Bluefield, West Virginia Travel Guide

Discover Bluefield, West Virginia's hidden gem: where cool mountain air, rich history, and scenic beauty come together to create an unforgettable experience.

Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, Bluefield offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history. Known as the 'Nature's Air-Conditioned City,' Bluefield's cool summer temperatures are a refreshing escape from the heat. The city has a charming small-town feel with friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can explore the scenic landscapes and outdoor activities that Bluefield has to offer. The Pinnacle Rock State Park and East River Mountain Overlook provide stunning views and hiking opportunities. The Appalachian Trail, which passes nearby, attracts hikers from all over the country. For those who enjoy water activities, the Bluestone River offers excellent fishing and kayaking. History enthusiasts will appreciate the city's rich heritage. The Bluefield Area Arts Center and the Bluefield College offer a glimpse into the cultural fabric of the region. The city's downtown area is home to several historic buildings and local shops where you can find unique crafts and souvenirs. Don't miss the annual Blue-Gray Horse Show, an event that has been a local tradition for over a century. Bluefield is also known for its delicious local cuisine. From hearty Appalachian dishes to sweet treats, there is something for every palate. Be sure to try the local specialty, the 'Lemonade Shake-Up,' a refreshing drink perfect for cooling down on a summer day.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bluefield.

Visit in late summer for the coolest temperatures and local festivals.
Bring hiking boots for the trails and comfortable shoes for exploring downtown.
Try the local specialty, the 'Lemonade Shake-Up,' available at most local diners.
Check out the Bluefield Area Arts Center for local art exhibits and performances.
Plan a day trip to Pinnacle Rock State Park for breathtaking views and outdoor activities.

Explore Bluefield: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Bluefield

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

East River Mountain Scenic Overlook

Discover the stunning vistas of East River Mountain Scenic Overlook in Bluefield, West Virginia, a perfect spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

4.7

Mountaineer Bowling Lanes

Discover the fun and excitement of bowling at Mountaineer Bowling Lanes in Bluefield, West Virginia - an ideal spot for entertainment and socializing.

4.6

Lotito City Park

Explore Lotito City Park in Bluefield, Virginia - a serene retreat for relaxation, recreational activities, and natural beauty.

4.5

Gary Bowling's House of Art

Experience the vibrant art scene at Gary Bowling's House of Art, where local creativity and culture come to life in Bluefield, WV.

4.7

Best landmarks in Bluefield

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Baker's Hill Inn

Discover the charm and tranquility of Baker's Hill Inn, a cozy bed & breakfast in the heart of West Virginia's beautiful Bluefield.

4.9

East River Mountain Scenic Overlook

Discover the stunning vistas at East River Mountain Scenic Overlook, where nature's beauty meets tranquility in West Virginia's breathtaking landscapes.

4.7

The Vault Downtown

Discover the sophisticated flavors and inviting ambiance at The Vault Downtown, Bluefield's premier fine dining destination.

4.8

Citizens Building Supply

Discover quality home improvement supplies and expert advice at Citizens Building Supply in Bluefield, WV, perfect for all your DIY needs.

4.9

Best restaurants in Bluefield

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

The Vault Downtown

Experience exquisite fine dining at The Vault Downtown in Bluefield - where Italian cuisine meets seafood excellence in an elegant setting.

4.8

Margarets country Corner

Discover the flavors of Virginia at Margaret's Country Corner, where warm hospitality meets delicious home-cooked meals.

4.8

The RailYard

Experience delicious food and vibrant live music at The RailYard in Bluefield—a must-visit culinary destination.

4.5

Farmer's Restaurant

Experience authentic West Virginia cuisine at Farmer's Restaurant in Bluefield – where every meal feels like home.

4.5

Best bars in Bluefield

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

The Vault Downtown

Discover a culinary oasis in Bluefield at The Vault Downtown, where fine dining meets an exceptional cigar and cocktail experience.

4.8

The RailYard

Discover the lively ambiance of The RailYard in Bluefield, WV, where great food meets live music and unforgettable experiences.

4.5

Farmer's Restaurant

Experience the heart of West Virginia's cuisine at Farmer's Restaurant, where local flavors and warm hospitality come together.

4.5

The Blue Spoon Cafe & Coffee

Experience delicious brunch and artisanal coffee at The Blue Spoon Cafe, a charming eatery in Bluefield, West Virginia.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Bluefield

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

The Vault Downtown

Discover The Vault Downtown, a premier fine dining destination in Bluefield, offering exquisite cuisine, an elegant atmosphere, and unparalleled service.

4.8

Wild Riders Saloon

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Bluefield at Wild Riders Saloon, where live music and drink specials create an unforgettable evening.

4.5

Mountaineer Sports Lounge

Experience the thrill of sports at Mountaineer Sports Lounge, Bluefield's go-to bar for delicious wings and exciting game days.

4.4

Southern Cabaret Platinum

Discover Bluefield's premier adult entertainment destination, Southern Cabaret Platinum, where unforgettable performances and vibrant nightlife await.

4.5

Best shops in Bluefield

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Conncert Music World

Explore a musical paradise at Conncert Music World, where music comes alive with an extensive range of instruments and expert guidance in Bluefield, WV.

4.6

Sweet ThingZ Cupcakery Boutique

Sweet ThingZ Cupcakery Boutique offers a delightful array of cupcakes and treats in Bluefield, perfect for sweet tooth cravings and special celebrations.

5.0

The Shopkeeper

Discover the enchanting blend of floral artistry and antique treasures at The Shopkeeper in Bluefield, West Virginia.

4.9

Downtown Merchants

Discover unique fashion finds at Downtown Merchants, the premier women's clothing boutique in Bluefield, WV, showcasing vintage and contemporary styles.

5.0

Explore Bluefield on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Bluefield, mapped for you.

Bluefield Essentials

Bluefield is located in Mercer County, West Virginia. The nearest major airport is Raleigh County Memorial Airport (BKW) in Beckley, WV, approximately 52 miles away. Another option is Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport (ROA) in Roanoke, VA, around 80 miles from Bluefield. From these airports, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Bluefield. If traveling by car, Bluefield is accessible via Interstate 77, which connects to major highways.
Within Bluefield, the main mode of transportation is by car. Car rentals are available, and taxis can be found throughout the city. There is no extensive public transportation system, but some local buses operate within Mercer County. Walking is also an option for exploring the downtown area, where many attractions are within a short distance of each other.
The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are available throughout Bluefield for cash withdrawals. It is advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments or in case of emergencies.
Bluefield is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any other city, it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it's always best to remain vigilant.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Bluefield has local police and fire departments, as well as medical facilities, including Bluefield Regional Medical Center. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in the city for over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually, as Bluefield is a small town with a relaxed atmosphere. Avoid overly flashy or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local religious customs. Bluefield has a variety of churches, and it's polite to dress modestly when visiting. Public Transport: Do be prepared for limited public transportation options. Renting a car can be more convenient. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi.' Handshakes are common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and eateries. Don't forget to tip your servers, as tipping is customary in the United States.
To experience Bluefield like a local, visit the Bluefield Farmers Market for fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with residents, who are typically friendly and welcoming. Don't miss the annual Lemonade Festival, which celebrates the city's unique history of offering free lemonade on hot summer days. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Pinnacle Rock State Park offers excellent hiking and scenic views.

When is the best time to visit Bluefield?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Bluefield

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Bluefield. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
- YesYup
  [yuhp]
- NoNah
  [nuh]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [pleez/yur welcome]
- Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon
  [par-dn]
- How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [how yall doin]
- Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [fine and yuh]
- Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [yall speak ing-lish]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [I dun get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI wanna see the menu, please
  [I wanna see the menu pleez]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I dun eat meet]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI wanna pay, please
  [I wanna pay pleez]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Git outta here!
  [git outta here]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops]
- Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [I'm sick]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy]
- I'm just lookingI'm just lookin'
  [I'm just lookin]
- How much is it?How much is it?
  [how much is it]
- That's too expensiveThat's too pricey
  [That's too pricey]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya lower the price?
  [Can ya lower the price]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [what time is it]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [Half past (10)]
- MorningMornin'
  [Mornin]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [Evenin]
- YesterdayYest'day
  [Yest'day]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrah
  [Tomorrah]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [seven]
- 8Eight
  [ate]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [Where's a/the]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can you show me (on the map)]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

History of Bluefield

Bluefield, West Virginia, was originally settled in the late 18th century. The area was initially called Higginbotham Summit after the original landowner, Richard Bailey, who settled there in 1780. The town of Bluefield was officially incorporated in 1889. The name 'Bluefield' was inspired by the fields of blue chicory flowers that were abundant in the area.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries were transformative for Bluefield, largely due to the expansion of the Norfolk and Western Railway. Bluefield became a crucial hub for the railway, earning the nickname 'The Gateway to the West.' The railway brought economic prosperity and growth, making Bluefield a bustling center for commerce and industry.
The discovery of rich coal deposits in the region turned Bluefield into a booming coal town. The Pocahontas Coal Field, one of the richest coal seams in the world, attracted thousands of miners and their families. This period saw rapid population growth and the development of Bluefield as a thriving industrial town.
Bluefield State College, established in 1895, has played a significant role in the town's history. Initially founded as the Bluefield Colored Institute to educate African American teachers, the college has grown to become a vital educational institution in the region. It has a rich history of overcoming racial segregation and continues to contribute to the community's cultural and educational landscape.
The architectural landscape of Bluefield reflects its rich history. The Bluefield Downtown Commercial Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and features a variety of architectural styles, including Classical Revival, Beaux-Arts, and Art Deco. Key landmarks include the Bluefield Arts Center and the historic Granada Theater, which have become cultural hubs for the community.
Baseball has a storied history in Bluefield. The Bluefield Blue Jays, a minor league baseball team, have been a local institution since 1957. Bowen Field, the team's home stadium, is a historic venue where generations of Bluefield residents have enjoyed America's pastime. The team has played an essential role in fostering community spirit and local pride.
In recent years, Bluefield has embarked on various revitalization efforts to rejuvenate the downtown area and attract new businesses. Initiatives like the creation of a Commercialization Station, aimed at fostering entrepreneurship, and the establishment of cultural events and festivals have been integral to Bluefield's ongoing transformation. These efforts aim to preserve the town's historical legacy while ensuring a vibrant future.