CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Governor Patrick Morrisey is celebrating another major national honor for West Virginia tourism after Architectural Digest named New River Gorge National Park & Preserve one of America’s most beautiful places.
Morrisey said the recognition reflects what travelers across the country are discovering: West Virginia offers “breathtaking landscapes, authentic communities, world‑class outdoor adventure, and people who make every visitor feel at home.”
The Architectural Digest feature praised New River Gorge for its whitewater rafting, rock climbing, scenic overlooks, peaceful hiking trails, and expanding hospitality options — spotlighting one of the Mountain State’s signature destinations.
This latest accolade adds to a growing wave of national praise.
- Travel + Leisure recently named Lewisburg one of Appalachia’s most charming small towns.
- USA Today readers again recognized Lewisburg for having one of America’s best small‑town food scenes.
- U.S. News & World Report named New River Gorge the nation’s Best Underrated Travel Destination.
Tourism leaders say the attention is translating into real results. West Virginia welcomed more than 77 million visitors last year, generating a record $9.1 billion in economic impact. Tourism supports nearly 61,000 jobs statewide and produces over $1.1 billion in tax revenue — strengthening local communities and reducing the tax burden for families.
“West Virginia is building momentum across the board,” Morrisey said. “Every family that vacations here, every business that invests here, and every national publication that recognizes West Virginia helps tell our story. That’s good news for our communities, our small businesses, and our future.”
Residents and visitors can plan their next Almost Heaven getaway at wvtourism.com.
