Things To Do
in Fairmont
Fairmont is a scenic city along the West Fork River in northern West Virginia, blending historic charm with easy access to outdoor recreation. Its compact downtown showcases preserved architecture, friendly cafes, and a welcoming small-town vibe. The area serves as a gateway to the surrounding mountains, parks, and state forests, making it a convenient base for weekend explorers.
Whether you’re here for history, nature, or a relaxed getaway, Fairmont offers warmth, accessibility, and a touch of Appalachian character.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Fairmont and check into your hotel. Take some time to unwind and freshen up after your journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café to start your day off right.
Explore the charming downtown area, visit local shops, and pick up some souvenirs. Consider a visit to the Fairmont State University campus for a stroll through its beautiful grounds. Grab lunch at a local diner and indulge in some classic American fare.
Dine at one of Fairmont's renowned restaurants, where you can savor local specialties. After dinner, explore the nightlife with live music or a cozy pub atmosphere. Wind down with a nightcap back at your hotel.
Start your day with a hike at the nearby Valley Falls State Park, where picturesque trails lead you through lush landscapes. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as you take in the sound of cascading waterfalls. Pack a breakfast picnic to savor amidst nature's beauty.
After your hike, visit the local Marion County Historical Society to learn about the area’s rich history. Attend a guided tour and explore artifacts from the past. Treat yourself to lunch at a quaint eatery nearby, sampling regional dishes.
Return to your hotel to freshen up before heading out for a scenic drive along the Tygart Valley. Find a scenic overlook to catch the sunset, offering breathtaking views. End the night with a relaxing stroll through the town, perhaps stopping for dessert at a local bakery.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $100-180 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🛒Groceries for two people for a day | $15-40 |
| 🎟️Movie ticket | $8-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Small-town charm with a welcoming vibe
- Easy access to outdoor recreation and parks
- Affordability for weekend getaways
- Limited nightlife and big-city amenities nearby
- Rural area may require driving for certain services
Places to Visit in Fairmont
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic frontier fort with river and woodland backdrops; ideal for sunrise or golden-hour shots.
Architectural centerpiece with columns and early-20th-century details perfect for cityscape and street photography.
Dramatic cliffside viewpoint offering sweeping panoramas of the Cheat River valley and forested slopes.
Iconic campus landmark with surrounding green and campus architecture suitable for composition variety.
Quieter riverbank scenes along the West Fork; good for tranquil water-reflection photos and sunset silhouettes.
Food in Fairmont
Fairmont Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A West Virginia staple featuring pepperoni wrapped in dough and baked to a savory snack; widely available in bakeries and delis around Fairmont.
Must-Try!
A chocolate-pecan pie traditionally associated with West Virginia, often found in local diners and cafes during the year.
A classic comfort breakfast pairing—fluffy biscuits with sausage gravy—commonly served in cafes and diners.
A comforting combination often found at casual eateries, pairing savory cornbread with sweet apple butter.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, breads, jams, baked goods, and occasionally street-style snacks from local vendors.
Casual street-food-style options and small cafés around the downtown core offering quick bites and coffee.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly, polite greeting goes a long way; tip lightly wait times and avoid loud behavior in quiet spaces like churches and museums.
Yield to others on narrow paths and keep voices moderate in outdoor spaces; pack out trash and respect wildlife.
Safety
Tipping in Fairmont
Ensure a smooth experience
In the United States, standard tipping is 15-20% for restaurant service if service is satisfactory. Tips for bar staff and hotel staff are customary as well.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always useful for small vendors and farmers markets. Many places also accept mobile payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with humidity; afternoons can be sunny and great for outdoor markets and hikes. Bring water, sunscreen, and light layers for cooler evenings near the rivers.
Cold temperatures with possible snow; plan for icy conditions and shorter daylight hours. Have ice grips for footwear and check local alerts before outdoor exploring.
Mild temps with occasional rain; ideal for city strolls and forest trails. Pack a light rain jacket and wear waterproof footwear for muddy paths.
Cool, crisp days with vibrant fall foliage; excellent for scenic drives and photography. Layers help as temperatures swing from day to evening.
Fairmont at Night
Hiking in Fairmont
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with overlooks and scenic viewpoints suitable for day hikes and photography; nearby to Morgantown for extended options.
Lakeside trails and forest paths offering relaxing hikes and wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Fairmont by plane.
Major international gateway about 75 miles northeast; frequent domestic flights and rental car access.
Regional airport near Clarksburg, about 25-40 miles away; convenient for domestic flights and car rentals.
West Virginia’s capital area airport about 180 miles south; additional flight options and connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of residents are families, with kid-friendly parks and schools in Marion County.
Proximity to Fairmont State University brings a student population and campus events.
Visitors and locals who explore parks, forests, and waterways for hiking, fishing, and scenic photography.
An active community with accessible amenities and a slower pace suitable for longer stays.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A regional favorite at high school and college levels; community events and Friday night games are common.
Popular across schools and community gyms; local leagues and tournaments are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fairmont.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most casual spots offer vegetable sides, salads, and veggie burgers; look for fish-free options and ask for meatless versions of house specials.