West Virginia in Movies and TV: Famous Filming Locations You Can Visit
Just a short drive south of Morgantown, nestled along the Cheat River, is Oglebay Resort Park in Wheeling, a place that movie buffs might recognize from its cameo in the film “Tucker: The Man and His Dream.” This sprawling park, covering more than 1,700 acres, offers visitors not only the chance to stroll through beautifully manicured gardens and glide across a peaceful lake but also to immerse themselves in a slice of cinematic history. The Wilson Lodge, featured in several scenes, anchors the resort with its classic architecture and warm hospitality. Exploring the walking trails in spring or early fall reveals a riot of color and a tranquil atmosphere ideal for reflection or photography, making it a living set where nature and film history blend seamlessly.
Heading southeast about an hour and a half from Charleston, the town of Lewisburg invites visitors into a storybook setting that has drawn filmmakers for decades. Known for its charming historic district, Lewisburg was a backdrop for the cult classic “Matewan,” a film recounting the 1920s coal miners’ strike. Walking tours of the downtown area offer glimpses of the same aged brick buildings and quaint streets that appeared on screen. The Greenbrier River Trail, nearby, provides a peaceful counterpoint with a gentle 77-mile stretch of terrain perfect for biking or hiking amid old railroad bridges and tunnels, echoing the industrial past portrayed in the movie. Autumn is particularly spectacular here when the foliage turns fiery red and gold, enhancing the town’s cinematic allure.
Farther south in the New River Gorge National Park, about 45 minutes from Beckley, lies the iconic New River Gorge Bridge, one of the most photographed landmarks in West Virginia. The bridge featured prominently in the film “We Are Marshall,” reflecting the state’s dramatic landscapes and resilient spirit. Visitors can experience the Bridge Walk tour, where guides lead you across catwalks beneath the bridge’s deck, offering jaw-dropping views of the gorge 876 feet below. This is not just a thrill; it’s an encounter with engineering marvel and scenic grandeur. Spring and fall are ideal times to visit when the weather is mild and the surrounding forests burst with vibrant colors, creating a perfect natural theater.
In the northeastern corner of the state, about 20 minutes from Martinsburg, the historic Berkeley Springs offers a soothing retreat with a cinematic connection to the movie “Patch Adams,” which highlighted the town’s serene beauty. The town is famous for its warm mineral springs, which have attracted visitors since colonial times. Walking through the quaint downtown, visitors find galleries, antique shops, and the renowned Berkeley Springs State Park, where the main spring bubbles up in a lovely pavilion. The park’s healing waters and peaceful ambiance made it a perfect setting for the thoughtful scenes in the film. Early morning visits are magical here, as mist rises gently from the springs, adding a dreamlike quality that feels lifted from the silver screen.
West of Charleston, the town of Fayetteville has emerged as a cultural and outdoor hub, partly thanks to its role in the film “October Sky.” The town sits just outside the New River Gorge and invites visitors to explore the Coal Heritage Trail, where the story of coal mining is etched into the landscape. The town’s historic district features period architecture reminiscent of the mid-20th century, setting the scene for the film’s coming-of-age tale about a young rocket enthusiast. Fayetteville’s blend of rugged landscapes and small-town charm offers plenty of hiking, local craft shops, and eateries where Appalachian flavors shine. Late summer and early fall draw the biggest crowds, when outdoor festivals and clear skies inspire creative energy reminiscent of the movie’s hopeful spirit.
In Charleston itself, the state capital and largest city, the historic Haddad Riverfront Park along the Kanawha River was used in scenes from the TV series “My Brother’s Keeper.” The park is a vibrant urban green space with walking paths, public art, and frequent festivals that showcase West Virginia’s culture. From the riverside, visitors can stroll to the nearby Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences, a modern venue that hosts exhibits and performances reflecting the state’s rich artistic traditions. Springtime is particularly enjoyable for a visit, when the riverbanks bloom and the park buzzes with outdoor concerts, creating a lively atmosphere that connects visitors to the state’s contemporary cultural scene.
Finally, near the northern city of Wheeling, the historic Fort Henry amphitheater overlooks the Ohio River and was a key filming location for scenes in the movie “Rapture.” Visitors to the area can tour the fort, which played a strategic role in colonial and Civil War history, exploring reconstructed stockades and exhibits that bring early American frontier life to vivid life. The amphitheater itself offers sweeping views of the river and downtown Wheeling, making it a perfect spot for sunset photography or reflection on the layers of history captured on film. Late spring through early fall, when the region’s weather is most pleasant, is the best time to explore both the fort and the charming riverfront city it protects.
Each of these West Virginia sites invites visitors not only to relive moments from beloved films and TV shows but also to experience the state’s stunning natural beauty, rich history, and welcoming communities. Whether hiking cliffside trails, soaking in mineral springs, or wandering historic streets, travelers find that West Virginia’s cinematic settings come alive far beyond the screen, offering a tangible connection to stories that have captured imaginations nationwide.