It’s a scavenger hunt, of sorts; a way to explore scenic West Virginia and celebrate the Mountain State’s 155^th birthday.

 

Leading up to June 20, residents are encouraged to explore the state, pick up a commemorative sticker and create a social media post using the hashtag #AlmostHeaven.

 

Some will receive free West Virginia swag bags. Everyone will discover something new about our state or perhaps revisit a favorite spot.

 

In the Harrison/Marion/Monongalia tri-county area, there’s Valley Falls State Park, Watters Smith Memorial State Park and our neighboring city Clarksburg - home to Italian specialties and the birthplace of Stonewall Jackson. Just south of Bridgeport is Lewis County, featuring the Trans Allegheny Lunatic Asylum and Museum of American Glass and northwest is Wetzel County, where history is abundant at the county museum and fresh comb honey can be tasted on site at ThistleDew Farms.

 

A weekend day trip can take you to other locations, rich in history and big on entertainment. Folks in our area may be familiar with Canaan Valley State Park, Seneca Rocks, Smoke Hole Caverns and the treasure trove of scenic spots in the Tucker/Pendleton County area, but what about NROCKS Outdoor Adventures in Circleville or Tu-Endie-Wei State Park in Point Pleasant? From white water rafting on the Great Gauley to antique shopping in quaint Berkeley Springs, there's something for everyone. 

 

All the spots mentioned and the Greater Bridgeport Convention & Visitors Bureau in Charles Pointe are among 200 spots where residents can pick up a commemorative sticker, sport it on your vehicle, bicycle, backpack or other personal property, displaying your West Virginia pride.

 

Greater Bridgeport CVB Executive Director Michelle Duez said the stickers serve as quick visual cues which can lead to travel ideas, as well as conversation with fellow West Virginians or those curious about the Mountain State. 

 

"The more people who post pictures with the #AlmostHeaven hashtag, the more buzz and interest will be created," she said.

 

Tourism Commissioner Chelsea Ruby said West Virginia offers gorgeous views, delicious food and world-class fun and that there are hundreds of special places to visit.

 

While celebrating at one - or more - of those West Virginia destinations, document the experience and share for all to see, she said.

 

Photos must be made public and use #AlmostHeaven to be included in the prize drawings participants should try to include the sticker in the picture.

 

Find a map of West Virginia tourism partners where stickers are available HERE at the state tourism Web site.  

 

On the state’s big day, the tourism office will unveil 155 ways to celebrate summer in the Mountain State and will utilize the #AlmostHeaven posts to write and tell the story.