10 Fun Things To Do Near St. Albans, West Virginia (Kanawha County)
If you’re looking for a laid-back river town with easy access to outdoor adventure and small-town charm,
St. Albans, West Virginia is a great place to start. Tucked along the
Kanawha River, this community offers a nice mix of history, nature, and family-friendly fun — plus it’s just a short drive from
Charleston.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, passing through on a road trip, or visiting family, here are
10 things to do in and around St. Albans, WV that are worth your time.
1. Stroll the Historic St. Albans Main Street District
Downtown St. Albans may be small, but it has that classic
“Main Street USA” feel that’s hard to fake.
You’ll find:
- Locally owned shops and boutiques
- Casual restaurants and cafés
- Historic brick buildings with old-time charm
Take a slow walk, grab a coffee or ice cream, and pop into a few shops. If you like old signs, painted brick, and that cozy neighborhood vibe, you’ll enjoy just wandering around.
If you can, time your visit for an event or festival downtown. The city often hosts
seasonal markets, car shows, and holiday celebrations that bring the streets to life.
2. Relax by the River at St. Albans Roadside Park
Right along the Kanawha River,
St. Albans Roadside Park is one of the easiest places to unwind.
Here you can:
- Walk along the river and watch the boats go by
- Let kids burn off energy on the playground
- Have a picnic at one of the shelters
- Fish from the river bank
If you’re on a road trip along
Route 60, this park makes a perfect place to stretch your legs. On warm evenings, you’ll see locals out walking dogs or sitting on benches just taking in the water views.
It’s simple, peaceful, and very “West Virginia.”
3. Step Back in Time at the St. Albans Historical Society & Museum
Curious about how this river town got its start? Visit the
St. Albans Historical Society & museum displays (often set up in different buildings downtown).
You’ll find:
- Old photographs of St. Albans and its early days
- Railroad and river history
- Stories about floods, industry, and local families
It’s not a huge, high-tech museum, but that’s part of the charm. You feel like you’re flipping through a town scrapbook. If you like history, ask questions — locals are usually happy to share stories that never make it into the brochures.
4. Enjoy Live Performances at the Alban Arts Center
For a small town,
St. Albans has a surprisingly active arts scene, centered around the
Alban Arts Center on Old Main.
Depending on when you visit, you might catch:
- Community theater productions
- Live music or concerts
- Comedy or variety shows
- Art events and workshops
The building itself has that old-theater charm with a cozy feel inside. If you love supporting local arts, check their schedule before your trip and plan a night at the theater.
There’s something special about watching a show in a small venue where the performers are right in front of you, not a tiny speck on a huge stage.
5. Explore Nature at Wine Cellar Park
Just outside the main part of town,
Wine Cellar Park is a great little escape into the woods.
Don’t let the name fool you — it’s not a winery. The park is named for the
historic stone wine cellars built here in the mid-1800s. These arched stone structures are still standing and make a cool backdrop for photos.
At the park you can:
- Walk or hike the wooded trails
- Check out the old stone cellars
- Enjoy a picnic in a quiet setting
- Look for birds and wildlife in the shaded forest
If you’re traveling in the summer, the wooded trails offer some welcome shade. It’s a peaceful spot to feel like you’re deep in nature, even though you’re just minutes from downtown St. Albans.
6. Take a Day Trip to Charleston, West Virginia’s Capital
One of the best things about staying in St. Albans is how close you are to
Charleston — only about 15–20 minutes away by car.
In Charleston, you can visit:
If you like mixing small-town relaxing with a little city exploring, this combo works perfectly. Stay in St. Albans for the local feel, then head into Charleston for a day of sightseeing, shopping, and dining.
7. Get Outdoors at Kanawha State Forest
If you’re an outdoor lover, put
Kanawha State Forest on your list. It’s around a 30–40 minute drive from St. Albans, depending on your route, but worth the trip.
In the forest you can:
- Hike miles of marked trails, from easy to challenging
- Mountain bike on rugged terrain
- Have a picnic and let kids enjoy the playground areas
- Look for wildlife and enjoy the quiet woods
The forest offers that classic
Appalachian scenery — tall trees, rolling hills, and peaceful hollows. If you like photography, the light under the canopy is beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon.
Pack water, comfortable shoes, and a simple snack or two, and you’ll be set for a half-day adventure.
8. Hunt for Antiques and Unique Finds Around Town
St. Albans and the surrounding Kanawha County area have several
antique shops, thrift stores, and flea markets sprinkled around. They’re fun to browse, especially on a rainy or chilly day.
You might find:
- Vintage glassware and dishes
- Retro signs and West Virginia memorabilia
- Old tools, records, and furniture
Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s a great way to get a sense of local history. You never know what will turn up — I’ve seen everything from coal mining helmets to postcards from the 1920s in shops around this part of the state.
9. Enjoy Seasonal Festivals and Community Events
Small towns in West Virginia know how to throw a good community event, and
St. Albans is no exception. Depending on when you visit, you might catch:
These events are one of the best ways to feel the heart of the town. Kids are running around, neighbors are catching up, and visitors are welcomed like old friends.
Before your trip, check the city or local tourism websites or social media for an updated event calendar. You may want to plan your stay around one of these gatherings.
10. Take a Scenic Drive Along the Kanawha River
Sometimes the simplest activity ends up being the most memorable. A
scenic drive along the Kanawha River near St. Albans is one of those things.
Follow the river roads in either direction and you’ll see:
- Wide river views and forested hills
- Railroad tracks and old industrial sites
- Small river communities and quiet neighborhoods
Roll down the windows, turn on some music, and just enjoy the landscape. The mix of water, hills, and small-town life gives you a real feel for this part of West Virginia.
If you like to stop for photos, you’ll find several pull-offs and parks along the way.
Tips for Visiting St. Albans, West Virginia
To make the most of your time in and around St. Albans:
- Bring layers: Weather in West Virginia can change quickly, especially in spring and fall.
- Wear comfy shoes: Between Main Street, parks, and trails, you’ll do some walking.
- Check event calendars: Local festivals and shows can really enhance your visit.
- Have some cash on hand: Smaller shops, markets, or festival vendors may prefer cash.
St. Albans makes a great stop on a larger West Virginia road trip, or a quiet base for exploring
Kanawha County and Charleston.
Share Your St. Albans Experience
Have you visited
St. Albans, WV or nearby Kanawha County spots?
- Which park or trail did you like best?
- Did you discover a favorite local restaurant or coffee shop?
- What surprised you most about this little river town?
Drop your thoughts, tips, and questions in the comments — your experience can help other travelers plan their own getaway.
And if you found this guide to
things to do near St. Albans, West Virginia helpful, please
share it with a friend or on your favorite social media. It might inspire someone’s next small-town adventure.
Comments
Post a Comment