A West Virginia State Park getaway is tops on our list. Many of the parks have cabins and campgrounds that provide ample opportunity to reconnect with nature - and each other; and a few, like Tygart Lake State Park, even have a lodge perfect for extended families and groups (think weddings, reunions, etc.).
Perched on the picturesque shores of Tygart Lake, the state park's lodge is beautiful on both the inside and the out.
Inside, the clean retro lines combined with modern decor create a sense of warmth, especially in the spacious lobby. The floor-to-ceiling windows provide a view of the lake from every corner of the room.
Tygart Lake State Park's beach is only steps away so bring your gear for an enjoyable day in the sun. A nearby marina offers kayak rentals as well as a place to launch motorized vessels.
Although it's not new and shiny, the hotel accommodations at this West Virginia State Park get regular rave reviews all over the Internet. You won't find another quite like it!
Ready to check it out in person? Tygart Lake State Park Lodge is located at 1240 Paul E. Malone Rd., Grafton, WV 26354. It's open year-round. Get more information, check rates, and make reservations at this link on the official website of West Virginia State Parks.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
With so many hotels in West Virginia to choose from, you’ve got to narrow it down to what’s most important to you. Beautiful views? Free Wi-Fi? Flat-screen TV? Free parking? Whatever your ideal getaway, there are plenty of West Virginia hotels that can accommodate your needs, ensuring that you’ll have a pleasant stay. We’ve got some of the best resorts and best hotels in West Virginia that would be honored to host your next vacation, so whether you’re looking for a family-friendly spot or a romantic getaway, you’re bound to find a hotel on this list that’s perfect for you.
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Best Unique Hotels to Stay in West Virginia
Some of the most unique hotels in West Virginia will offer you an unforgettable stay. We’re talking about those types of vacations where you’ll already be planning your next visit, even before you’ve left! Whether your idea of the perfect vacation is spent on the golf course or the hot tub (or both), these unique hotels will give you that luxurious feel from the moment you check in.
Amenities: Outdoor and indoor pool, sauna, Tesla car chargers
Ratings: 4 stars
With over 2,000 acres of year-round recreational activities, you’ll never run out of things to do when you book a stay at Oglebay. The Bissonnette Gardens are absolutely stunning during April and May, the pool, adventure center, and golf course are always a fun summertime treat, the hiking trails are a kaleidoscope of color during the fall, and then in the winter, enjoy the Nutting Winter Spots Complex for even more outdoor fun. Oglebay’s Lodge is the perfect spot to call home while you explore the area, but if you’d prefer a little more privacy and seclusion, rent one of the cottages for an extra special getaway. Many of the rooms have fireplaces which add that extra special cozy factor that you’ll love.
Address: 101 W Main St,m White Sulphur Springs, WV 24986
Price: $289/night
Amenities: Pool, spa,
Ratings: 4.5 stars
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One of West Virginia’s most popular resorts, a stay at The Greenbrier is something everyone should do at least once in their life. The Greenbrier has been a destination resort in White Sulphur Springs since 1778, and like a fine wine, it just gets better with age. The 11,000-acre resort offers a wide range of on-site accommodations to choose from, including both traditional rooms and four-bedroom houses. There are more than 50 indoor and outdoor activities here, giving you a chance to step outside your comfort zone and try something new like falconry, pickleball, or even croquet!
Best Hotel Pools in West Virginia
Enjoying a few laps around the pool is one of the best ways to make the most of your hotel stay. These hotels all have a reputation for having some of the best hotel swimming pools in the state, so be sure to pack your swimsuit when you book a stay at one of these lovely hotels.
Amenities: Downtown location, complimentary breakfast, indoor pool
Ratings: 4 stars
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Centrally located in downtown Charleston, Embassy Suites is a tried and true classic when it comes to hotels in West Virginia. You’ll be near the airport but still downtown so you can explore the sights and sounds of one of West Virginia’s largest cities. The rooms here are on par with the rest of the Embassy Suites line, so if you’ve ever stayed in one of these hotels in another city before, there won’t be any surprises. Be sure to wake up early and enjoy the breakfast buffet!
Amenities: Beautiful view, indoor swimming pool, free breakfast
Ratings: 4.5 stars
Fairfield Inn & Suites Huntington is a fantastic hotel to rest your head for a few days. Known for being a family-friendly hotel, the winner here is the beautiful indoor pool with a lovely view. If you’re lucky, that view will carry into your room!
Amenities: heated indoor/outdoor pool, marina, golf course
Ratings: 4 stars
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Everyone loves making a splash at Stonewall Resort. There’s a lot to enjoy at this luxury resort in West Virginia, and the pool is just the tip of the iceberg. The heated indoor/outdoor pool is one of the most popular hangouts, especially when the fire pit is blazing and you can enjoy roasting marshmallows after a few laps.
Best Luxury Hotels in West Virginia
Are you ready to step into the life of luxury that you deserve? These luxury hotels will treat you like the royal king/queen that you are from the moment you arrive. From white water rafting to historic Civil War landmarks, these West Virginia hotels will take your vacation to new levels.
The Hillbrook Inn in Charles Town has everything you could ever want in a luxurious getaway. Located on 30 acres of perfectly manicured land that was once owned by George Washington, it’s impossible to escape the incredible history of the place. The rooms in the main building offer free wi-fi, en suite bathrooms, and even iPads. For a more private setting, rent one of the cottages with your own private porch and fireplace for an unforgettable stay. The bed and breakfast is less than 15 miles from Harpers Ferry, one of the most historic towns in West Virginia practically overflowing with national historic landmarks. This is among the most beautiful luxury hotels in West Virginia.
Amenities: Beautiful view, indoor pool, free breakfast
Ratings: 4 stars
Recently renovated, if you’re looking for hotels near West Virginia University, this is the one. From the fitness center to the hot tub, you'll feel like royalty during your stay at the Morgantown Marriott. Just look at that view! The 9-story hotel offers both river views and city views, so you’re practically guaranteed something stunning to look at.
Best Boutique Hotels in West Virginia
These West Virginia hotels may not be situated on thousands of acres of land, but what they lack in size, they make up for in charm. Ideal for romantic getaways and peaceful retreats, these boutique hotels will quickly capture your heart.
Since undergoing a massive renovation in 2020, this historic building has received a new life while still celebrating the nearly 100-year history of the hotel. Hotel Morgan has been a fixture for Morgantown since 1925, and this beautiful hotel will quickly become your new home away from home during your travel. The hotel’s coffee shop spins into a cocktail bar in the evenings, offering a variety of delicious sweets, light bites, and more. The hotel is located in a perfect location that’s close to West Virginia University, the WVY Coliseum, Mountaineer Field, and downtown Morgantown, putting you smack dab in the middle of Morgantown’s main attractions.
Once a former plantation house, the Bluefield Inn is now one of the most popular boutique hotels in West Virginia. You’ll be met with true Southern hospitality from the moment you arrive at this historic hotel. Once you’ve got yourself settled in one of the luxurious rooms with 600-thread count sheets, retire to the beautiful porch with your favorite beverage and enjoy the view.
The Blennerhassett is another amazing boutique hotel in West Virginia, and you’ll feel like royalty during your stay here. Ideal for a romantic getaway, take advantage of this hotel’s spa services and give yourself the gift of pampering yourself and your loved one. One of the hotel’s most unique features is the atrium, a perfect spot to cool down after a blood-pumping workout in the fitness center.
Best Mountain Resorts in West Virginia
There’s nothing that can compare to waking up and seeing a beautiful mountain view before you, and these mountain resorts will give you just that, and so much more. Who knows, you may even be inspired to lace up your hiking boots and tackle the mountain trails surrounding these resorts to reach new heights!
Treat yourself to one of the most luxurious vacations with a stay at Pipestem Spa. Located in the mountains of southern West Virginia, you’ll feel a million miles away from it all. Pipestem’s spa menu offers everything from bourbon tastings to hot stone massages, ideal for a memorable romantic getaway. They even offer several wedding packages in the event that you’d like to seal the deal and make it official! You'll love your stay at one of the most relaxing luxury resorts in West Virginia.
Amenities: Mountain views, indoor pool, free breakfast
Ratings: 4.5 stars
If majestic mountain views are what you seek, you can’t go wrong with a few nights spent at the Hampton Inn Elkins. You’re only three miles away from Elkins’ thriving downtown scene and about 11 miles away from the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area, a treasure trove of hiking trails and even more beautiful views. This hotel is clean, quiet, and the perfect spot for anyone who wants a little rest and relaxation without being too far removed from city life.
If you've ever stayed in one of the best hotels in West Virginia before, tell us about it in the comments section! If you're considering booking one of these lodging options, you'll want to check out some of our favorite outdoor adventures in West Virginia so you can start planning your epic getaway today.
