Nestled in the heart of West Virginia, Lewisburg is a town that is brimming with charm, history, and culture. Fittingly referred to as “America’s coolest small town,” Lewisburg is renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty, thriving food scene, rich cultural heritage, and a relaxed pace of life that will leave you feeling refreshed. As a traveler or a road-tripper, you will love visiting Lewisburg, a bustling city – from its vibrant downtown to its surrounding scenic vistas and everything in between.
In this blog post, we have rounded up some of the top things to do and see in Lewisburg, WV, to help you plan your next adventure in the region.
Lose yourself in downtown Lewisburg, West Virginia’s quaint cobblestone streets, admire the historic buildings, and discover one-of-a-kind boutiques. Treat yourself to a refreshing coffee or a craft beer at a local cafe or brewery, and immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene at the numerous galleries in the area
Downtown Lewisburg offers an abundance of shopping opportunities, surprising for such a small town. Step into High Country, a chic ladies’ boutique, where famous brands like Eileen Fisher and Johnny Was adorn the racks. Don’t miss out on exploring other noteworthy stores like Wolf Creek, Studio 40, and Yarid’s Shoes, which boast the finest footwear and accessories in all of West Virginia.
Bella, the Corner Gourmet offers a nice mix of kitchen accessories, artisan cheeses, specialty foods, and wines. Be prepared to discover captivating items that are simply irresistible and undeniably charming. Downtown Lewisburg also boasts Love Child, your one-stop-shop for everything your little ones could need, Show Your Colors, for collegiate gear, and Edith’s Health & Specialty Store, for supplements, natural products, and health foods.
For a touch of local artistry, check out Wandering Bird Gallery, Harmony Ridge, and WV Fine Artisans Gallery. Immerse yourself in the captivating works of local artisans while browsing for unique pieces. Indulge your senses further at Robert’s Antiques & Wine Shop, where you can delight in art, antiques, gourmet cheeses, and exquisite wines.
Brace yourself for an enchanting experience that might even leave you lost in time.
There’s no shortage of excitement during the warm months, as outdoor concerts, the Chocolate Festival, art fairs, and cultural events fill the lively streets of downtown Lewisburg.
Pro Tip: Experience the vibrant energy of Downtown Lewisburg, with food, art, and live music, at First Fridays After Five between 5 PM and 8 PM.
Feast on Lewisburg’s Fantastic Food
Lewisburg is a culinary haven where you’ll find an array of scrumptious restaurants to satisfy every palate and budget.
Treat yourself to an arsenal of tasty tacos at Thunderbird Tacos. With its enticing Mexican cuisine and eye-catching decor, it’s a must-try. Connected inside is Wild Bean, a cozy spot perfect for tea, coffee, and vegetarian fare. I love their Avocado Melt!
Don’t miss the allure of Jim’s Drive-In, an iconic Lewisburg spot serving up burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, and mouthwatering treats like milkshakes, fruit cobbler, and Slush Puppies.
If you’re seeking a casual dining experience, I recommend Food and Friends. The French Onion Soup is a standout, and the complimentary bread is simply divine. Make sure to reserve a table, as this popular spot tends to fill up quickly.
For a relaxed and upscale atmosphere, look no further than my favorite Lewisburg eatery, Stardust Cafe. Indulge in the flavorful Gullino sandwich or savor the lobster salad tacos with Green Goddess sauce, a true delight. Both pair perfectly with a side of pasta salad.
At The Humble Tomato, enjoy indoor seating in a historic farmhouse or dine al fresco while taking in the picturesque views of downtown Lewisburg. While their specialty pizzas are the trademark, don’t miss out on delectable pastas, salads, and pan-seared house mozzarella.
For a hassle-free dining experience away from the downtown Lewisburg traffic, Shoney’s is a solid choice. They offer an extensive dinner buffet with a wide variety of mouthwatering options.
And if you’re looking to impress on a date night or celebrate a special occasion, look no further than The French Goat. Reserve your table online and prepare yourself for a captivating and unforgettable French meal. Indulge in the chicken liver mousse starter and savor the mouthwatering filet & fritter (steak & fries) as your main course. Perfect creme brûlée rounds out your dining experience.
Attend the West Virginia State Fair
If you happen to be in Lewisburg during mid-to-late August, attending the WV State Fair should be on top of your list. This iconic event features a whole host of entertainment options, from traditional country music and rock bands to agricultural demonstrations, carnival rides, food stalls, and much more. Fan favorites include tasting the maple cotton candy, WV pepperoni rolls, and Ben Ellen donuts.
Concerts for the 2023 festival included Whiskey Myers, Lainey Wilson, Nelly, Riley Green, and Ludacris. This annual event is sure to delight visitors of all ages and offers a unique glimpse into the traditional fair culture of West Virginia.
Pro Tip: For even fabulous things to see and do in the Mountain State, buy our “100 Things to Do in West Virginia Before You Die” book. Several of the things mentioned in this post made the book, which actually contains 240 entries.
Hike the Greenbrier River Trail
For those who love the great outdoors, the Greenbrier River Trail is an absolute must-visit. This 78-mile rail trail runs along the beautiful Greenbrier River and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding lush greenery, rolling hills, and the charming countryside towns.
Explore a multitude of captivating hiking trails suited to your fitness level and preferences. Discover scenic paths of varying lengths and difficulties that promise an unforgettable adventure.
Besides riding the trail, you can also visit the official headquarters of Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, nestled within the charmingly renovated historic train station in downtown Lewisburg. Immerse yourself in the intriguing history of the rail-trail movement, marvel at the restored vintage equipment, and purchase souvenirs of your visit.
Explore Historic Sites in Lewisburg
Discover the must-see wonders of Lewisburg, West Virginia, starting with the renowned Carnegie Hall. This historic gem, dating back to 1902, is just one of the remaining Carnegie Halls in the nation, all named in honor of the legendary steel tycoon, Andrew Carnegie. Step inside and be captivated by its stunning beauty, both inside and out, as you experience workshops, performances, and special exhibits.
If exploring historic buildings is your passion, Lewisburg has even more to offer. Embark on a fascinating walking tour of the area using this handy online guide. For a deeper dive into the city’s rich history, don’t miss the North House Museum, where guided tours will take you on captivating journeys, including cemetery walks and immersive black history experiences.
Other sites of interest include the Old Stone Presbyterian Church and its somber cemetery, the iconic Confederate monument, historic Barracks, Jesse B. Bowlin House, and the prestigious Greenbrier Military School, the oldest privately-owned military school in the country.
Pro Tip: Looking for more historic sites to see in West Virginia? An Eastern Panhandle road trip will satisfy all your needs.
Overnight at the General Lewis Inn
Treat yourself to an overnight stay at the General Lewis Inn, boasting 24 luxurious boutique-style rooms that are truly worth the visit. Immerse yourself in the charm of the Pearl S. Buck Room, adorned with a delightful blend of antiques, vibrant prints, Queen canopy bed, and captivating Far East Asia accent pieces.
Each room is meticulously decorated, featuring unique touches that exude character and elegance. Delight in the charm of the brass keys, evoking a sense of nostalgia and exclusivity. As a guest at the General Lewis Inn, you’ll enjoy modern amenities such as high-speed WiFi, refreshing WV Spring Water, cozy cotton robes and slippers, and a delightful complimentary organic Counter Culture coffee service. I never wanted to leave!
Let a mixologist create a craft co*cktail for you to enjoy on the scenic patio or front porch of the Thistle Lounge, open seven days a week from 5 to 11 PM. Or, partake in a delightful dining experience at the General Lewis Dining Room, offering a Saturday and Sunday brunch from 9 AM to 2 PM.
Overnight at the Fairfield Inn & Suites
One of the issues with staying in downtown Lewisburg is that the traffic can sometimes get very thick. To avoid that, and have primo accommodations right off the interstate, consider the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Lewisburg. This continually rated 4.5 star hotel has many awesome features and amenities, such as complimentary hot breakfast, free high-speed Wi-Fi, free parking, and a fantastic heated pool pool and hot tub .There are also many welcoming seating areas, inside and out.
Standard rooms with comfortable furniture, beds, a well-lit work desk, and all the extras you could possibly want, run around $150. For hotel accessibility features, read this.
Visit Lost World Caverns
Less than 5 miles west of Lewisburg lies the captivating Lost World Caverns. Over millions of years, this awe-inspiring natural wonder has taken shape, boasting massive stalactites, stalagmites, and other unique formations 120′ below the ground. Immerse yourself in the depths of these underground wonders with guided tours, where you’ll uncover the geological marvels and historical significance of the caverns.
Prepare to be enchanted by the subterranean beauty and mesmerizing dripstone features at this must-visit WV destination. With constant temperatures at 52 degrees, you may want to bring a jacket.
Miscellaneous Fun In and Nearby Lewisburg
If golf is your passion, there are seven courses near Lewisburg, with one being the Greenbrier Golf Club, a bucket list course for many around the country.
The Greenbrier River is one of the most attractive waterways in West Virginia. It is excellent for fishing, kayaking, and tubing, a popular activity in this part of the state. Or, you can hop on your ATV (or rent one) and explore Greenbrier Off-Road Adventures in a Jeep Wrangler, roadster Slingshot, or even a Segway.
If you are on your way to do theCass Scenic RailroadTrain at the State Park, Lewisburg is about 90 minutes away and would be a good add-on stop. The same with Snowshoe Mountain Resort, West Virginia’s favorite ski resort.
In Lewisburg, you are only 15 minutes from America’s Resort, The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs. This world-famous resort and address offer a shopping arcade, impeccable dining, stunning common rooms (which are free to browse), and a year-round Christmas Shop.
You have to see it to believe it.
Downtown Lewisburg: Worth a Stop
If you have yet to discover Lewisburg’s historic town and charms, you must factor them into your travel plans. Lewisburg has an arsenal of local shopping, delicious restaurants, and a delightful historic hotel. It is “almost heaven” tucked away in the pristine Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia.
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