A truly walkable city is defined by the ease with which residents and visitors can navigate urban spaces on foot, accessing key amenities, attractions, and public services. In West Virginia, walkability ranges from the bustling streets of Morgantown to the historic charm of Martinsburg. The state offers a variety of cities where walking is not only possible but enjoyable.
This article explores ten of the most walkable cities in West Virginia, highlighting their unique features, popular walking routes, and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. Discover how these cities make walking a delightful and practical way to experience West Virginia.
This table provides a concise overview of the walkability and key features of each city, making it easy to compare them based on various parameters.
| City | Walk Score | Key Attractions Accessible by Foot | Popular Walking Routes | Public Transportation Options | Parks and Green Spaces |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Morgantown | 67 | WVU, Farmers Market | Deckers Creek Trail | Mountain Line Transit | Krepps Park, Whitmore Park |
| Huntington | 36 | Marshall University, Keith-Albee | Ritter Park Historic District | Limited bike lanes | Ritter Park, Harris Riverfront |
| Parkersburg | 40 | Blennerhassett Museum | Parkersburg Riverfront Park | Local bus services | City Park, Southwood Park |
| Charleston | 33 | Charleston Town Center Mall | Kanawha River Trail | KRT bus services | Coonskin Park, Magic Island |
| Wheeling | 40 | Suspension Bridge, Heritage Trail | Wheeling Heritage Trail | Local bus services | Oglebay Park, Wheeling Park |
| Fairmont | 40 | Historic Downtown | Palatine Park | Limited public transit | Morris Park, Palatine Park |
| Beckley | 35 | Beckley Art Center, Raleigh Theatre | New River Gorge National Park | Limited public transit | New River Gorge, Little Beaver |
| Martinsburg | 40 | Martinsburg Roundhouse | War Memorial Park | Local bus services | War Memorial, Ambrose Park |
| Clarksburg | 42 | Waldomore Mansion, History Museum | Veterans Memorial Park | Limited public transit | Clarksburg City Park |
| Weirton | 25 | Weirton Area Museum | Marland Heights Park | Limited public transit | Starvaggi Memorial Park |
10 Walkable Cities In West Virginia
1. Morgantown
What is the overview of walkability in Morgantown?
Morgantown is recognized as the “Best Walking City” in West Virginia and ranks 34th in the country. The city has a Walk Score of 59, indicating that some errands can be accomplished on foot. The most walkable neighborhoods include Downtown, Sunnyside, and South Park.
What are the popular walking routes in Morgantown?
Popular walking routes in Morgantown include the Deckers Creek Trail and the Mon River Rail-Trail. These trails offer scenic views and connect various parts of the city, making them ideal for both recreational and practical walking.
What key attractions are accessible by foot in Morgantown?
Key attractions accessible by foot include West Virginia University, the Morgantown Farmers Market, and various downtown shops and restaurants. The city’s compact layout makes it easy to explore these sites on foot.
What public transportation options are available in Morgantown?
Morgantown offers public transportation through the Mountain Line Transit Authority, which provides bus services that complement the city’s walkability. The Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) system also connects different parts of the WVU campus and downtown.
2. Huntington
What is the walkability score and what factors contribute to it in Huntington?
Huntington has a Walk Score of 49, indicating that most errands require a car, but some areas are walkable. Factors contributing to this score include the presence of sidewalks, pedestrian-friendly downtown areas, and accessible public transportation.
What historic districts and walking tours are available in Huntington?
Huntington features several historic districts, including the Ritter Park Historic District and the Downtown Historic District. Walking tours are available, highlighting the city’s rich history and architectural landmarks.
What parks and green spaces are walkable in Huntington?
Ritter Park is a notable green space in Huntington, offering walking paths, gardens, and recreational facilities. Harris Riverfront Park along the Ohio River is another popular spot for walking and outdoor activities.
What local amenities are within walking distance in Huntington?
Downtown Huntington offers a variety of local amenities within walking distance, including restaurants, cafes, shops, and cultural venues like the Keith-Albee Theatre. The area is also home to Marshall University, which adds to the walkable environment.
3. Parkersburg
What are the pedestrian-friendly areas in Parkersburg?
Parkersburg has several pedestrian-friendly areas, particularly in its downtown district. The city’s layout includes sidewalks and crosswalks that facilitate walking.
What riverfront walking paths are available in Parkersburg?
The Parkersburg Riverfront Park offers scenic walking paths along the Ohio River. These paths provide beautiful views and connect to various parts of the city.
What cultural and historical sites can be explored on foot in Parkersburg?
Cultural and historical sites in Parkersburg that can be explored on foot include the Blennerhassett Museum of Regional History and the Oil & Gas Museum. The city’s historic downtown also features several notable buildings and landmarks.
What community events and markets are accessible by foot in Parkersburg?
Parkersburg hosts various community events and markets, such as the Downtown Farmers Market, which are easily accessible by foot. These events provide opportunities for residents and visitors to engage with the local community.
4. Charleston
How walkable is downtown Charleston?
Downtown Charleston is relatively walkable, with a Walk Score of 33. The area features a mix of commercial, residential, and cultural sites that are easily accessible on foot.
What shopping and dining options are available within walking distance in Charleston?
Charleston’s downtown area offers a variety of shopping and dining options, including the Charleston Town Center Mall, local boutiques, and numerous restaurants and cafes.
What scenic walking trails are available in Charleston?
Scenic walking trails in Charleston include the Kanawha River Trail, which runs along the river and offers picturesque views of the city and surrounding landscape.
What public transit connections support walkability in Charleston?
Charleston’s public transit system, operated by the Kanawha Valley Regional Transportation Authority (KRT), provides bus services that enhance the city’s walkability by connecting various neighborhoods and key destinations.
5. Wheeling
What are the most walkable neighborhoods in Wheeling?
The most walkable neighborhoods in Wheeling include the downtown area and the Centre Market Historic District. These areas feature a mix of residential, commercial, and cultural sites that are easily accessible on foot.
What heritage trails and landmarks can be explored in Wheeling?
Wheeling offers several heritage trails and landmarks, such as the Wheeling Heritage Trail and the historic Suspension Bridge. These sites provide opportunities for walking and exploring the city’s rich history.
What recreational walking areas are available in Wheeling?
Recreational walking areas in Wheeling include Oglebay Park and Wheeling Park, both of which offer extensive walking paths, gardens, and recreational facilities.
How does Wheeling’s infrastructure support accessibility?
Wheeling’s infrastructure includes well-maintained sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian-friendly streets that support accessibility and encourage walking.
6. Fairmont
What are the highlights of walkability in Fairmont?
Fairmont has a Walk Score of 40, indicating that some errands can be accomplished on foot. The city’s historic downtown area is particularly walkable, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural sites.
What historic downtown areas are walkable in Fairmont?
Fairmont’s historic downtown area features several walkable streets lined with historic buildings, local businesses, and cultural attractions, making it a pleasant area for walking.
What parks and recreational facilities are accessible by foot in Fairmont?
Parks and recreational facilities in Fairmont that are accessible by foot include Palatine Park and Morris Park. These parks offer walking paths, playgrounds, and open spaces for various activities.
What local shops and eateries can be found in Fairmont?
Fairmont’s downtown area is home to a variety of local shops and eateries, including cafes, restaurants, and specialty stores, all within walking distance of each other.
7. Beckley
What are the walkable zones in Beckley?
Beckley has a Walk Score of 35, with walkable zones primarily located in the downtown area. The city’s layout includes sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly streets that facilitate walking.
What art and cultural sites are accessible by foot in Beckley?
Art and cultural sites in Beckley that are accessible by foot include the Beckley Art Center and the Raleigh Playhouse and Theatre. These venues offer a range of cultural experiences within a walkable distance.
What nature trails and parks are available for walking in Beckley?
Nature trails and parks in Beckley include the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, which offers extensive hiking and walking trails with stunning natural scenery.
What community services and facilities are within walking distance in Beckley?
Community services and facilities within walking distance in Beckley include the Beckley-Raleigh County Convention Center and various local government offices, providing convenient access for residents.
8. Martinsburg
What are the pedestrian-friendly streets in Martinsburg?
Martinsburg features several pedestrian-friendly streets, particularly in its historic downtown area. The city’s layout includes sidewalks and crosswalks that enhance walkability.
What historical walking tours are available in Martinsburg?
Historical walking tours in Martinsburg highlight the city’s rich history and include sites such as the Martinsburg Roundhouse and the Adam Stephen House. These tours provide an educational and enjoyable walking experience.
What green spaces and parks are walkable in Martinsburg?
Green spaces and parks in Martinsburg that are walkable include War Memorial Park and Ambrose Park. These parks offer walking paths, playgrounds, and open spaces for recreation.
What local businesses and cafes can be found in Martinsburg?
Martinsburg’s downtown area is home to a variety of local businesses and cafes, including specialty shops, restaurants, and coffee houses, all within walking distance of each other.
9. Clarksburg
What are the walkability features of Clarksburg?
Clarksburg has a Walk Score of 42, indicating that some errands can be accomplished on foot. The city’s historic sites and downtown area contribute to its walkability.
What historic sites and architecture can be explored on foot in Clarksburg?
Historic sites and architecture in Clarksburg that can be explored on foot include the Waldomore Mansion and the Clarksburg History Museum. These sites offer a glimpse into the city’s past and are easily accessible by foot.
What walking paths and parks are available in Clarksburg?
Walking paths and parks in Clarksburg include Veterans Memorial Park and the Clarksburg City Park. These parks offer walking trails, playgrounds, and recreational facilities.
What public amenities and services are within walking distance in Clarksburg?
Public amenities and services within walking distance in Clarksburg include the Clarksburg-Harrison Public Library and various local government offices, providing convenient access for residents.
10. Weirton
What is the overview of walkable areas in Weirton?
Weirton has a Walk Score of 25, indicating that most errands require a car, but some areas are walkable. The city’s downtown area and certain neighborhoods offer pedestrian-friendly environments.
What key attractions and landmarks are accessible by foot in Weirton?
Key attractions and landmarks in Weirton that are accessible by foot include the Weirton Area Museum and Cultural Center and the Millsop Community Center. These sites provide cultural and recreational opportunities within a walkable distance.
What parks and recreational spots are available for walking in Weirton?
Parks and recreational spots in Weirton include Marland Heights Park and Starvaggi Memorial Park. These parks offer walking paths, playgrounds, and open spaces for various activities.
What local dining and shopping options are within walking distance in Weirton?
Local dining and shopping options within walking distance in Weirton include various restaurants, cafes, and retail stores located in the downtown area, providing convenient access for residents and visitors.
Conclusion:
Why should you consider exploring West Virginia on foot? The state’s walkable cities offer a unique blend of convenience, culture, and natural beauty, making them ideal for both residents and visitors. From the scenic trails of Charleston to the historic streets of Wheeling, each city provides a distinct walking experience that showcases the best of what West Virginia has to offer. Whether you’re a local looking to explore your hometown or a traveler seeking new adventures, these walkable cities promise an enriching experience. Embrace the charm and accessibility of West Virginia’s walkable cities today.