3. Adventures on the Gorge: Lansing
The ultimate experience in West Virginia, Adventures on the Gorge, is an award-winning adventure outfitter and resort on the rim of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. The destination resort offers a dizzying array of outdoor activities, the most popular of which is whitewater rafting. Travelers rave about the half- and multi-day excursions for various skill levels, noting that the guides are friendly, helpful and all-around great. Adventure seekers can also enjoy zip lining and canopy tours (including a nighttime Moon Trek), rappelling, mountain biking, guided hikes, horseback riding, cave tours, laser tag and paintball. On Summersville Lake (the largest in West Virginia), there’s kayaking, standup paddle boarding and multi-sport excursions that include a little bit of everything. After an action-packed day, visitors can grab a bite to eat at any of the three on-site restaurants and retreat to their choice of accommodations, which include everything from cozy cabins to glamping tents with views of the New River Gorge Bridge and surrounding forest.
Address: 219 County Route 60/5, Lansing, WV 25862
4. The Greenbrier: White Sulphur Springs
A National Historic Landmark, The Greenbrier served as a hospital for wounded soldiers during the Civil War and World War II. In 1778, it became “America’s Resort,” first hosting wealthy Southerners, then celebrities, U.S. presidents and even royalty. You don’t have to be a guest of the luxury resort (or an A-lister) to get a glimpse of it – guided hotel tours are offered – but overnight guests enjoy upscale accommodations ranging from signature guest rooms to estate homes, a roster of activities for all ages, golf, a spa, restaurants, a casino, retail shops, seasonal events and more. Whether you splurge for an overnight stay or not, don’t miss the Bunker Tour, where you’ll discover a former emergency fallout shelter and top-secret government relocation facility for Congress from the Cold War period. The tour, available for visitors aged 10 and older, starts at $40 for adults and $20 for ages 10 to 18.
Address: 101 W. Main St., White Sulphur Springs, WV 24986