10 Fun Things To Do Near Fairmont, West Virginia (Marion County)

Looking for a laid-back getaway in North Central West Virginia? Fairmont, WV in Marion County is a small city with big personality. It sits right along the , about 20 minutes from and a little over 1.5 hours from . Whether you’re planning a weekend road trip, visiting family, or just curious about this corner of , there’s plenty to see, eat, and explore. Below are 10 fun things to do in and around Fairmont, West Virginia that are perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers.

1. Walk Across the Iconic Veterans Memorial Bridge & Explore Downtown Fairmont

If it’s your first time in town, start with the Veterans Memorial Bridge. This tall, curved bridge gives you a great view of Fairmont’s historic skyline, the river, and the rolling hills that surround the city. On the downtown side, take a little time to wander:

Pop into local shops for WV-crafted gifts and souvenirs.
Check out the historic courthouse and older brick buildings.
Grab coffee or a bite at a local cafe.

You don’t need a tight schedule here. Just stroll, snap some photos, and soak up that small-city charm. If you like old architecture and river views, this simple walk is surprisingly satisfying.

2. Explore Prickett’s Fort State Park: History & Nature Together

Only a few miles from Fairmont, Prickett’s Fort State Park is one of the most popular things to do near Fairmont, WV. This reconstructed 18th-century fort shows what frontier life looked like in the late 1700s. Costumed interpreters often demonstrate old-time skills like:

You’ll also find:

Walking trails along the river
Picnic areas under the trees
Access to the Mon River Rail-Trail system

If you’re traveling with kids, this is an easy way to sneak in some history without feeling like a lecture. And if you enjoy calm, natural spaces, the park is perfect for a slow afternoon.

3. Ride or Walk the Mon River & West Fork River Rail-Trails

Love bike rides or long walks? You’re in luck. Fairmont sits near two great rail-trails:

Mon River Trail
West Fork River Trail

These are former railroad lines turned into wide, mostly flat paths. They’re great if you want exercise without super-steep hills. You can:

Bike for miles along the river.
Go for a peaceful walk or jog.
Bring a stroller or wagon for the kids.

In the fall, the leaves light up in shades of red, gold, and orange. In the spring and summer, it’s all about lush greenery and river views. If you’re into photography, sunrise and sunset are beautiful times to be on the trail.

4. Taste a True Local Original: The Pepperoni Roll

You can’t talk about Fairmont without talking about pepperoni rolls. This is one of the most iconic foods in West Virginia, and a huge part of local pride. Fairmont is home to some famous , including:

Country Club Bakery – often credited as the birthplace of the pepperoni roll.
Other local bakeries and mom-and-pop shops around town.

What is a pepperoni roll? Imagine:

Soft white bread
Stuffed with sticks or slices of pepperoni
Sometimes with cheese or peppers, depending on the style

They were first made as a portable lunch for coal miners. Today, they’re a must-try snack. Grab a bag and take them with you while you explore Marion County.

5. Visit the Historic Homes: High Gate Carriage House & More

Fairmont has some impressive old homes from back when coal and glass money flowed through the region. One of the most notable spots is the High Gate Carriage House, part of a former millionaire’s estate. While the property is often used for events and weddings, even seeing the stone buildings from the outside gives a sense of Fairmont’s history and former wealth. Take a drive through neighborhoods with older homes and tree-lined streets. It’s a simple, relaxing way to imagine what this town looked like a century ago. If you enjoy historic places, also keep an eye out for:

Old churches with stone spires
Vintage storefronts downtown
Small historical markers and plaques

6. Enjoy the Water at Valley Falls State Park

About 20–25 minutes from Fairmont, Valley Falls State Park is a scenic getaway along the Tygart Valley River. It’s technically just outside Marion County, but close enough that locals treat it as a backyard favorite. Here’s what you can do:

Watch the rushing waterfalls over the wide rocky riverbed.
Hike easy to moderate trails through the woods.
Have a picnic at one of the tables or shelters.
Bring a camera—this park is very photogenic, especially after a good rain.

Note: The rocks near the falls can be slippery and the currents can be strong, so pay attention to signs and be careful around the water, especially with kids. If you’re looking for an affordable, outdoorsy day trip from Fairmont, Valley Falls is hard to beat.

7. Catch a Game or Event at Fairmont State University

Fairmont is a college town, home to Fairmont State University. Even if you’re not a student, the campus is worth a quick visit. Depending on the season, you might:

Catch a Falcons football or basketball game.
Attend a theater production or campus event open to the public.
Walk through campus for views of the hills and nearby neighborhoods.

Smaller college games have a special charm—tickets are usually affordable, the crowds are friendly, and you get a real feel for local spirit. If you love blending travel with a bit of college-town energy, Fairmont State is a nice stop.

8. Discover Marion County’s Covered Bridges & Country Roads

If you enjoy scenic drives, take a little time to wander Marion County’s back roads. This is classic “country road, take me home” territory—rolling hills, farms, and older homes. A few highlights to look for:

Barrackville Covered Bridge – just a short drive from Fairmont, this historic wooden bridge dates back to the 1800s. It’s a great photo stop.
Quiet two-lane roads that twist and turn through the hills.
Roadside churches and small communities that give you a real feel for rural West Virginia life.

If you’re coming from a big city, the pace here can feel wonderfully slow. Roll down the windows, turn on some music, and let the landscape do the rest.

9. Sample Local Flavors: From Italian Heritage to Classic Diners

Fairmont and Marion County have deep Italian-American roots, thanks to immigrant families who came here for mining and industrial jobs in the early 1900s. That means you’ll find some really good comfort food. What to look for:

Italian restaurants serving pasta, pizza, and homemade sauces.
Local diners with hearty breakfasts, burgers, and daily specials.
Small bakeries turning out cookies, breads, and, of course, pepperoni rolls.

If you’re not sure where to go, ask a local, “Where’s your favorite place to eat around here?” People in Fairmont are usually happy to point you in the right direction—and maybe tell you a story or two.

10. Take a Day Trip to Morgantown or Grafton

Once you’ve explored Fairmont itself, it’s easy to branch out a bit. Morgantown (home of West Virginia University) is only about 20–30 minutes north. There you can:

Walk along the Monongahela River waterfront.
Check out WVU’s campus and stadium.
Explore more shops, breweries, and restaurants.

Grafton, about 30 minutes to the southeast, offers:

Access to more outdoor recreation.
Historic small-town streets and local museums.

Fairmont makes a convenient and affordable base if you want to explore several small cities in North Central West Virginia without constantly changing hotels.

Tips for Visiting Fairmont, West Virginia

To make your trip smoother, keep these simple tips in mind:

Best time to visit: Spring and fall have mild weather and beautiful scenery. Fall foliage can be especially stunning.
Getting around: You’ll want a car. This area isn’t made for walking long distances between attractions, and public transit is limited.
What to pack: Comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket (nights can cool off), and a camera for those river and mountain views.
Budget: Most attractions here are low-cost or free, making Fairmont a budget-friendly getaway.

Final Thoughts: Why Fairmont Deserves a Spot on Your Road Trip Map

Fairmont, WV may not be the biggest dot on the map, but that’s part of its appeal. Between the historic forts, rail-trails, pepperoni rolls, and scenic state parks, it offers a relaxed, real look at life in North Central West Virginia. If you’re driving through the region or planning a weekend escape, consider spending a day or two here. You might be surprised how much you enjoy the slower pace, friendly people, and easy access to nature.

Share Your Fairmont Experience

Have you been to Fairmont, West Virginia or anywhere else in Marion County?

Which spot was your favorite?
Did you try a pepperoni roll?
Any hidden gems I should add to this list?

Drop a comment and share your tips or stories—your experience can help other travelers plan their own trip. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend who loves road trips or is planning to explore West Virginia.

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10 Best Things To Do Near Fairmont, West Virginia (Marion County)