June 19, 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Jama Jarrett
304-558-2003, ext. 341
Jama.l.jarrett@wv.gov
Heritage and traditional attractions in West Virginia
West Virginia is hot spot of summer attractions to keep the whole family busy. Enjoy baseball - America’s favorite pastime, rediscover a part of the state’s coal-mining past or take a trip back into the state’s railroading history. Below is just a sample of this summer’s offerings. For other attractions, visit www.wvtourism.com.
Take me out to the ballgame
Looking for an activity the whole family can enjoy? Take pleasure in America’s favorite pastime, baseball. Since West Virginia is home to three minor league baseball teams, choosing which team to see this summer is only half the fun. Whether you decide to cheer on the West Virginia Power, the Bluefield Orioles or the Princeton Devil Rays, your day at the park will be complete with hot dogs, peanuts and Cracker Jacks. Promotional and theme nights provide additional entertainment for fans of all ages and are guaranteed to make your day at the park affordable and enjoyable.
For more information and summer schedules, contact the West Virginia Power at 304-344-2287 or www.wvpower.com; the Bluefield Orioles at 276-326-1326 or www.bluefieldorioles.com ; or the Princeton Devil Rays at 304-487-2000 or www. princetondevilrays.com .
Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine new company store opens
As part of a $3.5 million renovation, the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine will open its new company store structure, which features a welcome center, gift shop and museum, on June 30. Visitors now are able to experience the state’s coal mining heritage at the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine takes visitors 1,500 feet underground through an authentic coal mine on the hillsides of New River Park. A “man trip” car takes you through the restored, low-seam mine as a guide shares the story of coal mining from its early, hand-loading days to the innovative processes that are used today. Outside, visit a restored superintendent’s house, miner’s house, company school and church. For reservations and rates, contact the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine at 304-256-1747 or visit www.beckleymine.com.All aboard!
Tired of the same old, boring vacation or weekend getaway? Try something new and explore West Virginia in a whole new way, by train. With four major scenic train systems to choose from, travelers can take their pick from day trips or vacation excursions.
Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad — The historic Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad near Romney is one of America's most beautiful train rides. As passengers explore the tranquil and pristine mountain valley along the South branch of the Potomac River, they are rewarded with the splendor of native wildflowers, evergreens and mixed hardwoods in an unspoiled countryside environment.
Living up to its name, the Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad will take you to a place few have discovered. High on the mountain walls or soaring gracefully above, you’ll see America’s national symbol, the American Bald Eagle. Take part in this rare trip and make your reservations today.
The Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad offers wine tasting, live music and murder mystery trips. A special Fourth of July trip also is scheduled.
Ticket prices vary. To learn more or to make your reservation, call 304-424-0736 or visit www.potomaceagle.info.
Cass Scenic Railroad — Located in the breathtaking mountains of Pocahontas County, Cass Scenic Railroad takes you on a journey back in time with daily runs to Whittaker Station, Bald Knob and Spruce Run. While there, learn more about the town’s history through scheduled presentations and tours, and be sure to visit the restored company buildings and Cass Company Store. Special entertainment trains add to the fun and excitement of these excursions and offer a variety of options that will make your experience one you will never forget.
In June and July, take pleasure in great food and live bluegrass music on the Fiddles and Vittles tour. Make sure you sharpen your detective skills for the Murder Mystery ride scheduled for the Fourth of July and other dates throughout the summer.
Ticket prices vary. For additional information on these and other monthly tours, contact Cass Scenic Railroad State Park at 304-456-4300 or www.cassrailroad.com.
Durbin and Greenbrier Valley Railroad — The Durbin and Greenbrier Valley Railroad gives visitors a chance to explore the mountains of West Virginia with four different trains. The Durbin Rocket, Cheat Mountain Salamander, New Tygart Flyer and Mountain Explorer each have something different to offer.
Durbin Rocket — The Durbin Rocket is a steam locomotive that was built in 1910. Today you can ride in authentic 1920-era coach and vintage wooden cabooses as the locomotive puffs & whistles its way along the free-flowing Greenbrier River in northern Pocahontas County. Your ride covers 10.5 miles and offers many beautiful river and mountain views in the Monongahela National Forest.
Cheat Mountain Salamander — The Cheat Mountain Salamander includes a 128-mile trip through one of the largest wilderness areas in the eastern United States. This ride transports you through mile after mile of unbroken, untamed mountain wilderness that relatively few people have actually seen.
New Tygart Flyer — The New Tygart Flyer is a smooth, climate-controlled passenger train that has gained a reputation as one of the most exciting mountain wilderness excursion rides in the United States. This ride features two separate mountain grades, an “S” curve tunnel, passage into a 1,500-foot deep canyon and a crossing of the rushing Shavers Fork of the Cheat River.
Mountain Explorer Dinner Train — Looking for a romantic trip without the kids? The Mountain Explorer Dinner Train can give you the peace and quiet you’ve longed for this summer season. This journey is highlighted with fresh-cooked, four course meals prepared inside the completely restored dining car. Relax and enjoy your dining experience as you watch the setting sun spread hues of amber and pink across the steep ridges surrounding the pristine Shavers Fork of the Cheat River.
Ticket prices vary. For more information on any of the Durbin and Greenbrier Railroad trains, call 1-877-686-7245 or visit www.mountainrail.com.
Mountain State Mystery Train — Want to take a trip without the worry of filling up your gas tank? Consider taking the Mountain State Mystery Train to your next destination. Specializing in day trips, overnight or weekend mini-vacations this train can take you to and from Washington, D.C.; Cincinnati, Ohio; Indianapolis, Ind.; or Chicago, Ill., just to name a few locations.
This train also offers annual fall foliage tours, the Cherry Blossoms and Monuments Tour in Washington, D.C., as well as fishing, rafting and weekend trips. Ticket prices vary. To learn more about the Mountain State Mystery Train, call 1-866-529-6412 or visit www.themysterytrain.com.
Martinsburg Roundhouse Center — The Martinsburg Roundhouse Center will host the 10 th Annual Rail Days on July 19-20 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the town of Martinsburg. Don’t miss this family-friendly event that features model train displays, civil war re-enactments, arts and crafts, great food, live music and much more. Admission is $5 for adults. Children 12 and under are admitted free. For more information, call 304-260-4141 or visit www.martinsburgroundhouse.com.
# # #
West Virgnia stages arts and cultural events this summer
New guide offers in-depth information about West Virginia's golf courses
Outdoor adventures on land and water
West Virginia Day Events
Independence Day Celebrations Across the State
Fairs and Festivals