If you need a spot for your next getaway, consider the small town of Clendenin, WV. This town may have just over 1,100 residents, but it has the potential to make for a great solo or romantic weekend getaway.
If you want to change gears for a few days and rejuvenate your soul, we’ve got seven reasons Clendenin, West Virginia, can help you achieve your goal. Let’s learn more.
Where Is Clendenin, WV?
The 1.5 square mile city of Clendenin, West Virginia, lies in the southwestern part of the state. It sits about 20 miles northeast of Charleston, along the Elk River.
It’s approximately a 4 to 5-hour drive from Louisville, KY, Cincinnati, OH, Pittsburgh, PA, and Richmond, VA.
Despite being a little bit of a drive for a weekend trip, its central location makes it an excellent option for a short road trip to get away from home.
How Did Clendenin, WV, Get Its Name?
Clendenin, WV, got its name from Col. George Clendenin. He lived here during the 1774 Battle of Point Pleasant and was one of the first pioneer families.
Col. Clendenin played a significant part in establishing the neighboring city of Charleston, which he respectfully named after his father.
Traveler’s Tip: If you’re looking for another great small town to visit in West Virginia, check out Barboursville.
What Is There to Do in Clendenin, West Virginia?
The small town of Clendenin, WV, still has plenty to offer. You can walk along or kayak the Elk River, which plays a significant part in the city’s history.
Walking around town, you can see historic homes and buildings, some of which have historical significance.
The city of Clendenin may not have the flashy tourist attractions of a major city, but those aren’t always necessary for a great getaway.
When in Clendenin, come prepared for a slower pace and a lot less noise than you may typically experience.
7 Reasons to Make Clendenin, WV, Your Next Getaway
Ready to start planning your getaway? Let’s take a look at seven reasons we think you should visit Clendenin, WV. Let’s take a look.
1. Kayak the Elk River
You can choose from a 4.5 to 6.5-mile trip down the Elk River. Kayaks from Yak House Rentals can even accommodate an 18 can cooler. So you’ll have plenty of room for food and drinks during your excursion.
Kayaking down the Elk River is a great way to enjoy the calming waters by fishing, swimming, or wildlife watching.
Single kayaks cost $40 per day, and tandem and fishing kayaks cost $75 per day. The rental includes everything you need, such as life vests and paddles.
2. Explore the Clendenin Historic District
The Clendenin Historic District made it on the National Register of Historic Places in 1996. The historic district played an important role in the timber, coal, oil, gas, and chemical industries.
As you walk around the historic district, you can see the influence of the bustling industries in the area from 1890 to 1940. If you enjoy turn-of-the-century architecture, visit Clendenin, WV’s historic district.
3. Eat Lunch at Giovanni’s Pizza
You’ll want to grab a bite to eat during your getaway. Giovanni’s is a great place to enjoy some mouth-watering Italian food. You can get an authentic Italian dish or try one of their famous subs.
Other popular options include pizzas, calzones, and family-size chocolate chip cookies. Everything from the smells of the restaurant to the taste may have you coming back for more before you leave town.
4. Play a Round at Coonskin Golf Course
Perhaps you want to rejuvenate your mind with a casual game of golf. Lucky for you, Clendenin, WV, is home to Coonskin Golf Course.
This nine-hole executive par-3 golf course opens seasonally. All players must register before starting.
Coonskin Golf Course has also embraced the worlds of disc golf and footgolf. These unique variations of the popular sport open the game to a broader audience.
Play a traditional round of golf or give one of the new versions a try at Coonskin Golf Course.
5. Tour the Craik-Patton Historical Home
James Craik, an early settler, built a log cabin home in 1834. Eventually, George S. Patton came to own the house in 1856.
Patton served in the Confederate Army as a captain and colonel. He died in a battle in Winchester, Virginia.
You can tour this beautiful home for free Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. However, they welcome donations to support the museum.
Guides can help answer any questions you might have during the informal tour.
Upstateherd, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
6. Get Rejuvenated at Spa Bliss
The perfect getaway for some will involve a visit to the spa. Luckily, Spa Bliss is a great place to rejuvenate in Clendenin, WV.
Here you can relax, renew, and rejuvenate your body. They offer various services, including hair removal, spa packages, and skin therapy.
However, this is just a small sampling of the many services they offer guests. Their zen atmosphere and talented staff can help you eliminate stress for your overall beauty and well-being.
7. Visit the West Virginia Veterans Memorial
The two-story, oval-shaped West Virginia Veterans Memorial honors the 10,000 plus West Virginians who died defending the nation during the various conflicts in the 20th century.
A reflection pool surrounds four limestone monoliths, with the interior walls housing the names of the brave men and women etched into the black granite.
You can visit for free, but be mindful and respectful of the memorial. It’s a great place to reflect and remember those in your life that may have paid the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
Jrappold, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Is a Visit to Clendenin Worth It?
As you can see, the small town of Clendenin is worth considering for your next getaway. You’ll find delicious food and plenty of opportunities to relax and explore.
You don’t have to travel to a big city to have an incredible getaway. From history, relaxation, and outdoor adventures, you’ll have many things to do in this small town.
We’ve found some of our favorite places to get away are hard to find on a map. Will Clendenin, WV, make it on your weekend getaway list?
