Franklin West VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Franklin, West Virginia.
1. The Highlands Golf Club at Fisher Mountain
SCENIC MOUNTAIN GOLFING
The Highlands Golf Club at Fisher Mountain offers a beautifully maintained 18-hole course set against the backdrop of the Allegheny Mountains. Golfers of all skill levels can enjoy breathtaking vistas, challenging fairways, and serene natural surroundings while perfecting their game. The club features a welcoming clubhouse, well-stocked pro shop, and a restaurant where guests can relax after a day on the green.
2. Dry Run Spirits
CRAFT DISTILLERY EXPERIENCE
Dry Run Spirits is a local craft distillery known for its small-batch whiskeys and moonshine, offering visitors an authentic taste of Appalachian tradition. Guests can tour the facility, learn about the distillation process, and sample a variety of finely crafted spirits. The friendly staff and unique tasting room make it a memorable stop for both spirit enthusiasts and curious travelers.
3. Pendleton County Historical Museum
LOCAL HISTORY ARCHIVE
The Pendleton County Historical Museum preserves and showcases the rich cultural heritage of the area through exhibits, artifacts, and photographs. Housed in a charming historic building, the museum offers insights into the lives of early settlers, local industries, and significant events that shaped Pendleton County. History buffs and families alike will find a wealth of stories to explore within its walls.
4. Mt Zion United Methodist Church
HISTORIC COUNTRY CHURCH
Mt Zion United Methodist Church stands as a testament to enduring faith and community, serving Franklin for generations. The church's classic architecture and peaceful setting make it a charming spot for reflection and photography. Visitors are welcome to attend services or simply admire the well-preserved historic structure and its surrounding cemetery.
5. Seneca Rocks
ICONIC ROCK FORMATION
Seneca Rocks is one of West Virginia's most famous natural landmarks, renowned for its dramatic, tooth-like ridge of quartzite rising nearly 900 feet above the North Fork River. Adventurers can hike to the summit for panoramic views or enjoy rock climbing on its challenging and varied routes. The nearby Discovery Center provides exhibits and information about the geology and natural history of the area.
6. Thorn Spring Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY RECREATION
Thorn Spring Park is a popular gathering place for families and groups, offering extensive picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports facilities. Set in the hills just outside Franklin, the park hosts seasonal events, reunions, and festivals throughout the year. Visitors appreciate the peaceful scenery, walking trails, and opportunities for outdoor fun.
7. South Branch Potomac River
TROUT FISHING DESTINATION
The South Branch Potomac River meanders through Franklin, providing excellent opportunities for trout fishing, kayaking, and wildlife watching. Anglers flock here during the annual Trout Fest, but the river is a year-round draw for anyone seeking outdoor adventure. Its clean waters and picturesque banks offer a tranquil escape for nature lovers.
8. Treasure Mountain Festival
ANNUAL HERITAGE FESTIVAL
The Treasure Mountain Festival is Franklin's signature event, celebrating the community's rich Appalachian heritage with crafts, music, parades, and traditional food. Held every autumn, it draws visitors from across the region to experience the culture, history, and hospitality of Pendleton County. The festival is a perfect blend of entertainment and education for all ages.
9. WV Trout Fest
SPRING FISHING CELEBRATION
WV Trout Fest is a celebrated springtime event that brings anglers and families together for fishing tournaments, demonstrations, and outdoor fun along the South Branch Potomac River. The festival includes local vendors, live music, and educational activities about trout and conservation. It's a highlight for Franklin and a beloved tradition in the local fishing community.
10. Smoke Hole Caverns
UNDERGROUND WONDER
Smoke Hole Caverns, located a short drive from Franklin, offers guided tours through breathtaking limestone caves adorned with stalactites, stalagmites, and unique mineral formations. The caverns have a colorful history, once serving as a hideout for moonshiners and Civil War soldiers. The site also features gem mining, a gift shop, and picnic facilities.
11. Spruce Knob
WEST VIRGINIA'S HIGHEST PEAK
Spruce Knob, the highest point in West Virginia, offers sweeping views of the Appalachian Mountains from its summit observation tower. The surrounding Spruce Knob–Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area features hiking trails, scenic drives, and diverse wildlife. It is a must-visit for those seeking breathtaking vistas and rugged outdoor adventure.
12. Monongahela National Forest
VAST OUTDOOR PLAYGROUND
The Monongahela National Forest encompasses more than 900,000 acres of wilderness, with much of Pendleton County and Franklin's surroundings included. Visitors can enjoy endless hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife observation opportunities. The forest's diverse terrain and scenery make it a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
13. Green Bank Observatory
RADIO ASTRONOMY HUB
The Green Bank Observatory, about an hour from Franklin, is home to the world's largest fully steerable radio telescope. Visitors can take guided tours, participate in hands-on science exhibits, and learn about the search for life beyond Earth. Its unique setting in the National Radio Quiet Zone ensures an immersive, interference-free experience.
14. Reddish Knob
MOUNTAIN OVERLOOK
Reddish Knob is a stunning lookout point accessible by a scenic mountain drive, straddling the border of West Virginia and Virginia near Sugar Grove. The summit provides panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley and surrounding national forests. It's a favorite spot for sunrise and sunset photography, picnics, and peaceful contemplation.
15. Germany Valley Overlook
PANORAMIC VALLEY VIEWS
The Germany Valley Overlook offers breathtaking vistas of rolling farmland, distant ridgelines, and the picturesque Germany Valley in the heart of Pendleton County. It's a prime spot for photography, birdwatching, and witnessing the changing seasons. The overlook is easily accessible from the main highway and makes for a relaxing stop during any drive through the area.