Fairmont

Travel Guide

Photo by Michael Core
Photo by Noel Benadom
Photo by Shelly Sisler
Photo by Michael Core

Close to renowned covered bridges and defined by its frontier history, the “Friendliest Town in America” feels a little bit like a step back in time.

Located in northern West Virginia, Fairmont exudes small-town charm and laid-back appeal that have earned it the nickname, the “Friendliest Town in America.”

The history of Fairmont is evident in many aspects of the modern town, especially at Prickett’s Fort State Park. Providing a snapshot of the early Frontier Era, the park includes a reconstruction of Prickett’s Fort, which was built by English settlers for protection from attacks by Native Americans. Step into homes and shops to see actors re-enact life on the frontier, dressed in period attire to maintain authenticity. Browse through the museum before you leave.

Learn more local history at the West Virginia Folklife Centre. Organised by the Fairmont State University, the centre hosts rotating exhibits that showcase the region’s cultural heritage. It also serves as a local entertainment venue.

Explore Fairmont’s downtown area, which is located on the banks of the Monongahela River. Small boutiques, bakeries, cafés and galleries fill the quaint centuries-old architecture that lines Main Street, making it an ideal place to spend the afternoon.

Drive 10 miles (15 kilometres) outside the town centre and spend the afternoon at Valley Falls State Park. It offers miles of hiking and biking trails that weave around Tygart Valley River and its waterfalls.

Fairmont is also known for its close proximity to nine of the state’s renowned covered bridges. Beautifully preserved, the bridges provide an ideal photo opportunity during the autumn months when the leaves are changing colour. Visitors and locals often spend a day driving down the country roads of Marion County to photograph the historic structures. Barrackville Covered Bridge, built in 1853, serves as a statewide landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Fairmont is conveniently located along Interstate 79. The closest international airport is located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 95 miles (150 kilometres) north.

Quality Inn

Quality Inn

2.5 out of 5
1185 Airport Rd, Fairmont, WV
The price is €52 per night from 22 Aug to 23 Aug
€52
22 Aug - 23 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this hotel in Fairmont. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular ...
7.6/10 Good! (1,007 reviews)
"Great stay breakfast was good and staff was friendly"

Reviewed on 20 Aug 2025

Quality Inn
Sonesta Essential Fairmont

Sonesta Essential Fairmont

2.5 out of 5
20 Southland Dr, Fairmont, WV
The price is €69 per night from 7 Sept to 8 Sept
€69
7 Sept - 8 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Fairmont. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,004 reviews)
"We find this place to be a convenient layover while traveling I 79."

Reviewed on 10 Aug 2025

Sonesta Essential Fairmont
Hampton Inn Fairmont

Hampton Inn Fairmont

2.5 out of 5
2121 Pleasant Valley Road, Fairmont, WV
The price is €89 per night from 24 Aug to 25 Aug
€89
24 Aug - 25 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Fairmont. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (801 reviews)
"Convenient location. Comfortable bed. Fine little breakfast included. Exactly what we were looking for on our way home."

Reviewed on 18 Aug 2025

Hampton Inn Fairmont
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
4 Bedroom Waterfront Home, Sleeps 10, Allow Pets, Near Audra & Tygart Lake Parks

4 Bedroom Waterfront Home, Sleeps 10, Allow Pets, Near Audra & Tygart Lake Parks

Arden
Stay at this vacation home in Moatsville. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Adaland Mansion and Philippi Public Library ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (36 reviews)
Fantastic spot for teenaged boys!
"Had a blast in the river. Comfortable accommodations for 10, and the kitchen was great for food prep. Sherry was always available for questions and guidance. Highly recommend"

Reviewed on 8 Jul 2025

4 Bedroom Waterfront Home, Sleeps 10, Allow Pets, Near Audra & Tygart Lake Parks
Modern 2BR w/ Ensuite, Downtown Morgantown, WVU

Modern 2BR w/ Ensuite, Downtown Morgantown, WVU

Morgantown
Stay at this vacation home in Morgantown. Enjoy free WiFi, laundry facilities, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Morgantown Farmers Market and ...
Modern 2BR w/ Ensuite, Downtown Morgantown, WVU
Bear Valley Cabin, a  beautiful secluded oasis 4 a Romantic or family getaway.

Bear Valley Cabin, a beautiful secluded oasis 4 a Romantic or family getaway.

2 out of 5
Tunnelton
Stay at this cabin in Tunnelton. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Allegheny Trail and Cheat River are located nearby.
10/10 Exceptional! (7 reviews)
Nice place in the country
"Communication was excellent. Location was great for what adventures we had planned. The basement apartment had everything we needed. The two bedrooms, kitchen and bathroom was well equipped. Only thing that we did not enjoy was zero windows or way to see outside. Great place of you need a place to ..."

Reviewed on 7 Aug 2025

Bear Valley Cabin, a beautiful secluded oasis 4 a Romantic or family getaway.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit