Chesapeake West VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Chesapeake, West Virginia.
1. Magic Island Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION AREA
Magic Island Park is a popular riverside green space featuring walking paths, picnic spots, and access to the Kanawha River. Visitors can enjoy the lively atmosphere while taking in views of the surrounding landscape. The park serves as a gathering place for locals and tourists seeking outdoor recreation near Chesapeake.
2. Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park
HISTORIC WATERWAY TRAIL
The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park preserves America's historic 19th-century canal system along the Potomac River. Visitors can walk or bike along the towpath while learning about the canal's role in transportation history. The park offers beautiful scenery and numerous historical structures including locks, lock houses, and aqueducts.
3. Kanawha State Forest
NATURAL WOODLAND RETREAT
Kanawha State Forest is a 9,300-acre natural area located just minutes from downtown Charleston near Chesapeake. The forest features over 25 miles of hiking trails, mountain biking paths, and areas for fishing and picnicking. Visitors can observe diverse wildlife and plant species while enjoying the peaceful mountain atmosphere.
4. Capitol Market
HISTORIC FARMERS MARKET
Capitol Market is housed in a historic train station in Charleston, offering a year-round indoor/outdoor market experience near Chesapeake. Visitors can browse fresh local produce, artisanal foods, and unique West Virginia products from various vendors. The market also features several restaurants and specialty shops in a charming, historic setting.
5. West Virginia State Museum
CULTURAL HERITAGE CENTER
The West Virginia State Museum showcases the state's rich cultural, historical, and artistic heritage through interactive exhibits. Visitors can journey through 26 discovery rooms that chronologically present West Virginia's history from prehistoric times to the present. The museum offers free admission and provides an educational experience for visitors of all ages.
6. Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences
ART AND SCIENCE COMPLEX
The Clay Center houses a performing arts center, visual arts museum, and interactive science center all under one roof near Chesapeake. Visitors can explore the Avampato Discovery Museum with its hands-on science exhibits and planetarium shows. The center also features the Juliet Art Museum and hosts various performances in its Maier Foundation Performance Hall.
7. Charleston Town Center
PREMIER SHOPPING DESTINATION
Charleston Town Center is the largest shopping mall in West Virginia, located near Chesapeake with three levels of retail stores. Shoppers can find major department stores alongside specialty shops, a diverse food court, and sit-down restaurants. The mall serves as a central shopping hub for the region and hosts various community events throughout the year.
8. Haddad Riverfront Park
WATERFRONT ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
Haddad Riverfront Park is a popular outdoor venue situated along the Kanawha River near Chesapeake, featuring a 2,500-seat amphitheater. The park hosts numerous events including the Live on the Levee summer concert series and various festivals throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy river views, boat watching, and a scenic walkway along the waterfront.
9. West Virginia State Capitol
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT BUILDING
The West Virginia State Capitol features a stunning gold-leaf dome and is recognized as one of the most beautiful state capitols in the nation. Visitors can take guided or self-guided tours of the building, which was designed by renowned architect Cass Gilbert and completed in 1932. The surrounding campus includes memorials, fountains, and beautifully landscaped grounds along the Kanawha River.
10. Coonskin Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION COMPLEX
Coonskin Park is a sprawling 1,000-acre recreational area offering diverse outdoor activities near Chesapeake. The park features hiking trails, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, tennis courts, an 18-hole par three golf course, and numerous picnic areas. Visitors can also enjoy the Kanawha Trace Trail, fishing opportunities, and special events held throughout the year.
11. South Charleston Mound
ANCIENT INDIGENOUS SITE
The South Charleston Mound is a significant Native American burial mound dating back approximately 2,000 years. This historic site represents one of the largest and best-preserved examples of Adena culture mounds in the region near Chesapeake. Visitors can learn about the indigenous history of the area through interpretive signage while viewing this important archaeological landmark.
12. Appalachian Power Park
MINOR LEAGUE BASEBALL STADIUM
Appalachian Power Park is home to the West Virginia Power baseball team and offers an exciting sports entertainment experience near Chesapeake. The stadium features modern amenities, excellent sightlines, and a family-friendly atmosphere for enjoying America's pastime. Visitors can enjoy affordable baseball games along with special promotions, fireworks nights, and concessions featuring local food options.
13. University of Charleston
RIVERSIDE EDUCATIONAL CAMPUS
The University of Charleston campus offers beautiful grounds along the Kanawha River with striking views of the State Capitol. Visitors can walk through the picturesque campus, attend sporting events, or visit the Erma Byrd Art Gallery which showcases rotating exhibitions. The university's riverfront location provides scenic photo opportunities and peaceful walking areas near Chesapeake.
14. Sunrise Carriage Trail
HISTORIC HILLSIDE PATH
The Sunrise Carriage Trail is a historic 0.65-mile path that winds up the hillside from the base of the South Side Bridge to the former Sunrise mansion near Chesapeake. Hikers can enjoy a moderately challenging walk featuring stone steps, beautiful foliage, and interpretive signs explaining the area's history. The trail offers excellent views of Charleston and provides a peaceful natural escape within the city.
15. Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center
PREMIER EVENT VENUE
The Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center is a major entertainment and conference venue hosting concerts, sporting events, trade shows, and conventions near Chesapeake. The recently renovated facility features modern amenities, multiple event spaces, and a capacity of over 13,000 for concerts. Visitors can attend a variety of performances, exhibitions, and community events held throughout the year.