Hinton Historic District photo
ParkWest Virginia, US

Hinton Historic District

Discover Hinton's charm, a beautifully preserved railroad town nestled in West Virginia.

About

Discover Hinton's charm, a beautifully preserved railroad town nestled in West Virginia. The Hinton Historic District offers a captivating journey back in time, boasting a rich tapestry of late 19th and early 20th-century architecture and a vibrant, walkable downtown. As a National Historic District, it showcases over 200 buildings, each telling a story of the town's boom years, inextricably linked to the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway.

Visitors can marvel at a diverse array of architectural styles, including exquisite Victorian, Classical Revival, and Italianate designs. Notable landmarks such as the grand Summers County Courthouse, the stately Hotel McCreery, and the historic C&O Railway Passenger Station stand as testaments to Hinton's prosperous past. Beyond the impressive facades, the district is alive with unique local shops, charming eateries like The Market on Courthouse Square, and cultural venues like The Ritz Theatre, offering a blend of history and contemporary small-town life. The Hinton Railroad Museum, housed in the old depot, is a key highlight, preserving the area's deep railway heritage.

A visit to the Hinton Historic District promises an engaging experience for all, from history buffs and architecture enthusiasts to families seeking a leisurely stroll. Its location at the confluence of the New, Greenbrier, and Bluestone Rivers, and as a gateway to the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, further enhances its appeal, offering a harmonious blend of historical exploration and natural beauty. The friendly local atmosphere and the opportunity to uncover hidden gems make it a truly memorable destination in Southern West Virginia. Don't forget to bring the Snappit nature identification app along to scan local species.

The history of Hinton is deeply intertwined with the advent of the Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) Railway. Before the railway's arrival in the early 1870s, Hinton was a small settlement. The construction of the C&O line, and its establishment of operations in Hinton, spurred a significant building boom, transforming the town into a bustling railroad hub. Hotels, taverns, and mercantile stores quickly emerged to support the burgeoning population and the railway's workforce. In 1984, the downtown area, encompassing this rich architectural and cultural legacy, was officially designated as the Hinton Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places, a recognition that was revised in 2005 to include additional areas. This designation ensures the preservation of the district's more than 200 contributing buildings, which largely represent American architecture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, reflecting Hinton's peak as a vital railway town.

What to do here

Take a self-guided walking tour, visit the museums, shop for local goods, dine at historic establishments, and immerse yourself in the riverside atmosphere.

Seasonal info

The **Hinton Railroad Days Festival** takes place for two weekends in October, filling the streets with vendors, music, food, and carriage rides, celebrating the town's railway heritage.

Accessibility

The downtown area is highly walkable, allowing for easy pedestrian exploration. Parking is generally free and accessible, including options for RVs.

Don't miss

1

Historic Downtown Stroll

Wander through streets lined with beautifully preserved buildings showcasing Victorian, Italianate, and Classical Revival architecture.

2

Hinton Railroad Museum

Delve into the town's profound railway heritage with artifacts and exhibits located in the historic train depot.

3

Summers County Courthouse

Admire this centerpiece of the district, completed in 1898.

4

C&O Railway Passenger Station

An architecturally significant building that once served as a bustling transportation hub.

Wildlife you might spot

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Good to know before you go

Wear comfortable shoes

The best way to experience the district is by walking and exploring its charming streets.

Visit on a weekend

Weekends often feature local markets and events, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

Bring your camera

The historic architecture and scenic riverside setting offer abundant photographic opportunities.

Explore local businesses

Support the community by visiting the unique shops, antique stores, and local restaurants.

Check for special events

Plan your visit around events like the Hinton Railroad Days Festival in October for a richer experience.

Consider a walking tour

Look for brochures or information on self-guided or guided walking tours to gain deeper insights into the district's history.

Frequently asked questions

The Hinton Historic District is renowned for its diverse collection of American architecture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Visitors can observe styles such as Victorian, Italianate, American Four-Square, and Classical Revival, evident in commercial buildings, residences, and public structures throughout the district.
Key attractions in the Hinton Historic District include the Summers County Courthouse, the historic C&O Railway Passenger Station, the grand Hotel McCreery, and the Hinton Railroad Museum. Don't miss exploring the unique local shops and experiencing a performance at The Ritz Theatre.
Yes, the Hinton Historic District is an excellent destination for a day trip. Its walkable downtown, numerous historic buildings, museums, shops, and eateries provide ample opportunities for exploration and enjoyment for several hours or even a full day. Its proximity to the New River and New River Gorge National Park & Preserve also allows for combining historical and outdoor activities.

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