Things to do in Charleston

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What to do in Charleston

Discover the most popular places to visit in Charleston

West Virginia State Capitol Building

4.5/5(89 reviews)

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.

Mardi Gras Casino

4/5(162 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.

University of Charleston

4/5(52 reviews)

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.

Aerial Elevating Up Over Chruch Clocktower and Charleston West Virginia

Charleston Town Center

4/5(195 reviews)

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.

Haddad Riverfront Park

4/5(2 reviews)

Haddad Riverfront Park is just one of the places to see in Charleston, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? While in this walkable area, find time to visit its casinos.

West Virginia State Museum

4/5(28 reviews)

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

4.5/5(131 reviews)

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.

Southridge Center

4.5/5(66 reviews)

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.

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.

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Charleston

Downtown Charleston

If you're spending some time in Downtown Charleston, Mountain Stage and Charleston Town Center are top sights worth seeing.

Aerial View of the West Virginia State Capitol Complex

Teays Valley

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

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.

Aerial view of Charleston, West Virginia skyline and South Side Bridge. Charleston is the capital and most populous city of the U.S. state of West Virginia and the seat of Kanawha County

South Hills

While visiting South Hills, you might make a stop by sights like Sunrise Bird Sanctuary Museum and Wallace Hartman Nature Preserve.

West Side

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

Institute

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

Popular day trips from Charleston

Long Panoramic View Charleston West Virginia Capitol City

South Charleston

A vast amazing view of the mountains and hills of West Virginia showing the beautiful fall color palette and blue cloudy sky. Shot near Cass, WV.

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.

Paddle Boarding or Kayaking Summersville Lake

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.