7 Things That Belong on Everyone’s West Virginia Summer Bucket List

Summer is here, and we're not about to let it get away from us without making the absolute most of it! What's on your West Virginia summer bucket list this year? Here are a few more ideas to fit in before we turn the corner on fall!

1. A swimming hole

Nothing says summer like a swim in a river. It's relaxing. It's refreshing. It's free. It's good for the soul. And West Virginia has so many good swimming hole options!

2. An ice cream cone

Nothing says summer like a swim in a river ... unless, of course, it's an ice cream cone! And while I personally indulge in ice cream year-round, certain of my favorite ice cream shops are only open during the summer months. For an extra fun adventure, try this ice-cream trail.

3. Fresh fruit

Fresh fruit is a summer must, especially if you grew or picked it yourself! From early fruits like wineberries to late ones like paw-paws, go find yourself a delicious, healthy treat! No matter what time of summer, it's a good bet that Orr's Farm Market will have something in season.

4. The Highland Scenic Highway

When you're feeling the heat of summer, head for the mountains. And since all of West Virginia is mountains, head for the highest ones. The Highland Scenic Highway is closed (by snow) for the winter, after all, so summer is an excellent time to explore it.

5. Lost World Caverns

Alternatively, instead of cooling off at a high elevation, cool off underground with a trip to a commercial cave! Lost World Caverns offers a self-guided tour, so you can spend as much time down in the cool, 52-degree climate as you want.

6. A roller coaster ride

Camden Park has been around for years (and years!) and is quite a summer tradition, one you may even remember from childhood.

7. A garden-ripe tomato sandwich

We saved the best item on our West Virginia summer bucket list for last! There is NOTHING quite like a vine-ripe tomato sandwich. Do you eat yours with bacon and lettuce, or do you prefer it like the picture?

There you have it. We're biased, but we proudly claim that there's no better place to spend the summer than in wild, wonderful West Virginia: our West Virginia summer bucket list could go on and on and on! Come for a summer visit if you're not lucky enough to live here!