Blog

We want to highlight some of the positive things going down in town this week to bring a smile to your face. Thank you to all the essential folks and helpers who are serving on the front lines and supporting our community! We have lots of exciting things going down this weekend.

Gauley Season Kick Off

Welcome whitewater enthusiasts!! Today marks the first day of Gauley Season, West Virginia’s official 5th season. People come from all over to experience world class whitewater fueled by the Summersville Lake damn releases.

Making a Difference: Society for women educators sews over 1,000 gaiters for children

Making a Difference: Society for women educators sews over 1,000 gaiters for children

Fayetteville Welcomes A Temporary Dog Park

We are excited to announce that Fayetteville now has a Temporary Dog Park, located at 114 Wiseman Ave, in front of the former Fayetteville Elementary School. This is just a Temporary park, however we hope to find a more permanent location soon. This is an ideal location to let your dog off the leash.

Kindness Spotlight: Lois Mathews

A mystery do-gooder has been planting joy in town. We would love to give a huge shout out to the kind lady who has been overflowing the community plant stand with beautiful plants weekly. Lois Mathews of Beckwith has been showering the plant stand with the beautiful hanging baskets and gorgeous potted plants. She has used her green thumb to send countless plants to new happy homes sparking lots of joy. Thank you, Lois Mathews!!! She has even taken the time to include care guides for new owners.

Selfie September

Throughout the month of September Fayetteville is celebrating everything selfie. There are countless photo-worthy spots in Fayetteville and lots of fun to be had. We want to see you enjoying your selfie in town. Share your adventures on our social media pages, and tag us @visitfayettevillewv using the hashtag #visittheville. We are running a photo contest for the best selfie this month. Embrace your self and selfie skills, weird and awkward selfies are encouraged. We will be uploading favorites to vote on our Facebook page at the end of September. Here are a few iconic Fayetteville spots to help you get started.

FHS Alumni Hosts Scholarship Fundraiser

Looking for something to do? Fayetteville has just added something to help support local students in our area!As you may know, Fayetteville High School closed in 2019. The FHS Alumni Committee has for years offered scholarships to students graduating from Fayetteville High. Beginning last year the scholarships have continued to be awarded to Fayetteville students who attend Oak Hill or Midland Trail, and the Scholarship Committee plans to continue the tradition with your support.So what does that have to do with something fun to do in town?? Well, in an effort to continue to fund the scholarships, the committee reached out to local residents and artists for help. Old school desks, tables, and podiums were taken from the former elementary school and offered as a medium for artists to create something beautiful and unique… a piece of history from our school.As of today, these works of art are being distributed throughout our town at participating businesses, as notated on the attached map. Silent bids will be taken on each piece at each place of business up until September 21, 2020. All you need to do is go into the business, and place your silent bid in the envelope. We will be doing an announcement of winners following the conclusion of the silent bid auction. Keep an eye out on our page as we will feature each piece, give its location, and share a bio of the artist. Our hope is that not only will you be supporting future students through scholarships, but you will also be helping to support our local small businesses in Fayetteville. Plan a day, a weekend, or a month to visit our fabulous businesses. Give them your support and take a peek at the beautiful art that has been created to support our students. Help us continue to fund the scholarships for our future. May you have the highest bid!!!

Desk Locations

Events

Live Music Chimney CornerChimney Corner Cafe

Live Music Our House Cantrells with

Matt Mullins at Our House Sept 12th

Fayetteville Farmers Market This Saturday

The Fayette County Farmers Market will be set up in the Fayette Courthouse Parking lot for this Saturday from 8:30am to 12:30pm. Come stock up on a variety of fresh goodies from breads to veggies and meats.Yoga On The Gorge Adventures On The Gorge 

Lodging

You still have time to book that last minute end of summer getaway. Don’t miss out on Labor Day adventure discounts.

Share Your Stories

We want to see your adventures in Fayetteville, share your adventures by tagging us at #visittheville.

Meal Pack Distribution

Fayette County prepares meal packs for distribution

Join Us As A Wifi Access Zone

WiFi Access Zones

Updated Restaurant & Retail List

Opening Status

#Fayettevillewvstrong 

We want to highlight some of the positive things going down in town this week to bring a smile to your face. Thank you to all the essential folks and helpers who are serving on the front lines and supporting our community! We have lots of exciting things going down this weekend.

Fayetteville Welcomes 3 New Shops To Town!!!!

Fayetteville Welcomes 3 New Shops!

Thread

Thread is an eclectic merchandise store in the heart of Fayetteville that also has a WIFI Lounge for individuals to chill, relax, and just be a part of the Thread of town! Owners Candace Evans and  Halee Kalinoskiare taking over the corner of 101 West Maple Ave. This is not just a WIFI lounge with a sexy blackberry velvet couch, but you will find handmade jewelry, vintage finds, personal shopping service, hip apparel, hats, games, and so much more. They are bringing their style and hearts to this shop. The owners want you to do more than shop. They want you to enjoy the uniqueness that is Thread by creating a space where people feel comfortable to dwell and be apart of the Thread. The shop is open today and through Labor Day Weekend! Friday-Sunday 11am-7pm. Monday 11am-4pm.Stop in and see us!! Grow Fayetteville, GROW!!!!!

Lost Appalachia

Watch out Fayetteville, here we come!Super excited to announce that Lost Appalachia will be opening its flagship location in Fayetteville, WV in 2021! The day I launched Lost Appalachia at Bridge Day I knew Fayetteville would be the brand’s home one day. From the endless opportunities for outdoor adventure in the New River Gorge to the vibrant community to its rich history, the town represents so much of what’s important to Lost Appalachia. I couldn’t be happier to become a part of such an amazing little town. (And be closer to all the great food).You can follow along as we get things ready here and over on the new store page @LostAppalachiaWV – Give us a follow and be sure to tell your friends!.Can’t wait to see everyone!.Thanks Amy and Shawn for making me feel so welcome! (Check out their beautiful vacation rentals upstairs @lafayetteflats )” Lost Appalachia Trading Company

Out of the Ashes

We are excited about another new shop coming to town this October. Out of The Ashes will help others find the authentic, the bold, and the beautiful in stories that come from out of the ashes in a retail shop.

Selfie September

Throughout the month of September Fayetteville is celebrating everything selfie. There are countless photo-worthy spots in Fayetteville and lots of fun to be had. We want to see you enjoying your selfie in town. Share your adventures on our social media pages, and tag us @visitfayettevillewv using the hashtag #visittheville. We are running a photo contest for the best selfie this month. Embrace your self and selfie skills, weird and awkward selfies are encouraged. We will be uploading favorites to vote on our Facebook page at the end of September. Here are a few iconic Fayetteville spots to help you get started.

Fayetteville Mural Trail

For a small town Fayetteville is packed with big art. Walking through town there is never a lack of things to catch your eye. The energy and vibe of Fayetteville can be captured in little pops of art throughout town.

Fayetteville Mural Trail

FHS Alumni Hosts Desk Scholarship

Looking for something to do? Fayetteville has just added something to help support local students in our area!As you may know, Fayetteville High School closed in 2019. The FHS Alumni Committee has for years offered scholarships to students graduating from Fayetteville High. Beginning last year the scholarships have continued to be awarded to Fayetteville students who attend Oak Hill or Midland Trail, and the Scholarship Committee plans to continue the tradition with your support.So what does that have to do with something fun to do in town?? Well, in an effort to continue to fund the scholarships, the committee reached out to local residents and artists for help. Old school desks, tables, and podiums were taken from the former elementary school and offered as a medium for artists to create something beautiful and unique… a piece of history from our school.As of today, these works of art are being distributed throughout our town at participating businesses, as notated on the attached map. Silent bids will be taken on each piece at each place of business up until September 21, 2020. All you need to do is go into the business, and place your silent bid in the envelope. We will be doing an announcement of winners following the conclusion of the silent bid auction. Keep an eye out on our page as we will feature each piece, give its location, and share a bio of the artist. Our hope is that not only will you be supporting future students through scholarships, but you will also be helping to support our local small businesses in Fayetteville. Plan a day, a weekend, or a month to visit our fabulous businesses. Give them your support and take a peek at the beautiful art that has been created to support our students. Help us continue to fund the scholarships for our future. May you have the highest bid!!!

Desk Locations

1. Ace Gear Shop
2. Elliott’s Whitewater Bar & Grill
3. Water Stone Outdoors
4. Fayetteville Town Hall (two desks)
5. Fayette County National Bank
6. The Hobbit Hole
7. Ben Franklin
8. Pies & Pints
9. Cathedral Cafe
10. Bridge Bound Campers
11. Wild Art & Wonderful Things
12. Wisteria Gifts

The Burrito Bar Offers Free Burritos To Teachers

With school starting back and being even more stressful than usual, we would like to offer a free Burrito this week September 3rd through September 8th to all teachers to show our appreciation.

Big Blue Is Back! Plastic Recycling

Welcome back big blue! Plastic recyling is back and big blue is back infront of Studio B. Bring your plastic!!! #1 & #2 only please!!

Free Wifi The Grove

The Grove & Secret Sandwich Society are offering free wifi for the community. If you or someone you know does not have reliable access to the internet, you are more than welcome to use ours. “GROVEGUEST” is the name and no password is required. We have a WiFi repeater and the fastest speeds available from Suddenlink. THANKFULLY, we generally do not experience much difficulty or “drop outs” like many residents in our region with Suddenlink. During open hours you are welcome to grab a table (limited availability, with masks) inside or use our front porches. Before or after hours, you may still use our front porches or park on Keller Avenue within range and work from your vehicle! Every little bit helps and we’re all in this together, so please, feel free to partake of our WiFi if needed and let others know that may not see this! It’s not lost on us that making the offer online, is of course inherently flawed if you can’t see it! Sooo…let’s get the word out! #freewifi

Events

Live Music Chimney Corner

Chimney Corner Cafe has an incredible line up of music the entire Labor Day Weekend!

Live Music Our House Cantrells with John Colby Elswick

Sunday 7:30pm-10:30pm

The Company Stores Live Stream

Join The Company Stores for a live stream this Sunday at 7:30pm on their facebook page.

ACE Adventure Resort Labor Day Celebration

ACE Adventure Resort is celebrating Labor Day weekend by giving back to our awesome guests. Get great deals on rafting trips and outdoor adventures plus killer end of the year sales at both our gear shop in Fayetteville and our outfitter store on the property.Demo boats and gear will also be for sale and an ACE yardsale where you never know what you will find.With a whole weekend of fun, you won’t want to miss anything!DAILY EVENTS
FRIDAY
National Paddling Film Festival Roadshow
4pm-10pm
Free Admission
Outside ShowingSATURDAY
12pm-8pm Craft Beer Event – “West Virginia Brewery Tour”
Brewery Tour Pass – $25 – Six pints @ Brewery Tents
Additional Beer Tickets – $5 EachEnd of Summer Sale at ACE Mountain Sports3pm-8pm Clam Bake on the Beach (Served at the Lakeside Eatery)
Cost $49.99 per personMenu
Roasted corn on the cobb
Roasted fingerling potatoes
Steamed mussels and clams
Grilled lobster and shrimp
Slow smoked steamship round
Chicken
Fruit carvings and charcuterie
Dessert:
Homemade apple pie
Fruit cobblers
BrowniesSUNDAY
10AM-6PM Yard Sale featuring equipment, furniture, and other items form our adventure departments and elsewhere at ACE. You never know what you’ll find!End of Summer Sale at ACE Mountain SportsMONDAY (LABOR DAY)
End of Summer Sale at ACE Mountain Sports

The Lost Paddle Ace Adventure Resort WV Brewing Tour

Labor Day weekend is looking better and better with the WV Brewery Tour at The Lost Paddle at Ace Adventure Resort. Come take a tour of some of the best breweries in West Virginia on Saturday, September 5th from 12-8pm. Representatives from each brewery will be joining us as to field questions and discuss their beers as well as the West Virginia craft beer industry. Enjoy 6 pints of any beers on tap at their booths! More info on ticket purchase, etc to come, Cheers!

Bridge Walk Running Labor Day Special

Join us for the conclusion of the unique and challenging summer of 2020. Enjoy a leisurely Bridge Walk before going back to jobs and school. On Labor Day Monday, we are offering a $49.00 per person ($51.94 with tax) special. Remember to visit our website (www.bridgewalk.com) to read our updated reservations and procedures. We require a mask and pre-reservations. You can also book online at the website or call our office at 304-574-1300. Beginning September 1st, our tour times will be at 9AM, 11AM, 1PM and 3PM or by special arrangement. Hope to see you under the bridge!

Wing Night with Jonah Carden at AOTG Resort

Monday 5pm-9pm

Making A Difference Monday

Making a Difference: Bus drivers prepared to play a major role in unpredictable school year

Fayetteville Farmers Market This Saturday

The Fayette County Farmers Market will be set up in the Fayette Courthouse Parking lot for this Saturday from 8:30am to 12:30pm. Come stock up on a variety of fresh goodies from breads to veggies and meats.Yoga On The Gorge Adventures On The Gorge 

Live Music at Our House Grill Cantrells

Join Matt Mullins at Our House Grill at Cantrells for live music Friday at 7:30pm.

Lodging

You still have time to book that last minute end of summer getaway. Don’t miss out on Labor Day adventure discounts.

Lodging

Share Your Stories

We want to see your adventures in Fayetteville, share your adventures by tagging us at #visittheville.

Updated Restaurant & Retail List

Opening Status 9/4

#Fayettevillewvstrong 

We love our little slice of almost heaven and our community is what makes this place so special. Over the coming weeks and months, our favorite restaurants, shops, places to stay and places to play in our beloved town are going to see a decline in visitors. Our little town is dependent on tourism so we are especially going to take a hit. Our small businesses need us now more than ever. #Fayettevillewvstrong is a movement to support our town and community.

You can help in lots of ways: ordering food to go, shopping online, tipping well, buy a gift card, leave a positive review, or just spread the word about your favorite small business and the #fayettevillewvstrong campaign. We are an outdoorsy close-knit town and we will be utilizing our strengths. You will see more businesses utilizing outdoor spaces. Please be patient with us as we navigate new changes and try to keep each other safe.

Throughout the month of September Fayetteville is celebrating everything selfie. There are countless photo-worthy spots in Fayetteville and lots of fun to be had. We want to see you enjoying your selfie in town. Share your adventures on our social media pages, and tag us @visitfayettevillewv using the hashtag #visittheville. We are running a photo contest for the best selfie this month. Embrace your self and selfie skills, weird and awkward selfies can be the best. We will be uploading favorites to vote on our Facebook page at the end of September. Here are a few iconic Fayetteville spots to help you get started. We have also put together a mural trail to help you find the perfect backdrop for your photos.

1.Fayette County Courthouse

The current Fayette County Courthouse is the fourth and was built in 1894–1895. The two 2 1/2 story courthouse is known for its stone porches and columns with romanesque capitols. Look closely to admire animal and human carvings in many of the pilaster capitals on the corner chimneys and ormers. A historic marker recognizes this site as the first use of indirect fire duringa battle. Fayetteville was fought over in the Civil War four times and was held by both the North and South.

2.Lafayette Statue

Fayetteville is Named after the Marquis de Lafayette, George Washington’s famed French advisor during the Revolutionary War. Lafayette’s statue looks upon downtown Fayetteville from the Fayette County Courthouse lawn.

3.Historic Fayette Theater

The Historic Fayette Theater is a former movie house that was built in 1937. It is one of the few Depression era theaters that is still in operation in southern West Virginia. The walls are covered with many paintings and pieces of art that depict life and entertainment from the 1930’s era.

4.The Stache

This tiny shop is a sweet treat. Visitors enjoy performing a ritual where they lift their ice cream in the sky and take a picture of it with the quaint town of Fayetteville as the backdrop. Everyone loves a good stache photo op.

5.Cathedral Cafe

The building that houses the cafe was originally a church built in 1905. It continued to operate a Methodist church until 1985. The cafe was opened in 1997 and still houses the original stained glass windows.

6.Bike Wall

Arrowhead Bike Farm is home to a unique wall made of bikes. Visitors also enjoy a good goat selfie with the famous goats that reside at the bike farm.

5.Bridge Selfie

Fayetteville sets on the edge of the New River Gorge and is home to the New River Gorge Bridge. If you want to keep your selfie game strong you have to grab a snap showcasing the majestical New River Gorge Bridge. You can hang out under the Bridge on a Bridge Walk Tour. You can take in magnificant views from above on the Longpoint Trail. You can drive down to the river on Fayette Mine Road and grab a selfie on the river with the bridge above. There are also two scenic overlooks at the New River Gorge Canyon Rim Visitor Center.

6. Adventure Selfie

Fayetteville is home to some of the best outdoor adventures on the East coast. Rent a paddleboard, kayak, experience whitewater, rockcliming, mountainbiking. We have limitless selfie opportunities.

7. Scenic Backdrops

Stop by the visitor center and we will point you in the right direction for the perfect scenic backdrop. Serve your best selfie in front of a waterfall or in front of breathtaking views of the New River Gorge.

8. Fayetteville Mural Trail

Explore more beautiful backdrops that capture the beauty, history and culture of Fayetteville. https://visitfayettevillewv.com/fayetteville-mural-trail/

For a small town, Fayetteville is packed with big art. Walking through town there is never a lack of things to catch your eye. The energy and the vibe of Fayetteville can be captured in little pops of art throughout the town.

1.Music Mural

Jeff Pierson, who is celebrated for his caricature style mural work throughout the state painted this mural under the old 2nd Ave overpass. Street. The mural depicts instruments typical of Appalachian music and heritage and features the name of two famous Fayette County musicians John Ellison and  Charlie McCoy. John Ellison is an internationally known musician born in Montgomery famous for writing “Some Kind of Wonderful”. He is also an honored inspirational speaker in the mountain state. Charlie McCoy was born in Minden and is known as the king of bluegrass and country harmonica. Location: Old 2nd Ave overpass crossing Rt. 16

2. Recreation Mural

This is the second mural Jeff Pierson completed in Fayetteville. This caricature style mural celebrates the outdoor recreation opportunities in our region. You can access the murals using the pedestrian walkway from Daniels St. by Tudors Biscuit World. Location: Old 2nd Ave overpass crossing Rt. 16

3. West Virginia Wildflowers

Mary Hurst illustrated a beautiful mural showcasing West Virginia’s diverse flora with her wildflower mural. This hidden treasure is found in the restroom at the Fayetteville Visitor Center. Mary Hurst is a southern West Virginia artist who completed this work as a VISTA volunteer. Location: Mural inside the Fayetteville Visitor Center Restroom, 310 N. Court St. 

4. Mountains

The mountains are calling for your next adventure. This mini mural is designed as a selfie stop to encourage visitors to share their adventures exploring in Fayetteville. Share your adventures by tagging us at #visittheville as you explore around town. Location: Mural inside the Fayetteville Visitor Center, 310 N. Court St.

5. Rob Cleland Mural

Charleston artist, Rob Cleland painted Fayetteville’s first outdoor mural on the Fayetteville Physical Therapy building in 2012. The mural showcases the mecca of outdoor recreation that centers around Fayetteville. Beyond outdoor recreation, the mural brightly depicts some of the signature features of Fayetteville, like its historic courthouse, New River Gorge Bridge, and the Marquis de Lafayette statue. Location: Mural on the Fayetteville Physical Therapy Building, 233 N. Court St.

6. The Miners

The historic Fayetteville post office houses an example of New Deal artwork: the oil-on-canvas mural “The Miners,” was painted by Nixford Baldwin in 1939. The work was commissioned by the Treasury Section of Fine Arts. This mural depicts the rich history surrounding coal mining in our area. Location: Mural inside the Fayetteville Post Office, 120 W. Maple Ave.

7.Pies & Pints Mural

Irene the elephant has taken on a life of her own as the Pies & Pints mascot. Inspired by the Old “White Elephant Saloon” mural in the downtown Charleston Pies & Pints location. The original Charleston mural was covered up twice and restored for a second time by Jesse Corlis. Jesse has created replica murals at all of the Pies & Pints locations. Fayetteville is home of the first Pies & Pints so it is only fitting that a giant Irene is illustrated across the building. Location: Mural is on the Pies & Pints Building, 219 Maple Ave.

8. New River Yoga Mural

Adam Mathews created this eye-catching mural inspired by growth and tranquility. Location: Inside the New River Yoga Studio, 128 S. Court St.

9. Cathedral Cafe Flowers

Nathan Greene created this beautiful flower and rolling hill scene that is a popular photo spot by the iconic Cathedral Cafe. Location: Cathedral Cafe. 134 S. Court St.

10.The Freefolk Murals

The whole Freefolk brewery is a giant mural with art pieces found throughout the space. Jamie Lester created the murals bringing folk music and Appalachia to life. His murals at the brewery represent all those who are Freefolk. Location: The Freefolk Brewery, 1690 Court St.

11. Radiant Spring Flowers

This cheery flower mural was painted by Sharon Rynard. Location: Studio B Art Wine & Beer Gallery & Inner Radiance Medical Spa Building, 309 Keller Ave.

Fayetteville Mural Trail Map

Explore More Area Murals

Oak Hill

Main Street In 1965 Mural In Oak Hill

The creation of the mural was made possible through a grant from the National Coal Heritage Area, with assistance from the New River Gorge Convention and Visitors Bureau, West Virginia State University Extension Service, and Sherwin-Williams of Oak Hill. and volunteers along with Destination:Downtown Oak Hill. Location: Corner of Oak Hill Ave. and Main Street,Oak Hill

The Fayette Tribune Mural

Destination: Downtown Oak Hill and Generation New River Gorge have partnered up to bring this mural to Oak Hill. Location: Mural on Fayette Tribune Building, 417 Main St. Oak Hill

Mount Hope

Mount Hope Phoenix Wall

The Mount Hope Phoenix Wall was created by Ian Bode and Brian Pickens. Commissioned by the Revitalization Coalition, the Phoenix Wall is a bold representation of Mount Hope’s connection to the past while looking forward to the future. The mural is created in Bode’s signature style including his recognizable “passenger” figure and uses bright imagery to tell the community’s story. Location: Mural on building 707 Maint St. Mt. Hope

After Every Storm There Is A Rainbow of Hope Mural

Ms. Sexton, Art Teacher, painted this mural with students from Mount Hope Elementary. It depicts the tragic fire of March 24, 1910,which raged out of control and virtually destroyed every structure in Mount Hope. The city rebuilt, using brick and it was said that the City of Mount Hope was like a phoenix rising from the ashes. This mural depicts phoenixes rising from a rainbow (made from students’ handprints)  with the saying “After Every Storm There is a Rainbow of Hope” over a picture of mountains. Location:

Ansted

V.F.W Patriotic Mural

This mural was created by Ansted Elementary Art Teacher Kimberly Sexton and her art students. She wanted to give her students a project that would bring color and pride to the community with this patriotic mural honoring veterans on the VFW Building. Location: VFW Building, 19957 Midland Trail, Ansted