Fabulous food, shopping options galore, and a bit of history make a fun-filled day-trip combination.
written by TARA WINE-QUEEN
photographed by NIKKI BOWMAN MILLS
Mounds of history
Just a few miles off of Interstate 79, South Charleston is an easy drive for anyone looking for a delightful and delicious daytime destination. While the city was established just a little over a century ago, the region’s value to the Native American people who lived there long before remains evident in the Adena burial mound—simply called “the Mound” by locals—that visitors can scale and then learn more about at the South Charleston Interpretive Center. Those who are looking for a longer hike can follow the trail to see the Devil’s Tea Table rock formation.
Eat
South Charleston is full of delicious places to grab a bite. Olive Tree Cafe and Catering is a popular foodie destination for Mediterranean food, and after an extended break, South Charleston Dairy Bar is back in business, much to the delight of its longtime fans. Want to jazz up your Friday takeout? Stop by Elephant Thai Restaurant, a local favorite for fresh sushi and mouth-watering Thai flavors. For dessert, swing by the long-standing Spring Hill Pastry Shop for one of their signature “hot dogs” or fresh-baked pastries. With the only location in West Virginia, Krispy Kreme draws droves looking for the lit red sign indicating that this chain’s donuts are hot.
Shop
South Charleston shopping offers something for everyone. For those hoping for unique items that will take them back in time, the South Charleston Antique Mall boasts 18,000 square feet of vintage merchandise, with new inventory integrated each week. No visit is complete without a visit to South Charleston staple Calvin Broyles Jewelers. For more than 75 years, it has served West Virginia as one of the state’s premier jewelry stores. Book lovers should peruse Plot Twist Books, a charming independent bookstore where you can even book a night’s stay in the Bookshop Bungalow, the store’s quaint and colorful attached studio apartment.
Explore
If you’re looking to take advantage of sunnier days in the great outdoors, South Charleston’s Little Creek Park has multiple trails ranging from beginner-friendly hikes to more demanding paths for the seasoned adventurer. For those who like to learn and enjoy the sunshine at the same time, the Mound makes for an easy stop where you can learn about the Adena people before making your way up the winding stone steps to the summit.
READ MORE ARTICLES FROM WV LIVING’S SUMMER 2024 ISSUE
Criel Mound ≫
Over 2,000 years old, the Criel Mound is an urban bit of accessible history. The Smithsonian Institution excavated the prehistoric Adena remains and artifacts and relocated them to Washington, D.C. Follow the path to the top of this second-largest mound in West Virginia for a 360-degree view. 301 7th Avenue, South Charleston
Olive Tree Cafe and Catering ≫
Stop by Olive Tree Cafe and Catering, a Mediterranean-influenced deli-style restaurant that has townies raving over the fresh, vibrant flavors and elaborate spreads. 333 2nd Avenue, South Charleston, @theolivetreecafeandcateringwv on FB
Café Appalachia ≫
Café Appalachia, located in a repurposed church, uses site-grown produce and local ingredients to craft your favorite classic cafe dishes, all while supporting women in long-term recovery from substance use disorder. 206 D Street, South Charleston, cafeappalachia.org, @cafeappalachia on FB
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