We have never really been ones to shy away from travel opportunities with Bear, so when we got the opportunity to partner with West Virginia Tourism, we jumped at it! And actually, it was also a new one for me. So we made our way on the new nonstop Breeze flight from Charleston, South Carolina to Charleston, West Virginia!
When we arrived, we drove straight to our little cabin to let Bear nap. It was a nice morning flight so by the time we made it to Elkins, he was ready for some shut eye. We then took the rest of the day walking around the property where we were staying and also headed to downtown Elkins for dinner! We had heard great things about C.J Maggie’s, and it was perfect for us and for a toddler. Their menu is huge, so lots of options for him, and we finished the meal with the most delicious ice cream!
The next morning, we headed back to downtown Elkins to take a ride on the New Tygart Flyer. It’s a beautiful scenic train ride that takes you to the High Falls of Cheat! It’s about 4 hours total, and they serve lunch on the train. (Pro tip, if you’re traveling with kids 12+ you can get a ticket for the parlor car where they have adult beverages available). It was a great activity for Bear, he especially enjoyed running around during the stop at the falls. Everyone working there was so kind and friendly! When we got back, we took it easy. We let Bear nap and then headed to Smoke on the Water BBQ for dinner.
Our last day was also really fun, and probably Bear’s favorite part of the trip. We went to the West Virginia State Wildlife Center, where we got to hike around a walking trail in the forest and see so many cool animals that are native to the area! Bear kept meowing at the mountain lion haha! It was the perfect activity where we could let Bear be a toddler. Also at the end, we grabbed a hot dog lunch, shopped in their gift shop (where we got Bear a stuffed mountain lion), and stopped in their kid’s activity center where Bear got to read some books, do a craft, and see some fish.
This night was our favorite dinner. We went to the Forks, which is walking distance from our cabin. It had the most beautiful views of the allegheny mountains, and the food was amazing. Definitely sit outside and enjoy the ambiance if you make it here!
I loved our trip so much! It was relaxing and lovely, just the perfect little trip for our family. I’d love to go back again soon! Visit WVTourism.com to learn more and start planning your own trip to West Virginia.
