West Virginia

West Virginia

West Virginia is like many others along the Appalachian Mountains in that it is rural, small in population, and much of its tourism is reliant on its outdoor attractions and activities. West Virginia is known for its skiing, rafting, hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. With this in mind, it's important to understand that many of the souvenirs available in West Virginia will be related to these outdoor attractions.

Outdoor Attractions

Some of the most popular outdoor attractions are Snowshoe Mountain, Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, and what was once the world's longest steel arch bridge, the New River Gorge Bridge. Other than at Showshoe and other similar mountain resorts which will offer many souvenirs attributed directly to that destination, many of the gifts you can find in West Virginia will not be attributed to one particular area.

All of this said, there are still some interesting souvenirs worth picking up in West Virginia. Many of these items will bear some acknowledgement to the state's mountains and plentiful wildlife. Mugs and other pottery items can be found throughout the state at general stores and other roadside locations. Many of these will be painted with bears, deer, and snow-capped mountains in the backdrop. Like many states in the U.S.A, shot glasses are a common keepsake and mug like the pottery, these small pieces of art will depict the wildlife in this Appalachian region. Also available are spoons, cigar bands, keychains, and painted plates.

College Culture

Not many of the souvenirs from West Virginia will be unique to the region with the exception of those that are painted or engraved specifically for the state. However, if you're really looking for something that screams "West Virginia," your safest bet is to grab something from the West Virginia University in Morgantown. Being that there are no professional sports teams in West Virginia, the natives here are incredibly passionate towards their home state school. While there are other big schools like Marshall University, it is West Virginia University that has won over the majority of the residents' hearts. With a respectable athletic reputation, university apparel can be found just about anywhere. The iconic yellow and blue "WVU" will most likely be present, but I would implore you to look for something bearing the resemblance of their unique mascot. The West Virginia mascot is the mountaineer and unlike many mascots across the nation, this individual closely resembles Daniel Boone with his animal skin clothing, raccoon cap, and long-barreled rifle.

Particularly unique souvenirs will be more difficult to come across in West Virginia simply because of its lacking in many desirably attractions. However, like with every state, West Virginia does have some things to offer, but you just might have to look for them a little harder.