Grafton West VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Grafton, West Virginia.
1. Tygart Lake State Park
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION
Tygart Lake State Park offers 1,145 acres of diverse outdoor activities including fishing, picnicking, kayaking, and 18 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the lake while exploring the natural beauty of West Virginia. The park provides a perfect escape for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax in nature.
2. Tygart Adventures
LAKE ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES
Tygart Adventures, also known as Tygart Adventure Lake by ACE Adventures, offers exciting water recreation opportunities at Tygart Lake State Park. Opening on May 20, 2024, this adventure lake provides a refreshing way to cool off during warm months with various water activities. Visitors can enjoy a day of fun in the water while surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the state park.
3. Grafton National Cemetery
HISTORIC MEMORIAL GROUNDS
Grafton National Cemetery is located near the banks of the Tygart Valley River, serving as a solemn tribute to American veterans. This historic cemetery contributes to Grafton's reputation as the 'Memorial City,' which hosts the longest ongoing Memorial Day Observance in the United States. Visitors can pay their respects while learning about the area's significant military history.
4. Anna Jarvis Birthplace Museum
MOTHER'S DAY ORIGINS
The Anna Jarvis Birthplace Museum, also known as General McClellan's First Headquarters, is a wooden two-story structure built in 1854 by Granville Jarvis. This historic home celebrates the life of Anna Jarvis, the Grafton native who arranged the first Mother's Day observance in 1908. Visitors can explore the birthplace of the woman who founded one of America's most beloved holidays.
5. International Mother's Day Shrine
HISTORIC HOLIDAY LANDMARK
The International Mother's Day Shrine, formerly Andrews Methodist Episcopal Church, is known as the 'mother church' of Mother's Day. This significant historic site was incorporated as the International Mother's Day Shrine on May 15, 1962, to honor the origin of the holiday. Visitors can step inside this meaningful landmark to learn about the history of Mother's Day and its Grafton roots.
6. Tygart Lake Marina
WATERFRONT RECREATION HUB
Tygart Lake Marina is nestled in the beautiful Tygart Lake State Park just south of Grafton, offering access to the pristine waters of Tygart Lake. The marina serves as a central hub for boating, fishing, and other water-based recreational activities. Visitors can rent equipment, launch their own boats, or simply enjoy the picturesque lake views.
7. Art Gallery 62 West
LOCAL ART SHOWCASE
Art Gallery 62 West, operated by the Taylor County Arts Council, serves as a direct vein that enhances the quality of life in Taylor County through artistic expression. The gallery showcases rotating exhibits featuring local and regional artists, bringing culture and creativity to downtown Grafton. Visitors can explore unique artworks and potentially find special pieces created by West Virginia natives.
8. Grafton Municipal Pool and Castle Creek Playground
FAMILY-FRIENDLY RECREATION
Grafton Municipal Pool features an Olympic-sized swimming area complete with slides and a wading pool with waterfall for family enjoyment. Adjacent Castle Creek Playground offers specially designed play equipment for children of various ages. The recreational complex also includes two basketball courts, making it an ideal destination for families looking for outdoor activities.
9. Taylor County Adventure Club
COMMUNITY OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES
The Taylor County Adventure Club has been bringing adventure and outdoor recreation opportunities to Grafton since 2016. This community-driven organization facilitates various outdoor activities and adventures for locals and visitors alike. The club represents one way the Grafton community promotes connection with the area's abundant natural resources.
10. The American Discovery Trail
CROSS-COUNTRY TRAIL SYSTEM
The American Discovery Trail (ADT) passes through Grafton as part of a massive cross-country trail system connecting existing trails and routes from coast to coast. This segment offers hikers and outdoor enthusiasts a chance to experience West Virginia's natural beauty and historical significance. Travelers on the trail can explore Grafton's charming downtown and surrounding landscapes as part of a greater national adventure.
11. Tygart Dam
HISTORIC ENGINEERING MARVEL
Tygart Dam, also known as Tygart River Dam, stands as an impressive engineering structure near Grafton in Taylor County. The dam controls the flow of the Tygart River while creating the beautiful Tygart Lake that serves both practical and recreational purposes. Visitors can appreciate the scale of this human-made landmark while enjoying views of the surrounding water and landscape.
12. Cathedral State Park
ANCIENT HEMLOCK FOREST
Cathedral State Park showcases an ancient hemlock forest with trees reaching up to 90 feet in height and 21 feet in circumference. Along its six miles of hiking trails, visitors can discover over 170 species of ferns, moss trees, and wildflowers. The combination of ancient hemlocks, rhododendrons, ferns, mountain streams, and wildlife creates excellent hiking and photography opportunities in this natural cathedral.
13. Prickett's Fort State Park
COLONIAL FRONTIER RECREATION
Prickett's Fort State Park features a rustic log fort recreation of the original 1774 structure that served as a refuge from Native American war parties on the western frontier of Colonial Virginia. During park season, visitors can observe blacksmiths, spinners, weavers, and other traditional artisans demonstrating 18th-century crafts. The park's gun shop offers the only public demonstrations of 18th-century firearm manufacturing in West Virginia.
14. Philippi Covered Bridge
HISTORIC CIVIL WAR LANDMARK
The Philippi Covered Bridge, spanning the Tygart Valley River, holds the distinction of being the oldest and longest covered bridge in West Virginia. This historic structure played a significant role in Civil War history as it was used as a barracks by Union troops and was the first bridge captured in the conflict by either side. As one of only two remaining covered bridges in Barbour County, it offers visitors a glimpse into the region's transportation history and architectural heritage.
15. Grafton Monster Legend
LOCAL CRYPTID LORE
The Grafton Monster is an elusive cryptid that was originally spotted in 1964 and has become part of local folklore. This mysterious creature has gained wider recognition through its inclusion in the popular video game Fallout 76. Visitors interested in cryptozoology and unusual local legends can explore the area where sightings were reported and learn about this fascinating piece of Grafton's unusual history.