A stately mansion on the hill overlooking Charleston has long been the most visible landmark of the South Hills neighborhood. The mansion, home of a former governor, was known to generations of children as the Sunrise Museum. Today, it is the cornerstone of the historic and hip neighborhood that is home to trendy boutiques and an amazing urban trail.
The best view of the city is accessed by a quick hike along the Sunrise Carriage Trail.The view from the top is breathtaking!
If you prefer a more relaxing form of self-care, the Bridge Road Shops are more your speed. This quaint area of the city is home to the most unique boutiques in the area. Yarid’s Shoes is a family owned and operated shoe store established in 1918. They offer the finest collection of footwear, handbags, scarves and jewelry for ladies and gentlemen. Yarid’s also carries smashbox cosmetics and butter LONDON nail polish. If you are looking for something to bring home, Eggplant is an exclusive gift boutique where you will find everything from luxurious bath and body products and fabulous jewelry and accessories to home décor, custom invitations and stationery.
No trip to South Hills is complete with stopping by Lola’s for pizza and sangria. Lola’s isn’t your typical pizzeria. This charming restaurant offers gourmet brick oven pies such as Fig Jam & Rosemary and Spicy Shrimp & Sausage. Top off the meal with homemade gelato from nearby Caffé Romeo.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Charleston is the 23.5 karat gold dome of the West Virginia State Capitol. In addition to the picturesque dome, the State Capitol complex is a perfect destination for those who love architecture, history, art, or slowing down and relaxing outdoors. Take a free indoor tour of the Capitol Building, and, on the second floor be sure to look at the ceiling tiles that are hand carved to represent items from around the state.
The Capitol Complex also is home to the West Virginia State Museum, a free, interactive and informative museum for all ages.Highlights include the Talking Soldier, history of the Floating Capitol, and a remake of Capitol Street from the 1950s.
For nearly 40 years, Mountain Stage has been the home of live music on public radio. The show is recorded in front of a live audience at the State Culture Center on the Capitol Grounds. Hear seasoned legends and emerging stars from across the musical spectrum. Each two-hour episode is heard weekly on nearly 300 stations across America, and around the world via NPR Music and mountainstage.org.
The Empty Glass, on the other hand, is THE place for live music in Charleston. An East End staple since 1985, the stage at “The Glass” has been graced by acts like Jason Isbell, Gov’t Mule, and Tyler Childers – we can’t list them all or we’d just be name dropping. The post-Mountain Stage Jam sessions are a must-see. You’ll get an intimate show from Charleston’s own Carpenter Ants, and a surprise visit from some of that night’s Mountain Stage performers. The Empty Glass is more than just a music venue…it’s iconic.
The great performer Tony Bennett once said the Clay Center’s Maier Theater was “one of the jewels of the planet.” That’s a big endorsement. The Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences is way more than just music, though. The Juliet Art Museum houses a rotating collection of national and local artists.The Avampato Discovery Museum houses three floors of hands-on discovery exhibits featuring more than 12,000 square feet of non-stop fun. The littles can splash around in WaterWorks, learn about the science of sound in The Maier Foundation Music Studio, and get their bodies in motion in the Healthy Me exhibit. Check out real life exploration in My Town and climb to new heights on Ashton’s Climbing Sculpture. The Mylan Explore-atory gallery plays host to limited time exhibits from all over the country. Trust us, your child and your inner child will love this place!
Hear the crack of a bat? The East End is home to GoMart Ballpark and the Charleston Dirty Birds! Enjoy traditional snacks and local favorites while you join the “You are TOAST!” chants as opposing batters strike out.
Ya Gotta Regatta!! This is a phrase that so many Charlestonians have been screaming for years, especially after the Regatta was disbanded in 2009. To everyone’s delight, The Charleston Sternwheel Regatta returns June 30!!
Fan favorites such as the anything that floats race, sternwheel races, carnival and the big-name concerts. The first year back, the concerts include Everclear, Fastball, The Four Tops and The Spinners, Martin McBride and 80’s heartthrob Rick Springfield.
In addition to the nostalgia, many new events are happening. This year will bring The Wheelwash Craft Beer Festival, a kid zone at Magic Island which includes some skating and BMX exhibitions at the skate park and a comedy showcase.
Full Regatta schedule below:
*Both photos courtesy of the Charleston Gazette Mail*
Peanuts, popcorn, and Cracker Jacks during the 7th inning stretch. The crack of the bat. Crowds chanting “You are TOAST!!!” The sights and sounds of summer are upon us as the Charleston Dirty Birds open their home season April 21st.
In 2021, the team and their fans enjoyed the inaugural season of the team’s involvement in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball (ALPB). The ALPB tests new rules and equipment for Major League Baseball and die-hard Charleston baseball fans loved witnessing this in person. For example, all ALPB games include a time limit between innings to speed up the pace of play. The league has also altered rules regarding mound visits, pickoff attempts, check swings, allowing a batter to steal first base, and more, so fans are guaranteed to see some unique events on a nightly basis at GoMart Ballpark!
The Charleston Dirty Birds are more than just baseball: The game experience is pure family fun! Each game includes unique ways for the crowd to be involved. From dancing with mascot Dusty the Dirty Bird to races on the field, the 2022 season is sure to be even more exciting than last year. Stay up to date on the schedule of events by visiting the Charleston Dirty Birds website.
Time Magazine named the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve one of the World’s Greatest Places 2021. Lucky for us, it’s just an hour’s drive from Charleston.
Are you as excited about the return of the Sternwheel Regatta as we are? Plans are underway to bring this local favorite back to Charleston June 30 – July 1.
New name, same great family fun! The Charleston Dirty Birds (formerly the West Virginia Power) open their home season April 21.
Run, walk, or watch the Charleston Distance Run, offering a 15-mile race, three-person 15-mile relay, 5k race and 5k walk.
Kanawha State Forest, just moments from downtown, offers outdoor recreation, including hiking and biking trails, picnic areas and diverse wildflower, tree, and bird populations.
Float 12 miles along the Coal River during the Tour De Coal community kayak float.
Get in a great workout just steps from downtown Charleston.
Want to know a secret, that’s not really a secret? Sightseeing in Downtown Charleston is a fantastic workout. Our city is walkable, bikeable and parts are even hike-able! To see the sights by foot, start at Capitol Market. Grab a bottle of water and head down Capitol Street. You’ll know you’re close to the Peanut Shoppe when the powerful aroma of freshly roasted nuts and popcorn hits you. Stay strong – you can stop on the way back. At the end of Capitol Street, cross Kanawha Boulevard to Haddad Riverfront Park and take in the view of the river.
Ready for a hike? Cross the Southside Bridge to the Sunrise Carriage Trail. The Carriage Trail begins at the foot of the hill behind the Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad Depot, which itself is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. If you drive, you can park at the bottom of the Carriage Trail or at the top. Dogs are welcome on the trail if they are leashed. Need to clear your mind? Put in the work and hit the gravel trail rising 200 feet through the forest. Along the way you’ll find several historical gems, including the graves of two female Civil War spies and a memorial to Christa McAuliffe, American teacher and astronaut, and the view from the top is breathtaking.
Looking for flatter terrain? Take in the Kanawha River, while traveling on a paved path that is full of Charleston history and connects to parks and some of Charleston’s most famous landmarks, including Haddad Riverfront Park. The trail begins on Patrick Street and heads south along Kanawha Boulevard. As you travel, by foot or bike, it transforms into a two-lane cycle track with a pedestrian path – with very generous space for bikers. At Magic Island there is a labyrinth path, or you can keep going until you reach the gold-domed State Capitol. Just a little further and you’ve conquered the Boulevard! Stretch, because now you must walk back – or call for a ride. We won’t tell, we’re great at keeping secrets.
Make the most of your time in Charleston for The Basketball Tournament (July 24-27) by exploring the city in your downtime. The Charleston CVB has compiled 10 ideas to get you started!
Live on the Levee — The free outdoor concert series starts runs every Friday from Memorial Day to Labor Day at Haddad Riverfront Park. Check out the artists in this year’s line-up here.
@Copper_thedoodlewv
Kanawha State Forest — Located seven miles from Charleston, Kanawha State Forest offers more than 25 miles of hiking and biking trails as well as various wildflower, tree and bird populations.
Check out Charleston’s newest brewery, Fife Street Brewing Company. All beers are locally named like Chuck’s P-51 Porter (named for WV legend Chuck Yeager) or Charley West Coast IPA. If you get hungry, they also have some great grilled cheese.
Enjoy a baseball game at Appalachian Power Park. Cheer on the Charleston Dirty Birds as they take on Kentucky Wild Health Genomes. Order your tickets today!
Rock City Cake Company — Located at 205 Capitol Street, this rock music-themed, full-service bakery strives to create innovative and delicious desserts.
Sunrise Carriage Trail — The Sunrise Carriage Trail is a meandering 0.65-mile trail overlooking Charleston. It’s a perfect picture spot!
Coonskin Park — Featuring more than 10 trails and a Grotto, Coonskin Park was created over 50 years ago by a dedicated group of Kanawha County residents. The park is 10 minutes away from downtown Charleston.
Black Sheep Burrito and Brews — Located at 702 Quarrier Street, Black Sheep is a unique place to eat and unwind that is known for its exotic burritos and craft beer brewed in-house.
Buck and Bette — Before heading to Black Sheep for dinner and drinks, stop at Buck and Bette to shop for fancy and staple goods that you didn’t know you needed in your life.
Kin Ship Goods & Base Camp Printing Company — Shopping at Kin Ship Goods and Base Camp Printing Company is a must when in CWV. Kin Ship Goods sells hand-printed cozy wear and quite the collection of home goods. Base Camp Printing Company designs and prints its own letterpress prints.
An hour’s drive south of Charleston is the nation’s newest national park. The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve was named one of the World’s Greatest Places 2021 by Time Magazine. With more than 70,000 acres of land along the New River, this natural playground features world-class whitewater rafting, hiking, biking, fishing, and hunting. The New River is one of the oldest rivers on the North American continent, with fossil evidence leading geologists to estimate the New River could be as old as 320 million years. The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is the nation’s 63rd national park. Links to commercial outfitters, trail maps, and basic information are available on the park’s website.
Image courtesy @geekdad248_instragram
Adjacent to the national park, Adventures on the Gorge, ACE Adventure Resort, and River Expeditions provide unparalleled outdoor activities both on land and water. Water-based activities in the New River Gorge include whitewater rafting, kayak tours, stand up paddle boarding, and guided float fishing trips. Land-based fun includes zipline tours, mountain biking, guided rock climbs, and bridge tours. AOTG’s zipline is one of the longest in America and reaches up to 65 mph, and a one-of-a-kind experience awaits under the New River Gorge Bridge. Take your turn on the explore the entire 3,030 foot length of the bridge – all while securely fastened to a safety harness.
The Parks Service makes it easy to plan your New River adventure on its website. Find commercial whitewater outfitters, trail maps, basic information and more.
Want the outdoor adventure with the comforts of the city? Stay in Charleston and play in the Gorge! Find #CWV accommodations.
Image courtesy New River Gorge National Park & Preserve
West Virginia State University is located right outside Charleston city limits. This staple to the community was founded in 1890 as the West Virginia Colored Institute to provide education of black citizens in agriculture and mechanical arts. In 1927, the Institution was accredited by the North Central Associations and soon became West Virginia State College. Over the next decades, WVSC became one of the leading public institutions of higher education for African Americans. Finally, in 2004, the WV Legislature approved WVSC’s transition to University status.
In addition to being West Virginia’s first HBCU, WVSU has several prominent graduates. One of the most recognizable names is Earl Lloyd.
If you haven’t heard of Earl Lloyd, you are not a basketball fan. Mr. Lloyd was a trailblazer in basketball. During his career at WVSU, 1947 -1950, he led the Yellow Jackets to two conference and tournament championships. Earl was named All-Conference for three years and named a two time All-American by the Pittsburgh Courier.
He was the first African American to play in the NBA in 1950 while playing for the Washington Capitols. Later in his career, Lloyd played for the Syracuse Nationals and became the first African American to win an NBA Championship. After he retired, Lloyd went on the become the first African American assistant coach in the NBA while coaching the Detroit Pistons.
Mr. Lloyd continued to break color barriers upon leaving the NBA. Lloyd was hired by Chrysler as the first African American executive of the Dodge division.
Earl’s life is celebrated in a documentary film, “The First To Do It.” You can find out more about his life by visiting the WVSU website.
Be sure to stop by campus and explore the history of the university. You will find beautiful architecture, statues, and green spaces. Enjoy a Yellow Jackets game. Visit the university bookstore. If you are lucky, you may have the opportunity to run into WVSU first female president, Dr. Nicole Pride. Go State!
Photos and video courtesy of West Virginia State University.
Adding to the charm of Charleston’s West Side, Shop 218 opened in 2019. This chic boutique features specially curated items by owner April Showen, who believes that everyone should be able to have accessible, high-quality, and affordable style. “Everything is hand-selected in the shop to flatter every figure,” says April. “We love good classic style with additions for on-trend looks.” A multi-brand boutique, 218 continually refreshes the selections to keep it fresh for their frequent shoppers.
Along with checking out the fun fashion, you should pop into the shop just to bask in the luxurious atmosphere. It’s immediately apparent that the person who chose the décor has great taste: “My degree is actually graphic design, but it was heavily art-focused. I have always had a passion to create beautiful spaces.” April has been able to marry her keen eye for good style to interior design, fashion, and art.
218 provides every client with a customized personal shopping (or style) experience. April’s style experts will help you choose the perfect pieces for any occasion and give great tips on further styling each piece for multiple looks–giving you true wardrobe longevity. A much-appreciated addition has been the range of inclusive sizing that 218 carries. “The section of the shop is called Volume, because it’s for us ladies that have a little more volume to us.”
218 is open Monday through Saturday from 11am-7pm throughout the holiday season. You can shop in-person, get curbside pick-up or local delivery, or shop online for regular shipping. With the range of clothing, personal care, home fragrance, and jewelry, you’re sure to find the perfect gift for whoever is on your list!
If you prefer a more relaxing form of self-care, the Bridge Road Shops are more your speed. This quaint area of the city is home to the most unique boutiques in the area. Yarid’s Shoes is a family owned and operated shoe store established in 1918. They offer the finest collection of footwear, handbags, scarves and jewelry for ladies and gentlemen. Yarid’s also carries smashbox cosmetics and butter LONDON nail polish. If you are looking for something to bring home, Eggplant is an exclusive gift boutique where you will find everything from luxurious bath and body products and fabulous jewelry and accessories to home décor, custom invitations and stationery.
For nearly 40 years, Mountain Stage has been the home of live music on public radio. The show is recorded in front of a live audience at the State Culture Center on the Capitol Grounds. Hear seasoned legends and emerging stars from across the musical spectrum. Each two-hour episode is heard weekly on nearly 300 stations across America, and around the world via NPR Music and mountainstage.org. 
Hear the crack of a bat? The East End is home to GoMart Ballpark and the Charleston Dirty Birds! Enjoy traditional snacks and local favorites while you join the “You are TOAST!” chants as opposing batters strike out.
Play Ball!
Want to know a secret, that’s not really a secret? Sightseeing in Downtown Charleston is a fantastic workout. Our city is walkable, bikeable and parts are even hike-able! To see the sights by foot, start at Capitol Market. Grab a bottle of water and head down Capitol Street. You’ll know you’re close to the Peanut Shoppe when the powerful aroma of freshly roasted nuts and popcorn hits you. Stay strong – you can stop on the way back. At the end of Capitol Street, cross Kanawha Boulevard to Haddad Riverfront Park and take in the view of the river.
West Virginia State University
If you haven’t heard of Earl Lloyd, you are not a basketball fan. Mr. Lloyd was a trailblazer in basketball. During his career at WVSU, 1947 -1950, he led the Yellow Jackets to two conference and tournament championships. Earl was named All-Conference for three years and named a two time All-American by the Pittsburgh Courier.
He was the first African American to play in the NBA in 1950 while playing for the Washington Capitols. Later in his career, Lloyd played for the Syracuse Nationals and became the first African American to win an NBA Championship. After he retired, Lloyd went on the become the first African American assistant coach in the NBA while coaching the Detroit Pistons.
Adding to the charm of Charleston’s West Side, 
218 provides every client with a customized personal shopping (or style) experience. April’s style experts will help you choose the perfect pieces for any occasion and give great tips on further styling each piece for multiple looks–giving you true wardrobe longevity. A much-appreciated addition has been the range of inclusive sizing that 218 carries. “The section of the shop is called Volume, because it’s for us ladies that have a little more volume to us.”