Things to do in Charleston

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West Virginia State Capitol Building showing heritage architecture and an administrative buidling
West Virginia State Museum showing interior views
Charleston which includes a city
West Virginia State Capitol Building featuring an administrative buidling and interior views
West Virginia State Capitol Building featuring an administrative buidling, interior views and heritage architecture
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What to do in Charleston

Discover the most popular places to visit in Charleston

West Virginia State Capitol Building showing heritage architecture and an administrative buidling

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 Capitol Building
West Virginia State Museum featuring heritage elements and interior views

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.

West Virginia State Museum

Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center

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

Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center

Mardi Gras Casino

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.

Mardi Gras Casino

Charleston Town Center

You can search for that perfect souvenir at Charleston Town Center during your visit to Charleston. While in this walkable area, find time to visit its casinos.

Charleston Town Center

Southridge Center

You can do some window-shopping at Southridge Center during your stay in Charleston. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the casinos in this relaxing area.

Southridge Center

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.

University of Charleston

CAMC General Hospital

Though CAMC General Hospital might be what brings you to town, perhaps you'll have a chance to explore more of Charleston while you are here.

CAMC General Hospital

Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences

You can enjoy a show at Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences during your stay in Charleston. While in this walkable area, find time to visit its casinos.

Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Charleston

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Teays Valley

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

Teays Valley
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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 Blackwell Field.

Kanawha City
West Virginia which includes tranquil scenes and mountains

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.

Downtown Charleston
The excellent selection of in house gelato at caffe romeo.

South Hills

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

South Hills
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Institute

Institute might not have many top sights, but Mardi Gras Casino and Memorial Ice Arena are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Institute
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West Side

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

West Side

Popular day trips from Charleston

Photo by J Lilly

Hurricane

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 neighborhoods, East End Historic District is 2 kilometers away from downtown, while Downtown Charleston is 0.64 kilometers away from the center 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.

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 neighborhoods, 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.