Beckley, West Virginia, nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, is a city that blends the charm of small-town America with the excitement of a bustling cultural hub. With a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and a vibrant local scene, there are countless things to do in Beckley. Whether you're a foodie looking to experience the local cuisine, an outdoors enthusiast eager to explore the surrounding wilderness, or a history buff interested in the region's unique past, there's no shortage of things to do in Beckley. This guide will take you through the city's top attractions, hidden gems, and local favorites.
Food & Drink in Beckley
One of the best things to do in Beckley is to indulge in the local food and drink scene. Start your culinary adventure at The Char, a local institution known for its mouth-watering steaks and seafood. Located on Harper Road, this upscale eatery offers a menu that reflects the rich flavors of Appalachia. For a more casual dining experience, head over to King Tut Drive-In on N Eisenhower Drive. A beloved local joint, King Tut serves up American classics like burgers, hot dogs, and milkshakes, all in a nostalgic, drive-in setting. And no food tour of Beckley would be complete without a visit to the Raleigh County Farmers Market on Eisenhower Drive, where you can sample fresh, locally-sourced produce. "The farmers market is one of my favorite things to do in Beckley. You can't beat the fresh produce and friendly faces," says local resident Mary.
Best Museums in Beckley
Among the many things to do in Beckley, visiting its museums is a must. The Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and Youth Museum, located on Ewart Avenue, offers a deep dive into the region's coal mining heritage. Here, you can explore the underground mine, visit the period coal camp, and learn about the life of a miner. For art enthusiasts, the Cynthia Bickey Art Gallery on Johnstown Road showcases local and regional artwork in a variety of mediums. "One of my favorite things to do in Beckley is to explore the local museums. They offer a fascinating glimpse into the region's history and culture," shares visitor John.
Outdoor Adventures in Beckley
For those who love the great outdoors, there are plenty of things to do in Beckley. The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, just a short drive from Beckley, offers breathtaking views, miles of hiking trails, and world-class whitewater rafting. Closer to town, the Beckley Creek Park on Grey Flats Road is an urban oasis with trails for walking, biking, and bird watching. "Exploring the great outdoors is one of the best things to do in Beckley. The scenery is simply stunning," says local hiker Sarah.
Must-See Tours & Attractions
When it comes to things to do in Beckley, taking part in local tours and attractions is a must. The Wildwood House Museum on Main Street offers guided tours of this beautifully preserved Victorian home. For a unique experience, sign up for a tour at the Tamarack: The Best of West Virginia. This one-of-a-kind facility showcases the handiwork of West Virginia artisans, from crafts to gourmet food. "Visiting Tamarack is one of my favorite things to do in Beckley. I always find something unique to take home," says visitor Emily.
Festivals & Events You Can’t Miss
There's always something happening in Beckley, making festivals and events one of the top things to do in Beckley. The annual Appalachian Festival, held in the heart of downtown Beckley, celebrates the region's culture and heritage with music, crafts, and food. For car enthusiasts, the Beckley Cruise-In Car Show, held every summer, showcases a variety of classic and vintage cars. "The Appalachian Festival is one of the best things to do in Beckley. It's a great way to experience the local culture," says festival-goer Mike.
Music & Nightlife Hotspots
If you're looking for things to do in Beckley after dark, the city's music and nightlife scene won't disappoint. The Raleigh Playhouse and Theatre on Neville Street is a popular venue for live music, comedy shows, and theatrical performances. For a more intimate setting, Melody’s on Neville Street offers live music and an extensive craft beer selection. "Checking out the local music scene is one of my favorite things to do in Beckley. There's always something exciting happening," says local music lover Amy.
Where to Shop in Beckley
Shopping is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Beckley. The Beckley Plaza Shopping Center on Robert C Byrd Drive offers a variety of stores, from big-name retailers to local boutiques. For a more unique shopping experience, the Appalachian Arts & Crafts Fair, held annually at the Raleigh County Armory, showcases the work of local artisans. "I love shopping in Beckley. You can find everything from trendy clothes to unique handmade crafts," says local shopper Lisa.
Local Sports & Stadium Experiences
For sports fans, there are plenty of things to do in Beckley. The Linda K. Epling Stadium, home to the West Virginia Miners, offers a fun and family-friendly baseball experience. For those who prefer to participate rather than spectate, the Pinecrest Golf Club on Ragland Road is a popular local course. "Watching a game at the stadium is one of my favorite things to do in Beckley. The atmosphere is always electric," says local sports fan Jim.
Theatre & Performing Arts in Beckley
The theatre and performing arts scene is one of the many things to do in Beckley. The Theatre West Virginia, located in the Cliffside Amphitheatre, offers a variety of performances, from classic plays to original productions. For a more modern experience, the Beckley Dance Theatre on Prince Street offers dance performances in a variety of styles. "Attending a performance at the theatre is one of my favorite things to do in Beckley. The talent here is incredible," says local theatre-goer Susan.
