BUCKHANNON – Nestled amongst the rolling hills of central West Virginia, Upshur County is the home of delicious cuisine, unique small businesses and a heart-warming, hometown feel that harkens back to the slower-paced era of days gone by.
Thousands of welcoming residents help showcase the unique quirks that make their home among the hills something worth remembering.
Are you a first-time visitor of Upshur County looking for things to do, places to see and friendly faces to meet? Here is a list of four must-see things to do while you’re here:
Visit a Historic Landmark: The Pringle Tree
One of Upshur County’s most notable historic landmarks is the Pringle Tree, now featured in a riverside park. The tree — a modern descendant of the original — marks the first permanent settlement west of the Alleghenies in then-Virginia, settled by Samuel and John Pringle in 1764. The brothers lived in a hollowed Sycamore tree for three years and eventually founded a permanent settlement with other emigrants. Today, the third generation Sycamore tree stands where the Pringle brothers once lived.
Pringle Tree Park is open to guests year-round and is maintained by the Upshur County Commission. Park facilities include a boat launch ramp, toilets, a parking area, picnic facilities, an open field area for athletics, and playground equipment. Overnight camping is not permitted at the park.
Stroll the walking path at the West Virginia Wildlife Center
The Wildlife Center is a memorable zoo experience where visitors have the opportunity to watch wild animals interacting in their natural environment. The wildlife area includes a 1.25-mile loop through the forest, allowing visitors to be immersed in the natural wonders of West Virginia. As visitors walk along the trail, you will find informative signs to learn fun facts about each animal – including whitetail deer, black bears, mountain lions, foxes, river otters and more. Visitors are encouraged to visit the on-site gift shop that is open seasonally, the snack station, picnic shelters and the Center’s pond.
Visit the West Virginia Wildlife Center at 163 Wildlife Road in French Creek, W.Va.
Grab a bite to eat at The Donut Spot – cheesy pepperoni rolls, fresh donuts and hot coffee
Visitors near and far often make the pilgrimage to 19 North Locust Street in Buckhannon for the well-known pepperoni rolls and fresh donuts of The Donut Spot. Serving patrons for more than 40 years, this Upshur County staple is loved by all. Buckhannon’s very own donut emporium serves patrons cheesy pepperoni rolls, sweet treats, hot coffee and more!
Passersby will regularly see a stream of eager food enthusiasts in line for the drive-thru or dine-in services. It is well worth the wait!
Shop our quaint Main Street – full of boutiques, gift shops, fresh coffee, restaurants and more
An abundance of shops, businesses, restaurants and more are tucked within the historic Main Street of Buckhannon.
- SHOP at The Coop, Caroline & Co. Boutique, Artistry on Main, EndoSolutions, Main Street Antiques & Collectibles, Anita’s Flowers and Boutique, Mountain Chic Boutique, and Moon Flower.
- EAT and DRINK at Mama Roma, Fish Hawk Acres, Stone Tower Brews, C.J. Maggie’s, China Wok, and Dairy Queen.
- BANK with the friendly faces of First Community Bank and Chase Bank staff.
- BOOK AN EVENT at Brightside Creative Collective or The Opera House.
- SEE A PRODUCTION at the Creative Arts Center.
- LOCAL SERVICES offer residents and visitors an array of personable experiences: lawyers, tattoo artists, community organizations, healthcare institutions, hair salons, among so many others are all available on Main Street.
Learn more about Upshur County’s finest people, places, and businesses on the Upshur County Convention & Visitors Bureau website. Follow Upshur CVB on Facebook for frequent updates on community events. Stop by the CVB at 14 East Main Street in Buckhannon.
