East End

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.