3 NOSTALGIC SUMMER ACTIVITIES IN MERCER COUNTY, WEST VIRGINIA 

Soak up the quintessential charm of a classic American summer and savor those long, golden evenings in Mercer County. Our corner of West Virginia offers a delightful blend of nostalgic activities that capture the carefree spirit of the season. Here are three timeless summer favorites to add to your next trip.

1. Dive Into Nostalgia At The Drive-In

Transport yourself back in time at the Pipestem Drive-In, where the magic of outdoor cinema comes alive. Built in 1972, this nostalgic gem is one of the last remaining drive-ins in West Virginia. The drive-in is situated on five acres of land and can accommodate up to 285 vehicles. Pack your own lawn chairs and cozy blankets and settle in. As the sun begins to set, enjoy a double feature of blockbuster movies under the starry sky. Let the crackling sound of the speakers and the enchanting ambiance transport you to a simpler time while creating lasting memories with friends and family.

2. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth 

Mercer County knows how to keep summer cool — and delicious — with a lineup of ice cream stops that will hit the spot every time.

  • Blue Ridge Bee Company, the only hand-scooped ice cream shop in Princeton, serves up a different flavor every day. And don’t miss their homemade waffle cones and waffle bowls for that extra crunch that’ll have you hooked. 
  • Lynn’s Drive-In, one of the county’s oldest stands, dishes out nostalgic favorites and inventive flavors like red velvet, German chocolate and peanut butter.
  • Evan’s Sweets Frozen Custard is your go-to for rich, velvety custard in a retro-style setting complete with checkered floors and neon lights.
  • The Bramwell Soda Fountain and Corner Shop is the ice cream capital of the Hatfield-McCoy Trails. Enjoy homemade malts, shakes and seasonal scoops like strawberry rhubarb and key lime.
  • Beat the heat at The RailYard, where you can indulge in decadent milkshakes ranging from classic Neapolitan and rich chocolate to creative flavors like cotton candy and peach cobbler.

3. Sleep Under The Stars

Roasting marshmallows by the campfire, playing a game of cornhole and relaxing in a hammock — embrace the relaxed Appalachian environment and camp under the stars in Mercer County. From tranquil state parks to rustic campgrounds, find the best spot to pitch your tent or park your RV. With evenings spent stargazing and waking up to the sound of birds chirping in the morning, there is no better way to unwind and reconnect with nature. Our area offers the perfect backdrop for a memorable and laid-back summer getaway.

Plan Your Summer Trip

Don’t let another summer slip by without a taste of the classics. From drive-ins and ice cream cones to nights under the stars, Mercer County has it all. Request a free travel guide to plan your summer escape now. 

Last updated: October 31, 2025