What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word souvenir? Shot glasses, magnets, hermit crabs? If you traveled around West Virginia as a child the answer is probably miniature coal figurines. All these nostalgic souvenirs are available in the New River Gorge (yes, even the hermit crabs). But in this post, we are highlighting the souvenirs that serve as a memento for you AND support West Virginia artisans and Fayetteville, WV small business owners. Win, win, win!
1. Rosalie Haizlett’s New River Gorge Map
Is there a better souvenir than a whimsical map of your happy place? This one was created by WV artist and 2019 New River Gorge Creative-in-Residence, Rosalie Haizlett during her stay at Lafayette Flats Boutique Vacation Rentals. Find it at Waterstone Outdoors and Lost Appalachia Trading Co.
2. Appalachian Botanical Co. Lavender Products
Lavender in West Virginia? Yeah, it’s a thing. Appalachian Botanical Co. sources their lavender from reclaimed coal mine land in Southern West Virginia and support local communities by providing second-chance jobs. Pick up their high-quality, chemical and cruelty free products at New River Zen.
3. West Virginia Made Blenko Glass
Collectors world-wide have coveted Blenko Glass for over a century. There’s a blend of tradition and artistry in each piece. It’s all uniquely-designed and meticulously handblown in West Virginia. stop by Wisteria Gifts and start a collection of your own.
4. New River Rapids Coloring Map
There are many reasons we love the New River map by William Neeley that ACE Adventure Gear sells, but primarily because it’s interactive! This already attractive black and white map is rendered GORGE-ous with the addition of your coloring handiwork. It’s both a souvenir and a hobby!
5. Wild & Wonderful Lost Appalachia Gear
You can shop a great selection of locally designed gear (and SO much more) at Lost Appalachia Trading Company. The shop owner, Nicholas, is the artist, and his New River Gorge inspired designs are on shirts, hoodies, hats, stickers, prints, and even West Virginia made Fiestaware mugs!
6. Magical Woodland Candles
When you find a candle that you love while on vacation, then every time you burn it you’ll be reminded a fun times. Find your favorite at Mayari. They sell soy and coconut wax jar candles with magical woodland themes that are handmade in West Virginia by Wonder-flora Creations.
7. Jewelry Forged in the Gorge
Local silversmith Trey Swartz of Southern Pillar Jeweler finds inspiration for his handmade jewelry in the New River Gorge. All his pieces are unique and some are made from local material. Check out his copperhead ring. He symbolized this local venomous snake with a real copper head!
8. Hats at Iconic Waterstone Outdoors
Waterstone Outdoors is a climber’s gear shop and outdoor enthusiast’s emporium! They sell many great New River Gorge and Fayetteville souvenirs including a big selection of hats. Trucker, beanie, ball cap, dad hat – they’ve got the perfect souvenir lid for your noggin.
9. New River Gorge Bridge Suncatcher
When you book your New River Gorge getaway at Lafayette Flats Boutique Vacation Rentals, you have the option of adding an anniversary package. It includes early check-in/late check-out, Holl’s Swiss Chocolates (handcrafted in WV), and a stained glass suncatcher made locally by West Virginia artisan Karen Douglas.
10. West Virginia Fossilized Coral? Yep!
The Great Googly Moogly has a beautiful selection of crystals, gems and fossils. If you’re lucky, you may find the official gemstone of West Virginia – Lithostrotionella. It’s a fossilized coral. Because back in the day (340 million years ago) this place was covered by a shallow sea.
Who are we? Amy & Shawn, contemporary art collectors, master naturalists, and owners of Lafayette Flats Boutique Vacation Rentals in Fayetteville, WV – the heart of the New River Gorge National Park.
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