Beckley WV

Beckley – Nestled in the scenic Appalachian Mountains, Beckley, West Virginia, is where small-town charm meets big outdoor adventure. With rich coal mining history, friendly faces, and easy access to nature, it’s the perfect getaway for anyone who wants to slow down and enjoy the beauty of the mountains. Whether you're exploring underground caverns, hiking forested trails, or savoring local comfort food, Beckley makes you feel right at home.

• Population: ~16,000
• Weather: Four distinct seasons; warm summers (60–85°F) and snowy winters (25–45°F).
• Places To Visit: Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, Tamarack Marketplace, Burning Rock Off-Road Park, Little Beaver State Park, Youth Museum of Southern West Virginia.
• Top Activities: ATV riding, hiking, exploring coal heritage sites, fishing, taking scenic drives through the mountains.
• Famous Food: Pepperoni rolls, Appalachian-style barbeque, biscuits and gravy, and homestyle pies from local diners.

Beckley, West Virginia, is a regional hub known for its healthcare services, energy industry, and educational institutions. As the largest city in Southern West Virginia, Beckley offers a variety of stable career opportunities. Below are some of the top in-demand jobs in the city.

Top 5 Jobs in Beckley, WV

Beckley, WV may be a small city, but it's brimming with hidden gems perfect for students seeking some downtime. Whether you're into nature, culture, or just a cozy corner to chill, Beckley has you covered.

Little Beaver State Park – A perfect escape into nature with scenic hiking trails, a serene lake for fishing or kayaking, and spots for picnics. It’s a great place to breathe in fresh air and relax in peaceful surroundings.

Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine – Dive into West Virginia's mining history with a tour of a real coal mine. Engaging guides and historic exhibitions make it a fascinating visit for those interested in local culture.

Youth Museum of Southern West Virginia – An interactive museum that's both educational and fun. With changing exhibits, it's a great place for students to engage with hands-on displays in a relaxed environment.

Tamarack Marketplace – Explore the state's best arts, crafts, and regional foods under one roof. It's an ideal spot to grab a snack while admiring local artisan work, with frequent live music performances adding to the ambiance.

Brier Patch Golf Links – For a leisurely afternoon, hit the golf course with friends. This beautifully maintained course offers both a relaxing and engaging experience surrounded by scenic views.

The Dish Café – Gather with friends at this beloved local spot, known for its delightful menu and laid-back vibe. It's perfect for a low-key evening out or study break hangout.

Mountain State Miniature Golf – Bring out your inner child with a fun round of mini-golf. It's a lighthearted outdoor activity, perfect for group outings or casual dates.

Beckley, West Virginia, offers access to quality higher education through both public and private institutions. Students in this region can find opportunities in healthcare, technical education, business, and the liberal arts, making it an ideal place to start or continue their college journey.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Beckley

West Virginia University Institute of Technology (WVU Tech) – Located in nearby Beckley, WVU Tech is a branch campus of West Virginia University. It is well known for engineering, business, and computer science programs, offering hands-on learning opportunities and small class sizes.

New River Community and Technical College – With its main campus in Beaver, just outside Beckley, this institution offers associate degrees and technical certifications. It prepares students for careers in nursing, welding, information technology, and more.

Bluefield State University – Beckley Campus – Bluefield State has expanded into Beckley, offering programs in engineering technology, nursing, and teacher education. The university is known for its strong commitment to providing career-ready degrees.

Appalachian Bible College – While private and faith-based, its affiliation with various mission organizations and public educational outreach brings it into the public's eye in the region. Located in Bradley (minutes from Beckley), it offers strong training in theology, education, and missions.

West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine (Satellite Programs) – Though based in Lewisburg, some training and medical partnerships make this public medical school accessible to Beckley students. It’s focused on serving rural communities through high-quality medical education.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Beckley

American National University – Beckley Campus – A private institution offering associate and bachelor’s degrees with a focus on business, healthcare, and information technology. The college is career-driven and caters to working adults looking to advance or shift careers.

Valley College – Beckley Campus – Valley College specializes in healthcare, business, and technology programs. Its fast-track diploma and degree options are designed for students aiming to complete their education quickly and enter the workforce.

Appalachian School of Law (nearby partnership programs) – Though based in Virginia, this private law school has outreach and legal internship programs involving Beckley organizations, offering opportunities for students throughout the regional area.

University of Charleston – Beckley Programs – The University of Charleston serves southern West Virginia with extension programs in Beckley. It offers flexible business and health science degree programs tailored for working professionals.

ECPI University (Online with Local Presence) – While primarily online, this private university provides resources and support for students in Beckley. It is known for fast-track degrees in nursing, criminal justice, and information systems, helping professionals build valuable skills efficiently.

Beckley, WV may be a smaller city, but it offers several quality high schools where students can thrive academically and personally. From strong public options with dedicated educators to private institutions emphasizing character and leadership, Beckley’s schools help prepare students for college and life beyond.

Top Public High Schools In Beckley, WV

• Woodrow Wilson High School – The largest high school in Beckley, Woodrow Wilson is known for its strong academic programs, athletics, and dedicated faculty. It offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses, music, and career-technical education.
• Academy of Careers and Technology – A public vocational-technical school serving high school students and adults. It provides hands-on training in fields like health science, automotive technology, and engineering, offering a pathway to career readiness.
• Raleigh County School of Practical Nursing – High School Program – This program allows high school students to begin their journey toward practical nursing certification along with their general education, combining healthcare training with core academics.
• Shady Spring High School – Located near Beckley, this high school has a strong reputation for academics, athletics, and community involvement. It offers AP classes and focuses on student success both in and out of the classroom.
• Liberty High School – Serving the southwestern part of Raleigh County, Liberty High provides a solid academic foundation with various extracurricular activities, including a developing STEM curriculum and sports programs.

Top Private High Schools In Beckley, WV

• Greater Beckley Christian School – A K–12 private Christian school providing a Biblically-based education. It offers small class sizes, individualized attention, and a strong sense of community, with a focus on spiritual and academic growth.
• St. Francis de Sales School (Upper Grades) – Though primarily a K–8 institution, the school offers well-regarded programs and is often a feeder into area private high school opportunities, valued for its academic challenge and moral formation.
• Appalachian Christian Academy – A smaller private school option that emphasizes personal character, Christian values, and academic excellence. The school supports students with individual learning paths and a strong moral foundation.
• Heart of God Ministries Academy – A faith-based private school offering religious instruction alongside a core academic curriculum. It promotes spiritual development, discipline, and educational achievement.
• Christian Heritage Academy – Located just outside Beckley, this private school is known for its consistent academic performance and spiritual guidance. It serves students in a family-like environment with a focus on leadership and service.

Beckley, West Virginia is a charming city nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, known more for its natural beauty and tight-knit community than for major league sports teams. While Beckley does not currently have any professional teams in the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, or MLS, the city and surrounding region foster a strong passion for sports through minor league teams, semi-professional clubs, and college athletics.

⚾ Baseball – West Virginia Miners (Summer Collegiate Baseball)

• West Virginia Miners – Based in Beckley, the Miners played in the Prospect League, a summer collegiate wooden bat league. Though not a professional team, the Miners offer fans a thrilling baseball experience during the summer. They have a loyal local following and provide college players a platform to showcase their skills.

🏈 Football – No Professional Football Team

• While Beckley does not have a professional football team, the area’s residents are passionate about college and high school football. Many follow teams like the West Virginia Mountaineers from Morgantown, one of the top college football programs in the state.

🏀 Basketball – Emphasis on College and High School Hoops

• Beckley has a deep love for basketball, especially at the high school level. The local Woodrow Wilson High School has a storied program with multiple state championships. College basketball, particularly the West Virginia University Mountaineers, also receives strong support.

⚽ Soccer – Amateur and Youth Soccer Programs

• Soccer is growing in popularity in Beckley through youth leagues and amateur clubs. While there are currently no professional teams, local programs provide opportunities for young athletes to develop their skills and compete at regional levels.

🏒 Hockey – Limited Presence

• Due to climate and geography, ice hockey has a limited presence in Beckley. However, fans of the sport often follow nearby NHL teams like the Pittsburgh Penguins or the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Though it lacks professional franchises, Beckley’s sports culture thrives on community-level enthusiasm, youth development, and college team fandom. Local venues like the Linda K. Epling Stadium provide a platform for the community to enjoy high-quality competition and support the next generation of athletes.

Beckley, West Virginia, might be a small city, but it's packed with charm, unique history, and local flavor. Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, Beckley offers both scenic beauty and surprising fun facts. Here are some things you might not know about this hidden gem of a city:

1. Coal Heritage – Beckley is home to the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, where visitors can ride a vintage coal train through a real underground mine.
2. One of the Oldest Youth Museums – The Youth Museum of Southern West Virginia in Beckley was one of the first of its kind in the nation, sparking children's interest in science and exploration.
3. Presidential Visit – President John F. Kennedy once visited Beckley during his campaign in 1960 and famously spoke to a local crowd.
4. Sky High Dining – The Tamarack Marketplace is not just a crafts and art center, it also features a café that’s served meals to multiple U.S. presidents.
5. Highest Elevation Airport – Beckley’s Raleigh County Memorial Airport is one of West Virginia’s highest-altitude commercial airports.
6. Home of Chuck Mathena – The nearby Chuck Mathena Center, a theater named after the Beckley native, has brought New York-quality productions to southern WV.
7. Heart of the Coalfields – In the early 20th century, Beckley was a major gateway into the rich coalfields of southern West Virginia.
8. Colorful Fall Views – Thanks to its location in the mountains, Beckley is known for having some of the most vibrant autumn foliage in the eastern U.S.
9. Near the New River Gorge – Beckley is just a short drive from the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, one of America’s most popular spots for rock climbing and whitewater rafting.
10. Small City, Big Events – Beckley hosts annual events like the Appalachian Festival, celebrating mountain culture through music, art, and food.