Located along the Monongahela River, Morgantown is a college and industrial town set in the mountains of northern West Virginia. Glass-making is one of the primary industries of Morgantown, with lamps, paperweights and crystal tableware some of the items produced. West Virginia University was founded here in 1867 and brings college town amenities, arts and sports to Morgantown. The city has been rated the Best Small City East of the Mississippi.
Take a stroll along Morgantown's main street to see historic buildings including the Metropolitan Theatre and the country's oldest standing stone building, the c. 1795 Old Stone House. Visit Appalachian Gallery for two floors of works by regional artists. The Downtown Wharf District has shops, restaurants and galleries. Guided tours along the Monongahela River are available. Also downtown is Seneca Center, an interesting grouping of shops and cafes located in the old Seneca Glass factory. Morgantown Glass Museum presents the history of the city's main industry.
West Virginia University is home to several museums, performances at the WVU Public Theatre and art exhibitions at the WVU Creative Arts Center. Monongalia Arts Center features exhibitions and theatre. For an easy way to get around campus or the downtown, take the Personal Rapid Transit System with 72 cars and five stations.
Outdoor recreation options include Coopers Rock State Forest with trout fishing, hunting, hiking trails to historic sites, cross-country ski trails and camping. Chestnut Ridge Regional Park has a swimming beach, fishing, camping and a nature center. Whitewater rafting is popular on the Cheat and Tygart rivers; several outfitters are located in Morgantown.
Dining options in Morgantown range from casual to fine dining. Caf‚ Bacchus offers "modern American cuisine with Italian, French and Asian influences". The Glasshouse Grille in Seneca Center, offers fresh American cuisine in a causal atmosphere.
Morgantown is located about 80 miles south of Pittsburgh, PA or about 160 miles northeast of Charleston, WV. From Charleston, take I-79 north.
