Ripley West VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ripley, West Virginia.
1. Ripley Fourth of July Celebration
AMERICA'S LARGEST SMALL-TOWN CELEBRATION
The Ripley Fourth of July is claimed to be America's largest small-town Independence Day celebration, featuring a carnival, numerous flea markets, and a grand parade that lasts for 2 hours. Visitors can enjoy entertainers and bands performing on a stage by the Jackson County Courthouse, making it a festive atmosphere. This marvelous event reaches back to the late 19th century and has even been attended by President George W. Bush in the past.
2. Alpine Theatre
HISTORIC CINEMA SINCE 1936
The Alpine Theatre has been a cherished mainstay in Ripley since 1936, featuring distinctive architecture with pilasters and a flat modern roof that contrasts with today's utilitarian buildings. Inside, visitors will find charming historical touches like original 'coming attraction' poster frames that preserve its vintage appeal. Locals still flock to the Alpine for movies and seasonal entertainment, including music acts and tribute shows.
3. Appalachian Distillery
TRADITIONAL MOONSHINE EXPERIENCE
Appalachian Distillery is one of Ripley's top attractions, producing traditional white lightning 'from the cornstalk to the bottle'. Visitors can sample and purchase exotic flavors of moonshine including paw paw, strawberry lemonade, blackberry, and peach varieties. This authentic West Virginia experience offers tourists a taste of the region's distinctive spirits heritage.
4. Mill Creek Water Trail
TRANQUIL KAYAKING JOURNEY
Mill Creek Water Trail offers a peaceful kayaking journey that takes adventurers from Ripley to Cottageville. The trail extends just over 20 miles from beginning to end, providing a serene natural experience. Kayakers can enjoy the tranquil waters while taking in the beautiful West Virginia scenery along this picturesque waterway.
5. Cedar Lakes Conference Center
RECREATIONAL RETREAT DESTINATION
Cedar Lakes Conference Center makes an ideal vacation spot with activities including putt-putt golf, campfires, and exploration trails. The center features basketball and volleyball courts for sports enthusiasts looking for active recreation options. With cottages and lodges available for overnight stays, Cedar Lakes offers a complete retreat experience for visitors to the Ripley area.
6. Ripley City Park
COMPLETE RECREATION COMPLEX
Ripley City Park covers just about everything recreational visitors might want, including an Olympic-size pool with a water slide for summer fun. The diverse facility features a skateboard park, lit tennis courts, picnic shelters, playground, and gazebo for various activities. This comprehensive park provides recreation opportunities for all ages and interests in one convenient location.
7. West Virginia Artisan Market
LOCAL ARTS SHOWCASE
The West Virginia Artisan Market in Ripley showcases works from over 100 artists, providing a rich cultural experience for visitors. Shoppers can browse through a diverse collection of locally-made arts and crafts representing West Virginia's creative talent. This market offers an opportunity to find unique handcrafted items while supporting the local artistic community.
8. Farmhouse Market Finds
ANTIQUE AND NEW TREASURES
Farmhouse Market Finds is a delightful shop in Ripley that houses both antique treasures and new home decor items for collectors and casual shoppers alike. Lucky visitors might stop by on a day when food trucks or a local cafe are at the market, adding delicious dining options to the shopping experience. This market provides a charming destination for those interested in unique home furnishings and decor.
9. Millcreek Trading Company
COZY COUNTRY DECOR
Millcreek Trading Company presents a cozy country feel with its selection of hanging burlap lamps, primitives, rustic dolls, and cheerful home decor. Shoppers can discover West Virginia specialties such as pottery and metal art that showcase regional craftsmanship. The store offers a warm, inviting atmosphere for those seeking distinctive items with local character.
10. Two Eighteen
STYLISH BOUTIQUE SHOPPING
Two Eighteen is a fashionable boutique in Ripley with plenty of flair for clothing enthusiasts. Visitors can browse racks of jeans, cardigans, jackets, and trench coats for contemporary style options. The boutique also offers spiffy accessories like fringed kimonos and jewelry for those looking to complete their fashion ensembles.
11. Kevin Clegg Trail System
HIKING AND MOUNTAIN BIKING
The Kevin Clegg Trail System in nearby Ravenswood provides six miles of hiking and mountain biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. This recreational area encompasses 170 acres of parkland, offering plenty of space for nature exploration and active pursuits. The system connects to Ravenswood's city park, which also features boating opportunities for visitors seeking water activities.
12. Fairplain Yacht Club
AMBITIOUS RIVERSIDE VENUE
The Fairplain Yacht Club is described as an ambitious and inventive establishment in the Ripley area. This riverside venue offers visitors a unique dining and social experience with a nautical theme despite its inland location. The club represents the creative spirit of the local community and provides a distinctive destination for both residents and tourists.
13. The Downtowner
LOCAL DINING FAVORITE
The Downtowner is a popular dining establishment in Ripley that serves as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. This restaurant offers hearty meals in a welcoming atmosphere characteristic of small-town West Virginia hospitality. Patrons can enjoy classic American fare while experiencing the authentic local culture of Ripley.
14. Sorella Ristorante
ITALIAN CUISINE DESTINATION
Sorella Ristorante brings Italian culinary traditions to the heart of Ripley with its authentic menu offerings. Diners can savor pasta dishes, pizzas, and other Italian favorites in a comfortable setting that adds dining diversity to the small town. The restaurant provides a taste of Mediterranean flavors as an alternative to typical local fare.
15. Las Trancas of Ripley
MEXICAN CUISINE EXPERIENCE
Las Trancas of Ripley offers authentic Mexican cuisine to satisfy those craving south-of-the-border flavors in West Virginia. The restaurant serves traditional dishes with vibrant spices and fresh ingredients in a festive atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a culinary trip to Mexico without leaving the comfort of this small Appalachian town.