Athens West VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Athens, West Virginia.
1. Brush Creek Falls
SCENIC WATERFALL ESCAPE
Brush Creek Falls offers a picturesque natural retreat just outside Athens, with a cascading waterfall surrounded by lush woodland trails. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and photography at this popular spot among locals and travelers alike. The falls provide a peaceful setting where nature enthusiasts can experience the beauty of West Virginia's natural landscapes.
2. Pipestem Drive-In Theatre
NOSTALGIC OUTDOOR CINEMA
Pipestem Drive-In Theatre has been a local favorite since 1972, offering families a nostalgic movie-watching experience. This charming venue shows double features from April through October, Fridays to Sundays starting at dusk, with gates opening at 7 p.m. Movie-goers can enjoy affordable entertainment at just $7 for adults and $4 for children, or $14 per carload on Sundays.
3. Concord University
HISTORIC CAMPUS HUB
Concord University stands as a centerpiece of Athens, known for its beautiful hilltop campus and rich academic history dating back to 1872. Visitors can explore its tranquil grounds and listen to the unique 48-bell carillon, the only true carillon in West Virginia. The university offers a blend of historical architecture and modern educational facilities set against the backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains.
4. Holroyd Mansion
VICTORIAN ARCHITECTURAL GEM
The Holroyd Mansion draws attention with its ornate Victorian architecture, unusual turret, and rich historical legacy in Athens. Visitors often admire its detailed exterior, as the mansion is a noteworthy reminder of Athens' post-Civil War heritage. This architectural treasure represents the prosperous era of West Virginia's development and the craftsmanship of 19th-century builders.
5. James French Holroyd House
DISTINCTIVE HISTORIC HOME
The James French Holroyd House captivates with its scalloped trim and curvy balcony, showcasing the craftsmanship of the late 1800s in Athens. This privately owned residence remains an architectural gem on Athens' North State Street, highlighting the town's historical character. Architecture enthusiasts appreciate the distinctive features that make this house a visual testament to the region's heritage.
6. Route 20 Scenic Drive
WINDING COUNTRYSIDE BYWAY
Route 20 Scenic Drive is celebrated for its winding roads and panoramic views of West Virginia's rolling hills and farmlands leading into Athens. Motorcyclists and drivers alike enjoy this picturesque entrance into the Athens community, making it a popular ride for those seeking rural beauty. The drive offers changing seasonal landscapes, from spring blossoms to brilliant autumn foliage, creating a different experience throughout the year.
7. Pipestem Resort State Park
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE DESTINATION
Pipestem Resort State Park serves as a premier outdoor recreation area near Athens, offering activities from hiking and horseback riding to zip lining and golf. The park features dramatic gorge views, two lodges, a tramway, and numerous outdoor facilities spread across 4,050 acres of natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy year-round amenities including restaurants, swimming pools, and nature programs in this crown jewel of the West Virginia state park system.
8. West Virginia Tourist Information Center
GATEWAY TO EXPLORATION
The West Virginia Tourist Information Center provides travelers with comprehensive resources and friendly assistance to discover local attractions near Athens. Knowledgeable staff offer maps, brochures, and insider tips to help visitors make the most of their West Virginia experience. The center showcases regional crafts, products, and displays that highlight the cultural and natural heritage of southern West Virginia.
9. Princeton Railroad Museum
RAILWAY HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Princeton Railroad Museum preserves the rich railroad heritage that shaped the development of southern West Virginia near Athens. Housed in a restored train depot, the museum features authentic artifacts, photographs, and model train displays that document the region's railway history. Visitors can explore how the Norfolk & Western and Virginian railways transformed local communities and fueled the coal industry that defined the area's economy.
10. Moe's Restaurant & Cafe
ECLECTIC DINING EXPERIENCE
Moe's Restaurant & Cafe offers a diverse New York-style menu featuring everything from pasta and stromboli to gyros and burgers in Athens. Diners can enjoy specialties like the loaded penne capri with shrimp, scallops, mushrooms and creamy marinara sauce, or sample the area's largest 18-inch pizzas. The restaurant is known for its generous portions and affordable prices, making it a favorite dining destination for locals and visitors alike.
11. Gino's Pizza & Spaghetti House
BELOVED ITALIAN EATERY
Gino's Pizza & Spaghetti House serves up homemade Italian classics including meatballs, hot pizzas, large subs, and baked spaghetti in Athens. This West Virginia chain restaurant offers lighter options like their signature 'pubwiches,' smaller sandwiches made with fresh dough and a choice of ham, chicken, or steak. Families appreciate the comfortable atmosphere and reliable menu that has made Gino's a staple in the local dining scene.
12. Camp Creek State Park
FOREST RECREATION HAVEN
Camp Creek State Park encompasses over 500 acres of lush forests, streams, and recreational facilities near Athens. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy camping options ranging from primitive sites to fully-equipped cabins, along with fishing, swimming, and miles of hiking trails through the Appalachian wilderness. The park is particularly known for its picturesque waterfalls and the historic Campbell Falls, making it a photographer's paradise in any season.
13. Bluestone State Park
LAKESIDE NATURAL RETREAT
Bluestone State Park offers stunning views of Bluestone Lake and access to 2,100 acres of forested mountain terrain not far from Athens. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming in the lake's clear waters, or explore the park's hiking trails that wind through diverse ecosystems. The park provides various accommodation options including cabins and campgrounds, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the tranquility of West Virginia's natural landscape.
14. Bluestone Wildlife Management Area
PRISTINE WILDERNESS EXPANSE
Bluestone Wildlife Management Area encompasses over 18,000 acres of protected wilderness that serves as a haven for diverse wildlife species near Athens. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore miles of trails for hiking, wildlife viewing, and seasonal hunting opportunities in accordance with state regulations. The area features breathtaking views of the New River Gorge and Bluestone Lake, offering photographers and nature lovers countless opportunities to connect with West Virginia's natural beauty.
15. New River Gorge National Park
AMERICA'S NEWEST NATIONAL PARK
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve protects over 70,000 acres of land along the New River, one of the oldest rivers on the continent, within driving distance of Athens. Visitors can marvel at the iconic New River Gorge Bridge, one of the world's longest steel span bridges, and explore the park's extensive network of hiking trails, rock climbing routes, and whitewater rafting opportunities. The park preserves not only natural wonders but also the rich cultural history of coal mining communities that once thrived in the region.