Community Culture in AFNHA

For a more curated experience, check out the following guided maps, which string together the best towns for  outdoor adventures ,  railroad heritage ,  the arts ,  Appalachian history , and taking in the  unique culture of the AFNHA !

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Appalachian Forest in these special locations.

Take in outstanding views at Davis, Franklin, and Petersburg or connect with nature along the Greenbrier River Trail in Lewisburg and Marlinton.

Enjoy water-based activities such as fishing, kayaking, rafting, or swimming in Summersville, Sutton, Wardensville, and Webster Springs among others.

Check out the unique natural wonders of Romney, Davis, Marlinton, and Franklin.

Ride the rails or dive into their history in these towns, once hubs for an expansive industry that forever shaped the region.

Ride the  Durbin and Greenbrier Railroad  in Elkins and Cass, take the  Western Maryland Scenic Railroad  in Cumberland, or hop on the  Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad  in Romney.

Dive into in transportation history in the museums of Oakland and Elkins.

In the AFNHA local art traditions survive and thrive. Explore the crafts, music, food, and more that make this region overflowing with unique culture.

Check out vintage and independent movie theaters in Buckhannon and Berkeley Springs or the large concert halls of Lewisburg.

Browse the galleries and shops in Thomas, Oakland, Webster Springs, Wardensville, and Lewisburg.

Enjoy the depths of the Appalachian sound in the venues of Thomas, Lewisburg, Oakland, and Webster Springs.

Our National Heritage Area holds great significance for the history of the country, with a distinct Appalachian culture of isolation, a logging boom that built the nation, and an abundant and resilient forest.

The logging industry is tied to that of the railroad, which you can find more about in Cumberland, Elkins, Cass, and Romney among others. the coal industry has its own point of interest in Thomas.

The AFNHA's frontier history can be found in Cumberland, Lewisburg, Keyser, and Romney.

The Civil War that split Virginia has its episodes in Marlinton, Romney, Philippi, and Lewisburg.

Chase the traces of the New Deal in Elkins and Kingwood.

The preserved traditions and distinct features of the AFNHA make these towns worth a trip!

Relax in historic hot springs in Wardensville and Berkeley Springs.

Find local culinary delights in Summersville, Helvetia, Keyser, and Wardensville.

Explore fantastical side of the AFNHA in Buckhannon, Sutton, and Helvetia, ranging from cryptid lore to Swiss festivals.