West Virginia

“Almost Heaven, West Virginia,” that is how John Denver described this beautiful mountainous state in his top hit song, “Country Roads.” We are sure you will agree as we visit the area known as the “Heart of West Virginia.” This area is famous for its mountain scenery, outdoor recreation, rich culture, and heritage. Come away to the lush green mountains of West Virginia, where interstates meet country roads and take the traveler on a delightful journey to some of the most beautiful scenery you have ever seen.

Day 1 – Elkins, West Virginia – Gandy Dancer Theater – Today we step aboard a deluxe motorcoach and travel to Elkins, West Virginia, where we check into our hotel for the next two nights. After check-in, we’re off for an unforgettable evening at the Gandy Dancer Theater. After a wonderful, included dinner, the fabulous Mountain Memories Show Band will entertain us with music from the 50’s to today, country, pop, gospel, and patriotic tunes and high energy, family comedy.

Day 2 – Green Bank Science Center – Cass Scenic Railroad – After an included breakfast, we will visit the Green Bank Science Center, located within the 13,000-mile National Radio Quiet Zone. The Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope stands 500 feet with a dish the size of a football field. Day and night, this state-of-the-art radio telescope is used to observe asteroids, star formations, and more recently has been used to search for extraterrestrial life in the universe. After an included lunch, we board the Cass Scenic Railroad for an unforgettable two-hour train excursion to Whittaker Station. Dinner is included this evening. Overnight same hotel.

Day 3 – Tamarack – Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine – We travel to beautiful Beckley, West Virginia today. This afternoon, we stop at Tamarack for shopping and lunch on our own. This unique retailer started out as a simple vision to promote the Mountain State’s wonderful image. You will find crafts and food from all over the Mountain State, including those from the famous five-star Greenbrier Resort. At the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, we take a ride in remodeled coal mining cars in this once-working coal mine. Our guide, a veteran miner, will share with us the stories and first-hand accounts of past and present day miners. We overnight in Beckley.

Day 4 – West Virginia State Capital & State Museum – Home – After an included breakfast, we visit the West Virginia State Museum for a visit into the state’s history. Next, we travel home with memories and stories to tell our loved ones about our great adventure to beautiful West Virginia.

Meals: 3B, 1L, 2D, Show: 1