Charleston, WV

Travel Guide

A large neoclassical building with a golden dome, wide steps leading up to the entrance, and symmetrical columns.
A museum exhibit with glass display cases and framed pictures on the walls.
A row of brick buildings with large windows and a green street lamp.
A grand legislative chamber with a large arched ceiling, red curtains, and rows of desks.
A street sign for Quarrier St. and a One Way sign.

The capital of West Virginia has cultural attractions dating back to the 1700s and the largest capitol dome in the country. Surrounded by scenic forest, it’s also a place to enjoy outdoor activities.

Charleston is the state capital and largest city of West Virginia. Watch comedy, visit museums and see theater and art exhibitions downtown. Go hiking, biking and fishing in state forests just outside the city limits.

The West Virginia State Capitol has the largest state capitol dome in the country. Photograph the iconic dome, which is decorated in 23-karat gold leaf.

Enjoy a leisurely walk around the grounds to see statues and other monuments.Enjoy the classical architecture on tree-lined Capitol Street as you walk between boutiques, restaurants and bars on the city’s main thoroughfare.

Visit the West Virginia Cultural Center and State Museum, also located in the State Capitol Complex. Discover facts about West Virginia from prehistoric times to present day. The Cultural Center has a theater and exhibition space that regularly host events.

Visitors of all ages will love the Avampato Discovery Museum in the Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences of West Virginia. Learn about science through interactive exhibits or see a planetarium show in the domed theater. The center’s gallery space has a comprehensive collection of art dating back to 1600s, when the city was first settled.

Get out and enjoy the great outdoors at Kanawha State Forest, 7 miles (11.26 kilometers) south of downtown. Go hiking, biking or horseback riding along its many trails. Bring your own rod to go fishing in the lake. Bring a tent to stay in a campsite for a small fee.

Go back into the city for a night of live entertainment. Stop by the Comedy Zone Charleston in downtown for an evening of laughter. It’s the longest running comedy club in the state. Listen to the musical talent of the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra, which plays at the Clay Center.

Several major highways run through Charleston. Yeager Airport is located just outside the city and Amtrak provides rail service several days a week. See the city’s downtown cultural attractions on foot and then rent a car to explore the incredible natural scenery outside the city limits.

Where to stay in Charleston

Find the best Charleston areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Charleston
Learn more about Charleston
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Photo by Rhonda Wileman
Open Photo by Rhonda Wileman

Downtown Charleston

If you're spending some time in Downtown Charleston, Charleston Town Center and Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences are top sights worth seeing.

A river, a cityscape with a prominent dome-shaped building, and surrounding greenery.

East End Historic District

East End Historic District is well-liked for its casinos, and you can visit sights like West Virginia State Museum and West Virginia Culture Center if you have time to explore the area.

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Kanawha City

You'll enjoy the restaurants and shopping in Kanawha City. You might want to make time for a stop at Kanawha Mall Shopping Center or Kanawha Landing.

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South Hills

While visiting South Hills, you might make a stop by sights like Wallace Hartman Nature Preserve and Cox-Morton House.

West Side

While visiting West Side, you might make a stop by sights like Patrick Street Plaza Shopping Center and Ruffner Memorial Park.

Holiday Inn Express Charleston-Civic Center by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Charleston-Civic Center by IHG

2.5 out of 5
100 Civic Center Drive Charleston WV
$91 nightly
The price is $103 total per night from Dec 6 to Dec 7
$103 total
Dec 6 - Dec 7
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Charleston. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,185 reviews)
"Clean room staff friendly breakfast good"

Reviewed on Nov 5, 2026

Holiday Inn Express Charleston-Civic Center by IHG
Embassy Suites Charleston

Embassy Suites Charleston

3.5 out of 5
300 Court St Charleston WV
$106 nightly
The price is $120 total per night from Nov 22 to Nov 23
$120 total
Nov 22 - Nov 23
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Charleston. Enjoy free breakfast, room service, and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,497 reviews)
"I have stayed in Embassy Suites in the pass. But was a disappointing visit. The evening happy hour snacks have gone down hill. The remodeling is nice and clean. I missed the greeery."

Reviewed on Nov 6, 2026

Embassy Suites Charleston
Charleston Marriott Town Center

Charleston Marriott Town Center

3.5 out of 5
200 Lee St E Charleston WV
$87 nightly
The price is $98 total per night from Nov 15 to Nov 16
$98 total
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Charleston. Enjoy breakfast (surcharge), a free airport shuttle, and room service. Our guests praise the helpful ...
Charleston Marriott Town Center
See all 627 properties in Charleston
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
ADULT ONLY Naughty Pines log cabin located in South Charleston, WV

ADULT ONLY Naughty Pines log cabin located in South Charleston, WV

South Charleston WV
Stay at this cabin in Charleston. Enjoy free WiFi, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions Dunbar Village Shopping Center and Dunbar Park are located ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (29 reviews)
"Stayed for our anniversary as a surprise for my husband.Everything was wonderful. Communication was quick. The cabin was very clean and the attention to detail was thoughtful.Highy recommend for an out of the box stay It is close to several great restaurants."

Reviewed on Oct 8, 2026

ADULT ONLY Naughty Pines log cabin located in South Charleston, WV
Sparrows Nest Luxurious newly built home overlooking woods and mountains.

Sparrows Nest Luxurious newly built home overlooking woods and mountains.

Charleston WV
Stay at this vacation home in Charleston. Enjoy free WiFi, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions Coonskin Park and Schoenbaum Stadium are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (108 reviews)
"Had more helpful touches than any place I’ve ever stayed. Kitchen supplies were over and above."

Reviewed on Oct 27, 2026

Sparrows Nest Luxurious newly built home overlooking woods and mountains.
Rosie's Cabin is an authentic log cabin located just 10 minutes from Charleston.

Rosie's Cabin is an authentic log cabin located just 10 minutes from Charleston.

South Charleston WV
Stay at this cabin in Charleston. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Dunbar Village Shopping Center and Dunbar Park are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (44 reviews)
"We travel a lot and this charming cabin was one of the best we have ever stayed in and the hosts have thought of everything to make your stay relaxing and fun. It is immaculate, exactly as pictured, and has many lovely features such as a fireplace, hot tub, and both front and back porches for quiet ..."

Reviewed on Nov 5, 2026

Rosie's Cabin is an authentic log cabin located just 10 minutes from Charleston.
See all properties in Charleston
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Charleston attractions

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Mardi Gras Casino

8.4/10 (557 reviews)
Why not roll the dice with a visit to Mardi Gras Casino during your time in Cross Lanes? Wander the area's riverfront or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
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Frequently asked questions

Is Charleston worth visiting?
Charleston is worth visiting for its standout attractions, including the Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center and the West Virginia State Capitol Building. Travelers can explore distinct areas like Downtown Charleston and Teays Valley, and enjoy a diverse food scene featuring North American comfort food and Asian dishes.
When is the best time to visit Charleston?
The best time to visit Charleston is from May through September, when travelers can enjoy pleasant, warm weather. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of November through February are a good bet, offering cooler temperatures perfect for exploring the city.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Charleston?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Charleston depend on what you want to see:

  • Downtown Charleston is home to the Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center, Charleston Town Center, and the Callen McJunkin Gallery.
  • Teays Valley offers recreation at Sleepy Hollow Golf Club and shopping at Teays Center Plaza and Scott Junction Plaza.
  • Kanawha City features Walt Powell Park, Kanawha Mall Shopping Center, and Blackwell Field.
  • South Hills provides natural beauty at Wallace Hartman Nature Preserve and the Sunrise Bird Sanctuary Museum, plus the historic Cox-Morton House.

What is Charleston known for?
Charleston is known for its significant institutions, including the Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center, the West Virginia State Capitol Building, and the University of Charleston. Travelers can also explore neighborhoods like Downtown Charleston and Teays Valley, and enjoy the local North American food culture.
What is a good itinerary length for Charleston?
A good itinerary length for Charleston is two to three days to explore Downtown Charleston, see the West Virginia State Capitol Building, and enjoy a Charleston Scavenger Hunt. For a longer trip of four to five days, travelers can also visit the University of Charleston, the Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center, or experience a Courting the Crimson Curse: Charleston Ghost Tour. See Charleston Activities.
How do you get around Charleston?
In Charleston, rental cars are available in neighborhoods like Downtown Charleston, Kanawha City, and West Side, offering flexibility to explore. Train service is available from Charleston Station and Montgomery Station for travelers. Rideshare services are also an option for getting around the city.
What are the top things to do in and around Charleston?
Charleston offers a blend of historic landmarks, cultural experiences, and unique tours for travelers to enjoy:

  • Go on a Charleston Scavenger Hunt through West Virginia's Cultural Crown.
  • Take a Charleston Ghost Tour to discover local legends.
  • Tour the Promise Land Bee Farm for a unique experience.
  • Visit the West Virginia State Capitol Building, a prominent landmark.
  • Explore the Charleston Town Center, a popular point of interest.

How do I plan a trip to Charleston?
Plan your Charleston trip by searching for hotels in Downtown Charleston, Teays Valley, or Kanawha City. Book flights and activities like a Scavenger Hunt or Charleston Ghost Tour in advance. Train travel is available, or consider a rental car. For outdoor activities, always have indoor backups for weather flexibility.
What cuisines can you find in Charleston?
In Charleston you can find Southern soul food, featuring dishes like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and collard greens. Travelers also have options for New American cuisine, along with diverse Asian choices including Japanese and Thai, and Latin American selections like Mexican.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Charleston?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Charleston by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Charleston with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Charleston trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Charleston?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Charleston can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Charleston trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Charleston trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Charleston trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Charleston trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Charleston?
If it's your first trip to Charleston, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Charleston hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Charleston hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Charleston

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Dunbar

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South Charleston

A river, a cityscape with a prominent dome-shaped building, and surrounding greenery.

Cross Lanes

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St Albans

Other places like Charleston

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