Buckhannon - Almost Heaven - West Virginia (2024)

AtC.J. Maggie’s, indulgence is the main ingredient. This cozy family restaurant will spoil you with homemade sausage and meatballs, wood-fired pizza and savory chicken-and-biscuits. Just make room for Cake-in-a-Jar, flavorful desserts you can take home in a glass keepsake.Fish Hawk Marketis a true farm-to-table establishment. Chefs Dale Hawkins and Teresa Lipps prepare daily specials from local growers, all day long. Entrees aside, there are specialties like homemade bread, scones, cupcakes, cookies and pepperoni rolls. There’s even a gourmet “grab-and-go” section. For live music, head to88 Restaurant and Lounge. Every Friday, a band entertains diners for no cover charge. While you’re there, order classic sandwiches, seafood and hearty entrees. They serve traditional breakfasts, too.

Every spring, Buckhannon rejoices with its prizedStrawberry Festival. This 8-day event packs in the charm with a horse-and-carriage parade,quilt show, draft horse pull and strawberry recipe competition. Bring an appetite, because vendors arrive with desserts, treats and meals dedicated to the crimson berry. TheLascaux Micro-Theatreskips mainstream movies and goes for the indies instead. It’s also where you can watch foreign flicks and documentaries.

For more than 40 years, artist Ron Hinkle has made bright, complex glassworks. He crafts just about everything: tumblers, animals, vases andChristmas ornaments. His fragile “eggs” are fascinating, too. Each one swirls with vivid colors, stripes and dots.Visit his galleryor call ahead and ask about demonstration times. While you’re hunting for fine art, don’t pass byArtistry on Main. Local artists manage this co-op and sell pottery, wirework, sculptures and more. Pick up unique creations or sign up for lessons in basket weaving, needle felting and more.

Nature lovers should check outAudra State Park. The wooded preserve has scenic campgrounds, picnic areas and spots for kayaking. In fact, Middle Fork River is a popular whitewater destination. There’s also Alum Cave — a fascinating formation with a surging overhang. It’s an ideal state park for a family picnic.

History buffs also get a kick out ofPringle Tree Park. During the Seven Years’ War, two colonists deserted their fellow English soldiers. They fled to present-day Buckhannon and lived in a giant sycamore tree. Today, you can see the 3rd-generation plant!

Prepare to be spoiled atA Governor’s Inn.The owners of this 19th-century home are generous with their homemade cookies. Breakfasts are hearty, you might even get to taste banana and chocolate French toast! Look forward to private baths, snacks, robes and antique decor.Bicentennial Innis another local option. Conveniently located on Main Street, the hotel boasts a complimentary beverage service, landscaped garden, books and a picnic area. The88 Restaurant and Loungeis on the premises, too!

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