Things to Do with Kids in Beckley, WV

Beckley, West Virginia is a great destination for families with kids. With a variety of activities and attractions, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just having fun, Beckley has it all.

One of the top attractions in Beckley for families is the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and Youth Museum. This unique museum offers an underground mine tour that is both informative and fun for kids and adults alike. Another must-see attraction is Grandview State Park, which offers hiking trails and stunning views of the New River Gorge. For families who love the outdoors, there are plenty of opportunities for camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities in the area.

For families looking for indoor activities, there are also options such as the Mountain State Miniature Golf and Marquee Cinemas – Galleria 14. With so many things to do in Beckley, families are sure to have a great time exploring all that this charming city has to offer.

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Outdoor Activities

Beckley, WV offers a wide range of outdoor activities for families with kids. From hiking trails to rock climbing and whitewater rafting, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Below are some of the best outdoor activities to do with kids in Beckley.

Trails

Beckley is blessed with several trails that offer breathtaking views of the Appalachian Mountains, wildlife, and wildflowers. The New River Gorge National Park and Grandview State Park are two popular spots for hiking and nature walks. The trails are well-maintained and offer varying levels of difficulty, so you can choose the one that best suits your family’s needs.

Hiking Trails

If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, try the Hatfield-McCoy Trail System. This trail system covers over 700 miles of terrain and is perfect for families who love adventure. The trails offer stunning views of the mountains and valleys, and there are plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way.

Playground

If you’re looking for a more relaxed outdoor activity, head to one of Beckley’s many playgrounds. The parks offer plenty of space for kids to run around and play, and there are often picnic areas nearby where you can enjoy a family lunch.

Mountain State Miniature Golf and Putt-Putt

If you’re looking for a fun family activity, try Mountain State Miniature Golf or Putt-Putt. These courses offer a range of challenges, from easy to difficult, and are perfect for kids of all ages.

Rock Climbing

For families who love adventure, try rock climbing at the New River Gorge. The area is known for its challenging climbs, and there are plenty of guides available to help you and your family navigate the terrain safely.

Whitewater Rafting

Whitewater rafting is a popular activity in Beckley, and there are plenty of guides available to take you and your family down the New River. The rapids range from class I to class V, so there’s something for everyone, regardless of your skill level.

Beckley, WV is a great place to enjoy the outdoors with your family. With so many outdoor activities to choose from, you’re sure to find something that everyone will enjoy.

Indoor Activities

Beckley, WV offers a variety of indoor activities that are perfect for families with kids. Whether it’s a rainy day or you just want to escape the heat, there are plenty of options for indoor fun.

Museums

Beckley has a variety of museums that are perfect for families with kids. Here are a few of the best:

Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and Youth Museum

The Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and Youth Museum is a must-visit for families with kids. The museum offers underground tours of a restored coal mine, as well as exhibits on the history of coal mining in the area. The museum is staffed by retired miners, who provide an informative and engaging experience for visitors.

Youth Museum of Southern West Virginia

The Youth Museum of Southern West Virginia is another great option for families with kids. The museum offers a variety of exhibits and hands-on activities that are perfect for kids of all ages. Some of the highlights include a bat condo, a World War II exhibit, and rotating exhibits on a variety of topics.

Oglebay Good Zoo

The Oglebay Good Zoo is a great option for families with kids who love animals. The zoo features a variety of animals, including tigers, bears, and monkeys, as well as a petting zoo and a train ride.

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Science Museums

Beckley also has a variety of science museums that are perfect for families with kids. Here are a few of the best:

Clay Center

The Clay Center is a science museum that is perfect for families with kids. The museum features a variety of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that are designed to teach kids about science and technology.

Avampato Discovery Museum

The Avampato Discovery Museum is another great option for families with kids. The museum features a variety of exhibits and hands-on activities that are designed to teach kids about science, technology, engineering, and math.

Planetarium

The planetarium is a great option for families with kids who love space. The planetarium features a variety of shows and exhibits that are designed to teach kids about astronomy and space exploration.

Overall, Beckley, WV offers a variety of indoor activities that are perfect for families with kids. Whether you’re interested in history, science, or animals, there’s something for everyone in Beckley. So why not plan a visit today and see what this great city has to offer?

Dining

When it comes to dining with kids in Beckley, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are a few of our top recommendations.

Restaurants

Campestre Mexican Grill is a popular family-friendly restaurant in Beckley. With a wide selection of Mexican and Southwestern dishes, there’s something for everyone. The restaurant has received high praise from customers for its delicious food and friendly service.

Pasquale’s is another great option for families. This Italian restaurant offers a variety of pasta dishes, pizzas, and more. Customers have raved about the lasagna and other pasta dishes, making it a must-try for Italian food lovers.

Lunch

If you’re looking for a quick lunch spot, the Chocolate Moose is a great choice. This local sandwich shop offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and soups. The Bean Soup is a local favorite and a must-try if you’re in the area.

Snacks

For a sweet treat, head to Dobra Zemlja Winery. In addition to their selection of wines, they also offer a variety of chocolates and other snacks. The chocolate-covered cherries are a popular choice among customers.

Overall, there are plenty of dining options for families in Beckley. Whether you’re looking for a sit-down meal or a quick bite, there’s something for everyone.

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Shopping

Beckley, WV, offers a variety of shopping options for families with children. From antique shops to modern marketplaces, there’s something for everyone.

Antique Shops

For families who enjoy browsing through antiques, Beckley has several shops worth checking out. One such shop is the Tamarack Marketplace. This iconic road stop for all who travel I-77 through Beckley offers a unique shopping experience. Visitors can find a variety of handcrafted items, including pottery, woodworking, and handmade jewelry.

Another antique shop worth visiting is the Appalachian Antique Mall. With over 100 dealers, this mall offers a vast collection of antiques, vintage items, and collectibles. Children will enjoy browsing through the various items, including old toys, vintage clothing, and classic records.

If you’re looking for a more specialized antique shopping experience, the Old World Emporium may be the perfect place for you. This shop specializes in European antiques, including furniture, artwork, and decor. Children will enjoy exploring the unique items and learning about the history behind them.

In conclusion, Beckley, WV, offers a variety of antique shops for families to explore. Whether you’re looking for a unique piece of history or just browsing, these shops are worth checking out.

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Nearby Attractions

If you’re looking to explore more of West Virginia with your family, there are plenty of nearby attractions worth checking out.

Harpers Ferry

Located about an hour and a half from Beckley, Harpers Ferry is a historic town where the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers meet. It played an important role in the Civil War and is now a National Historical Park. Families can take a guided tour of the town, go hiking, or even try whitewater rafting.

White Sulphur Springs

About an hour and 45 minutes from Beckley, White Sulphur Springs is home to the famous Greenbrier Resort. While the resort itself may not be kid-friendly, there are plenty of activities in the area that are. Families can go hiking in the Allegheny Mountains, visit the West Virginia State Fair in August, or explore the Greenbrier River Trail.

Cass Scenic Railroad State Park

Located about an hour and 15 minutes from Beckley, Cass Scenic Railroad State Park is a must-visit for train enthusiasts. The park offers a variety of train rides, including trips on historic railroad boxcars. Families can also explore the park’s museum, take a guided tour, or enjoy concessions at the park’s restaurant.

Whittaker Station

Part of Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, Whittaker Station is a historic stop along the railroad. Families can take a train ride to the station and explore the area’s rich history, including the old logging camp and sawmill.

Lost World Caverns

Located about an hour and 15 minutes from Beckley, Lost World Caverns is a fascinating natural wonder that kids will love. The cave is filled with stunning stalagmites and stalactites, and families can take a guided tour to learn more about the cave’s history and geology.

Whether you’re looking to explore more of West Virginia’s history, natural wonders, or unique attractions, there’s plenty to discover near Beckley. Other nearby cities worth visiting include Lewisburg, Elkins, and Huntington.

Final Thoughts

Beckley, WV is a great destination for families looking for fun and educational activities. From exploring the underground coal mines to hiking in the state parks, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the highlights from our research:

Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine & Youth Museum is a must-visit attraction. The underground mine tour is informative and fun, and the museum provides a glimpse into the history of coal mining in the area.
Grandview State Park is another great option for families. The park offers hiking trails and stunning views of the New River Gorge. Don’t miss Turkey Spur, a popular lookout point.
Mountain State Miniature Golf is a fun activity for all ages. The course is well-maintained and features challenging holes.
Outside-In Climbing Gym is a great option for families looking for an indoor activity. The gym offers climbing walls for all skill levels, as well as yoga classes and other fitness activities.
Southern West Virginia is a beautiful region with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Consider taking a scenic drive, hiking in the mountains, or fishing in one of the many lakes and rivers.
WV Creativity is a convention center that hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Check their schedule to see if there are any family-friendly events coming up.

Overall, Beckley, WV is a great destination for families looking for a mix of outdoor adventure and educational activities. We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your next family vacation.

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Things to Do with Kids in Beckley, WV

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