Sit a Spell in Spencer Make plans to visit West Virginia’s “best hometown” this fall. TOWN W SPENCER
spencer is a small townwitha bigpersonality. With just under 2,000 residents, it dubs itself West Virginia’s “best hometown.” No one knows that better than Terry Williams, the town’s mayor and lifelong resident. There are welcome developments in Spencer these days. They come after “two, three, and four decades of economic struggles,” Williams says. The hardships aren’t unlike those many rural West Virginia communities face. But Spencer has plenty going for it, including a $22 million expansion plan for the local hospital—the type of investment almost unheard of these days in rural healthcare. “Spencer is a great place to spend a day or a night,” Williams says. “The people really make it the best. It’s just wonderful when you get people investing in our community, opening small businesses, and keeping it a great place to live and raise children.” Things will look a little different in Spencer this fall. The crowd favorite West Virginia Black Walnut Festival is cancelled because of COVID-19. It draws thousands of visitors each year, the mayor says. But there’s still plenty to enjoy around the area, from the quaint shops and cafes downtown to the pristine banks of Charles Fork Lake and its “miles and miles” of trails. So hit
the road for a day trip—or a weekend away—to the state’s best hometown. written by holly leleux-thubron photographed by nikki bowman mills
Stay If you plan to stay the night, be sure to kick back and relax at the quaint bed and breakfast in town— The Arnott House . Guests have their pick of six rooms, each with a private bath. The innkeepers will whip up a delightful breakfast each morning to fuel your day of exploring Spencer.
Play There’s plenty to do in town, including taking in a show at the oldest continuously operating theatre in the state— Robey Theatre . You can enjoy a wine tasting at the Chestnut Ridge Winery or stop in for a little shopping at The Legacy Market . Be sure to check out its pay-it-forward wall towards the back. It will do your heart good.
Eat If you’re heading to Spencer for the day, be sure to plan a meal at The Front Porch . You’ll find fresh wraps, satisfying soups, decadent desserts, and plenty more to tempt your tastebuds. The restaurant also offers daily specials like pot pie, a hearty bowl of loaded baked potato soup, or a giant meatball sub.
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