Things To Do in Charleston, West Virginia

Charleston Things to Do

Charleston is the capital of West Virginia. It is the government and commerce center of the State of West Virginia. Obviously, it has been a center of the coal industry during its existence thanks to West Virginia’s relationship with that industry and has many things to do for people visiting.

The State Capitol Building

Charleston wasn’t always the capital of its state. There were actually two other cities that had that claim before Charleston was decided upon. It has been the capital since the late 19th century when the state’s residents voted on it. The current capitol building was finished in the 1930’s. The building has a stark architectural look designed in the Italian Renaissance style. Thanks to the Indiana limestone used in its construction, the building is considered to be one of the most beautiful state capitol buildings in the country. Many visitors park for a few hours and take a walk around the grounds.

Haddad Riverfront Park

Haddad Riverfront Park sits on the banks of the Kanawha River. It is a modern park as it underwent a complete renovation in 1995. Many locals and tourists use the park to relax during the day and have a picnic. There are also concerts hosted there in the amphitheater that seats 2,500 people.

The Governor’s Mansion

The Governor’s Mansion is located on the grounds of the Capitol Complex, so it is easy to visit while you are checking out the Capitol Building. It is the residence of the Governor of West Virginia. The home was finished around the same time as the Capitol Building in 1925. Parts of the house are open to the public for tours. The grounds might be the most impressive part of the building. They are the home to some fascinating walled gardens. The house has 30 rooms overall including the resident’s quarters for the Governor and their family.

Sacred Heart Co-Cathedral

The Catholic diocese of Charleston has a unique arrangement. The cathedrals in the two cities of Charleston and Wheeling are each home to a Cathedral and the bishop of the diocese splits his time between both of them. The church is open every day and has multiple services for Sunday Mass. Many visitors stop by outside of the services to look at the stained glass windows.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Charleston.