at the Multi-Cultural Fest inspired me, and it was one of those moments I credit in shaping my musical confidence.
What do you wish others would know about Charleston?
I wish that people knew that the Mountains in our state’s nickname (The Mountain State) refers to the people that call it home. Positive energy growing around Charleston that is feeding the spirit of inclusion and empowerment. The residents are using that energy and opportunity to create a place they love to live, and that you’d love to visit. Charleston, WV, is a safe, friendly and welcoming place, that’s a blend of rural values and city charm. Along my travels I talk to lots of people both from other parts of WV and those from out of state, and Charleston is often a place that those folks say they “drove through or past.” I wish people would know that Charleston, WV, is more than just a place that’s on the way to your destination. Instead, for your next vacation, get-away, concert road trip, or new home, Charleston, West Virginia, could be your destination.
Singer/songwriter Kate Boytek hit the stage for the first time at the tender age of five at her local country fair talent show. Singing opportunities were few and far between in Kate’s tiny hometown of Logan, West Virginia, nestled deep in the Appalachian coalfields. Kate sang at dozens of local charity events, directed her church choir, and eventually attracted the attention of Vic Gabany, West Virginia native and legendary Grand Ole Opry and Bradley’s Barn audio engineer. With Vic’s help and guidance from her late musical director and drummer Scotty Hawkins (Reba McEntire, Kix Brooks), Boytek pursued her dream in Nashville and appeared with country hitmakers Tyler Farr, Eric Paslay, Trick Pony, and others. But like a sad country song, Kate’s goals of a life in music were turned upside down when she was forced to walk away from her dreams for almost a decade.
Now a wiser and more seasoned artist, Kate Boytek has re-emerged with a songwriting style that is both fresh and contemporary yet echoes classic singer-songwriters from the 1970s. Boytek’s upcoming debut album will include tracks written by Kate along with veteran songsmiths, including Britton Cameron (Lonestar, Sister Hazel), Kim McLean (Loretta Lynn, Trisha Yearwood, and Tim McGraw), and Brian Carper (Aaron Lewis). With career guidance from veteran music executives Bernard Porter (Jason Aldean) and Burke Allen (America’s Got Talent Winner Landau Eugene Murphy Jr.), a treasure chest of first-class songs, and a personality that shines through like few others, Kate Boytek’s career, like the title of one of her new songs, is poised to go anywhere. And we’ll be watching.
In 2023, Kate filmed her first video in Charleston.
CWV Q&A
What is your favorite thing about Charleston?
My favorite thing about Charleston, West Virginia, is the consistent momentum forward and strong sense of community.
In my experience, it’s rare to find cities that carry a strong presence of a “close knit/small town vibe” similar to what everyone seeks and usually finds in smaller rural towns.
Charleston has found a way to combine that convenient, exciting, ever-growing city life while maintaining the friendly hometown feel.
This is definitely at the top of my list of things to love about my home state capital.
Favorite CWV restaurant?
Photo by: Crissy Musick Photography
Being the foodie that I am, this is definitely a tough question! I could literally name a dozen favorite restaurants off the top of my head, but to name only a few for the sake of having a novel-like answer for this question, here we go!!
Favorite CWV venue to see, or preform, live music?
I love to perform at Sam’s Uptown Cafe and of course at Charleston’s beautiful Haddad Riverfront Park.
Favorite CWV memory?
I’ve been coming to Charleston almost every weekend since I was a kid and I have some wonderful memories in this city, aside from performing in Charleston and seeing my first concert at the Charleston Coliseum, the memories that stand out the most are my birthdays. Growing up, my mom would let me pick one friend to go with me and we would spend the whole day shopping at the Charleston Town Center, then follow it up with a local restaurant of my choice and lastly end the birthday celebration with a movie night at Marquee Cinemas at South Ridge. I wouldn’t trade my memories in this city for anything.
What do you wish others would know about Charleston?
My hope is that everyone looking to explore a new area of West Virginia would come to Charleston and see first hand what I’ve been so fortunate to grow up with, from the unique one-of-a-kind shops and restaurants, to the people that have infused this city with kindness and friendship, it’s truly one big wonderful community and definitely worth a stop on your bucket list cities!
Ask locals of a certain age about Kanawha City, and they, no doubt, will get a nostalgic twinkle in their eyes. For decades MacCorkle Avenue, aka the Kanawha City Strip, was a weekend destination for teenagers – the place to see and be seen. Today, Kanawha City retains a few old favorites from those years and is home to specialty retailers, local eateries, West Virginia’s largest hospital, and the city’s namesake college, the University of Charleston.
Fun Fact: The University of Charleston’s Men’s Soccer team won NCAA Division II National Championships in 2017 and 2019! Go Golden Eagles!
Trivillian’s Pharmacy and Soda Fountain is an independent pharmacy with a nostalgic diner! Enjoy a burger, sandwich, daily soups, ice cream floats and shakes while you soak in the atmosphere. No prescription needed! Other local restaurant favorites include Pepperoni Grill, The Pitch KC, and M&M Mart – a hidden gem of a deli.
Cruise on over to Budget Tapes and Records, the state’s “hippest record store and lifestyle emporium.” Budget has been cranking rock ‘n’ roll in its storefront for 50 years. Shop for vinyl, tie-dye and “lifestyle accessories” and you’ll leave with a traditionally hand-written bill of sale.
Biking is one of the fastest growing sports, and in Charleston we have the go-to spot for bikes and equipment at Charleston Bicycle Center. Tucked away on 53rd street, you find bikes for all riders. Walking in the shop, you are greeted by friendly, expert staff who will help you pick the perfect ride from children’s bikes to big kid mountain biking and street riding models. Charleston Bicycle Center also has a huge selection of apparel, repair items, helmets and more.
Pro tip for parents: They can even fix your jogging stroller tires!
Virginia. If you’re on the hunt for something that you can’t find anywhere else then head on over to Summers Street to Buck & Bette where you can find “fancy and staple goods and apparel for Appalachian life.” Another local favorite is the Capitol Market, this turn-of-the-century train station is now the home of many indoor and outdoor vendors where you can find anything from sushi, specialty wines, plants, fresh fruits and vegetables, and many other locally produced goods.
If you want to get moving after filling up, get outside and visit one of Charleston’s amazing, forested areas. Just moments from downtown, 
week and always has a range of different performers.
The city of Charleston, West Virginia, is set to become the epicenter of American professional cycling for the next five years. The USA Cycling Pro Road National Championships bring together elite and up-and-coming cyclists from across the nation who compete for coveted national titles. The winner of the Elite Men’s and Women’s Time Trial events at the 2024 Pro Road National Championships will automatically qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Time Trial Course is 32.4 kilometers in length and is predominately flat. The 2024 Charleston event is expected to draw top-tier riders, including Olympians, World Tour professionals, and rising stars just two months prior to the Summer Olympic Games.
There are so many artists coming to #CWV this fall, it is hard to pick just a couple to go see. Whether you are into rock or country or something in between, we have you covered on concerts!
If country is more your taste, the inaugural 
Break out the red, white, and blue and head to the Charleston Coliseum to cheer on Team USA Men’s Volleyball as they face teams from seven countries. The Continental Men’s Championship takes place Sept 5 – 10. Watch teams from Canada, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and Suriname in their last competition before the 2024 Paris Olympics. All-tournament passes, weekend passes, and individual match 
Charleston celebrates 
Current star of Impact Wrestling, Pineville-raised 
Since winning the ASW tag team titles last year, the lovable underdog duo of DDTRash have been the most wildly captivating tag team in the entire region. With their Smash Mouth style and unhinged energy bolstered by the assistance and aesthetics of their manager, glamorous Gary, DDTrash seem to be on an unstoppable winning streak.
What is your Favorite CWV Memory?
Favorite CWV memory?