WEST VIRGINIA
West Virginia was formed during the Civil War when the western counties of Virginia voted to separate from the Confederacy and join the Union, becoming a state in 1863 under circumstances unique in American history. Its New River Gorge, designated a national park in 2020, contains one of the oldest rivers in North America cutting through some of the most rugged terrain in the Appalachians, and the New River Gorge Bridge, completed in 1977, was the longest steel arch bridge in the world for more than two decades.
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 27 Off-the-Beaten-Path Places to Travel This Year
While places such as the Grand Canyon and Machu Picchu are must-visits, this may feel like the year to do something different. If you’re ready, see these best off-the-beaten-path places to travel!
Taking the Scenic Route: Chicago to Miami on Amtrak’s Floridian
Amtrak's Floridian runs daily in both directions between Chicago and Miami. Read this account of what it's like to take this newly revived line through America's Backyard!
What’s the Biggest Season of the Year at West Virginia University? Football, of Course!
This fall, head to Milan Puskar Stadium to catch a Mountaineers football game—here's why to go, where to stay, and some great places to eat while you're there!
Amtrak Revives the Floridian: A One-Seat Ride Between Chicago and Miami
Amtrak’s Floridian—a daily two-night trip between Chicago and Miami—is opening soon with a route that hasn't been done in 45 years. Here's a preview!
I’d Like To Introduce You To Florida’s Favorite Cryptid: The Skunk Ape!
West Virginia has Mothman, New Jersey has the Jersey Devil, and Florida has the Skunk Ape—let's learn about this local cryptid and visit the Skunk Ape HQ!
Riding Amtrak’s City of New Orleans: 3100 Miles Around DC, Chicago & the Big Easy
Three trains, 15 states and 3100 miles. This is the Amtrak triangle—DC to Chicago, then on to New Orleans, and finally from the Big Easy back to Washington!
Postcards from the Edge: Collecting Postmarks for Every State
This Pennsylvania student collected postcards and postmarks for a school project—one each from all 50 US states—with help from travelers and friends!
Locomotive Breath: Jethro Tull in Indianapolis
Our author embarked on a memorable train ride aboard the Amtrak Cardinal from Baltimore to Indianapolis to see Jethro Tull play a once-in-a-lifetime concert—read all about it!
Parts Unknown – Anthony Bourdain’s 10 Best Episodes & Lessons on Travel
Let's examine the 10 best episodes of Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown. Take time to watch, and you’ll be hungry for more than just food.
6 Best National Parks for an American Road Trip
One of the best things about the United States is its abundance and variety of National Parks—here are six to inspire your next adventure!
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