Enjoy Some DowntimeIn The Mountain State (NAPSA)—Hometo the “Original Gateway to the West,” West Virginia is the gateway to a quick and relaxing getaway that’s a fit for all ages. The Mountain State is an excellent place to kick back and takeit easy—butit’s also rich in history, nature, fine food and drink, and spots to get out and work up an appetite. Nestled within a few hours’ drive of more than 15 major and midsize communities on the East Coast and Midwest, it is also easily accessible to millions of Americans. What You Can See And Do Among the fun spots to stop and get away from it all—or get into quite a bit—are: Wheeling: The Oglebay Resort has been called a golfer’s paradise. After a day on the links, dine on delicious fishes and other dishes at Coleman’s Fish Market. Next, visit the 30-acre zoo featuring many rare and endangered species, a train ride and a chance to pet the animals. For morethrills, try the “haunted” Moundsville Penitentiary or swing onto the Suspension Bridge. Parkersburg: Here, you can see the fantastic chrome Mothman Statue, stay at the beautifully restored, historic Blennerhassett Hotel or go to the North End Tavern for delicious pub fare and handcrafted brews. *Fayetteville: See clever, inspiring creative work along the Art Walk at The Grove. View the beautiful New River Gorge Bridge from the top at Overlook and from underneath on a raft at Fayette A visit to West Virginia can be as relaxing or as exciting as youlike. Station. Enjoy breakfast at Vandal’s Kitchen, then rock climb at Water Stone. After combating gravity there, see the lawsof gravity defied at Mystery Hole. The Thomas-Davis area: Get a lift looking at Blackwater Falls, accessible from steps and several viewing platforms. Dine at Tip- Top, enjoy the craft beer at Stumptown and hike the wilderness at Dolly Sods/Bear Rocks. Forthe scientifically minded—and the young at heart—there’s the National Radio Astronomy Observatory. *Lewisburg: Hike, bike or cross-country ski the Greenbrier River Trail—78 miles of abandoned railroad track now operated by West Virginia State Park system. Then, go to the Salt Cave and Spa for a day of pampering. To pamper your palate, dine at The Livery Tavern. To give it another kind of thrill, tour the Smooth Ambler Distillery. Learn More For further facts on a trip to West Virginia, visit Travelocity at www.travelocity.com and www.gotoWV.com.
