Tucked away in the heart of Appalachia, Mercer County, West Virginia, is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a family traveler, or a history buff, Mercer County offers something for everyone. From stunning natural landscapes, state parks, to rich historical sites, unique shops, and vibrant local culture, this guide will take you through the best attractions, activities, and dining spots Mercer County has to offer. Get ready to discover hidden gems of Southern West Virginia and create unforgettable memories!
This travel guide will give you some of my expert advice as I was born and raised in Mercer County and even though I have moved away, I visit often and keep up with all the attractions and activities of the area. I am a Mercer County Expert when it comes to history too. I have never labeled myself as a historian, but there is a lot of history in these mountains and some of the information has been forgotten about with time. Within these small towns is a history of coal mines, civil war and frontier that was largely unknown just 300 years ago. Visit Mercer County for its beauty, sweet people and the history that makes this place so special.
Traveling to Mercer County, West Virginia.
Depending on where you are coming in from, and what part of West Virginia you are visiting, helps to determine which airports to use. For Mercer County, all will require a drive.
Fly into Charlotte North Carolina and drive 3 hours north, that gives you the most options on flights.
Charleston West Virginia- (Yeager Airport) has flights from American, United, Delta and Breeze Airlines, with flights from Charlotte NC, Washington DC, Chicago, Atlanta, Orlando, Tampa, and Myrtle Beach. Some of these are not daily flights. Charleston is about 1.5 hours away
Roanoke VA- (Roanoke/Blacksburg Regional Airport) Almost the same distance from Charleston WV, works but depending on where you are coming from. This airport tends to have more flights into the area on American, United, Delta. From cities like New York, Philadelphia, Washington DC, Charlotte NC, Atlanta and Chicago.
Beckley WV- (Raleigh County Memorial Airport) Located less than 30 minutes away from northern Mercer County, a very short drive, has daily flights to and from Charlotte NC from Contour Airlines for $118 roundtrip.
Greenbrier Valley also has daily flight from Charlotte NC on Contour Airlines, but is farther away from Mercer County. At about 1 hour and 15 minutes away.
Blountville TN- (Tri Cities Airport) has a couple options, but about a 1.5 hour drive to Mercer County. But they do have flights from Dallas along with Charlotte, Atlanta, Sanford FL, and Saint Petersburg FL
If you would like to watch some YouTube videos I made of the area, click the links below.
Travel Guide to Mercer County West Virginia
Pinnacle Rock is one of Mercer County's most iconic landmarks. This sandstone formation towers over the surrounding landscape, offering breathtaking views and fantastic photo opportunities. Hike the trails leading up to Pinnacle Rock and experience the awe-inspiring beauty of West Virginia's natural scenery. It's a perfect spot for a family picnic or a solo adventure.
Located at the bottom of the Rock is Jimmy Lewis Lake. There are hiking trails in the state park that lead around the lake, and it is a good place to go fishing. The best experiences in this area involve outdoor activities.
Bramwell, WV
Bramwell, once known as the "Millionaires' Town," is steeped in history and charm. This small town was home to some of the wealthiest coal barons in the early 20th century. Stroll through Bramwell's historic district, where you can admire well-preserved Victorian mansions and learn about the town's fascinating past. Don't miss the Bramwell Depot, which offers a glimpse into the area's rich coal mining heritage.
Take a tour of the Historic town of Bramwell, where you can tour the houses, and even go inside a few. They take you back in time to the Gilded Age honestly.
ATV Riding in Bramwell and Montcalm
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Mercer County offers thrilling ATV riding opportunities in Bramwell and Montcalm. The Hatfield-McCoy Trail System features miles of rugged terrain perfect for off-road enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a beginner, these trails promise an exciting adventure amidst the natural beauty of West Virginia.
This is one of the great things about this area. Being able to take off on trails all day and ride. There are trails that connect to 7 different counties. You will be very close to the Kentucky border on some trails if you go deep enough. Personally, I have only did the lower sections of the trail that are at Mercer County, McDowell County and Wyoming County, and it has grown so much since I traveled these on the ATV 12 years ago. I have always used the Montcalm area as my jumping off point to the trails, On Windmill Gap Road.
Princeton, WV
Princeton WV, the county seat and now known as the largest city in Mercer County has several hotels located close to the intersection of Interstate 77 and Route 460, making it a great place to stay when visiting the county. Princeton was home to a civil war battle called Pigeons Roost, named for all the passenger pigeons that roasted in the trees on the hill near the battle. Princeton has history and a revitalized downtown area where you can still picture cruising down Main Street, when muscle cars were all the rage, but back there wasn't cute coffee shops or craft brews.
Step back in time with a visit to the McNutt House in Princeton. This historic home, built in the early 19th century, is one of the oldest structures in Mercer County. Explore the beautifully preserved rooms and learn about the McNutt family's significant contributions to the region's history. The McNutt House offers a unique glimpse into the past, making it a must-visit for history buffs.
Located just near the Courthouse, actually on the road, down the hill, behind the courthouse is a large white building that was present during the Civil War. The home was used during the Civil War by the Union Army and was a hospital during the war. Robert McNutt was the doctor and lived here. At the time of the War 2 future presidents were stationed here for a bit. Rutherford Hayes and William McKinley.
Princeton Railroad Museum
Visit the museum near downtown Princeton, this used to be home to the Virginian Railroad, which competed against the railroads in Bluefield, which back in the day, Bluefield WV was a major railroad hub for the area. This museum is very interesting, and I highly recommend a visit.
Located near the courthouse, you will notice a large tank sitting in the grass right beside the building that contains the museum. Learn about locals who were in the many Wars that have pulled troops from the area. There are 3 floors with memorabilia and artifacts from a variety of wars.
History of Lake Shawnee
Lake Shawnee, located just outside Princeton, is shrouded in mystery and intrigue. This abandoned amusement park has a haunted reputation, drawing visitors interested in the paranormal. Discover the eerie history of Lake Shawnee, from its tragic past to its role in local folklore. While the amusement park is closed to the public, guided tours are available for those brave enough to explore this haunted site.
When driving by there a few weeks ago, there is nothing left to be seen easily from the road. It is gated off, but from Route 19 you can still see a pond. Still, it is pretty interesting with all the paranormal TV shows that have visited this area and claimed it is haunted.
Back in the 1950’s my great Aunt would rent a cabin here during the summer for a vacation with the family. I would hear stories from my grandmother and mom well after the place shut down, as I don't even remember it being open, but I always heard about the hauntings.
If you head west of Princeton on Route 20, you will run into an area called Glenwood which has a park with a lake and hiking trails. I used to come to this lake at dusk and watch for beavers swimming and making their nests. Sometimes you will see swans at the lake, but at dusk I have seen Beavers., I would love to just sit and watch them.
At one section of the park, you can enter into the park at a different entrance, and this is where the 4 H camp is located. There will sometimes be special activities besides 4H camps, so check out the website to learn more on activities.
Athens, WV
Concord College
Concord College, now known as Concord University, is a vibrant institution that has been educating students since 1872. The picturesque campus, nestled in the foothills of the Appalachians, offers a serene environment for learning and exploration. Take a leisurely walk around the campus, visit the Marsh Library, or attend one of the many cultural events held throughout the year.
Pipestem State Park
Pipestem Resort State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 4,000 acres of lush forests, stunning overlooks, and diverse wildlife, this park offers endless opportunities for recreation. Enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and fishing, or take a thrilling zip line ride to experience the park from above. Pipestem State Park is a perfect destination for families and adventure seekers alike.
Brush Creek Falls
Brush Creek Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in West Virginia. The cascading waters create a picturesque backdrop for hiking and photography. Take the scenic trail leading to the falls and enjoy the serene atmosphere. It's a great spot for a peaceful afternoon amidst nature's beauty.
Brush Creek RV Resort
For those traveling with an RV, Brush Creek RV Resort offers a comfortable and convenient place to stay. Located near Brush Creek Falls, the resort provides full hookups, clean facilities, and a friendly atmosphere. It's an ideal base for exploring the nearby attractions and enjoying the great outdoors. This is one of the great places to stay, that does have cabins available for rent, Convenient to State Parks, and Winterplace for skiing in the winter. They are constantly adding more to the RV resort, I believe Zip Lines are going in.
Camp Creek State Park
Camp Creek State Park is another gem in Mercer County's collection of natural wonders. The park features beautiful campgrounds, scenic hiking trails, and refreshing swimming holes. Spend a weekend camping under the stars, fishing in the creek, or simply relaxing in the tranquil surroundings. Camp Creek State Park is a perfect escape for nature lovers.
Bluefield, WV
Bluefield is the most special to me because it was where I was born. Can you imagine a city in WV so large at the time, that it had 4 hospitals, and during WW2 was considered so special, that Hitler had it on a list of places to bomb. Back in the day Bluefield hosted famous people, held concerts with the likes of Sinatra and Bung Crosby, to even Ike and Tina Turner. Bluefield was the place everyone came to, stopping in on their way with railroad stops to the way to cities out west. Or visiting for shopping in the downtown area. The city has changed over the years, and that is evident in the downtown Bluefield area. Coal and the railroad are not as important as they were 100 years ago, but there is still a magic to this place, and I highly recommend stopping in Mercer County.
Click here for my blog about Bluefield. There is so much more info there on Bluefield then in this blog.
East River Mountain
East River Mountain offers some of the most stunning vistas in Mercer County. Drive along the ridge or hike the trails to experience panoramic views of the Appalachian Mountains. The East River Mountain Overlook is a popular spot for sunrise and sunset photography, providing a breathtaking backdrop for your adventures. This is one of my favorite scenic mountain views of the area.
If you are traveling into the county via Interstate 77, you will cross into West Virginia by going into the East River Mountain Tunnel. Be careful when driving, as people tend to be scared and drive slowly through the tunnel. At the halfway point if you are looking towards the inside wall, you will see a sign that shows the state line where Virginia becomes West Virginia.
Historical Homes
Bluefield is home to several historic homes that tell the story of the area's rich heritage. Take a self-guided tour to explore these architectural marvels, each with its unique charm and history. From Victorian mansions to quaint cottages, Bluefield's historic homes offer a glimpse into the past and the lives of the people who shaped the region.
Bluefield State University
Bluefield State University, founded in 1895, is an institution with a proud history and a commitment to education. Visit the campus to learn about its role in the community and its contributions to higher education. The university's beautiful grounds and historic buildings make it a worthwhile stop for visitors interested in academia and local history.
There are other sites on the North side of the city, and the East End. Check out the historical markers at the University, Grant Street Bridge, and the Thelma Hotel, known to be a Green Book hotel back in the day of segregation. Ike and Tina Turner stayed here while in town for a concert.
Granada Theater
The reopening of the Granada Theater in the downtown area was great for Bluefield. Back int he day Grenada was known for concerts, and more. Now you can see a variety of shows, including movies. This has been perfect for the downtown area, on the best little street in the downtown area where the Railyard and quaint shops are located.
Great Restaurants in Mercer County
There are many favorite restaurants throughout Mercer County, so I will only mention a few, but here are so many more that should easily be on this list.
Dolly Diner in Princeton is a beloved local eatery known for its hearty breakfasts and friendly atmosphere. Start your day with a delicious meal and enjoy the warm hospitality that Mercer County is famous for. Dolly Diner is a great place to connect with locals and experience the community spirit.
Here is a YouTube video I made that features Dolly's Diner, check it out.
If you're a fan of barbecue, Taste of Memphis BBQ located in Princeton is a must-visit. This restaurant serves up mouthwatering smoked meats, tangy sauces, and all the classic Southern sides. Whether you're dining in or taking out, Taste of Memphis BBQ delivers flavors that will leave you craving more.
Lynn's Drive Inn located in Bluewell is a nostalgic spot that takes you back to the golden age of drive-in diners. Enjoy classic American fare, from burgers and fries to milkshakes and sundaes. Lynn's Drive Inn is perfect for a fun family meal or a trip down memory lane.
Tudors Biscuit World is a West Virginia staple, known for its fluffy biscuits and hearty breakfast sandwiches. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a leisurely breakfast, Tutor's offers a delicious start to your day. I always get sandwiches, the Mary Bee, Thundering Herd, Miner or Peppi are my favorites. There is a Tudor's Biscuit World in many cities in West Virginia, but only a couple outside of the state, one of which is in Panama City Florida. So, when visiting West Virginia look for Tudors.
Gino's Pizza is the go-to spot for pizza lovers in Mercer County. With a variety of toppings and styles, there's something for everyone. Whether you're dining in with friends or ordering a pizza to go, Gino's delivers tasty pies that hit the spot every time. If you would like to give your taste buds a treat, get a pubwich, it's my favorite.
Railyard is a trendy restaurant and bar located in Bluefield. Known for its eclectic menu and vibrant atmosphere, Railyard offers a dining experience that's both fun and flavorful. From gourmet burgers to craft cocktails, this spot is perfect for a night out with friends.
In Downtown Bluefield WV, The Vault is a fine dining restaurant that offers a sophisticated culinary experience. Located in a beautifully restored historic building, The Vault serves up gourmet dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. It's an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a special celebration.
Located in between Princeton and Bluefield, this place has amazing pies. In fact, with a little bit of history, nearby was a restaurant called The Rainbow back in the 1980’s and earlier. The lady who worked there and made the pies moved to Valley Country Restaurant when the Rainbow shut its doors. She has since passed, but the pies are still amazing. Good home cooked food is a specialty here.
If in Bramwell WV, you have to stop in here for a milkshake or burger. I love the decor, so take some time to walk around and look at everything on the shelves. This is a common spot for locals, or people riding ATV’s but there is plenty of parking behind the restaurant. Last year was placed on a list as one of America's Best.
Dairy Queen
Sometimes, nothing hits the spot like a classic Dairy Queen treat. Whether you're in the mood for a Blizzard, a sundae, or a burger and fries, Dairy Queen offers comfort food that everyone loves. It's a great place to indulge and satisfy your sweet tooth. The best one is in Hinton WV, but Bluefield WV is still one of the best compared to other ones in the area.
Places That Are an Easy Drive
Hinton, WV
Hinton, WV, in neighboring Summers County, is a charming town known for its historic downtown and scenic surroundings. Take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront, explore the local shops, and learn about the town's rich history at the Hinton Railroad Museum.
There is so much to see in the Hinton area. The Bluestone and New River merge here and the city of Hinton is charming, The Bluestone Dam, Sandstone waterfalls. Bluestone State Park, Fishing, white water river rafting, and several restaurants that have seating facing the river.
There is also a railroad museum in downtown Hinton also. If interested in driving another 30 minutes on Route 3 then route 12 or so you can see the John Henry monument at the John Henry Historical Park where he raced against the Steam Engine Drill and won.
New River Gorge National Park
New River Gorge National Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, white-water rafting, and more, this park offers endless adventures. The iconic New River Gorge Bridge is a must-see, providing stunning views and excellent photo opportunities. This is the perfect place for endless outdoor activities.
Beckley, WV, is home to the Exhibition Coal Mine, where you can take an underground tour and learn about the region's coal mining heritage. The museum and recreated coal camp provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives of coal miners and their families.
Ghent and the Winterplace Ski Resort
Ghent, WV, is home to Winterplace Ski Resort, a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or tubing, Winterplace offers fun for the whole family. The resort's amenities ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit.
The Cascades in Pembroke, VA
The Cascades in Pembroke, VA, is a stunning waterfall that attracts hikers and nature lovers. The trail to the falls is moderate and family-friendly, offering beautiful scenery along the way. The Cascades is a perfect spot for a day hike and a picnic.
Mountain Lake Lodge and Covered Bridges Nearby
Mountain Lake Lodge, made famous by the movie "Dirty Dancing," offers a picturesque escape in Pembroke, VA. Explore the resort's amenities, hike the surrounding trails, and visit the charming, covered bridges nearby. It's a romantic getaway with plenty of activities to enjoy including mountain biking.
Blacksburg, Virginia Tech, and Christiansburg, VA
Blacksburg, home to Virginia Tech, offers a vibrant college town atmosphere with plenty to see and do. Explore the campus, attend a Hokies game, or enjoy the local dining and shopping scene. Nearby Christiansburg also offers attractions and amenities for visitors.
Pocahontas, VA, and the Coal Mine Tour
Pocahontas, VA, is another town with a rich coal mining history. Take a tour of the Pocahontas Exhibition Coal Mine to learn about the region's mining heritage and the lives of the miners. The guided tour offers an educational and immersive experience.
Wytheville, VA
Wytheville, VA, is known for its unique attractions and charming downtown. Visit the historic Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum, explore the local shops, and enjoy the town's welcoming atmosphere. Wytheville is a great destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
Conclusion
Mercer County, West Virginia, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its diverse attractions, rich history, and vibrant local culture, it offers something for everyone. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a family traveler, or a history buff, you'll find plenty to explore and enjoy in this beautiful region. Pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in Mercer County!
For more detailed information and personalized travel tips, don't hesitate to reach out to me. I can help you plan the perfect trip and ensure you experience the best that Mercer County has to offer. I hope you have enjoyed the Mercer County West Virginia Travel Guide I have written, and it helps you explore the area. Happy travels!
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So many great finds in Mercer county! And eat :)
Me as a Brit drooling over Tudors Biscuits :)
I love finding gems like this and getting to explore the area. Mercer county looks amazing.
I appreciated this thorough guide, and I would love to hear more from your POV about each place. It reads like a destination worth pulling over for.
We really have not spent any time at all in West Virginia. So it was interesting to read about all there is to see and do in Mercer County. We would certainly enjoy the great outdoor spots. And learning more about the interesting history in the area. And we sure would eat well! LD Holland