Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Charleston, West Virginia and Jackson, Kentucky
Driving from Charleston, West Virginia to Jackson, Kentucky can be a long and tedious journey. But it doesn't have to be. If you take your time and plan accordingly, you can turn this drive into an adventure. With scenic views and charming towns along the way, there are plenty of reasons to take a detour and explore. In this article, we'll introduce you to five unexpected places to stop on your journey from Charleston, West Virginia to Jackson, Kentucky.
Halfway Point: Grayson, KY
Before we dive into our top five, we want to highlight a noteworthy location along the way. Grayson, KY, is the halfway point between Charleston, WV, and Jackson, KY. Located in Carter County, Grayson is a small town with plenty of personality. If you need to stretch your legs, we recommend stopping at the Grayson Gallery & Art Center. Here, you'll find beautiful ceramics, paintings, and textiles from local artists. You can also take a stroll in the nearby Grayson Lake State Park, which boasts hiking trails, a golf course, and opportunities for fishing and boating.
1. Matewan, WV
Our first stop takes us to Matewan, WV. This small town was a backdrop to the famous Hatfield-McCoy feud, and you can learn more about it at the Matewan Depot Museum. In addition to its rich history, Matewan has plenty of natural beauty to offer. Take a walk on the Hatfield-McCoy River Trails and enjoy the scenery. Afterward, stop by the Smokehouse Grill for some delicious smoked meats and homemade sides.
2. Paintsville, KY
Located in Johnson County, Paintsville, KY, is a hidden gem. Visit the US 23 Country Music Highway Museum to learn about country music legends from the region, including Loretta Lynn and Dwight Yoakam. If you're more interested in outdoor activities, head to Jenny Wiley State Resort Park. There, you can hike, fish, and enjoy scenic views of Dewey Lake. While in Paintsville, be sure to indulge in some Kentucky cuisine at Tommy's Pizza and More.
3. Marshall University, WV
If you're a sports fan, you won't want to miss our next destination: Marshall University in Huntington, WV. Home to the Thundering Herd football team, this university boasts a rich sports history. Visit the Marshall Hall of Fame Cafe to soak in the atmosphere, and be sure to try the signature buffalo chicken dip. While in Huntington, take a walk through Ritter Park. This urban oasis boasts walking trails, a rose garden, and even a dog park.
4. Natural Bridge State Resort Park, KY
Another natural wonder awaits us at our fourth stop: Natural Bridge State Resort Park. Located in Powell County, KY, this park features a massive sandstone arch, which is over 65 feet tall and 78 feet long. You can hike up to Natural Bridge, or take a sky lift for a bird's eye view. Afterward, indulge in some hearty Southern cooking at Miguel's Pizza. Their outdoor seating area boasts stunning views of the surrounding hills.
5. Breaks Interstate Park, VA/KY
Our final destination takes us slightly off-course, but it's well worth it. Breaks Interstate Park straddles the Kentucky-Virginia border and offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains. The park features 5 miles of hiking trails, a lake for fishing and paddle boating, and even a zip line course. To fuel up for your adventures, stop by the Huddle House in Elkhorn City, KY. We recommend indulging in their crispy chicken and waffles.
Why You Should Take This Trip
Are you convinced yet? This drive from Charleston, WV to Jackson, KY can be a lot more than a dull commute. By taking a few detours, you can explore charming towns, learn about local history, and soak in stunning natural landscapes. Whether you're a sports fan, a history buff, or an outdoor enthusiast, there's something for everyone on this trip. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!