| Official name | City of Charleston |
| Type | Capital city |
| Charleston skyline and Kanawha River | |
| State | West Virginia |
| Country | United States |
| Established | 1794 |
| Population | 48,000 |
| Area (km²) | 84 |
| Time zone | Eastern (EST/EDT) |
| ZIP code(s) | 25301–25396 |
| Area code(s) | 304, 681 |
Charleston is the capital and most populous city of West Virginia. Located at the confluence of the Elk and Kanawha Rivers, Charleston is known for its role in state politics, Appalachian culture, and historical importance to the coal and chemical industries.
Overview
- Capital since 1877
- Originally a frontier settlement and later a key industrial hub
- Positioned in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains
Landmarks and Attractions
- West Virginia State Capitol – with a striking gold dome
- West Virginia State Museum and Culture Center
- Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences
- Haddad Riverfront Park – hosts live events and festivals
- Historic East End and Capitol Street shops
Economy
Charleston’s economy is rooted in:
- **State government and civil service**
- **Health care and education**
- **Energy – coal, natural gas, and chemical production**
- **Retail, logistics, and regional banking**
Culture and Lifestyle
- Strong ties to Appalachian music, storytelling, and craft traditions
- Hosts the Charleston Sternwheel Regatta and Vandalia Gathering
- Emphasis on outdoor living – hiking, whitewater rafting, and mountain biking
- Community pride and resilience amid industrial transitions
Education
- University of Charleston
- West Virginia State University (nearby)
- Strong public schools and medical training institutions
Transportation
- Yeager Airport (CRW) offers regional flights
- Served by I-64, I-77, and I-79
- Amtrak Cardinal Line stops in Charleston (linking to Chicago and D.C.)
Fun Facts
- The gold dome on the Capitol is covered in real 23.5-karat gold leaf
- Charleston was once a key hub for the salt and chemical industries
- The town has been burned, rebuilt, and renamed several times since the 1700s