Charleston WV - The Business, Cultural and
Recreational Capital of the Appalachian Mountains
Charleston WV - The Business, Cultural and Recreational Capital of the Appalachian Mountains Charleston is a historic riverfront town, the seat of state government and the state’s hub for business, commerce, medicine and culture in the Mountain State. The city is the most populous in the state with a population of roughly 50,000. The city’s metro area surrounding Charleston takes this number to more than 200,000 persons.
Starting as a frontier town at the confluence of the Elk and Kanawha rivers and home to Daniel Boone, Charleston has grown throughout its history to become an important location for chemicals, coal, natural gas, banking and manufacturing. Today Charleston is a vibrant city that is diversifying into the advanced manufacturing and technology sectors, expanding its health care institutions and attracting more and more tourists and recreation visitors. It also has a long history as an entrepreneurial center for startups and family owned businesses.
KEY ATTRIBUTES ABOUT CHARLESTON
Big City/Small
City Charleston offers many of the benefits of a big city but maintains the convenience and community feel of a small city. While the city is a meeting spot for five highways, residents enjoy relatively low traffic congestion and short commute times. It also is home to Yeager regional airport, two rail lines and a sophisticated inland waterway system. Seat Of Government As the capital city of West Virginia, Charleston is home to the stunning State Capitol, with its gleaming 23-karat gold dome and classic 20th-century architecture. The city also is seat of government for Kanawha County and its historic courthouse.
Outdoor Recreation
Charleston sits in the midst of world-class outdoor recreational opportunities, and many of these are accessible within a short driving time. Residents and visitors alike appreciate the region’s scenic beauty, refreshing rivers, mountain vistas and unique recreational activities. Outdoor recreation options include hiking, biking, rock climbing, fishing, hunting, golf, tennis, kayaking, boating, etc. Within close proximity to the city are world-class whitewater rafting, calm river segments perfect for kayaking and one of the largest ATV trail systems in the nation. And, within a few hour’s drive are some of the best ski slopes in the eastern U.S.
Charleston also has parks and forest areas, including Kanawha State Forest and Coonskin Park. The city’s local parks and recreation systems provide playgrounds, pools, parks, youth programs and seasonal camps and outdoor activities.
Culture, Arts & Music
Charleston has a broad range of venues and activities in culture, art and music, including:
- West Virginia Culture Center
- West Virginia Symphony
- Clay Center for the Arts & Sciences
- Children’s Theater
- Mountain Stage
- Light Opera Guild
- West Virginia Music Hall of Fame
- Vandalia Gathering - Appalachian Music Festival
- FestivALL
- Charleston Ballet
Dynamic Community Events
Throughout the year the city offers a variety of events and activities, including 5K run/walks, outdoor entertainment on the Kanawha River, movie showings, festivals, fairs, artisan marketplaces, performance arts events, and much more. From the Christmas parade to car shows to free summer concerts and outdoor fireworks, there’s something for everyone.
Shopping
Charleston is the retail hub of West Virginia and includes not only malls and major shopping centers, but also antique stores and boutique shops, including the historic Capitol Market (indoor and outdoor) and the sprawling Charleston Town Center.
Sports
Sports fans and enthusiasts can watch minor league baseball (West Virginia Power) at Appalachian Power Park, attend sporting events and activities at the newly expanded Charleston Convention and Coliseum, and enjoy college and university games (basketball, soccer, football, etc.) at West Virginia State University and the University of Charleston.
Sites of interest:
https://wvtourism.com/company/charleston-convention-and-visitors-bureau/