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Welcome to Southern West Virginia
Where Tourism Thrives
West Virginia ’ s Southern Coalfields are home to some of the best tourism destinations in the country . With the New River Gorge named the newest national park and the famous Hatfield McCoy Trails throughout the region continuing to expand , the beauty and recreation of Southern West Virginia simply cannot be beat .
Tourism helps residents of the region thrive . In Mercer County , tourism is an economic driver that brings outside dollars to the community , according to Jamie Null , executive director of the Mercer County Convention & Visitors Bureau ( CVB ).
“ Direct tourism spending in Mercer County is $ 110 million , according to data by West
Virginia Tourism ,” says Null . “ Those tourism dollars also give Mercer County families a tax break by reducing their local taxes by almost $ 400 a year . Data also shows tourism accounts for more than 1,100 jobs in Mercer County . Our goal is to increase tourism through our marketing to continue that drive in the economy .”
Debrina Williams , executive director of the Hatfield McCoy CVB in Logan County , says businesses are currently constructing additional cabins , adding RV parks and opening restaurants to accommodate visitors to the Hatfield McCoy Trails . While all these aspects certainly draw in tourists , Williams says one of West Virginia ’ s best selling points is its residents .
“ West Virginians have long been noted for their genuine hospitality ,” she says . “ They have a way of making visitors feel welcome . I love small towns where people say good morning even if they don ’ t personally know you .”
According to Lisa Strader , director of the Visit Southern West Virginia CVB , while the pandemic was devastating to many tourism businesses , tourism has much growth potential in the state .
“ While there has already been success in our state , it is so important to continue to support our industry and the businesses that make West Virginia a contender for travelers ,” she says .
Becky Sullivan , executive director of the New River Gorge CVB says Southern West Virginia draws in businesses because it is in close proximity to three major interstates and easily accessible to more than half of the U . S . population within a day ’ s drive . She also says it is nature at its finest , with outdoor recreational opportunities like whitewater rafting , rock climbing , mountain biking , scenic hiking trails , bird watching and foraging .
“ Southern West Virginia has always been home to me . There ’ s a wonderful sense of community and comfort here that I appreciate ,” says Sullivan .
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