About the Kanawha County Commission
Discover Kanawha County
A Hub for Business, Culture, & Recreation
Kanawha County today is an exciting technology center that is earning recognition in information technology, medical research, chemical synthesis research, and telecommunications.
While Kanawha County is a great place for business, it’s also a super place to live and to have fun! There are festivals for every occasion, a bright nightlife, theater, symphony, ballet, museums, collegiate sports, a complete menu of international restaurants – plus gorgeous mountains, and a neighboring international city all within a few hours via interstate highways.
The purpose of this site is to provide compelling bottom line reasons that will convince you to select Kanawha County for your business, home, or vacation spot. Here you will learn about our productive workforce. You’ll see how our universities, community colleges, and public school systems are working to meet the challenging needs of the 21st century.
Equally important are our pro-business and fiscally responsible state and local governments with reasonable taxes, responsive services and well-maintained infrastructure.
Places to Visit
Yeager Airport
Offers convenient and passenger-friendly travel with nonstop flights, competitive airfares, and easy access to Charleston, WV, providing a hassle-free experience with nearby parking, amenities, and transportation options.
The Clay Center
The Clay Center offers a diverse range of experiences in music, theater, art, and science through engaging exhibits, performances, and educational programs for all ages.
Charleston Town Center
Charleston Town Center offers shopping, dining, and seasonal fashion, all in the heart of Charleston, WV.
Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center
The Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center hosts premier entertainment, sporting, and corporate events, serving as the central hub for major happenings in Charleston, WV.
Kanawha State Forest
Kanawha State Forest, located just seven miles from Charleston, WV, offers over 60 miles of hiking and biking trails, camping, picnic areas, and diverse wildlife, making it a popular spot for outdoor activities and nature exploration.
Shawnee Sports Complex
Shawnee Sports Complex aims to provide a safe, positive, and high-quality sports environment, aspiring to be the premier sports facility in the tri-state area, while hosting major events and supporting youth athletic development.
Explore Kanawha County’s Historical Legacy
Kanawha County is rich in history and has played many pivotal roles in United States history. There are many historical sites to visit throughout the county. Start your tour at the state capitol where you can visit the West Virginia Museum of History. From there you can walk out the river and begin walking on the Midland Trail which will take you through many historical areas of Kanawha County. In the east end of the county in Cabin Creek and Paint Creek, you can visit many areas where parts of the infamous Mine Wars took place. Check out the industrial history of Belle, or go south on MacCorkle Avenue and you can visit the Mound.
A Year Full of Events
Throughout the year there are several events for all ages that take place throughout Kanawha County. Enjoy a festive weekend of great picking with traditional Appalachian music on the grounds of the Capitol Complex at the Vandalia Gathering in Charleston. Have fun in an old-town fair-themed in Saint Albans, with the Riverfest. Here you can see performances by today’s top country artists, oldies nights, gospel music, classic car shows, and fun games. The whole city of Charleston becomes a work of art with 10 days of performances, concerts, and visual arts with the FestivAll. At Ribfest you will find world-class Barbeque Ribs, live entertainment, arts, crafts, and carnivals. All summer long enjoy baseball at GoMart Ballpark watching the Charleston Dirty Birds.
Have Questions?
We’re here to help! Whether you’re looking for more information on county services, need assistance with online tools, or have questions about upcoming events, feel free to reach out.