West Milford West VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near West Milford, West Virginia.
1. Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum
HISTORIC GOTHIC ARCHITECTURE
The Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum stands as one of West Virginia's most imposing historic structures, featuring stunning Gothic Revival architecture that dates back to the mid-19th century. Visitors can explore this former psychiatric hospital through various guided tours that delve into its medical history, architectural significance, and reported paranormal activity. The massive stone building offers a fascinating glimpse into historical mental health treatment practices while also serving as an important architectural landmark in the region.
2. The Museum Of American Glass in West Virginia
NATIONAL GLASS HERITAGE
The Museum of American Glass showcases the rich glassmaking heritage that has been central to West Virginia's industrial history for generations. The museum houses an impressive collection of handcrafted glass pieces, from everyday items to exquisite art pieces, representing various periods and manufacturers throughout American history. Visitors can learn about traditional glassblowing techniques and gain appreciation for this significant cultural craft that helped shape the economic landscape of the region.
3. Adaland Mansion
PRESERVED 19TH CENTURY ESTATE
Adaland Mansion is a beautifully restored 1870s Greek Revival mansion that offers visitors a glimpse into the elegant lifestyle of 19th-century West Virginia. The historic home features period furnishings, decorative arts, and well-maintained gardens that transport visitors back in time to an era of Southern charm and hospitality. Throughout the year, the mansion hosts special events including heritage dinners, teas, and holiday celebrations that allow guests to experience the grandeur of this historic property.
4. Barbour County Historical Museum
LOCAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The Barbour County Historical Museum preserves and showcases the rich cultural heritage and local history of this corner of West Virginia. Housed in a historic building, the museum features artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the area's development from early settlement through modern times. Visitors can explore exhibits highlighting significant local events, notable residents, and the evolution of daily life in this Appalachian community.
5. West Fork River
SCENIC WATERWAY RECREATION
The West Fork River flows directly through West Milford, offering recreational opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and peaceful riverside relaxation. This scenic waterway formed the town's original identity, as West Milford was named for a mill that once operated at the ford of this river. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the tranquil setting and abundant wildlife while experiencing one of the town's defining natural features.
6. Batton Hollow Winery
LOCAL WINE TASTING
Batton Hollow Winery offers visitors a chance to sample distinctive West Virginia wines in a charming rural setting. The winery produces various handcrafted wines using both traditional methods and unique local ingredients that reflect the regional terroir. Guests can enjoy tastings, tours of the production facilities, and special events that celebrate the growing wine culture of North Central West Virginia.
7. Splash Zone
FAMILY WATER RECREATION
The Splash Zone water park provides refreshing summer entertainment for families throughout Harrison County and beyond. With water slides, play structures, and swimming areas, this attraction offers a perfect way to beat the heat during warm West Virginia months. The facility includes amenities for visitors of all ages, making it a popular destination for local families and tourists seeking outdoor recreation.
8. West Virginia Heritage Crafts
APPALACHIAN ARTISAN TRADITIONS
West Virginia Heritage Crafts celebrates and preserves the traditional handcrafts and folk art techniques that have been passed down through generations in Appalachia. Visitors can observe artisans demonstrating traditional skills such as quilting, woodworking, pottery, and other crafts that reflect the region's cultural heritage. The center often offers workshops where guests can try their hand at these time-honored techniques while learning about their historical significance to West Virginia communities.
9. West Virginia State Civilian Conservation Corps Museum
NEW DEAL ERA HISTORY
The West Virginia State Civilian Conservation Corps Museum documents the profound impact of this Depression-era program on the state's infrastructure and natural resources. Exhibits feature photographs, tools, personal accounts, and artifacts from former CCC workers who built parks, roads, and public facilities throughout West Virginia in the 1930s. The museum honors the legacy of this transformative federal work program that simultaneously provided employment during economic hardship and developed recreational resources still enjoyed today.
10. Harrison County Parks
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREAS
Harrison County Parks system offers multiple well-maintained recreation areas where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of North Central West Virginia. These parks feature amenities such as walking trails, picnic facilities, sports fields, and playgrounds suitable for family outings and community gatherings. The park system provides accessible green spaces throughout the county where residents and visitors can connect with nature and engage in healthy outdoor activities.
11. Historic Downtown Clarksburg
PRESERVED MAIN STREET
Historic Downtown Clarksburg features well-preserved architecture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries when the city thrived as an industrial and commercial center. Visitors can stroll through streets lined with distinctive buildings housing local businesses, restaurants, and cultural venues that reflect the area's heritage. The downtown district hosts various community events throughout the year, including festivals, parades, and markets that showcase the vibrant local culture.
12. FBI's Criminal Justice Information Services Division
FEDERAL LAW ENFORCEMENT FACILITY
The FBI's Criminal Justice Information Services Division represents one of the region's most significant federal facilities and serves as the largest division of the FBI. While public access is limited due to security considerations, the impressive campus stands as an important landmark representing federal investment in West Virginia. The facility has significantly influenced the local economy and employment landscape since its establishment in the area.
13. Clarksburg Amphitheater
OUTDOOR PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Clarksburg Amphitheater hosts a diverse lineup of concerts, performances, and community events throughout the warmer months in an inviting outdoor setting. This modern venue attracts regional and national touring acts while also providing a platform for local talent to connect with audiences. Visitors can enjoy quality entertainment under the stars with convenient amenities and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it a cultural hub for the region.
14. Veterans Memorial Park
MILITARY SERVICE TRIBUTE
Veterans Memorial Park honors the service and sacrifice of military personnel from Harrison County and beyond with thoughtful monuments and commemorative displays. The park provides a peaceful space for reflection and remembrance while educating visitors about the contributions of veterans throughout American history. Special ceremonies are held at this site during patriotic holidays, bringing the community together to recognize those who have served in the armed forces.
15. Scenic Hiking Trails
NATURAL WILDERNESS EXPLORATION
The scenic hiking trails throughout Harrison County showcase the natural beauty of West Virginia's rolling hills, forests, and waterways. These pathways range from easy walking routes suitable for families to more challenging treks that reward hikers with spectacular views of the Appalachian landscape. Outdoor enthusiasts can observe local wildlife, native plant species, and seasonal changes while enjoying the physical and mental benefits of exploring West Virginia's abundant natural resources.