West Virginia has no shortage of charming small towns, making it a popular year-round destination. But, when the temperatures drop and the snow starts to fall, this stunning state becomes a cold weather haven whose wintry landscapes and a plethora of charming mountain towns are both welcoming and super cozy. From outdoor adventures to historical sites, quaint, scenic resorts, and chic B&Bs, there’s something for everyone in these wonderful West Virginia gems.
10 Wheeling
Once the capital city of West Virginia, the scenic Ohio River town of Wheeling is a must-visit for history buffs. And, throughout the winter, there are a number of things to do both indoors and outdoors—from ice skating to winter festivals, museums, shopping, dining, and more.
- Where To Stay: Oglebay Resort
- Things To Do: Winter Festival of Lights (through January 8); Centre Market District; Wheeling Park; Wheeling Suspension Bridge
9 Canaan Valley
Located in WV’s scenic Tucker Valley and with a reputation for one of the coziest towns in both WV and the U.S., Canaan Valley has something for everyone during the winter season. Whether its stellar outdoor activities or small-town cozy charm, this West Virginia spot is made for cold weather fun.
- Where To Stay: Canaan Valley Resort
- Things To Do: Blackwater Falls State Park; Timberline Ski Resort; Explore Nearby Davis and Thomas; Canaan Valley Wildlife Refuge
8 Harper’s Ferry
Both outdoorsy and historic, Harper’s Ferry is a scenic Shenandoah Valley retreat whose cozy vibes are perfect for winter vacationers looking for big-time mountain town charm. Here, visitors can step back in time with a visit to historic Lower Town and bask in the area’s plethora of outdoor activities—all in one day.
- Where To Stay: The Ledge House B&B
- Things To Do: Maryland Heights and Loudon Heights Hikes; Harper’s Ferry National Historic Park; The Point View; St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church
7 Marlinton
A small town located in the picturesque Pocahontas Valley, Marlinton is perfect for those looking for a tucked-away WV getaway. Full of history, charm, and outdoor activities, Marlinton is the perfect place to cozy up this winter.
- Where To Stay: Jericho B&B
- Things To Do: Highland Scenic Highway; Cranberry Glades Botanical Area; Pocahontas Valley Opera House; Watoga State Park
6 Lewisburg
A quaint WV town with a reputation for small-town charm, Lewisburg is known for its bustling Main Street and eclectic arts, shopping, and dining opportunities. A Greenbrier Valley fave, Lewisburg is undoubtedly the perfect cold weather escape for those looking for welcoming and super chill vibes this winter.
- Where To Stay: The Historic General Lewis Inn
- Things To Do: Carnegie Hall; Lost World Caverns; The Livery Tavern; Greenbrier Valley Theatre; Civil War Trails
5 Hillsboro
A historic haven in WV’s picturesque Pocahontas Valley, Hillsboro has all the makings of a cozy winter getaway. Get outside with a visit to the area’s nearby outdoor attractions, or warm up with a visit to a historical museum before cozying up at nearby lodgings for the perfect rustic retreat.
- Where To Stay: Yew Mountain Center Lodge
- Things To Do: Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park; Highland Scenic Highway; Falls of Hills Creek Scenic Area; Pearl S. Buck Birthplace
4 Elkins
Nestled among the scenic Appalachian Mountains, Elkins is a quaint Randolph County town whose vintage vibes make for a chill winter retreat. Explore the area’s mountain landscapes with a scenic train ride; head outdoors for winter hiking and exploring, or get historical with a visit to one of the area’s many museums—there’s no shortage of cool activities for winter vacationers.
- Where To Stay: Graceland Inn
- Things To Do: Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad; Dolly Sods Wilderness Area; Allegheny Highlands Trail; Stirrup Gallery
3 Snowshoe
A one-stop shop for winter recreation, the Pocahontas Valley community of Snowshoe is worth visiting for its eponymous mountain resort. Home to endless opportunities for winter sports in addition to stunning views and relaxing vibes, a visit to Snowshoe is bound to charm any winter traveler.
- Where To Stay: Snowshoe Mountain Resort
- Things To Do: Winter Brewfest (December 17); Split Rick Pools; Winter Adventure Dining Tours; Cheat Mountain Ridge Trail
2 Berkeley Springs
Consistently touted as one of America’s coziest mountain towns, Berkeley Springs is famed for its hot springs and scenic, small-town charm. However, those looking for a side of fun activities will also find no shortage of things to do here, too.
- Where To Stay: The Country Inn of Berkeley Springs
- Things To Do: Berkeley Springs State Park; Cacapon State Park; Star Theatre; Healing Springs Stroll
1 White Sulphur Springs
An up-and-coming downtown set amid a laidback mountain setting makes White Sulphur Springs a must-visit destination for those looking to max and relax mountain-style. And with a reputation for wellness, visitors can find their Zen after a day of exploring the bustling, revitalized Main Street.
- Where To Stay: The Schoolhouse Hotel
- Things To Do: President’s Cottage Museum; The Greenbriar Hotel; Monongahela National Forest; Smooth Ambler Spirits and Distillery