Mcdowell County Wv Map

Located in the southern part of West Virginia, McDowell County is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, this county offers a unique travel experience that is second to none. Whether you are a history buff, an adventure seeker, or a foodie, McDowell County has something to offer for everyone.

Top Attractions in McDowell County

McDowell County boasts of several top attractions that are a must-see for any visitor. The most popular ones include:

The Hatfield and McCoy Feud Sites

History buffs will enjoy visiting the sites where the infamous Hatfield and McCoy feud took place. The feud, which lasted for more than a decade, is one of the most well-known family feuds in American history. Visitors can explore the sites where the feud occurred and learn about the history of the families involved.

The Coal Heritage Trail

McDowell County has a rich coal mining history, and the Coal Heritage Trail is a great way to explore it. The trail runs for 100 miles through southern West Virginia and showcases the state’s coal mining heritage. Visitors can explore the various towns along the trail and learn about the history of coal mining in the region.

Hidden Gems in McDowell County

McDowell County is full of hidden gems that are off the beaten path. These include:

The Pinnacle Rock State Park

The Pinnacle Rock State Park is a hidden gem in McDowell County. The park boasts of stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and visitors can hike to the top of Pinnacle Rock for an even better view. The park also has several picnic areas, making it a great spot for a family outing.

The Elkhorn Inn and Theatre

The Elkhorn Inn and Theatre is a unique bed and breakfast located in McDowell County. The inn is housed in a historic building and offers visitors a chance to experience the county’s rich coal mining history. The inn also has a theatre that hosts live performances throughout the year.

Food Scene in McDowell County

McDowell County has a vibrant food scene that is a must-try for any foodie. The most popular dishes include:

The Pepperoni Roll

The pepperoni roll is a West Virginia classic, and McDowell County is no exception. This delicious snack is made with pepperoni, cheese, and bread and is perfect for a quick bite on the go.

The Italian Hot Dog

The Italian hot dog is another local favorite in McDowell County. This sandwich is made with two hot dogs, peppers, onions, and potatoes and is sure to satisfy any hunger.

Budget-Friendly Tips for Traveling to McDowell County

Traveling to McDowell County doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some budget-friendly tips to keep in mind:

Stay in a Bed and Breakfast

Bed and breakfasts are a great option for budget-conscious travelers. They offer affordable rates and often include breakfast in the price of the room.

Visit State Parks

State parks are a great way to explore the natural beauty of McDowell County without spending a lot of money. Many state parks have hiking trails and picnic areas, making them a great spot for a day trip.

Outdoor Adventures in McDowell County

McDowell County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the top outdoor adventures include:

Hiking

McDowell County has several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The most popular trails include the Pinnacle Rock Trail and the Panther Ridge Trail.

Fishing

McDowell County has several lakes and rivers that are perfect for fishing. Visitors can catch a variety of fish, including trout, bass, and catfish.

Family-Friendly Activities in McDowell County

McDowell County has several family-friendly activities that are perfect for a day out with the kids. These include:

The Aquatic Center

The Aquatic Center is a great spot for families. The center has several pools, including a kiddie pool, making it a great spot for kids of all ages.

The McDowell County Public Library

The McDowell County Public Library is a great spot for families. The library has a wide selection of books and hosts several events throughout the year, including storytime for kids.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences in McDowell County

If you’re looking for a unique travel experience, McDowell County has several off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. These include:

The Mystery Hole

The Mystery Hole is a unique attraction in McDowell County. Visitors can experience the strange gravitational forces that make objects appear to defy gravity.

The Welch National Guard Armory

The Welch National Guard Armory is a historic building that is worth a visit. The armory was built in 1931 and features stunning architecture.

Natural Wonders in McDowell County

McDowell County is home to several natural wonders that are a must-see for any nature lover. These include:

The Bluestone River

The Bluestone River is a stunning river that runs through southern West Virginia. Visitors can hike along the river and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

The Berwind Lake Wildlife Management Area

The Berwind Lake Wildlife Management Area is a great spot for nature lovers. The area is home to several species of wildlife, including deer, bear, and turkey.

Vibrant Nightlife in McDowell County

McDowell County may be a small county, but it has a vibrant nightlife. Some of the top spots include:

The Railyard

The Railyard is a popular spot for locals. The bar has a wide selection of drinks and often hosts live music performances.

The Chuckwagon

The Chuckwagon is another popular spot for locals. The bar has a friendly atmosphere and often hosts karaoke nights.

Local Markets in McDowell County

McDowell County has several local markets that are worth a visit. These include:

The Welch Farmers Market

The Welch Farmers Market is a great spot to buy fresh produce. The market is open on Saturdays and has a wide selection of fruits and vegetables.

The McDowell County Farmers Market

The McDowell County Farmers Market is another great spot to buy fresh produce. The market is open on Thursdays and has a wide selection of fruits and vegetables.

Beaches and Mountains in McDowell County

McDowell County is home to several stunning beaches and mountains. These include:

The Lake Shawnee Beach

The Lake Shawnee Beach is a great spot to relax and enjoy the sun. The beach has several picnic areas and is perfect for a family outing.

The Pinnacle Mountain

The Pinnacle Mountain is a stunning mountain that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Visitors can hike to the top of the mountain for an even better view.

Cultural Immersion in McDowell County

McDowell County has a rich culture that is worth exploring. Some of the top cultural experiences include:

The Coal Miners’ Memorial

The Coal Miners’ Memorial is a tribute to the coal miners who worked in McDowell County. The memorial is located in Welch and is a great spot to learn about the county’s coal mining history.

The McDowell County Courthouse

The McDowell County Courthouse is a historic building that is worth a visit. The courthouse was built in 1893 and features stunning architecture.

Art and Music Scene in McDowell County

McDowell County has a vibrant art and music scene. Some of the top spots include:

The Appalachian Festival

The Appalachian Festival is an annual festival that celebrates the culture of the Appalachian region. The festival features live music, local food, and arts and crafts.

The Welch Art Gallery

The Welch Art Gallery is a great spot to see local art. The gallery features works by local artists and often hosts art exhibitions.

Walking Tours in McDowell County

McDowell County has several walking tours that are a great way to explore the county’s rich history. Some of the top tours include:

The Hatfield and McCoy Feud Tour

The Hatfield and McCoy Feud Tour takes visitors to the sites where the infamous feud took place. The tour is led by a local guide who shares the history of the feud.