West Virginia Executive Summer 2018 | Page 46

[ 20th anniversary ] Staff Picks Jennifer Top 20 Tourism Spots 2. Trans Allegheny Lunatic Asylum – Weston, WV in the state. Take the factory tour, and then shop for bargains at the on-site store. History, beauty and mystery, all in one sandstone structure. This place has haunted me since the first time I saw it, and I love it. 1. Lindy Point – Blackwater Falls State Park, Tucker County When I was told we were hiking out to the overlook, I had no idea what we would find or how it would touch me. Whether you want to catch your breath, feel one with nature or get a gentle re- minder of why we fight so hard for our great state, this is the place. 3. River Riders’ Float Trip – Harpers Ferry, WV This slow float down the river is one of the most relaxing activities I’ve ever experienced. 4. The Homer Laughlin China Co. – Newell, WV This is probably the most colorful ex- ample of West Virginians hard at work 5. Black Walnut Festival – Spencer, WV This has been a tradition in our family since I was a child. If you haven’t tried the pulled beef sandwich, you are missing out. Kensie 2. Bridge Walk – Lansing, WV Walking on the catwalk underneath the New River Gorge Bridge is awe-inspiring. It also makes you feel really small. Armed with a helmet and harness, this will be a hike you won’t soon forget. I love visiting the Good Zoo at Ogle- bay. It allows us animal lovers to get up close and personal with our four-legged friends, both local and exotic. 3. Shepherdstown 1. Summersville Lake – Summersville, WV Summersville Lake is one of my favor- ite places in the world because it’s beau- tiful and relaxing. My family and I go boating on the lake multiple weekends every summer. 44 WEST VIRGINIA EXECUTIVE One of the perks of working for WVE is getting to eat my way across the state. The best part of exploring West Virgin- ia’s Eastern Panhandle—aside from the beauty and history—is the variety of unique restaurants in Shepherdstown. 4. The Good Zoo at Oglebay Resort & Conference Center – Wheeling, WV 5. Hatfield McCoy Trail System I love getting off the beaten path with an ATV ride through the rugged terrain of Southern West Virginia.