January 30 is National Plan For Vacation Day! Today is a day to break free from the monotony of everyday life and start dreaming — and planning! Take some time to plan a day away from it all.

Marion County seamlessly blends natural beauty, history, and culture for a memorable day away. There’s a good bit to do and see here, so we took the liberty of jotting down a few ideas for you.

Use this list to inspire you and guide you through the enchanting landscapes and exciting attractions that await you! 

🌷= perfect springtime activity

☀️= fun summer outing

🍂= gorgeous fall sights

❄️= a lovely winter wonderland

Pricketts Fort State Park 🌷☀️🍂❄️

Start your adventure by immersing yourself in history at Pricketts Fort State Park. This reconstructed 18th-century fort offers a glimpse into the life of early settlers. Explore the well-preserved structures, participate in living history demonstrations, and enjoy the scenic trails surrounding the fort.

☀️ Enjoy their summer concerts☀️

❄️ Consider their Candlelight Christmas tours❄️

MonValley Vineyards 🌷☀️

You know you’ll need an afternoon to sit outside with a couple friends and drink wine in the sunshine. Plan for it now!

Fairmont Rail Trail 🌷☀️🍂

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Fairmont Rail Trail provides a picturesque journey through Marion County’s landscapes. Whether you prefer walking, jogging, or biking, this trail offers a tranquil escape. The trail spans over 16 miles, passing through charming towns, wooded areas, and alongside the scenic West Fork River.

Valley Falls State Park 🌷☀️🍂❄️

Discover the beauty of nature at Valley Falls State Park. With cascading waterfalls, hiking trails, and picnic areas, this park is a haven for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Capture breathtaking views of the river and falls as you explore the well-maintained trails.

Marion County Historical Society 🌷☀️🍂❄️

Delve into the rich history of Marion County at the Marion County Historical Society. The society’s museum showcases artifacts, documents, and exhibits that tell the story of the region’s past. Gain insights into the cultural heritage and traditions that have shaped Marion County over the years.

Feast of the Seven Fishes ❄️

Celebrate the Christmas season Italian style! This festival features Italian foods, fish and Festival Cucina, where you can learn to cook your own Feast of the Seven Fishes. After you’ve sampled the food and perused the market, head to Morris Park for the Celebration of Lights (1.3 miles of Christmas lights!).

Local Culinary Delights 🌷☀️🍂❄️

No vacation is complete without savoring local cuisine. Marion County boasts a variety of dining options, from cozy cafes to fine dining establishments. Indulge in regional specialties and savor the flavors that make Marion County a culinary delight.

The Joe: Get your day away started with a jolt! Try their sweeter latte options or their hardcore nitro cold brews. Not a coffee person? Their matcha, London fogs and hot chocolate hit the spot!

Muriales Italian Kitchen: This is where fine dining meets warm and cozy! Dishes as good as your Nonna makes in a beautiful vintage setting. Try the bruschetta, the Bolognese, the lobster stuffed ravioli, or anything really — you can’t go wrong! 

Short Story Brewing: Get local craft beer, wings, and a show! Short Story books talented musicians — and sometimes you! Open mic night might be scary, but their Buffalo Shrimp Po Boy and Fell Asleep Like This (an imperial stout) aren’t!

Dutchman’s Daughter: There’s nothing like some good home cooking — even when you’re not at home! Dutchman’s is the place to get food like mama made (unless your mom wasn’t a very good cook). You can’t go wrong with homemade dishes like meatloaf, salmon cakes, cream chicken and biscuits, chocolate fudge cake, and forest pie (mix of apples, rhubarb and berries)!

Before you go, take home a souvenir!

LovingWV: Your souvenir should be as unique as your trip here! LovingWV has unique and creative products to remember your West Virginia trip. Get a sticker, a t shirt, a mug and more covered in Marion views, West Virginia monsters and more. 

Country Club Bakery: Take the Fairmont experience home with you! Country Club Bakery is known for their delicious pepperoni rolls since the early 1900’s.

Mountain Dragon Mazery: On the other hand, Mountain Dragon Mazery is a young business (c. 2015) with extremely old products. Their honey wine or mead is what King Arthur drank, and they’re one of just two mazeries in the world. So enhance your Marion experience, stop by, have a drink and take a bottle home!

Stone House Lavender: Smell is one of the senses most strongly linked to memory. Made with the lavender from their own fields, pillow sprays, bath bombs, lotions and more will serve to remind you of your Marion adventure. 

Embrace National Plan A Vacation Day and consider exploring a blend of history, outdoor adventures, and culinary experiences here! Pack your bags, set out on a journey of exploration, and create lasting memories in our charming corner of West Virginia.

Be sure to request our latest travel guide.