10 Fun Things To Do Near Grafton, West Virginia (Taylor County Travel Guide)
Looking for a quiet, budget-friendly getaway in West Virginia?
Grafton, WV, in Taylor County, is one of those small towns that surprises you in the best way. It’s cozy, historic, and surrounded by rolling hills, rivers, and state parks.
Whether you’re planning a weekend road trip from Pittsburgh, DC, or anywhere in the Mid-Atlantic, this guide covers
10 things to do in and near Grafton that mix history, outdoor fun, and small-town charm.
1. Visit the Grafton National Cemetery
If you’re interested in history, you’ll want to start here. The
Grafton National Cemetery is a peaceful, beautifully kept hillside cemetery honoring Union soldiers who died in the Civil War.
You’ll find:
- Quiet walking paths and shaded areas
- Historic gravestones dating back to the 1800s
- Informational markers that tell the story of the town’s role in the Civil War
Every May, Grafton hosts a
Memorial Day ceremony that draws visitors from all over West Virginia. It’s moving, respectful, and a good reminder of how deeply history runs in this area.
If you enjoy photography, the view from the upper levels of the cemetery, with the town spread below, is simple but beautiful—especially around sunset.
2. Explore the Birthplace of Mother’s Day: International Mother’s Day Shrine
Did you know that
Mother’s Day started in Grafton? That’s not just local pride—it’s official history.
The
International Mother’s Day Shrine, a former church in downtown Grafton, is where Anna Jarvis first organized a Mother’s Day service in 1908 to honor her own mother. Today, the building is a National Historic Landmark.
Inside, you can:
- See exhibits about the origin of Mother’s Day
- Learn about Anna Jarvis and her family
- Appreciate the old church architecture and stained glass
If you’re visiting in May, check ahead for special events. Even if you’re just passing through, a quick stop here makes you see that second Sunday in May a little differently.
3. Get Outside at Tygart Lake State Park
Just a few miles from downtown Grafton,
Tygart Lake State Park is the area’s outdoor playground. If you love being near the water, this is where you’ll probably spend a chunk of your trip.
Things to do at Tygart Lake:
- Swimming: There’s a designated beach area that’s great for families.
- Boating: Rent a pontoon, kayak, or paddleboard in the warmer months.
- Fishing: The lake is known for bass, walleye, and panfish.
- Hiking: Short, easy trails with lake views and forest scenery.
The park also has a lodge and cabins if you want to stay right on the lake. Waking up to mist on the water with coffee in hand is one of those simple moments you remember long after vacation is over.
4. Take the Kids (or Your Inner Kid) to Tygart Adventure Lake
If you’re traveling with kids—or you just like acting like one—head to
Tygart Adventure Lake, located within Tygart Lake State Park.
This is a floating water park on the lake, usually open in summer. Picture:
- Giant inflatable slides
- Climbing walls
- Balance beams and obstacle-style features
You pay for a timed session, get a life jacket, and then it’s just pure, splashy fun.
It’s a workout too. Don’t be surprised if you’re ready for a nap afterward. Want a tip? Book earlier in the day or on weekdays if you prefer smaller crowds.
5. Wander Through Historic Downtown Grafton
Downtown Grafton feels like stepping back a few decades in the best possible way. The town has that classic
railroad city look—brick buildings, an old train station, and small shops lining the streets.
Things to look for:
- Grafton Railroad Heritage: The town was an important B&O Railroad hub.
- Local diners and cafes: Stop in for a hot meal and friendly conversation.
- Murals and historic buildings: Great for a casual walking tour.
If you like to support small businesses, this is where to do it. Grab a coffee, pop into a thrift or antique shop, and take your time. In towns like Grafton, half the fun is just talking to the locals—they’re often happy to share tips that never make it into official travel brochures.
6. Visit the Anna Jarvis Birthplace Museum
Just outside Grafton, near Webster (still in Taylor County), you’ll find the
Anna Jarvis Birthplace Museum. This historic home gives more depth to the Mother’s Day story you learn at the Shrine in town.
Inside the house, you can:
- See period furniture and old photographs
- Get a feel for rural life in the 1800s
- Learn about the Jarvis family and their community work
If you enjoy small, personal museums, this one is worth your time. It’s not flashy, but that’s part of the charm. It feels like stepping into someone’s home—because it was.
7. Hike, Bike, or Jog the Tygart Valley River Trails
The
Tygart Valley River flows right by Grafton, and there are several access points and paths you can use for an easy outdoor escape.
Depending on where you go, you can:
- Walk along the riverbanks and watch the water roll by
- Bring a bike for a relaxed ride
- Find quiet spots to read, sketch, or just unplug for a bit
The terrain isn’t extreme here, which makes it perfect if you like being outside but don’t want a hardcore mountain trek. In fall, the leaves put on a serious color show along the river.
8. Take a Day Trip to Valley Falls State Park
About a 25–30 minute drive from Grafton,
Valley Falls State Park is a must-visit if you love waterfalls and rivers.
At Valley Falls, you’ll find:
- Multiple waterfalls cascading over wide rock ledges
- Hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate
- Picnic areas with tables and grills
The falls here are powerful after a good rain, so always be cautious near the water. But even from a safe distance, the sound and view are impressive.
This is a great spot to pack a cooler, bring a camp chair, and spend a full afternoon. If you’re a photographer, you’ll have no shortage of shots.
9. Explore Nearby Philippi and Its Covered Bridge
If you’re up for a short scenic drive, head about 20–25 miles south to
Philippi in Barbour County. It’s outside Taylor County, but close enough to easily include in your Grafton trip.
The highlight here is the
Philippi Covered Bridge:
- One of the oldest and longest covered bridges in the United States
- Still in use for vehicle traffic
- A great spot for photos and a little Civil War history
You can also stroll through Philippi’s small downtown and visit local museums. It rounds out the “small West Virginia towns” theme of your trip nicely.
10. Enjoy Local Events and Small-Town Festivals
One of the best ways to experience
Grafton, WV is to plan around a local event. Small towns really shine when people gather.
Depending on the time of year, you may find:
- Memorial Day observances connected to the National Cemetery
- Mother’s Day events tied to the Shrine and the Anna Jarvis story
- Summer fairs or community festivals with food, music, and crafts
If you’re flexible on dates, check local tourism sites or social media for events in Grafton and Taylor County. A simple town festival can end up being the highlight of your trip—good food, local bands, and that easy, neighborly feel you don’t get in big cities.
Planning Your Trip to Grafton, West Virginia
Before you head out, here are a few quick tips:
- Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for lake activities and festivals; October for fall colors.
- Getting there: Grafton is an easy drive from Morgantown, Fairmont, and Clarksburg, and a reasonable road trip from Pittsburgh or DC.
- Where to stay: Look at Tygart Lake State Park lodge or cabins, local motels, or vacation rentals in and around Taylor County.
- What to pack: Comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket (mountain evenings can be cool), and swim gear if you’re heading to Tygart Lake.
Grafton isn’t a flashy, high-tourist town—and that’s exactly why people fall in love with it. It’s a place where you slow down, breathe a little deeper, and remember how good simple things can be: a quiet view, a friendly diner, a walk by the river.
What Would You Like to Do in Grafton?
Have you been to
Grafton, West Virginia or Taylor County before?
- Which of these 10 things would you try first?
- Do you know a hidden gem near Grafton that travelers should check out?
Share your thoughts, tips, or questions in the comments—I’d love to hear from you. And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend planning a West Virginia road trip. Your share might be the nudge they need to discover Grafton for themselves.
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