Looking for your next West Virginia getaway? Taylor County, WV, located in the heart of Mountaineer Country, offers a mix of outdoor recreation, rich history, and small-town charm. From lakeside escapes and historic landmarks to family-friendly festivals, Taylor County is a place where adventure and Appalachian tradition meet.
Outdoor Things to Do in Taylor County, WV
Nature lovers will find plenty of adventure in Taylor County. Spend a day at Tygart Lake State Park, where you can boat, swim, hike, or relax on the beach and enjoy dinner with a view from The Lodge Lakefront Dining. Looking for more excitement? Head to Tygart Adventure Lake to tackle its inflatable obstacle course and waterslides. You can also paddle or fish along the Tygart Valley River, known for its peaceful waters and scenic views at the Almost Heaven Swing. Stroll through Grafton City Park, which is perfect for walking, biking, or enjoying a lakeside picnic.Â
These free and affordable outdoor activities make Taylor County an ideal destination for budget-friendly travel in Mountaineer Country.
Historic Attractions in Taylor County
History buffs will discover unique sites that tell Taylor County’s story:
- Visit the International Mother’s Day Shrine and the Anna Jarvis Birthplace Museum in Grafton, where the first Mother’s Day service was held in 1908 and which is the birthplace of the founder of Mother’s Day.
- Explore the Grafton National Cemetery, a Civil War-era landmark honoring fallen soldiers, and the West Virginia National Cemetery.
- Learn about the county’s railroad heritage, once central to its growth and industry. Make sure to check out the Baltimore & Ohio (B&O) Railroad Station monument, which carried passengers between 1911 and 1960.
Grafton Memorial Day Parade
Recognized as the Official Memorial Day Parade of West Virginia, Grafton’s annual West Virginia Memorial Day Parade is an enduring tradition in Taylor County, dating back nearly 160 years. The parade serves as a tribute to military personnel who sacrificed their lives while serving the United States and as a way for the local community to come together for shared remembrance.
Dozens of floats and community organizations kick off the parade at Grafton High School, moving through downtown Grafton and ending at the Grafton National Cemetery, where parade-goers and participants are encouraged to remember and honor fallen service members.
These historic places and celebrations highlight Taylor County’s important role in West Virginia and American history. However, if you’re interested in a more mysterious experience that this county has to offer, you should attend the Grafton Monster Festival. This celebration includes a cosplay contest and a Grafton Monster calling contest!
Taylor County is a hidden gem in Mountaineer Country. If you’re seeking outdoor adventure, a peaceful getaway, or a step back into history, Taylor County invites you to explore and experience its unique Appalachian spirit.
