With Local Goods, Wine, Food, and More, the Coolest Rest Stop in the World Is Right Here in West Virginia

Interstate Rest Areas. You know the ones. Packed parking lots. Limited selection vending machines. Gas pumps only if you're lucky. They're a dime a dozen across the nation... until you get to West Virginia. Here, any given rest stop, all of which are among the best in the world, is a destination in and of itself.

There are so many reasons to visit West Virginia. But who ever would have thought that one of those reasons is the rest stops? It sounds a bit ridiculous, but only if you've never stopped for a bathroom break at a rest area along I-64/I-77 in West Virginia. Otherwise, you know exactly what we're talking about. We're talking about the best rest stop in the world being right here in West Virginia.

We're talking about plenty of parking. We're talking about multiple restaurants with delicious menu options like fresh roasted coffee, delicious food, and even ice cream. We're talking about local artisan products. Fine wine. Clean bathrooms. Sculptures. A walking trail. An outdoor patio. And a neighboring gas station, to boot. We're talking about Tamarack Marketplace on I-64 in Beckley, West Virginia.

Billed as "The Best of West Virginia," Tamarack Marketplace is a store brimming with all things West Virginia: art, crafts, woodwork, Fiestaware, food, coffee, wine, ice cream, clothing, blown glass, and so much more. Plus there are often special events, live music, and craft demonstrations. There's an art gallery. There's a theater. There's a travel information booth. There's a food court staffed by master chefs. Yes, all this (and so much more) at a rest stop. Told you it was the best in the world!

Beyond its impressive list of amenities, what truly sets this rest stop apart is the experience it creates for travelers. Instead of rushing in and out, visitors often find themselves lingering—browsing handcrafted goods, chatting with local artisans, or simply enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. The space feels less like a pit stop and more like a cultural hub, offering a genuine taste of West Virginia’s heritage and creativity. Visitors can stretch their legs on walking paths and relax on the patio before hopping back on the road.

One of the standout features is the emphasis on locally made products. From hand-thrown pottery to intricately carved wooden pieces, every item tells a story of craftsmanship and regional pride. Even the food reflects this commitment to local flavor, with Appalachian-inspired dishes that go far beyond standard highway fare. It’s not uncommon for travelers to plan their trips around a stop here, knowing they can enjoy a high-quality meal and pick up unique souvenirs all in one place.

At the end of the day, this West Virginia rest stop redefines what a roadside break can be. It’s a rare example of a place that caters to everyone without feeling crowded or too commercialized. Feeling inspired? Try planning your own West Virginia trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.