is a college town with a big personality, beautiful river views, and easy access to the outdoors. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip, visiting a student at West Virginia University, or just road-tripping through the Mountain State, Morgantown is worth a stop.
Below are
that mix nature, food, history, and good old-fashioned fun.
1. Stroll the Caperton Trail Along the Monongahela River
If you only do one thing in Morgantown, make it a walk on the
Caperton Trail. This paved path runs right along the Monongahela River and connects to the larger
Mon River Rail-Trail system.
You’ll find:
- Wide, flat paths great for walking, running, or biking
- Benches and river overlooks
- Easy access to downtown Morgantown and restaurants
On a sunny evening, you’ll see locals walking dogs, WVU students jogging, and families out for a bike ride. It feels safe, friendly, and relaxed.
If you’re into biking, you can ride for miles along the old rail lines. Bring your own bike or rent one in town, then coast along the river and enjoy the views.
2. Catch the View (and a Game) at Milan Puskar Stadium
Morgantown loves its football. If you visit during the fall, try to experience a
West Virginia University Mountaineers home game at
Milan Puskar Stadium.
Here’s why it’s special:
- The stadium holds over 60,000 fans and gets loud
- Tailgating is a big part of the West Virginia culture
- The energy on game day spills out across the whole town
Even if you’re not a hardcore sports fan, the atmosphere is a lot of fun. Grab a hot dog, find your seat, and listen to the WVU marching band while the crowd sings “Country Roads.” It’s one of those “only in West Virginia” experiences.
Not in town during football season? You can still wander the campus area, check out the
Mountaineer Field from the outside, and snap a few photos.
3. Step Back in Time at the WVU Downtown Campus & Historic Downtown Morgantown
Downtown Morgantown is compact, walkable, and full of character. Park once and explore on foot.
Things to see:
- WVU Downtown Campus – Old brick buildings, tree-lined walkways, and classic college-town vibes.
- Downtown shops and cafés – Coffee shops, quirky boutiques, and local restaurants.
- High Street – The main strip with bars, eateries, and nightlife.
Take a slow stroll through campus, then wander down to High Street for a meal. On weekends, you’ll see students mixed in with families and visitors, giving the city a lively but friendly feel.
If you like history and architecture, look up as you walk—many of the older buildings still have interesting details and old signs painted on brick.
4. Ride the Unique Morgantown Personal Rapid Transit (PRT)
Morgantown has something most cities don’t: a small
Personal Rapid Transit system just for WVU and the city. Locals just call it the
PRT.
It’s a bit like a mix between a train and a monorail:
- Small driverless cars running on elevated tracks
- Five main stations connecting downtown and the WVU campuses
- Cheap and fun to ride, especially if you’ve never seen one before
If you’re into quirky transportation or traveling with kids, riding the PRT is a fun little adventure. You tap in, tell it where you want to go, and off you go above the streets. It’s not an all-day activity, but it’s a cool Morgantown-only experience.
5. Explore Coopers Rock State Forest
About 15 minutes east of Morgantown you’ll find one of the area’s best outdoor spots:
Coopers Rock State Forest.
This place is a dream if you love:
- Scenic overlooks – The main overlook sits on a rocky cliff with huge views of the Cheat River Gorge.
- Hiking – Dozens of miles of trails from easy to challenging.
- Picnicking – Covered shelters, fire pits, and tables in the woods.
- Rock climbing and bouldering – For more adventurous visitors.
The drive alone—winding through the forest—sets the mood. On your first visit, start with the main overlook, just a short walk from the parking lot. The view looks like a postcard, especially in fall when the hills are covered in red, gold, and orange.
If you have more time, pick a trail and wander into the forest. Always bring water and good shoes; even the easier trails can be rocky in spots.
6. Get on the Water at Cheat Lake
Just outside Morgantown,
Cheat Lake offers a totally different kind of day: water, sunshine, and laid-back fun.
Popular things to do at Cheat Lake:
- Kayaking or paddleboarding – Calm sections are perfect for beginners.
- Boat rentals – In warmer months, you can rent boats or join friends on the water.
- Cheat Lake Park and Trail – Lakeside walking path and a swimming beach area.
- Waterfront dining – Grab a meal with a lake view.
On a hot summer day, jumping into the cool lake feels amazing. Bring a towel, some snacks, and make a day of it. If you’re visiting Morgantown as a couple, a late-afternoon paddle followed by dinner by the water makes a pretty great date.
7. Taste Local Flavor at Morgantown’s Breweries & Eateries
One of the most enjoyable parts of visiting Morgantown is the
local food and craft beer scene. For a smaller city, it has a surprising number of options.
You’ll find:
- Local breweries – Try a flight of craft beers made right in town.
- Classic diners and pizza joints – Perfect after a hike or a game.
- Farm-to-table spots – Seasonal menus using regional ingredients.
If you’re not sure where to start, ask a local, “Where do you go after a WVU game?” People are usually happy to share their favorites, whether it’s a burger spot, a late-night pizza place, or a cozy café.
I’ve found that in college towns, the best food is often just off the main strip—don’t be afraid to walk a block or two away from the busiest part of High Street.
8. Visit the WVU Core Arboretum
Need a quiet break from downtown? Head to the
WVU Core Arboretum, a peaceful pocket of nature right on the edge of the city.
What you’ll find:
- Wooded walking trails leading down toward the Monongahela River
- Spring wildflowers and colorful fall leaves
- Birdwatching and wildlife spotting
This is a great spot if you:
- Want a mellow walk instead of a big hike
- Have kids who need room to explore
- Enjoy photography—especially in spring or fall
It feels like you’ve stepped out of the city and into the woods, even though you’re just a short drive from the heart of Morgantown.
9. Catch a Show or Event at the Metropolitan Theatre
For a dose of local culture, check out what’s happening at the historic
Metropolitan Theatre on High Street. This restored theater has a classic small-town feel, with a glowing marquee and old-school charm.
Depending on when you visit, you might see:
- Live music or concerts
- Comedy shows
- Plays, dance performances, or community events
If you’re staying overnight in Morgantown, an evening show at the Met followed by dessert or drinks downtown makes for a fun night out without a huge price tag.
Tip: Look up the schedule before your trip so you can snag tickets if something good is coming through town.
10. Take a Scenic Drive Through Monongalia County
Sometimes the best way to get to know West Virginia is simply to drive. The back roads around
Morgantown in Monongalia County roll past farms, old churches, and hilltop views.
Consider:
- Pairing a scenic drive with a visit to Coopers Rock or Cheat Lake
- Stopping at roadside produce stands in season
- Pulling over at safe spots for photos of the hills and valleys
If you’re coming from Pennsylvania, Maryland, or Ohio, try to arrive in daylight so you can enjoy the mountain scenery on the way in. The curves can be a bit sharp, but the views are worth it.
Planning Your Morgantown Trip
Here are a few quick tips to make your visit smoother:
- Best time to visit: Late spring through fall for outdoor activities; September and October are especially nice with football season and fall colors.
- Getting around: A car makes it much easier to reach Coopers Rock and Cheat Lake, but you can walk or use rideshares within the city.
- Weather: Summers can be warm and humid; winters can be cold and snowy. Pack layers.
Morgantown is big enough to keep you busy for a weekend, but small enough that it still feels personal and friendly. The mix of
college-town energy, river views, and nearby mountains makes it a great little base for exploring north-central West Virginia.
What Would You Add to This Morgantown List?
Have you spent time in
Morgantown, West Virginia or around Monongalia County?
- Did you find a favorite hiking trail at Coopers Rock?
- Have a go-to restaurant on High Street?
- Discover a hidden gem by the river or on Cheat Lake?
Share your tips and experiences in the comments—they help other travelers plan better trips and inspire new adventures.
If you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family planning a visit to Morgantown. The more we spread the word about this mountain town, the more people get to enjoy everything it has to offer.
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