Things To Do
in Beckley
Beckley is a small city located in Raleigh County, West Virginia, United States. It is known for its natural beauty, surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills. The city also offers a mix of outdoor recreational activities, historical attractions, and cultural experiences.
With a population of around 16,000 residents, Beckley maintains a friendly and tight-knit community atmosphere.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the New River Gorge for a hiking experience. The breathtaking views and trails will surely energize you.
Head to the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine for a fascinating guided tour. Learn about the region's coal mining history and ride underground.
Unwind with dinner at a local restaurant serving West Virginia cuisine. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere and local hospitality.
Spend the morning exploring the Twin Falls State Park with its serene trails and beautiful waterfalls. Take your time enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Have a picnic lunch at the park, followed by some leisure time to observe wildlife. The natural beauty makes for a perfect midday retreat.
Return to Beckley and enjoy a calm evening stroll at the local park. Relax and reflect on your day surrounded by nature.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including nearby mountains and parks.
- Friendly community with a small-town feel.
- Access to outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing.
- Rich history and cultural attractions, including the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Less access to big-city amenities and entertainment options.
- Public transportation options may be limited.
- Potential for harsh winter weather conditions.
- Limited healthcare facilities and services compared to urban areas.
Best Activities in Beckley
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the breathtaking landscapes, hiking trails, rock climbing spots, and whitewater rafting opportunities in one of the most scenic areas of West Virginia.
Experience thrilling rafting adventures on the New River, suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters, with stunning views of the gorge.
Take an underground tour of a historic coal mine and learn about the history of coal mining in West Virginia, followed by outdoor activities in the surrounding areas.
Enjoy picnicking, hiking, and scenic overlooks at this park, which offers views of the New River Gorge and plenty of space for outdoor recreation.
Ride through diverse terrain and trails suitable for all skill levels in one of the premier mountain biking destinations in the state.
Experience the thrill of zip lining through the beautiful landscapes of the New River Gorge, combining adventure with incredible views.
Enjoy fishing opportunities in the New River, where you can catch a variety of species while surrounded by picturesque landscapes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Beckley with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Beckley
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers beautiful lake views and scenic hiking trails, providing excellent photo opportunities
Features stunning overlooks of the New River Gorge, offering breathtaking photo opportunities of the gorge and surrounding landscapes
Provides a unique opportunity to capture historical and industrial photo compositions
Food in Beckley
Beckley Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local favorite, this savory pastry filled with pepperoni and cheese is a must-try. Recommended to try at the beloved family-owned Tamarack.
Must-Try!
This Southern classic is served with a tangy remoulade sauce at The Char. It's a delightful appetizer choice.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Beckley better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Farmer's Market is a vibrant hub for fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and homemade treats. Don't miss the opportunity to sample the diverse street food offerings on Saturdays.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Beckley, located in West Virginia, embodies the Southern tradition of hospitality. Greet people with a friendly smile and a polite 'hello.' It's common to engage in small talk, so don't hesitate to strike up a conversation.
While people in Beckley are friendly, it's important to respect personal space. Standing too close during conversations can make others uncomfortable, so maintain an appropriate distance, especially with people you don’t know well.
In Beckley, local customs may include participation in community events, such as fairs and festivals. Show interest in local culture by attending these events and understanding the significance of local traditions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Beckley with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Beckley
Ensure a smooth experience
In Beckley, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is customary in the service industry. Commonly, customers tip service workers such as waitstaff, bartenders, and hairdressers. The standard tip ranges from 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service. Some establishments may include a service charge for larger groups.
Payment methods in Beckley are diverse and include cash, credit and debit cards, and mobile payment options. Most businesses accept major credit cards, and there is a growing trend towards contactless payment methods. Many restaurants and shops may also have loyalty programs that offer rewards for frequent customers, encouraging the use of cards over cash.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Beckley.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
In spring, Beckley experiences moderate temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F. The area comes alive with blooming flowers and lush greenery, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the beautiful landscapes.
During summer, Beckley enjoys warm and pleasant weather, with temperatures averaging between 65°F to 85°F. This is the perfect time to explore the outdoor attractions, indulge in water activities, and attend the numerous events and festivals held in the city.
Autumn in Beckley offers stunning foliage as the leaves change color, creating a picturesque landscape. The weather is cool and crisp, with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 65°F, making it an ideal time for scenic drives, hiking, and immersing in the fall festivities.
Winter in Beckley brings snowy landscapes and temperatures averaging between 25°F to 40°F. This season is ideal for winter sports enthusiasts, as Beckley offers opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other snow-related activities amidst the charming winter scenery.
Beckley at Night
Hiking in Beckley
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park featuring rugged cliffs, whitewater rapids, and extensive hiking trails, including the popular Long Point and Endless Wall trails.
Known for its picturesque landscapes and a historic gristmill, this park offers several hiking trails that showcase the beauty of the West Virginia wilderness.
Located in the New River Gorge area, Grandview offers panoramic views of the gorge and a series of well-marked hiking trails, including loops and more challenging routes.
This park features a hiking trail that leads to Pinnacle Rock, providing stunning views of the surrounding area, ideal for both novice and experienced hikers.
A lovely park with several easy hiking trails around a beautiful lake, perfect for a family outing or a peaceful day in nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Beckley through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Beckley by plane.
Located approximately 60 miles southeast of Beckley, CHS serves as a primary airport in West Virginia, offering numerous domestic and some international flights.
Located about 50 miles northeast of Beckley, CRW is the main airport for Charleston and serves several major airlines with flights across the United States.
Approximately 90 miles north of Beckley, PIT is a major international airport serving the Pittsburgh area with a wide range of domestic and international flights.
Located about 100 miles southeast of Beckley, ROA serves the Roanoke and Blacksburg areas with various domestic flights, with some connections to international destinations.
Situated around 170 miles northeast of Beckley, IAD is one of the major international airports serving the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, with extensive international and domestic flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest racial demographic group in Beckley.
A significant racial demographic group contributing to the city's diversity.
A growing demographic group within the city.
A smaller demographic group within Beckley.
An even smaller demographic group in the area.
Representing individuals across multiple racial backgrounds.
The Soul of Beckley
Discover the essence of Beckley through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played in schools and recreational leagues throughout Beckley, often featuring local competitions.
A widely followed sport, especially at the high school level, with passionate local support for teams.
A traditional sport with youth leagues and adult recreational teams, enjoying a strong following in the community.
Gaining popularity among youth and adult players, with various leagues forming in recent years.
With access to beautiful natural parks and trails, hiking is a popular outdoor activity for residents.
A competitive sport offered in schools, with a history of strong local programs and athletes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Beckley.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Beckley offer dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus with creative plant-based options, ensuring that all dietary preferences are catered to.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find a range of gluten-free dishes at different establishments including Campestre Mexican Restaurant and The Dish Cafe.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Beckley with these cultural adventures.
