Discover West Virginia's Historic 'Almost Heaven' Homes on Holiday Tours
West Virginia, affectionately known as 'Almost Heaven,' features some of the nation's most treasured historic homes that open for captivating holiday tours each season. Step back in time to savor the enchantment of holidays amid grand architecture, festive decorations, and rich storytelling. Note: These popular annual events typically occur in December; always check official websites for the latest dates and details.
1. Bramwell Christmas Tour of Homes
Annual mid-December event
Step into Bramwell, once home to America's highest concentration of millionaires per capita. Tour opulent mansions erected by coal barons around 1900, showcasing Victorian and Tudor designs with leaded and stained-glass windows, expansive porches, turrets, gables, and roofs of copper, slate, or tile. Knowledgeable interpreters recount early tales as you admire crystal chandeliers, intricate woodwork, and dazzling holiday finery.
2. A Henderson Christmas Evening
Annual early December event
Constructed in 1859 by sons of Scottish immigrant Alexander Henderson, this 29-room Victorian Italianate mansion in Williamstown overlooks the Ohio River and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Enjoy a special evening tour with gourmet food, live music, and docents in period attire guiding your self-paced exploration of festooned Christmas trees and holiday displays.
3. St. Albans Christmas Historic Homes Tour
Annual mid-December event
The St. Albans Historical Society hosts its longstanding annual Christmas Historic Homes Tour, featuring multiple historic homes and buildings. Shuttles provide convenient loops between sites, starting at the Society's building at 404 Fourth Ave., next to the C&O Depot.
4. Parkersburg Victorian Christmas Homes Tour & Tea
Annual early December weekend
In the Julia-Ann Square Historic District, beautifully adorned historic homes welcome visitors. Guides in period costumes lead tours, with homeowners sharing their properties' histories. Indulge in a lavish Victorian tea service.
5. Adaland Mansion Christmas Open House with Santa's Bake Shop
Annual early December event
This elegant 1870 Greek Revival brick mansion in Philippi glows during the holidays. Themed Christmas trees grace nearly every room. Savor cookies, coffee, or hot tea amid twinkling lights, red velvet ribbons, garlands, and wreaths.
