35 Best Things to do in Morgantown!

Located in the hills of northern West Virginia, Morgantown is a vibrant college town known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and welcoming community. As the home of West Virginia University, Morgantown is full of energy, offering a mix of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and charming local attractions. Whether you’re visiting to explore the scenic trails, enjoy the lively downtown, or simply relax by the Monongahela River, we’ll showcase the best things to do in Morgantown during your visit to West Virginia.

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1. Must-See Attractions

West Virginia University (WVU)

Established in 1867, West Virginia University (WVU) serves as the state’s land-grant institution, offering a wide range of programs across 13 colleges and schools. The main campus sits in Morgantown, covering 1,892 acres, with additional campuses in Beckley, Keyser, Charleston and Martinsburg. WVU is known for its strong research programs, focusing on areas like energy, health sciences and engineering, contributing to advancements in various fields. It also operates the Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) system, a transportation network that helps students move between different parts of campus.

Monongalia County Courthouse

The Monongalia County Courthouse was originally started to built in 1784 and the current structure completed in 1891. It features Romanesque architecture, with a five-story clock tower, arched windows and stone details that give it a distinct look. The courthouse serving as the headquarters for Monongalia County’s government, which includes the offices for county magistrate, clerk and circuit court. It is part of the Morgantown Historic District, which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1996. The Italianate-style jailhouse was constructed in 1881, is also connected to the courthouse.

Morgantown Farmers Market

The Morgantown Farmers Market brings together vendors from within a 50 miles radius, offering a variety of products like fruits, vegetables and handmade crafts. The market operates outdoors on Saturdays from April to November and moves indoors every other Saturday from November to April, allowing visitors to shop year-round. The market hosts events and programs for people to learn about local agriculture and sustainable food practices while enjoying live music and cooking workshops. Shoppers can talk to farmers, learn about their products and find handmade items from local artisans.

Dorsey’s Knob Park

Covering 70 acres, Dorsey’s Knob Park is known for its scenic views and hiking trails, featuring Sky Rock, a high point that rises 600 feet above the surrounding landscape, offering a wide view of Morgantown and Appalachian Mountains. The park has grass trails, a disc golf course and a nature-themed playground, making it a great spot for both relaxation and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the Sky Rock viewing platform, which provides one of the best overlooks in the area. The park has picnic areas a rental pavilion and restrooms, making it a convenient place for gatherings and events.

Downtown Morgantown Historic District

Covering 75 acres, Downtown Morgantown Historic District includes 122 contributing buildings, 2 contributing sites and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1996, recognizing its architectural and historical significance. The most notable landmarks including Monongalia County Courthouse, Metropolitan Theater and Old Morgantown Post Office, which now serves as the Monongalia Arts Center. The area showcases a variety of architectural styles, and it’s location along the Monongahela River played a key role in the city’s early development, supporting trade and transport.

2. Outdoor Adventures

Morgantown Rail Trail

The Morgantown Rail Trail is a well-maintained path that follows the Monongahela River, offering a scenic route for walking, biking, and running. The trail is part of the Mon River Rail-Trail system, which includes 29 miles of connected paths stretching from Prickett’s Fort State Park to the Pennsylvania border. The Caperton Trail, a paved section in the middle, runs through downtown Morgantown, passing by Hazel Ruby McQuain Riverfront Park and local businesses. Along the way, visitors can enjoy river views, wooded landscapes and occasional waterfalls, creating a peaceful outdoor experience.

Deckers Creek Trail

Stretching for 19 miles, Deckers Creek Trail is a scenic rail trail that starts from Hazel Ruby McQuain Riverfront Park in downtown and ends nearby Reedsville. The trail follows Deckers Creek, offering views of waterfalls and wooded landscapes along the way. The first 2.5 miles of the trail are well-paved, passing through Morgantown’s urban areas, and the remaining miles of this trail are covered in crushed limestone surface, making it a smooth ride for cyclists and hikers. Visitors can see Greer Limestone Quarry, remnants of old railroad structures, and signs of the area’s coal and coke industry history.

WVU Zipline & Canopy Tour

Located 15 miles from Morgantown, WVU Zipline & Canopy Tour is an outdoor adventure experience in the WVU Research Forest. The tour is part of Adventure WV, a program run by West Virginia University, offering a mix of high ropes courses, aerial trekking and zip-line activities. The zipline course includes four ziplines, ranging from 250 to 1,000 feet, along with seven tree-based platforms, an aerial bridge, an aerial ladder and a rappel station. It offers other aerial activities, including the Giant Swing, Odyssey Course and Alpine Tower, each ride designed for team-building and outdoor challenges.

Golfing Courses

In Morgantown, The Pines Country Club is a private course that has been a local favorite since 1968, featuring an 18-hole championship layout designed by Edmund Ault. Lakeview Golf Resort offers two championship courses with scenic views of Cheat Lake and surrounding hills, providing a challenging yet enjoyable experience. Mountaineer Golf Course was established in 1959, and it’s a par 72 course with green fairways and a challenging layout that suits any players. Pikewood National Golf Club is a private, highly rated course located on a mountain mesa, offering a challenging layout and scenery.

Hiking Trails

Morgantown has several hiking trails that offer a mix of easy walks and challenging climbs, making it a great place for outdoor exploration. Coopers Rock State Forest is one of the most popular spots, featuring trails like Raven Rock Trail, which leads to a scenic overlook of the Cheat River and Rock City Trail, which passing through large rock formations. Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area has trails with great views of Cheat Lake and Coopers Rock, offering a peaceful hiking experience.

White Park has several trails that are good for short hikes, with paths winding through forests and open spaces. Rhododendron Trail in Coopers Rock is another favorite, taking hikers through dense rhododendron groves and rocky terrain. Ravens Rock Overlook is an easy-to-moderate hike that rewards visitors with a panoramic view of the Cheat River Gorge below. Valley Falls State Park, located nearby, has trails leading to large waterfalls, making it a great spot for nature lovers.

Kayaking and Boating

Morgantown offers great opportunities for kayaking and boating, with several spots allowing access to the water. Sunset Beach Marina on Cheat Lake rents pontoon boats, kayaks, and paddleboards, making it convenient for visitors. Edge water Marina offers seasonal dock leases and storage for motorboats, canoes and kayaks. The Monongahela River is another great place for kayaking, providing a chance to explore the water. Located along the Mon River Rail Trail, Morgantown Adventure Outfitters offers kayak rentals and guided tours, allowing visitors to explore the river at their own pace.

3. Iconic Landmarks

Monongalia Arts Center

The Monongalia Arts Center is dedicated to the arts, offering exhibits, performances, educational programs and has been a part of Morgantown’s cultural scene since 1978. The building itself is historic, originally serving as the Old Morgantown Post Office, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Inside, the center features two galleries, the Robert M. Davis Gallery and Benedum Gallery, both showcasing the exhibits from local and regional artists. The Mabel DeVries Tanner Theatre hosts plays, live concerts and other major performances, making it a lively space for creative expression.

Art Museum of West Virginia University

The Art Museum of West Virginia University showcases a wide range of artwork from different cultures and time periods. It houses more than 4,000 paintings, prints, sculptures, ceramics and works on paper, offering visitors a chance to explore diverse artistic traditions. Visitors can enjoy artist live demonstrations, workshops, lecture talks, concerts and theatrical performances, which expand on exhibit themes and engage audiences of all ages. The museum’s mission is to provide an educational and inspiring space in Morgantown, where people can experience the transformative power of art.

WVU Coliseum

Located on the Evansdale Campus of West Virginia University, WVU Coliseum is a famous sports and event venue, which was opened in 1970. The arena has over 14,000 seats which has been the home for West Virginia Mountaineers wrestling, volleyball, basketball and gymnastics. Over the years, the Coliseum has hosted NCAA tournaments, concerts, commencement ceremonies and community events, making it a central gathering place for students and visitors. The Jerry West Lounge is named after the famous WVU and NBA player, is a special space inside the Coliseum that honors his legacy.

Morgantown History Museum

The Morgantown History Museum was officially established in 2011 as the first city-sponsored museum in Monongalia County. It focuses on collecting and preserving artifacts that tell the story of Morgantown’s development, from early settlements to modern times. The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including local industries, historic businesses and notable figures like Don Knotts, who was born in Morgantown. Visitors can see displays featuring vintage printing equipment, glassware, pottery and photographs, offering a unique glimpse into the daily life of past generations.

Friendship Hill National Historic Site

The Friendship Hill National Historic Site is a scenic place that tells the story of Albert Gallatin, an important figure in early American history. Located in Point Marion, PA about 30 minutes from Morgantown, the site was once Gallatin’s country estate. Gallatin served as Secretary of the Treasury under Presidents James Madison and Thomas Jefferson, helping to fund the Lewis and Clark Expedition and to reduce the national debts. Built in 1789, Gallatin House has been restored and serving as a museum, allowing visitors to take a self-guided tour, exploring exhibits about Gallatin’s life and contributions.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

Spark! Imagination and Science Center

The Spark! Imagination and Science Center is a hands-on museum, offering interactive exhibits that focus on science, engineering and creativity, making it a great place for families. Visitors can dig for dinosaur fossils, build with giant blocks, explore nanoscience and learn about space weather, all in an engaging way. The center has dress-up areas and puppet stations, allowing kids to use their imagination while playing. Special programs, workshops are held throughout the year, and it also hosts birthday parties, field trips and outreach programs, making it a valuable resource for the community.

Morgantown Ice Arena

The Morgantown Ice Arena is a popular spot for ice skating, hockey, and other winter activities. It has been a key part of the community, offering a space for both casual skaters and competitive players. The facility features a 185′ x 85′ ice sheet, making it suitable for hockey games, figure skating, and public skating sessions. It is home to the West Virginia Mountaineers men’s ice hockey team, which competes at the ACHA Division I level. The arena offers public skating sessions and hosts local high school hockey teams, figure skating clubs and recreational leagues, providing opportunities for skaters.

Lakeview Golf Resort

Located near Cheat Lake, Lakeview Golf Resort is a well-known destination for golf, relaxation, and scenic views. The resort features two championship golf courses, Lakeview Course and Mountainview Course, both known for their rolling hills and tree-lined fairways. Golfers can play on courses where legends like Sam Snead, Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus once competed. The resort has a fitness center, tennis courts, basketball courts and racquetball courts, providing options for exercise and leisure. Guests can enjoy dining at two on-site restaurants, which serve meals with views of the golf course.

Mountaineer Field at Milan Puskar Stadium

The Mountaineer Field at Milan Puskar Stadium is the home of West Virginia University’s football team, the Mountaineers with a seating capacity of 60,000. The stadium first opened in 1980 and has been a central part of WVU’s sports culture ever since. In the beginning, the stadium was named as Mountaineer Field, later in 2004, it was renamed to honor Milan Puskar, a local businessman who has donated $20 million to the WV University. The Mountaineer Mantrip, a pre-game tradition, allows players to walk through the big crowd, touching a piece of coal to honor West Virginia’s mining heritage.

Monongalia County Ballpark

The Monongalia County Ballpark is a well-known baseball stadium that serves as the home field for West Virginia Black Bears and the West Virginia University’s Mountaineers, a collegiate summer baseball team. The ballpark opened in 2015 and has become a key venue for baseball fans in the area. The stadium was renamed as Kendrick Family Ballpark in March 2024, after receiving a donation from Ken Kendrick, a WVU alumnus and owner of the Arizona Diamondbacks. The ballpark hosts NCAA games, MLB Draft League events and gatherings, making it a central part of Morgantown’s sports scene.

5. Natural Attractions

West Virginia Botanic Garden

Covering 85 acres, West Virginia Botanic Garden was once a water reservoir, but it was transformed into a botanic garden to provide a place for education and relaxation. Visitors can walk along 4 miles of trails, passing through areas like the Butterfly Garden, Rhododendron Garden and Shade Garden, each showcasing different plant species. The garden hosts workshops and guided walks, helping people learn about native plants and conservation efforts. The Terrace at Tibbs Run is available for special occasions such as weddings, meetings and gatherings, providing a scenic backdrop for events.

Cheat Lake

The Cheat Lake is a 1,730 acres man-made reservoir located about 10 miles east of downtown Morgantown. Originally built in 1925 as part of a hydroelectric project, the lake has become a popular spot for outdoor activities. The calm waters and scenic surroundings make it a great place for boating, kayaking, fishing, and swimming. Several marinas like Sunset Beach Marina and Edgewater Marina, offer boat rentals and launch sites, making it easy for visitors to get on the water. The Cheat Lake Park and Trail provide walking paths along the shoreline, offering scenic views and access to picnic areas.

Core Arboretum

Established in 1948, Core Arboretum was named after Earl Lemley Core, a WVU botanist who helped preserve the land for research and education. Visitors can explore 3.5 miles of trails, passing through 91 acres of wooded areas with trees that are over 200 years old. The site is known for its spring wildflowers, which bloom from late March to early May. The arboretum is a great spot for birdwatching, with over 180 species reported in the area. The arboretum hosts guided wildflower walks, birdwatching tours, and educational programs, making it a great place to learn about local plants and wildlife.

Coopers Rock State Forest

Established in 1936, Coopers Rock State Forest covers 12,747 acres and is located about 13 miles east of Morgantown, just off Interstate 68. The main attraction is the Coopers Rock Overlook, which provides a wide view of the Cheat River Gorge, making it a favorite spot for visitors. The forest has 50 miles of trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes, with paths leading to Raven Rock, Rock City and the Henry Clay Iron Furnace, a historic structure from the 19th century. The area is popular for biking, fishing, birdwatching, and cross-country skiing, offering activities throughout the year.

Pricketts Fort State Park

The Pricketts Fort State Park is home to a rebuilt fort from the early 18th century fort, where settlers once seek for safety during struggles with Native American groups. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the fort, exploring cabins, workshops and historical exhibits that show what life was like on the frontier. The Job Prickett House, built in 1859, is also open for tours, offering a look at a later period in the area’s history. The park has hiking trails and a boat launch for outdoor activities. The visitor center has a museum, gift shop and research library, where guests can learn about the fort’s history.

6. Day Trips & Excursions

Monongahela National Forest

From Morgantown, a day trip to Monongahela National Forest takes about 2.5 hours and offers a chance to explore over 900,000 acres, providing plenty of space for hiking, fishing, and kayaking. One of the best places to start is Seneca Rocks, a well-known rock formation that offers a 3.4 miles hike to the top, rewarding hikers with wide views of surrounding landscape. Nearby, Spruce Knob, the highest point in West Virginia at 4,863 feet, provides another great spot for sightseeing and photography. Fishing is popular in the area, with 600 miles of streams and rivers home to trout and other fish species.

Forks of Cheat Winery

Planning a day trip to Forks of Cheat Winery is just a short drive from downtown Morgantown, is a great way to enjoy the winery that has been producing handcrafted wines since 1990. The vineyard sits in the Appalachian foothills, producing a variety of wines, including reds, whites, fruit wines and dessert wines, all made from locally sourced grapes and fruits. Guests can enjoy wine tastings, where staff guide them through different flavors and styles. Visitors are allowed to take a self-guided tour of the vineyard, learning about the winemaking process, ingredients and learning the history of winery.

Pittsburgh, PA

Start a day trip early from Morgantown and drive about 1.5 hours to reach Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania. Visitors can explore PNC Park, home to the Pittsburgh Pirates, or take a ride on the Duquesne Incline, which offers scenic views of the city skyline. The Strip District is a great place to walk around, with local shops, restaurants and markets selling fresh produce. Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is another popular stop, featuring beautiful plant displays and seasonal exhibits. Food lovers can enjoy Pittsburgh dishes like pierogies, Primanti Bros sandwiches and Heinz ketchup-based specialties.

Laurel Caverns

From Morgantown, a day trip to Laurel Caverns takes around 1.5 hours and is a great way to explore Pennsylvania’s largest cave system. The caverns sit beneath a 435 acres geological preserve, allowing visitors to see natural rock formations and underground passages. Guided tours such as traditional lighted tours and self-guided tours, allowing visitors to explore deeper sections of the cave. For those looking for adventure, spelunking tours provide a chance to navigate unlit areas with a guide. The cave maintains a temperature of 52 degrees constantly, so bringing a jacket is highly recommended.

Green Ridge State Forest

A day trip to Green Ridge State Forest takes around 2 hours from Morgantown, offers a chance to explore one of Maryland’s largest public forests. Covering over 47,000 acres, providing plenty of space for hiking, camping and wildlife viewing. Visitors can start from the Green Ridge Overlook, which offers wide views of the Potomac River and surrounding hills. The forest has over 50 miles of trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes, allowing visitors to choose a route that fits their experience. Fishing is popular in the area, with several streams and ponds home to variety of fish species.

Deep Creek Lake

Start a day trip early from Morgantown and drive around 1.5 hours to reach Deep Creek Lake in Maryland. Covering 3,900 acres, the lake offers activities like boating, swimming, kayaking and fishing. Several marinas provide boat rentals, making it simple for visitors to get on the water. The Deep Creek Lake State Park has hiking trails, picnic areas and a sandy beach, giving families plenty of options for a fun day. The area also has restaurants and shops, where visitors can grab a meal or browse local goods. For those looking for adventure, jet skiing, tubing, and wakeboarding are available at different rental spots.

Wayne National Forest

From Morgantown, a day trip to Wayne National Forest in Ohio takes about 2.5 hours drive and offers a chance to explore Ohio’s only national forest. One of the best places to start is the Wildcat Hollow Trail, a 6.5 miles loop that passing through forests and open meadows, offering a peaceful hiking experience. It has hundreds of miles of trails paved for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding, allowing visitors to choose a route that fits their experience level. Those interested in scenic drives can explore the Covered Bridge Scenic Byway, passing through historic sites and scenic landscapes.

How to Reach Morgantown

Morgantown is located along Interstate 79, connecting it to Pittsburgh in the north and Charleston in the south, while Interstate 68 links Morgantown to Maryland, providing an east-west route for those driving from Washington, D.C., or Baltimore. Several bus services, including Greyhound and FlixBus, offer affordable transportation from nearby cities. The Morgantown Municipal Airport (MGW) serves as a small regional airport with flights operated by Southern Airways Express, connecting the city to Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C.

For travelers flying into larger airports, Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) is about 75 miles north, providing additional flight options. Upon landing, visitors can easily catch a taxi or use a ride-sharing service to reach their hotel. Morgantown’s accessibility makes it a great road trip destination, especially for those exploring the Appalachian region. With Greyhound buses providing budget-friendly alternatives to flying, and the city’s well-connected roadways, travelers have multiple options for arriving comfortably.

Local Transportation

The Mountain Line Transit Authority operates 24 bus routes, covering different parts of Morgantown and Monongalia County. The buses run on a set schedule, and riders can use the Bus Finder App to track their bus in real time. The Grey Line connects Morgantown to Clarksburg, Fairmont, Waynesburg, Washington and Pittsburgh Greyhound, making it a useful option for longer trips. Another unique transportation system in Morgantown is the Personal Rapid Transit (PRT), which connects West Virginia University’s three campuses and downtown.

The PRT is a driverless system that has been in operation since 1975, providing a quick way for students and residents to travel between key locations. For those needing a taxi, Motown Taxi operates 24/7, serving Morgantown and nearby areas. Greyhound buses also run through Morgantown, offering long-distance travel options. The city’s transportation network includes bike-friendly roads, walking paths, and parking areas, making it simple for visitors to explore.

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FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

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