Hey there, fellow travelers! Today, we’re talking about what NOT to do when you visit West Virginia. While many travel blogs will tell you the best things to do in West Virginia, we want to be sure you know about the things you should NOT do on your West Virginia trip.
Don’t Confuse West Virginia with Western Virginia
West Virginia and Virginia are two very different states. So even the western part of Virginia is quite different from West Virginia the state. Each state has a very different history and vibe. You will definitely experience a different atmosphere and cuisine between the two.
Don’t Mis-Pronounce Appalachia
The mountain range called Appalachia is the heart and soul of West Virginia. Northerners often pronounce it as Appa-lay-sha, which is not correct. It’s Apple-at-cha. Knowing how to pronounce this super-important region properly will keep you out of hot water with the locals.
Don’t Miss Out on the Appalachian Mountains
Once you learn how to say the name, you can’t miss out on visiting this glorious mountain range. The mountains are a huge part of the allure of West Virginia because there are so many great things to do. From scenic drives to whitewater rafting, from hiking to mountain biking, the mountains of West Virginia will keep you busy!
The Official West Virginia Tourism Website: CLICK HERE
Don’t Forget How to Drive in the Mountains
The roads in West Virginia are pretty good, but you still need to use different skills when driving in the mountains. No matter which direction you go, you’ll drive through some mountains. Expect winding roads, steep hills, and even tunnels as you drive through the mountains of West Virginia. Be ready for car sickness, especially if you are prone to it.
Don’t Miss the Bridges
West Virginia has some of the coolest bridges around, even on the highway. In other states, you see plain, concrete bridges. But in West Virginia, there are really unique bridges. The New River Gorge Bridge is really neat, too.
Don’t Forget Sturdy Shoes
With all of the outdoor activities in West Virginia, you’ll need some good footwear. Not only can you avoid injury, but you’ll be much more comfortable and able to cover more ground. Make sure those shoes are already broken in, so you don’t suffer blisters during your trip.
Don’t Forget to Pack Layers
Temperatures can vary widely in a day, so you want to be sure you have a couple of layers of clothing that you can add and remove quickly. If you start out early in the morning, it might be considerably cooler than the afternoon.
Don’t Except Cell Reception Everywhere
There are many places in West Virginia where you might not have cell reception. Of course, there are towers, but with so many hills and ridges, your service may be going in and out. It’s always a good idea to have maps printed or downloaded ahead of time so you have a backup set of directions.
Don’t Forget to Try Local Delicacies
When you visit West Virginia, there are a few local foods that you have to try. West Virginia has their own special version of pepperoni rolls and hot dogs. West Virginia pepperoni rolls are delicious! It’s soft white bread filled with pepperoni and cheese. It’s like a homemade extra delicious Hot Pocket. West Virginia hot dogs come with chili (no beans) and coleslaw on top. Here in West Virginia, coleslaw isn’t just a side dish, it’s a condiment.
Don’t Worry About Your Travel Budget
West Virginia is a very affordable family destination. It’s not very expensive, and we got a lot for our money. Our hotel prices seem about 20% less than what we usually spend elsewhere for a hotel room near the highway. There are plenty of mom-and-pop restaurants that serve great food for an affordable price, too.
Don’t Miss Harper’s Ferry
The small historic towns are some of the best places to visit in West Virginia. The best-known small West Virginia town is Harper’s Ferry. The Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers meet here, and the town is so picturesque. It’s like you’re walking around in a Hallmark movie.
Don’t Diss the Coal Industry
The coal industry has been a vital part of the West Virginia economy for decades. Even though coal mining has declined, it’s still an important part of many families’ histories. Just be mindful of that when you are talking with the locals.
Don’t Call Them Rednecks and Hillbillies
The people of West Virginia do not live up to the redneck/hillbilly stereotype; they actually call themselves Mountaineers. The people in West Virginia are fantastic. They are helpful, and friendly, and love talking about their home state. Don’t assume anything you’ve heard based on stereotypes!
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Don’t let these “don’ts” keep you from experiencing the best West Virginia attractions. If you want a fun, affordable family vacation, then West Virginia is a perfect choice. With so many fun places to visit in West Virginia, you’ll have a great time!
Want more travel tips for traveling in the USA? Check out some of our other blog posts: