Need a relaxed riverside getaway or easy access to West Virginia’s capital? Head to South Charleston! Enjoy scenic riverfront parks, unique historical sites, family-friendly activities, and easy access to downtown Charleston. Whether you're seeking outdoor fun, shopping, or a quiet escape, South Charleston is a welcoming stop along the Kanawha River.
South Charleston, WV Highlights:
- South Charleston Indian Mound: Visit one of the best-preserved ancient Adena mounds, right in the heart of the city.
- Little Creek Park: Hike, picnic, or play disc golf in this sprawling park with woodlands, sports fields, and playgrounds.
- Southridge Center: Shop, dine, and catch a movie at this major shopping destination featuring national retailers and restaurants.
- Riverwalk Plaza and Amphitheater: Enjoy scenic views, local festivals, farmers markets, and community concerts by the Kanawha River.
- Oakes Field Sports Complex: Attend local sporting events or enjoy open play at this well-maintained complex for baseball and soccer.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit South Charleston is during spring (April–June) and fall (September–October). Enjoy mild temperatures perfect for outdoor activities, local festivals, and riverfront events without the heat of midsummer.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: South Charleston is located just off Interstates 64 and 77, about 5 miles west of downtown Charleston.
- By Air: Yeager Airport (CRW) in Charleston is about a 15–20 minute drive away, offering regional flights and easy rental car access.
- By Train: Amtrak’s Cardinal line stops at Charleston Station, just a short drive or rideshare trip from South Charleston.
Where to Stay
- Holiday Inn & Suites Charleston West – Full-service hotel with a pool, onsite restaurant, and easy access to downtown Charleston and Southridge Center.
- Hampton Inn Charleston-Southridge – Modern hotel near Southridge shopping and dining, offering free breakfast and an indoor pool.
- Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Charleston South – Budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and quick access to the interstate and shopping areas.
Best Things to Do
⮕ Step Into Ancient History at South Charleston Mound
South Charleston Mound or the Criel Mound is a Native American burial mound in South Charleston, West Virginia, built by the Adena culture probably between 250 and 150 BC. The mound is located half way between two earthwork round enclosures about 556 feet in diameter. The mount was originally 33 feet high and 173 feet in diameter at its base, one of the largest such burial mound in West Virginia. The top was leveled in 1840 by the local residents to erect a stand for a judge for the horse races they used to run around the base of the mound. South Charleston Mound was excavated in 1883–84 by Professor Cyrus Thomas of the Smithsonian Institution. Professor Thomas found thirteen skeletons inside the mound. The Criel Mound is located within Staunton Park, a small South Charleston park commonly used as a community gathering place.
301 7th Ave, South Charleston, WV 25303, Phone: 304-744-5300
⮕ If You Love Outdoor Adventures, Explore Little Creek Park
Little Creek Park is a large green area on the west side of South Charleston, West Virginia. The park’s most interesting feature is the Devil’s Tea Table, an interesting rock formation. The park has ten picnic shelters with restrooms, grills, electricity and various recreational equipment that are available for rental. It also includes an old saw mill and a natural spring. Frank A. Mullens, Jr. Athletic Complex is located within the park. It has two baseball, a softball, a football and two soccer fields. There are also two basketball and two tennis courts, 18-hole disc golf course, Soap Box Derby racing facility, kids’ playground and a network of hiking trails.
Little Creek Park Rd, South Charleston, WV 25309
⮕ Discover Local Stories at the South Charleston Museum
The South Charleston Museum, located in the La Belle Theater building in South Charleston, was established in 1989 with the goal of telling the story of the Adena Indians and the Midland Trail where they lived once. The Center includes the Criel Mound Indian burial site, a range of artifacts, models, brochures, pictures, films, maps of various other Adena Indian Mounds in the area and a kiosk with information about the area history. The Center also has books, CDs, and a vintage 1929 film about the Midland Trail, which can be borrowed by teachers. The museum offers programs to schools, churches and various organizations.
311 D St, South Charleston, WV 25303-3105
Where to Eat
⮕ Savor Big Flavors at Longhorn Steakhouse
Longhorn Steakhouse chain is known all over the country for their superbly grilled beef. Their South Charleston, West Virginia restaurant is a rustic, ranch-style eatery located near Corridor G and next to Holiday Inn Express & Suites Charleston-Southridge Hotel. Cozy and welcoming, the steakhouse is a popular spot for family celebrations and special evenings. A carnivores delight, it serves perfectly grilled steaks in all their incarnations, seasoned expertly with their signature spice blend and served with one of many sides and ice-cold beer. Or a glass of wine or one of their signature margaritas and other original cocktails. If you do not feel for a steak, you can choose their great salmon or chicken, prepared the way you like it. Don’t miss their signature desserts, a perfect ending for a perfect evening.
91 RHL Blvd, Charleston, WV 25309, Phone: 304-744-4112
⮕ Grab a Quick and Tasty Bite at Steak Escape
Steak Escape is a country-wide self-service chain of restaurants serving mouth-watering cheesesteaks and subs not seen or tasted anywhere else. Their South Charleston restaurant is spacious, bright and modern. Their employees start the day by baking fresh Italian rolls, hand-cutting their fries from Idaho potatoes and slicing their fresh vegetables. Their chicken is all-white and has no added hormones and they use only 100% USDA Choice steak. Their signature cheesesteaks come in several versions. If you are a traditionalist, you should go for the Original Philly Whiz with grilled USDA Choice steak with sautéed onions and Cheese Whiz®. For adventurous, there is Bourbon and Bacon with grilled USDA Choice steak, sautéed onions, melted white American cheese, crispy bacon and sweet bourbon sauce. They also sell great subs and healthy bowls with fresh veggies and your choice of meat
81 RHL Blvd, South Charleston, WV 25309, Phone: 304-744-5227
More Places to Eat
- The Olive Tree Café – Popular spot for Mediterranean favorites like gyros, hummus, and fresh pita sandwiches.
- Los Agaves Mexican Restaurant – Relaxed restaurant serving hearty Mexican meals, margaritas, and festive vibes.
- Black Sheep Burrito and Brews – Lively gastropub offering creative burritos, craft beers, and outdoor patio seating nearby in downtown Charleston.
If you are interested in local events:
- South Charleston Summerfest (August) – Annual family-friendly festival featuring live music, food vendors, carnival rides, and fireworks by the river.
- Armed Forces Day Parade (May) – Celebrate military service with one of the region’s longest-running parades.
- Holiday Tree Lighting and Parade (December) – Enjoy holiday lights, parades, and family activities in downtown South Charleston.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of South Charleston, West Virginia:
- Downtown Charleston (5–10 min) – Visit Capitol Market, the Clay Center for the Arts, and explore riverfront parks and museums.
- Kanawha State Forest (20–25 min) – Hike, bike, or picnic among lush forests and scenic trails.
- Coonskin Park (20–25 min) – Family-friendly park with playgrounds, golf, a swimming pool, and walking trails near the Elk River.
- West Virginia State Capitol Complex (10–15 min) – Tour the stunning Capitol building and visit the West Virginia State Museum.
- St. Albans (15–20 min) – Explore small-town charm, riverside parks, and antique shops nearby.
- Ridenour Lake (25–30 min) – Fish, boat, or walk scenic trails around this peaceful local lake near Nitro.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Where is South Charleston located?
- South Charleston is a small city in Kanawha County, West Virginia.
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What is South Charleston best known for?
- The city is best known for its Criel Mound, a Native American burial mound.
- It is one of the largest burial mounds in the country.
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What can visitors learn at the South Charleston Museum?
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The South Charleston Museum tells the story of:
- The Adena Indians
- The historic Midland Trail
- The local history of the region
- The museum is located inside the historic Labelle Theatre.
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The South Charleston Museum tells the story of:
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What attractions can be found in Little Creek Park?
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Little Creek Park is one of the city’s largest parks and features:
- A variety of sports facilities
- An old sawmill
- A unique rock formation
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Little Creek Park is one of the city’s largest parks and features:
Plan Your Trip