Beckley, West Virginia, is a vibrant city full of natural beauty and cultural attractions. From historical sites to fine arts, this town has something to enjoy. The area features sweeping mountain views and cool mountain streams.
In addition to its historic sites, Beckley is also a great place to shop. There are many antique shops where you can find various handcrafted items. In addition, Fenton and Blenko pottery, crystals, vintage glass, and other artifacts can be found.
If you want to visit Beckley, West Virginia, there are plenty of things to do that will help you get to know the area better. Some things include going to the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, the Tamarack Marketplace, and Stephens Lake. The city is also home to Mountain State Miniature Golf and Little Beaver State Park.
The Beckley Museum of Southern West Virginia provides an excellent opportunity for those interested in the area’s history. Visitors can enjoy a tour of the museum’s exhibits. They can also view an accurate model of the USS West Virginia, a warship that played an essential role in the Civil War.
Tamarack Marketplace
Tamarack Marketplace is an iconic roadside attraction along Interstate 77 in Beckley, West Virginia. It has become a tourist hot spot, attracting millions of visitors a year, and has been named one of the top things to do in West Virginia. In its twenty-five years of operation, it has earned a reputation as a unique and fun destination.
This quaint little attraction consists of a large retail store, an art center, and five artisan studios. You’ll find everything from fine art to home goods and culinary delights. In addition, the park is home to the Tamarack Festival, an all-day indoor/outdoor celebration of arts and crafts. You’ll also be treated to live entertainment and a tasty beer and food tent during the festival.
Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine
The Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine is a great place to visit if you are interested in learning more about the coal mining industry in West Virginia. Tours are available for groups of 15 or more, and you can learn more about the history of coal mining in Southern West Virginia. You can also take an underground tour or a tour of the museum.
There are also historic coal camp buildings that you can visit in the former company town. These buildings provide a great look at life in a coal camp in the early 20th century. There is also a one-room schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop, a tiny home, and a log house. Other buildings include a church and a doctor’s office.
Tours of the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine are available Monday through Thursday from 1 to 8 pm. For more information, please get in touch with the museum. Group rates are also available for groups of 15 or more. In addition, the Gift Shop will be filled with Christmas fudge and other West Virginia items during the holidays.
Little Beaver State Park
Little Beaver State Park is a beautiful place for outdoor activities. It is located in southern West Virginia. This state park offers a beautiful lake and hiking trails ideal for families.
The lake is an 18-acre body of water. Visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, and kayaking. If you want to rent a paddle boat, you can do so at the Little Beaver State Park.
The park is also home to several natural wildlife. You can find mallards, Canada geese, and tufted titmice. There are also several types of salamanders.
While visiting the park, you can take advantage of the five picnic shelters. There is also a playground and recreation building. Camping is also possible at the campground. In addition, there are 30 RV sites with electrical and water hookups.
Mountain State Miniature Golf
Mountain State Miniature Golf in Beckley, West Virginia, is a miniature golf course that offers an excellent way to spend a family day out. The course is located on a shady hillside and features 18 unique holes. Each hole is based on a specific aspect of West Virginia. In addition, there is a coffee shop and climbing gym on-site and a small ice bar.
This mini golf course is one of the most unique in the area. You can learn a lot about the state as you play the course. Many holes are themed to help you better understand the state’s history. The course is open from 10 am to midnight during the summer months. You can also find group rates for ten or more people.
The staff at Mountain State Miniature Golf were friendly and knowledgeable. They were happy to provide us with information and even a free ticket. In addition to mini golf, you can play a round of laser tag, visit the climbing gym, and relax in the ice bar.
Stephens Lake
If you love the outdoors, consider heading to Lake Stephens in Beckley, West Virginia. This large lake is ideal for boating, fishing, and other water sports. Plenty of activities keep you entertained, and the area offers many accommodations, including RV and tent camping sites. It’s also an excellent place for kayaking and swimming.
When it comes to fishing, you can catch various species at Stephens Lake. The lake offers smallmouth bass, walleye, and channel catfish angling opportunities. You can fish from the shore, but fishing from a boat allows you to access the most remote areas of the lake.
While you’re here, you may want to take a hike on the Lake Stephens Trail. Located near Beckley, West Virginia, this scenic trail has been a favorite among hikers, backpackers, and locals.