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TOWN W WESTON
Made for TV Weston—We can’t wait to say we knew you when. in january, lewis county resident jenawhiston happened to see a call out on social media fromHGTV requesting submissions for a Home Town Takeover competition. The winning entry would earn a whole-town transformation. Whiston and her husband, that was due in a matter of days. The response from the community was huge, Whiston says, and the excitement palpable. “We chose to focus on our good bones—in our structures and our people. And we felt in that moment that change was really coming to Weston.” COVID-19 threw a wrench in the plans, and the network announced that the selection process is on hold for now. Excited volunteers will have to wait a bit longer to learn which of the 5,000 entries is chosen for the makeover. But winning may not be important, at this point. “This contest sparked pride in our community,” Whiston says. “Whether we win or not, we’ve got the spark.” So head out for a day trip or weekend getaway to the community of Weston so that you, too, can say you knew it well—way before it was famous. written by holly leleux-thubron John, the principal of Lewis County High School, organized a meeting, and what followed was a quick sprint to the finish. An enthusiastic group of volunteers sprang into action for Weston, readying the entry video
Eat A local favorite and repeat Best of West Virginia winner, Thyme Bistro is a great place to stop for a bite to eat in Weston. You’ll discover a perfect blend of comfort food, fresh seafood prepared in unexpected ways, and mouthwatering desserts. 125 Main Avenue, 304.269.7177, @thymebistro on Facebook . Another dining option is the brand-new West Fork Eatery, serving innovative specials and tried and true favorites. 139 East Second Street, 304.269.1981, @thewestforkwv on Facebook . Or check out Giovanni’s of Weston for a heaping helping of Appalachian soul food. 451 US Highway 33 East, 304.269.4563, @giovannis4563 on Facebook
Play There’s plenty to do in the town of Weston, starting with a tour of the community’s most famous attraction—the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum—a National Historic Landmark with a colorful 160- year history. Historic tours leave every hour, and paranormal tours every two hours. 71 Asylum Drive, 304.269.5070, trans-alleghenylunaticasylum.com, @trans-alleghenylunaticasylum on Facebook . Also be sure to plan a stop at The Museum of American Glass and browse its gigantic collection of West Virginia–made items that will leave you wondering “how do they do that?” 230 West Main Avenue, 304.269.5006, magwv.com, @maginwv on Facebook. And before you leave, plan a stop at Appalachian Glass for a striking souvenir. 499 US Highway 33 East, 304.269.1030, app.glass.com, @appalachianglass on Facebook
Stay Just outside town is a resort fit for kings and queens and, after a full day of exploring all that Weston has to offer, it’s the perfect place to spend the night. Stonewall Resort is a peaceful sanctuary on the banks of the West Fork River. You can choose to relax and do nothing at all, or take part in a long list of activities available on the property—from spa treatments to fishing and everything in between. For your stay, select from rooms at the Lakeside Lodge, book a luxury or classic cottage, or park your RV at the Briar Point Campground. The resort also regularly offers exclusive stay-and-play packages, so check the website often. 940 Resort Drive, Roanoke, 304.269.7400, stonewallresort.com, @stonewallresort on Facebook
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