Thurmond Depot Visitor Center - , West Virginia

Hikergirl A.

The visitors center was not opened when we visited although the internet page said it was open . We still had a great time looking around and watching the train go through. We had a local named Skip that did tell us a bit about the town so that was great . The scenery was beautiful. We really enjoyed Thurmond just wished the visitors center was open.

Jaheed A.

A must stop to this scenic spot for nature lovers. The spot is now considered ghost town though you can’t ignore the historic elegance. To go the spot a remote drive is needed for around 30/40 miles from regular driveways and the narrow road adjacent to rail road.

Kevin W.

Abandoned former railroad town - there’s interesting visitor plaques along the former banks, railroad depot, and other buildings but the Thurmond area is a long drive (1.5 hr) with little substance to browse and explore.

For those on a tight time budget, I’d recommend skipping this area unless you’re really into history.

Van W.

A must stop while visiting the park. Sadly the visitor center was closed for the season but still worth the 5 stars.

Jasmine D.

It's always fun to step back in time

Patrice C.

I find this abandoned town so fascinating. I've been here before, but the visitor center was not open that day, and I'm so glad we had a chance to finally see it. The visitor center features some recreations of old time railway offices, complete with mannequins in costume, which is always entertaining to me. The mannequins honestly make it complete. The visitor center has two floors, and there is an outside stairway as well as an elevator inside. They have some snacks and drinks and of course restrooms, too. If you're ever in the area of the New River Gorge, you should check out Thurmond!

AYRN I.

If you're looking for a charming and unique destination with a rich history, Thurmond is the place to be. Nestled in the heart of West Virginia, this historic town offers a glimpse into the past that's both fascinating and unforgettable.

Walking through Thurmond feels like stepping back in time. Once a bustling railroad town, it was the hub of the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway in the early 20th century. At its peak, Thurmond was one of the richest towns in the nation, thanks to the booming coal industry. Today, the beautifully preserved buildings and train depot tell the story of its vibrant past.

One of the highlights of visiting Thurmond is exploring the old train depot, which now serves as a visitor center and museum. The friendly staff are eager to share intriguing stories and historical facts, making your visit both educational and entertaining. You can almost hear the echoes of the past as you walk along the tracks where countless trains once rumbled through.

Nature lovers will be thrilled by the stunning views of the New River Gorge that surround the town. The lush, green landscape and the tranquil river create a perfect backdrop for hiking, picnicking, or simply soaking in the serene beauty of the area.

What truly sets Thurmond apart is its authenticity. Unlike many tourist spots that feel overly commercialized, Thurmond retains a genuine, untouched charm. It's a place where history comes alive, and every corner has a story to tell.

Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Thurmond is a destination that will leave you inspired and eager to return. Don't miss out on this hidden gem – it's a trip you'll cherish forever!

Robin F.

This is our second time visiting this old historic area. The visitor center actually has Amtrack stopping there if you bought tickets in Advance. If not, it gives a whistle and goes past the depot. There is no place to get tickets at this stop. There was a group waiting for the train to arrive today as we visited.

The town itself, we were told has about 3 residents. There is no restaurants except a visitors center that has drinks, souvenirs and really nice workers that gave us a good education on the town and river.

The river and railroad bridge are really neat to see.