Here are 11 small, often overlooked things about West Virginia that people never thought would make them homesick:
- The winding mountain roads and scenic Appalachian hills that frame daily life and adventures.
- The scent of fresh mountain air mixed with wood smoke and wildflowers.
- Small-town diners serving genuine homemade cooking like pepperoni rolls and biscuits with gravy.
- The sound of bluegrass music and folk tunes drifting out from local festivals and porches.
- The warmth of tight-knit communities where everyone knows your name and shares stories.
- The unhurried lifestyle that encourages porch sitting, friendly waves, and catching up with neighbors.
- Local landmarks like the historic Carnegie Hall in Lewisburg or the colorful murals in small towns.
- Sunday drives along scenic byways where the changing seasons paint a new landscape every few weeks.
- The lore and legends tied to Appalachian culture, from mysterious “ghost lights” to ancient hunting grounds.
- Tailgating and cheering alongside spirited WVU Mountaineers at football games and community events.
- Handmade quilts, crafts, and heritage items that tell stories of West Virginia’s past and present.
It is often these quiet details—smells, sounds, and rhythms of life—that people miss the most after leaving West Virginia, reminding them of home in a deeply emotional way.
SOURCES
[1](https://www.visittheusa.com/experience/west-virginias-small-towns-exploring-hidden-gems-and-mountain-charm)
[2](https://www.reddit.com/r/Appalachia/comments/16n9gey/homesick/)
[3](https://wvtourism.com/almost-heaven-fun-facts-2/)
[4](https://campusrecreation.wvu.edu/news-and-events/newsroom/2023/01/17/how-to-deal-with-homesickness-in-college)
[5](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QcEmcq80F_4)
