FIVE REASONS TO GET OFF INTERSTATE-77

If you are traveling Interstate 77 through southern West Virginia, don’t assume the best part of the drive is the highways. A quick exit in Mercer County – right before East River Mountain Tunnel – can lead to a great cup of local-brewed coffee, public art, a swing with a mountain view and even a mountain coaster. Here are five reason to get off the road and explore Uniquely Appalachia.

1. Get a Better Cup of Coffee at Aubade Coffee
Skip the interstate coffee run and make it local. Located off Exit 1 in Bluefield and Exit 9 in Princeton, Aubade Coffee features homemade syrups, seasonal flavors and much needed caffeine for the drive ahead.

2. Find Something Local at Market Over Yonder
Instead of another gas station stop, browse Appalachian-made goods, local produce and things you won’t find at every exit. You can also grab sandwiches, coffee and more for the next 100 miles. The Market Over Yonder is located off Exit 14, near Athens.

3. Take the Photo at the Almost Heaven Swing
The Almost Heaven Swings, placed at strategic locations across the state, have become a must-stop photo op across the state of West Virginia. Mercer County’s swing comes with the best view of the entire area, right on top of East River Mountain Overlook, off exit 1.

4. See a Different Side of Princeton in the Mercer Street Grassroots District
With more than a dozen murals, this main street, less than two miles from Exit 9, highlights small town USA. Stretch your legs, wander into the local book store, or browse artwork in the local galleries.

5. Ride a Mountain Coaster
Did someone mention a bathroom stop and a mountain coaster? Brush Creek Holl’r sends riders down 2,500 feet of track at speeds up to 30 mph. This stop, directly off Exit 14, is way more memorable than any other rest-area break on the highway.

The best part? All of these stops are within five miles of an I-77 exit. Just don’t’ blame us if you stay a little longer.

Last updated: August 12, 2026