Local Recommendations

Food Recommendations

Downtown Fairmont

With the convenience of being within 5 minutes from campus, Downtown has several local favorite restaurants.  Mama de Roma for traditional Italian food, Mikey C’s for American, McAteer’s for breakfast, and the JAG and Hoops for bar food are all local favorites.  If your just looking for a pick-me-up, The Joe, Parkside Coffee, and Yemen Coffee Hut are fantastic cafe options.

Middletown Commons

Located about 15 minutes south of campus, the Middletown commons has a wide selection of restaurants.  Mexican at El ray, Italian at Casa D’Amici, or homestyle country food at Apple Annies, there is a place for everyone. There are also familiar favorites like Starbucks, Chiptotle, Jersey Mikes, or Panera Bread.  Just across the road from the commons is Mi Pueblo, Kumo Japan, and Walmart for any more food or shopping needs. (https://middletowncommons.com/)

Muriale’s Italian Kitchen

Located about 10 minutes south of campus, Muriale’s is one of the most popular italian resturants in the Fairmont area.  They are a full service, sit-down restaurant for anyone looking for a great Italian dish. (https://www.muriales.com/)

Sheetz

Located about a 5 minute drive or a 25 minute walk away from campus, Sheetz is a gas station that served Made-to-Order food and drink.  Notably, they are one of few 24-hr establishments in Fairmont.  Food can be ordered in store, online, or be delivered.  Despite being a gas station, their food is pretty good!    (https://www.sheetz.com/)

Dairy Cream Corner

Located about 10 minutes from campus, DCC is a local favorite for summer time ice cream!  They offer a huge variety of ice cream flavors and some actual food aswell.  They are cash only, but they have an ATM inside the shop.  (https://www.facebook.com/p/Dairy-Creme-Corner-100064406962488/)

Attraction Recommendations

Valley Falls and Tygart Lake State Park

The symposium will already be going to both of these parks, but make sure to take some time to explore them!  They both offer a great look into the unique West Virginia outdoors with hiking trails, scenic waters, and more.  Both parks are open from 7am to dusk.

(https://wvstateparks.com/parks/valley-falls-state-park/)

(https://wvstateparks.com/parks/tygart-lake-state-park/lodging/)

Prickett’s Fort State Park

Prickett’s Fort park is a recreation of the orginal Prickett’s Fort, a place of refuge back in the colonial times.  It offers more hiking trails and access to Prickett’s Creek, in addition to the historical sites and demonstrations located throughout the park.  Visitors can learn about what 18th century life was like for people living in Appalachia.  (https://wvstateparks.com/parks/pricketts-fort-state-park/)

Downtown Fairmont

Located a little over a mile from campus, downtown Fairmont is home to over 100 local businesses, restaurants, and shops.  The city is filled with 18th and 19th century architecture, murals, and has comfortable walk-ability.  The Marion County Historical Museum also offers a free entry to learn about the county’s rich history.  (https://www.mainstreetfairmont.org/)

Morgantown

Home to West Virginia University, Morgantown is West Virginia’s 3rd largest city.  With that comes with no shortage of shops, restaurants, or entertainment in town.  A little bit outside of the city, Cooper’s Rock State Park and Dorsey’s knob offer opportunity to enjoy the West Virginia Outdoors.  (https://wvtourism.com/morgantown)