Points of Interest between Charleston, West Virginia to Harlan, Kentucky

picture of Charleston, West Virginia

The Best Places to Visit on a Road Trip from Charleston, West Virginia to Harlan, Kentucky

If you're looking for an adventure on your next road trip, look no further than a drive from Charleston, West Virginia to Harlan, Kentucky. This route takes you through the beautiful Appalachian Mountains, winding through small towns and scenic routes along the way. The halfway point of this trip is Pikeville, Kentucky, a charming small town that is worth a visit in itself. From local cuisine to historical sites, here are the top five places to visit on your journey through the heart of Appalachia.

Pikeville, KY: The Halfway Point

Before we dive into the top five places to visit, it's worth noting the importance of Pikeville, Kentucky on this trip. This small town is the halfway point between Charleston, West Virginia and Harlan, Kentucky, and worth a stop both for a break on your journey and for the town's charm. Pikeville is located in the Appalachian Mountains and from it, you can see stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The town has a rich history, which is worth exploring in the Pikeville Pike County museum. Pikeville is also home to some delicious local restaurants, like Patti's 1880's Settlement, a must-stop when in town.

Top Five Places to Visit

  1. Hatfield & McCoy Feud Driving Tour
    • Dive into the history of the famous Hatfield and McCoy feud with a driving tour of the area. The self-guided tour takes you through the feud's infamous sites, like Devil Anse Hatfield's grave and the McCoy cabin.
  2. Breaks Interstate Park
    • This bi-state park is located on the border of Kentucky and Virginia and features stunning views of the surrounding Appalachian Mountains. With hiking trails, zip-lining, and white-water rafting available, there is something for everyone.
  3. Lexington, KY
    • Located a little over an hour outside of Harlan, Lexington is worth a stop on your trip. Known as the horse capital of the world, Lexington has a long history of horse racing. Visit the Kentucky Horse Park to see some of the world's most famous thoroughbreds or take a tour of a working horse farm.
  4. West Virginia State Capitol Building
    • Stop in Charleston, West Virginia and visit the State Capitol Building. The building's beautiful architecture and stunning views of the Kanawha River make it a must-visit on your trip. While here, take a walk through the city's historic district and visit the West Virginia State Museum.
  5. Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
    • This park is located on the border of Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia and is steeped in history, with beautiful views of the Appalachian Mountains. Hiking and picnicking are popular activities in the park, and the Cumberland Gap Visitor Center is a great place to learn about the park's history and wildlife.

While on your drive through the Appalachians, be sure to take the scenic routes when possible. The beauty of this area is most fully appreciated on the back roads and in the small towns. Whether you're stopping in Pikeville or at one of the other top spots along the way, there is always a new adventure to be had on your road trip through Appalachia.