Things to do in Charleston

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Charleston

Types of activities

Where to stay

Charleston travel guide

West Virginia State Capitol Building featuring an administrative building and heritage architecture

West Virginia State Museum which includes interior views

West Virginia State Capitol Building featuring interior views and an administrative building

West Virginia State Capitol Building showing an administrative building, heritage architecture and interior views

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What to do in Charleston

Popular places to visit

West Virginia State Capitol Building

Take a guided tour around West Virginia’s seat of government and marvel at its dazzling dome, which is covered in 23.5-karat gold.

West Virginia State Museum

Familiarize yourself with the story of West Virginia at this nicely laid-out museum, which covers such diverse topics as coal and the Civil War.

Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center

Learn about the events happening in Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center during your trip to Charleston. Visit the shops and casinos in this family-friendly area.

Mardi Gras Casino

Why not roll the dice with a visit to Mardi Gras Casino during your travels in Cross Lanes? Wander the area's riverfront or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

Charleston Town Center

You can do some window-shopping at Charleston Town Center during your trip to Charleston. While in this walkable area, find time to visit its casinos.

Southridge Center

You can search for that perfect souvenir at Southridge Center during your trip to Charleston. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the casinos in this relaxing area.

University of Charleston

Take a campus tour or just explore the area of University of Charleston during your travels in Charleston. While in this walkable area, find time to visit its casinos.

Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences

You can make plans for a show at Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences on your trip to Charleston. While in this walkable area, find time to visit its casinos.

Kanawha State Forest

Explore the great outdoors at Kanawha State Forest, a lovely green space in Charleston. While in this relaxing area, you can savour the cosy cafes.

Areas of Charleston

Downtown Charleston

While visiting Downtown Charleston, you might make a stop by sights like Mountain Stage and Charleston Town Center.

Teays Valley

While visiting Teays Valley, you might make a stop by sights like Scott Junction Plaza and Teays Valley Lakes.

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 The Shops at Kanawha.

South Hills

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

Institute

When in Institute, you can plan a visit to Venture Lanes and Dunbar Village Shopping Center, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

West Side

If you're spending some time in West Side, Patrick Street Plaza Shopping Center and Ruffner Memorial Park are top sights worth seeing.

Frequently asked questions

Is Charleston worth visiting?

With a mix of culture and history, there are many things to do in Charleston. When you're here, check out West Virginia State Museum, a leading attraction in the area.

How do I spend a day in Charleston?

West Virginia State Museum and Venture Lanes are two excellent places to kick-start your sightseeing adventures. Remember to check out the dining and shopping options in Charleston while you're in town too.

What is the top tourist attraction in Charleston?

The top tourist attraction in Charleston is West Virginia State Museum, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing list.

Is three days enough to stay in Charleston?

Three days will be plenty of time to tick off the leading city attractions, including West Virginia State Museum, East End Historic District and Charleston Stage Company. The average stay in Charleston is two days. If you have the time to extend your trip, Cross Lanes isn't far away.

Is Charleston a walkable city?

It all comes down to what you'd like to see and do in Charleston. Several top sights, like West Virginia State Museum and East End Historic District, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Charleston's neighbourhoods, East End Historic District is 2 kilometres away from downtown, while Downtown Charleston is 0.64 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.

What are some activities to do in Charleston with kids?

If you are after sights and activities for all of your group, have a look at these fabulous ideas for what to do in Charleston with kids.

New River Gorge Guided Paddleboarding and Kayaking

What to do in Charleston for adults?

West Virginia State Capitol Building and Cabin Creek Quilts are just a couple of the things to do in Charleston. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.

Are there free things to do in Charleston?

One of the easiest ways to learn about free things to do in Charleston is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on exciting neighbourhoods, parks and other major attractions you can visit without opening your wallet. East End Historic District is one place that doesn't charge an entrance fee.

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