Things To Do In Morgantown, West Virginia, 5 Day Travel Itinerary, Brief History, Weather – Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall – Bike Paths, Campsites, Famous Landmarks

June 11, 2024

Morgantown, West Virginia: 5-Day Itinerary, History, Weather & More

Morgantown, nestled along the Monongahela River in West Virginia, offers a vibrant college town atmosphere with a rich history and stunning natural beauty. Here’s a guide to help you plan your trip, including a 5-day itinerary, a weather overview, and things to do:

Brief History

Settled in the 18th century, Morgantown was named after Zackquill Morgan. It played a significant role during the Civil War and served as the capital of the Restored Government of Virginia for a brief period. West Virginia University, founded in 1861, has been a cornerstone of the city’s growth.

Weather

Morgantown experiences all four seasons with distinct variations.

Winter: Expect mild winters with occasional snowfall (average high of 40°F).
Spring: Spring brings pleasant weather with blooming flowers (average high of 65°F).
Summer: Summers are warm and humid with occasional rain showers (average high of 80°F).
Fall: Fall offers beautiful foliage and comfortable temperatures (average high of 70°F).

5-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

Start your morning at the Morgantown Farmers Market, browsing local produce, crafts, and food vendors.
Immerse yourself in the campus life at West Virginia University. Take a tour, visit the Mountaineer Field, or explore the museums.
In the afternoon, head to the Spark! Imagination and Science Center for interactive exhibits and educational fun.

Day 2:

Hike or bike the scenic trails at the WVU Core Arboretum, a beautiful natural escape.
Learn about the region’s history at the Morgantown History Museum.
Catch a live performance, concert, or play at the WVU Lyceum or the Metropolitan Theatre.

Day 3:

Take a day trip to Coopers Rock State Forest for breathtaking views, hiking trails, and rock climbing opportunities.
Explore the Cheat Lake area, known for boating, fishing, and water sports.
Enjoy a relaxing evening with dinner and drinks at one of Morgantown’s many restaurants and bars.

Day 4:

Visit the Chestnut Ridge Park & Battlefield for historical significance and scenic overlooks.
Spend the afternoon exploring the shops and cafes in Morgantown’s historic downtown district.
Catch a Mountaineer athletic game at WVU for a lively college experience.

Day 5:

Take a whitewater rafting trip on the Lower Youghiogheny River for an adrenaline rush.
Visit the nearby town of Grafton, known for its historic architecture and antique shops.
Reflect on your trip and enjoy a final meal in Morgantown before your departure.

Bike Paths & Campsites

Morgantown boasts a network of bike paths, including the Mon River Trail and the Cheat River Trail, perfect for exploring the city on two wheels.
Several campgrounds are located near Morgantown, offering options for outdoor enthusiasts. Consider Morgantown KOA Campground, Spruce Knob Campground, and Cheat Lake Campground.

Famous Landmarks

West Virginia University: A historic and beautiful college campus.
Mountaineer Field: Home to the WVU Mountaineers football team.
Spark! Imagination and Science Center: A science museum with interactive exhibits for all ages.
Coopers Rock State Forest: A scenic natural area with hiking trails, rock climbing, and stunning views.
Chestnut Ridge Park & Battlefield: A historic site with Civil War significance and scenic overlooks.