Shop until you drop in Fayetteville, West Virginia! Located in the heart of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, here you’ll find a blend of outdoor adventure businesses and charming, one-of-a-kind boutiques. Head out on a five-day shopping spree, exploring local flavors, regional artistry and unique finds.
Day 1
Begin your shopping adventure with a tasty breakfast at WS Brewgarden inside Water Stone Outdoors, where locally baked pastries and coffee set the perfect tone for the day ahead. After breakfast, it’s off to the Canyon Rim Visitor Center. Get introduced to the wonders of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve through fascinating exhibits and take in breathtaking views of the iconic New River Gorge Bridge from the Canyon Rim Boardwalk.
Next, take a scenic drive down Fayette Station Road. From the visitor center, take a left turn onto Route 19. Immediately, turn right onto Lansing Edmond Road, which is about a quarter-mile ahead. Look for a road sign marked “Fayette Station Road.” Once on Fayette Station Road, you’ll come to a fork in the road almost immediately; be sure to take the left fork.
Continue on Fayette Station Road, which will lead you into the Gorge via Route 82. Along this route, you’ll encounter a series of two- and one-way roads that pass under the New River Gorge Bridge twice, offering plenty of spots to pull over and admire the breathtaking views. Keep an eye out for signs indicating Fayette Station Route 82 as you continue down this winding road.
As you reach the bottom of the gorge, you’ll cross the Tunney Hunsaker Bridge. Look for the Fayette Station Parking lot nearby. This area provides an excellent opportunity to take a leisurely walk by the water’s edge and enjoy watching the rafts passing by on the river.
Don’t forget to grab a mouthwatering West Virginia hot dog at the Swiftwater General Store in Lansing for lunch.
In the afternoon, explore the charming shops in downtown Fayetteville and explore our Public Art Tour. For dinner, savor the culinary creations at Wanderlust Creative Foods, followed by an exhilarating Escape Room experience at Escape-A-Torium (reservations only) or a relaxed beer sampling at Bridge Brew Works.
Day 2
Start your second day with a delicious breakfast at Cathedral Cafe, where the “Guides Choice Breakfast” promises to fuel your day of exploration. While you are at the cafe, browse its display of books and eclectic souvenirs for sale.
After your meal, tackle the West Virginia Waterfall Trail. Fortunately, Fayetteville is home to many cascades on the trail. Take Route 16 from Fayetteville toward Gauley Bridge. From the roadside, marvel at the wonderful views of Cathedral Falls. If time allows, consider booking a guided stand-up paddleboard trip with Mountain Surf Paddle Sports to explore Kanawha Falls up close.
When you are finished waterfall hunting, head back up Route 60 to Hawks Nest State Park. Admire the views at the Hawks Nest Lodge Overlook and book a New River Jet Boat tour! This tour will take you from the Hawks Nest Lake up the New River where you will see one-of-a-kind views of the famous New River Gorge Bridge.
For lunch, indulge in a delightful meal at Hawks Nest Lodge and then take a hike on the Hawks Nest Rail Trail to mark off another waterfall — Mill Creek Falls.
In the afternoon, visit the Love Hope Center for the Arts, housed in a historic church, and explore the art gallery showcasing regional artists and a gift shop filled with handcrafted treasures. Grab dinner at The 304 and round off your day with drinks at Rosa’s Speakeasy at the Historic Morris Harvey House (reservations only).
Day 3
Start your day with breakfast and a specially crafted espresso beverage from Wood Iron Eatery. Then, visit Studio B Wine & Art Gallery to gather supplies for a scenic picnic lunch.
From there, head to Babcock State Park, a short drive from Fayetteville. The state park is renowned for the iconic Glade Creek Gristmill – one of the most photographed images from West Virginia. Snap a view pictures on the Almost Heaven swing, then enjoy your picnic nearby at a shelter. For a post-lunch activity, hike the Island in the Sky Trail which features incredible park views. Lastly, rent a paddle boat to explore the scenic Boley Lake.
As the sun begins to set on your adventure-filled day in Fayetteville, treat your taste buds to a delectable dinner at Pies and Pints. This charming eatery is not your ordinary pizzeria; it’s a haven for pizza connoisseurs seeking a unique and unforgettable culinary experience. Pies and Pints is known for its special pizzas that boast a delightful fusion of flavors, setting it apart as a must-visit dining destination. Cap off your evening with a sweet treat at The Stache. This nostalgic ice cream parlor takes you back in time with its eccentric and retro vibe.
Day 4
Kickstart your morning with an Appalachian-inspired breakfast at Tamarack Marketplace. This restaurant is a true culinary gem that celebrates the rich and hearty flavors of the Appalachian region. After your meal, browse the art gallery showcasing handcrafted items by West Virginia artists.
Pick up a picnic lunch from Grandview Farms Country Store, then venture to Grandview in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Here, take in the spectacular views from the Main Overlook Trail and have the chance to explore the rock formations on the Castle Rock Trail.
In the evening, head back to Fayetteville. Dine and unwind at The Freefolk Brewery with a wide selection of beers, a delicious menu and lively music. End your day by catching a movie at The Starlite Drive-In, just a quick 10-minute drive from Fayetteville in Oak Hill.
Day 5
On your final day, savor a classic West Virginia breakfast at Tudor’s Biscuit World before bidding farewell to Fayetteville, taking with you cherished memories of scenic vistas, artistic treasures and culinary delights.
Shopping isn’t just a transaction; it’s a window into the heart of a community and a region. It’s a way of supporting local businesses, connecting with their stories and taking a piece of your adventure back home with you. In Fayetteville, West Virginia, every shop, cafe and boutique has a tale to tell, and every purchase is a part of the local dream.