Kanawha City

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!