? You’re in a great spot. This small
and is just minutes from Charleston, so you get that cozy small-town feel with big-city options nearby.
Whether you’re planning a weekend trip, visiting family, or just passing through on I‑64, here are
that locals actually enjoy.
1. Stroll the Dunbar Riverfront Park
If you only have time for one thing in Dunbar, make it the
Dunbar Riverfront Park. It’s simple, relaxed, and right on the Kanawha River.
- Paved walking path perfect for a slow evening walk
- Benches facing the water for sunset views
- Easy parking and usually not crowded
On warm summer evenings, you might catch a small event, a food truck, or families fishing along the bank. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a coffee, take a deep breath, and just watch the river roll by.
If you’re traveling with kids, bring a ball or frisbee—the open grassy areas are great for a quick play break after a long drive.
2. Explore Downtown Charleston (Just 10–15 Minutes Away)
One of the best things about Dunbar is how close it is to
Charleston, WV, the state capital. Hop on I‑64 east, and you’re in downtown Charleston in about 10–15 minutes.
Some easy things to do in Charleston:
- Walk along the Kanawha Boulevard – A long riverside walkway with great city and river views.
- Shop and eat at Capitol Market – A year‑round indoor/outdoor market with local produce, gifts, and food stalls.
- Check out local restaurants and coffee shops – From casual diners to nicer sit‑down spots, there’s a lot to try.
If you’re staying in Dunbar for a few days, plan at least one afternoon or evening in Charleston. It gives you more variety while still letting you come “home” to a quieter town.
3. Visit the West Virginia State Capitol & Capitol Complex
About 15–20 minutes from Dunbar, the
West Virginia State Capitol is one of the most striking buildings in the state. You can’t miss the shining gold dome right along the river.
Here’s what you can do at the Capitol Complex:
- Tour the Capitol building – Walk the marble halls and see the impressive rotunda. Guided tours are often available on weekdays.
- Relax on the lawn – The grounds are open and peaceful, perfect for a picnic or a quick break.
- Take photos – The gold dome, reflecting in the river on a clear day, makes a great backdrop.
If you enjoy history, architecture, or just pretty places, the Capitol is an easy must‑see near Dunbar.
4. Dive Into History at the West Virginia State Museum
Right next to the Capitol sits the
West Virginia State Museum, and it’s surprisingly engaging—even if you’re not usually a “museum person.”
Inside, you’ll find:
- Interactive exhibits on coal mining and industry
- Stories of Appalachian culture and everyday life
- Artifacts from early Native American history to modern times
One thing I love about this museum is how it walks you through the state’s story room by room, almost like a timeline. It’s free to visit, which also makes it a smart option on a rainy afternoon or when you need something budget‑friendly to do near Dunbar.
5. Get Outside at Kanawha State Forest
If you’re craving some fresh mountain air, head about 20–25 minutes from Dunbar to
Kanawha State Forest. It’s a local favorite for outdoor recreation and a great way to experience real West Virginia scenery without a long drive.
You can:
- Hike – Trails range from easy to more challenging. Look for shorter, family‑friendly loops if you’re just out for a stroll.
- Bike – Mountain biking trails wind through the hills and woods.
- Picnic – Pack a cooler and find a shady table for lunch.
- Wildlife watch – Deer, birds, and other wildlife are common.
In fall, the forest is especially beautiful with colorful leaves. If you enjoy being outdoors at all, this is one of the best things to do near Dunbar.
6. Relax at Shawnee Sports Complex & Shawnee Park
Just a short hop from Dunbar, in nearby Institute, you’ll find the
Shawnee Sports Complex and
Shawnee Park. It’s designed for tournaments and sports events, but it’s also a nice place for a casual visit.
Depending on when you go, you might:
- Watch youth soccer, baseball, or softball games
- Walk around the complex and enjoy the open space
- Use the playgrounds or open fields with kids
When you’re in a small town like Dunbar, parks like this become the local hangout spots. If you’re traveling with family, this is a simple, no‑stress option for letting everyone stretch their legs.
7. Take a Scenic Drive Along the Kanawha River
Sometimes, the best thing to do in West Virginia is just…drive.
From Dunbar, you can follow the river either east toward Charleston or west toward places like Nitro and beyond. Along the way, you’ll see:
- River views with barges and boats passing through
- Old railroad bridges and small river towns
- Hilltops dotted with houses and forest
Roll down the windows, put on some music, and enjoy the curves in the road and the steady view of the water. It’s simple, but that’s part of the charm of traveling in Kanawha County.
8. Enjoy Local Eats in and Around Dunbar
You won’t find a huge list of fancy restaurants in Dunbar, but you
will find good, honest, local food. That’s the kind people remember most anyway.
Here are some ideas:
- Try a local diner or family restaurant – Places where the coffee is always on and the server probably calls you “hon.”
- Grab pizza or wings – Perfect for a hotel night or game day.
- Check out nearby Charleston spots – From barbecue to farm‑to‑table, you’ll have more choices just a few minutes away.
If you’ve never tried a
pepperoni roll—a West Virginia classic—keep an eye out for one at a bakery or market. It’s basically a soft roll with pepperoni baked inside, and it makes a great road snack.
9. Catch a Game or Event at West Virginia State University
Just across the river in Institute, less than 10 minutes from Dunbar, sits
West Virginia State University (WVSU), a historic university with a friendly campus feel.
Depending on the time of year, you might:
- Watch a college basketball or football game
- Attend a campus event, lecture, or performance
- Walk the campus and enjoy the open green spaces
College campuses often bring a bit of extra energy and culture to small communities, and WVSU is no exception. Check their event calendar before your trip—you might catch something special.
10. Take a Day Trip to the New River Gorge Area
If you’re staying in Dunbar for a few days and don’t mind a bit of a drive, consider a day trip—about 1 to 1.5 hours—to the
New River Gorge, America’s newest National Park.
There you can:
- Walk to overlooks with huge views of the New River Gorge Bridge
- Try a short hike on well‑marked trails
- Go whitewater rafting in season (for more adventurous visitors)
It’s a bigger outing, but using Dunbar or Charleston as a “home base” for the night makes it easy. After exploring the gorge, you can head back to the quieter riverfront in Dunbar to unwind.
Planning Your Stay in Dunbar, WV
A few quick tips to make your visit smoother:
- Getting around: You’ll definitely want a car. Distances are short, but public transit is limited.
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall are especially pretty, with comfortable temperatures and colorful scenery.
- Weather: Summers can be warm and humid; winters can be chilly with some snow, but usually manageable.
Dunbar is ideal if you like a quieter base with easy highway access and plenty of things to do nearby in Kanawha County.
What Would You Add to This Dunbar, WV Bucket List?
Have you spent time in
Dunbar or Kanawha County, West Virginia? Maybe you know a hidden fishing spot, a favorite local restaurant, or a small festival that visitors should know about.
- What’s your favorite thing to do near Dunbar?
- Any must‑try places to eat or secret viewpoints?
Share your tips and stories in the comments below—I’d love to hear from locals and fellow travelers. And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family planning a trip to West Virginia. It might just inspire their next stop along the Kanawha River.
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