When the first snowflakes gracefully blanket the landscape, Fayetteville, West Virginia, located in the heart of the New River National Park and Preserve, undergoes a magical transformation into a winter wonderland. With the leaves gone, the southern end of this natural region reveals its breathtaking vistas, inviting you to immerse yourself in a serene and snowy mountain landscape like no other. It’s a season of solitude and unparalleled beauty, where ice formations cling to rock cliffs, and frozen waterfalls leave you spellbound.
Enjoy the national park by day and warm up in town in the evening. When you bundle up and stroll around town you will discover a variety of delicious eateries, unique shops and cozy places to stay. So, join us on a winter weekend getaway and experience Fayetteville at its most enchanting.
Friday:
Start your winter adventure by stopping at the Fayetteville Visitor Center, where friendly faces will acquaint you with the town and share insights into the weekend’s events. Winter is the perfect time to savor hearty meals at our remarkable restaurants without the bustling summer crowds. After dinner, set out to explore Fayetteville’s booming wine and craft beer scene.
Fayetteville is home to Bridge Brew Works. Head over to Bridge Brew Works’ tasting room, where you can sample a flight of their latest brews or savor a pint of their classic offerings. The tasting room welcomes guests from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Fridays during the winter. If you’re staying at a downtown bed-and-breakfast or vacation rental, you’ll be within a leisurely stroll of the Southside Junction Tap House, offering an extensive selection of local brews and wines. For those staying at the New River Quality Inn, you’ll find Elliott’s Whitewater Bar & Grill conveniently located on-site, eliminating the need for a drive. The Historic Morris Harvey House is one of the coziest retreats in Fayetteville. Warm up with a drink at Rosa’s onsite speakeasy.
Saturday:
Start your day by fueling up with a delicious breakfast at Cathedral Cafe or Wood Iron Eatery. Afterward, visit the Canyon Rim Visitor Center and learn about the history of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. The visitor center, open year-round from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., offers picturesque overlooks of the New River Gorge Bridge from the Canyon Rim Boardwalk.
If weather conditions allow, venture out on a scenic drive down the meandering Fayette Station Road, offering mesmerizing views of the Gorge in its winter splendor. Follow the road to the river’s edge, where giant ice formations will captivate your senses. As you climb back up out of the Gorge and pass the icy streams and waterfalls, you will see wide spots to stop and grab the perfect winter waterfall shots.
Fayette Station Road leads back to Route 19, guiding you back to town for a well-deserved lunch. On snowy days, you might even find a couple of sleds by Secret Sandwich Society for playful moments in Jantulo Park. After lunch in town, bundle up for a leisurely stroll and browse adventure gear shops, unique boutiques, antique stores and more.
For those seeking a challenge, test your wits with an escape room adventure at Escape-A-Torium. If you looking for a deeper connection with nature, squeeze in a rejuvenating hike before sunset. Our two favorite winter hikes include the Long Point Trail, which offers incredible views of the New River Gorge Bridge, and the Burnwood Trail, a short hike through the national park’s old-growth forest. Hawks Nest and Babcock State Park are just a short drive from Fayetteville. Babcocks Gristmill covered in a light dusting of snow is spectacular. The Hawks Nest Rail Trail is one of our favorite hikes to view icy waterfalls in the winter.
As the day winds down, treat yourself to a nice dinner at Wanderlust Creative Foods. Fayetteville is renowned for its vibrant music scene, so consider catching an intimate show at Maggie’s Pub, Southside Junction Tap House or Charlie’s Pub on Saturday night. End your evening relaxing in a clawfoot tub at Lafayette Flats or a serene night in a secluded cabin with a hot tub and cozy fireplace.
Sunday:
Elevate your New River Gorge experience and reach new heights on a Bridge Walk tour. Bridge Walk operates year-round, providing an opportunity to stand 876 feet above the majestic New River Gorge and take in the panoramic views. Alternatively, you can soar from tree to tree and gain a bird’s-eye perspective through ziplining at one of our neighboring adventure resorts.
Fayetteville isn’t just about playing hard; it’s also an ideal place to rejuvenate and relax. Ocean’s Massage Therapy can pamper you, and the New River Yoga studio, conveniently located in town, offers private yoga sessions for all skill levels, helping you unwind from your weekend adventures.
Other Winter Ideas & Winter Events:
During your winter escape to Fayetteville, there are plenty of other activities and events to enhance your experience. Consider embarking on scenic drives through the picturesque landscapes of the region, where snow-covered vistas will take your breath away.
For those seeking a more active adventure, Winterplace Ski Resort is just a 45-minute drive away, offering excellent opportunities for skiing and snowboarding.Additionally, Fayetteville hosts a variety of fun winter events to keep you entertained.
At the beginning of each month, the town holds Fayetteville’s First Fridays, which offers the opportunity to enjoy our local culture and support area businesses. In December, the Winter Wonderland of Lights at Fayette County Park illuminates the evenings, creating a magical atmosphere throughout the month.
For a taste of holiday cheer, the Gingerbread Festival from December 1-3 is a delightful experience. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can even kick off the New Year with a splash by joining the exhilarating Polar Plunge on New Year’s Day.
Finally, don’t miss the enchanting Wizard Weekend on January 27 and 28, adding a touch of magic to your winter getaway in Fayetteville. Visit our event calendar to stay updated on current happenings.
Where To Stay:
In Fayetteville, you’ll find a diverse array of accommodations to suit every traveler’s preference. From cozy cabins nestled in the woods to charming bed-and-breakfasts offering a warm and personalized experience, and vacation rentals providing a home away from home to a hotel catering to all your needs. No matter your choice, rest assured that Fayetteville has the perfect place for you to unwind and make the most of your winter getaway.
Your winter weekend getaway in Fayetteville awaits! With a world of wonder, adventure and relaxation, all you need to do is pack your bags and head out way.