Looking for small-town charm, Appalachian beauty, and vibrant festivals? Head to Buckhannon! Located in the heart of West Virginia, Buckhannon blends historic charm, outdoor adventure, and a strong sense of community. Whether you're hiking mountain trails, browsing boutiques, or joining the fun at the Strawberry Festival, Buckhannon offers a warm and welcoming getaway.
Buckhannon, WV Highlights:
- For History Buffs: Visit the Upshur County Historical Society – Learn about local heritage inside the beautifully restored History Center Museum.
- For Families: Enjoy Jawbone Park – Attend concerts, farmers markets, and festivals in the heart of downtown.
- For Nature Enthusiasts: Explore Audra State Park – Hike along the Middle Fork River and marvel at the Alum Cave rock overhang.
- For Art & Culture Lovers: Walk Main Street’s art installations – View colorful murals, sculptures, and local artwork across downtown.
- For Outdoor Fun: Paddle the Buckhannon River – Rent a kayak or canoe and enjoy a peaceful float through lush Appalachian scenery.
When I like to visit Buckhannon, WV
The best time to visit Buckhannon is in the spring and fall (April–May and September–October). Spring brings festival season and blooming landscapes, while fall offers colorful foliage and cool mountain air. Summers are perfect for river fun and outdoor events, and winters are quiet and cozy with occasional snow.
My tips for getting to Buckhannon, WV
- If you are traveling by car: Buckhannon is located off US-33 and Route 20, about 1 hour from Morgantown and 2.5 hours from Charleston or Pittsburgh.
- By Air: North Central West Virginia Airport (CKB) in Clarksburg is about 45 minutes away, offering regional flights and car rentals.
Where I like to stay in Buckhannon, WV
- Recommended for Families: Bicentennial Inn – Comfortable lodging with on-site dining and a convenient location near Main Street.
- For a Cozy Experience: The Baxa Inn – Local favorite with clean, affordable rooms and Appalachian hospitality.
- For Unique Stays: Historic bed & breakfasts or Airbnb cabins – Find charming guesthouses or rustic retreats in the nearby countryside.
Best Things to Do in Buckhannon, WV
1. Embrace Outdoor Adventure and River Fun at Audra State Park
"Explore scenic trails and swim in clear waters on an easy weekend trip."
- Where is Audra State Park located?
- Audra State Park spans 355 acres in West Virginia's Barbour County.
- What historical site is preserved at Audra State Park?
- The park preserves remnants of the historic 19th-century community of Audra, including its former gristmill.
- What recreational activities are available at Audra State Park?
- The park offers opportunities for swimming and kayaking on the Middle Fork River. A 6.6-mile kayak run travels from the park to the Tygart Valley and Buckhannon Rivers.
- Visitors can also hike through the park's forested terrain or capture amazing photos at scenic Alum Cave.
- What facilities are available at Audra State Park?
- The park offers 67 campsites for overnight camping, accessible picnic areas, and a scenic boardwalk.
Audra, Buckhannon, WV 26201, Phone: 304-457-1162
2. Savor Comfort Food and Local Vibes at C.J. Maggie's for a Relaxed Meal
"Savor hearty comfort food and enjoy eclectic décor during a fun family outing."
- Where is C.J. Maggie's located?
- C.J. Maggie's is located in downtown Buckhannon, with a second location in Elkins, West Virginia.
- What type of cuisine does C.J. Maggie's offer?
- C.J. Maggie's specializes in delicious wood-fired pizzas, with options such as Cuban chicken, mushroom and gouda, Thai chicken, and spinach and ricotta.
- They also offer calzones, housemade panko crab cakes, barbecue pork tenderloins, homestyle chicken pot pies, and more.
- What drinks are available at C.J. Maggie's?
- C.J. Maggie's serves classic fountain beverages, hand-spun milkshakes, and fresh-brewed coffee.
- When did C.J. Maggie's open?
- C.J. Maggie's was originally opened in 1992 by Jeannie and CJ Rylands after the closure of the Cheshire Cat Restaurant in Buckhannon.
16 East Main Street, Buckhannon, WV 26201, Phone: 304-472-2490
3. If You Love Farm-to-Table Freshness, Then Dine at Fish Hawk Acres for Seasonal Delights
If you think like me:
"Discover fresh farm-to-table meals and shop local goods on a quick, affordable trip."
- Where is Fish Hawk Acres located?
- Fish Hawk Acres is located in downtown Buckhannon, West Virginia.
- What type of food does Fish Hawk Acres offer?
- Fish Hawk Acres offers a variety of daily specials for lunch and dinner, including specialty deli sandwiches, open-face turkey sandwiches, New Orleans-style shrimp po'boys, and barbecue baby-back rib dinners.
- The market also features homemade baked goods, such as cookies, scones, gluten-free breads, and their famous pepperoni rolls.
- Additionally, a grab-and-go cooler is available with meals and desserts for takeout.
- Who owns Fish Hawk Acres?
- Fish Hawk Acres is owned and operated by longtime best friends Teresa Lipps and Dale Hawkins, who have run the establishment since 2007.
- What makes Fish Hawk Acres unique?
- Fish Hawk Acres sources its fare from local family farms as well as international purveyors, offering high-quality meals with a variety of delicious options, from fresh baked goods to unique sandwiches and platters.
5 W Main Street, Buckhannon, WV 26201, Phone: 304-473-7741
If You Are Interested in Local Events:
- For Families: West Virginia Strawberry Festival (May) – The city’s signature event with parades, food vendors, and family activities.
- For Summer Fun: Festival Fridays at Jawbone Park (June–August) – Free concerts, food trucks, and community gatherings every Friday evening.
- For Holiday Cheer: Christmas in Buckhannon (December) – Light displays, carriage rides, and festive downtown shopping.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30–60 Minutes of Buckhannon, West Virginia:
- For Outdoor Exploration: Stonewall Resort State Park (45–50 min) – Golf, kayak, dine, or hike in this peaceful lakeside park and resort.
- For Cave Lovers: Smoke Hole Caverns (60 min) – Explore stunning rock formations and underground beauty.
- For Scenic Beauty: Seneca Rocks (60 min+) – Hike or climb one of West Virginia’s most iconic natural landmarks.
- For City Culture: Clarksburg or Elkins (30–45 min) – Visit museums, dine out, and explore small-town culture with a bit more bustle.
- For Waterfalls: Valley Falls State Park (60 min) – Great for photography, hiking, and enjoying multiple cascading waterfalls.
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
- Where is Buckhannon located?
- Buckhannon is a quaint city nestled within the foothills of the Allegheny Mountains, conveniently located within driving distance from Charleston, West Virginia, and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
- What is the origin of the name Buckhannon?
- The city is named after the nearby Buckhannon River.
- What notable institution is located in Buckhannon?
- Buckhannon is home to West Virginia Wesleyan College.
- What can visitors enjoy in Buckhannon's downtown area?
- The downtown business district features local restaurants, specialty boutiques, and a unique French-style microcinema.
- What annual event does Buckhannon host?
- Buckhannon hosts the annual West Virginia Strawberry Festival in the third week of May, offering a variety of strawberry-themed activities.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers, great for outdoor activities.
Bicentennial Inn – A cozy and centrally located hotel in downtown Buckhannon.
Explore Audra State Park – Enjoy hiking, swimming, and scenic river views.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and lively, ideal for festivals and outdoor recreation.
Hampton Inn Buckhannon – A comfortable stay with great amenities.
Attend the West Virginia Strawberry Festival – Enjoy parades, live music, and delicious local treats.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and stunning fall foliage, perfect for sightseeing.
Centennial Motel – A budget-friendly stay with a charming atmosphere.
Drive the Mountain Parkway – Experience breathtaking autumn colors and scenic views.
Winter (December-February) – Quiet and snowy, great for cozy retreats and holiday festivities.
SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western – A comfortable stay with easy access to winter attractions.
Visit Main Street during the holidays – Enjoy festive decorations, shopping, and seasonal events.
How did I do?
Is the article too broad, too narrow, or just right ? Do you like the presentation of photos and text? Let me know in the comments! If you want to see more in this location, I can put it on my editorial calendar. I'm listening!
Plan Your Trip