Lewis County businesses and attractions are preparing for a busy autumn visitor season while parts of the community continue rebuilding from the July 21 flood.
Lewis County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Robin Poling told the Weston Democrat that fall is the county's second-busiest tourism period after summer. Stonewall Resort, hiking, fall color and Weston's historic and paranormal attractions are among the draws that can bring overnight guests and spending to restaurants, fuel stations and locally owned shops.
Most of the area's major hotels are operating again. The Holiday Inn Express, Super 8 and Comfort Inn have reopened, according to the August 31 report. The Hampton Inn remains closed. Visitors with reservations should confirm directly with their lodging provider, particularly if a booking was made before the flood.
Poling outlined a county itinerary that can connect breakfast in Jane Lew with a Stonewall Resort hike, the Museum of American Glass, local dining, the Lewis County Park ropes course and an evening tour at the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum. Sunny Point Corn Maze, Aroma of the Andes and Stonewall Sporting Clays were also among the suggested stops. Access and activities at Jackson's Mill may differ this year because of flood impacts, so visitors should check the site's current schedule before traveling.
State tourism tools may help visitors time a trip. West Virginia is updating its fall-foliage map weekly and promoting an Almost Heaven Swing check-in challenge. Lewis County's established paranormal attractions also fit a statewide campaign that has drawn participants from outside West Virginia.
The practical message for travelers is that Lewis County remains open for visitors, but recovery conditions can change individual businesses and facilities. Current hours and reservations should be confirmed with each destination. Read the Weston Democrat's full tourism report.