Fayette County possesses many of the very important quality of life assets commonly identified in the most attractive and livable communities across the nation. The most prominent examples are low crime rates, good schools, lack of congestion, sense of community, friendly people, environmental quality, natural and scenic beauty, abundance of recreational activities, affordable housing and accessibility to shopping and cultural activities.

Whether its experiencing the thrill of a whitewater rafting trip on the raging New River, hiking or biking one of the many mountainous trails, finding that rare treasure in one of the antique shops or taking in a play at the historic theatre, Fayette County is a great place to visit, live, work and play.

Fayette County offers a unique and appealing combination of small towns and rural atmospheres, while at the same time offering the modern conveniences and amenities people have come to expect in modern society.

The quality of natural resources surrounding the New River Gorge has already made the region a popular tourist destination as well as a place many have chosen to relocate to and now call home. Recognized as the hub of the whitewater rafting industry, vacationers choose the area for its outdoor adventure sports, historic sites, bird watching, camping, fishing and other recreational pursuits. Among many of the area’s outdoor recreational accolades, West Virginia received the highest grade in the 2004 edition of the International Mountain Bicycling Associations annual survey of mountain biking.

Outdoor enthusiasts may choose from a growing list of qualified whitewater rafting outfitters and guide companies offering excellent food service, cabins, campgrounds and gear for a wide variety of outdoor adventures.

From camping in a remote area of natural beauty to enjoying the quaintness of a historic Bed and Breakfast Inn or finding the convenience of a national motel chain, Fayette County gives you the choice.

Along with the natural beauty of the county and region, visitors and residents alike enjoy the atmosphere of the outstanding area restaurants which offer a variety of unique and delicious cuisines.

Shopping for antiques, discovering the work of one of the many local artisans or needing the convenience of the local hardware store and other shopping needs, Fayette County has it all.

Small-town festivals celebrating the culture and heritage of the region and county-wide events such as the internationally-known Bridge Day held annually on the third Saturday of October offer residents and visitors a-like numerous opportunities to experience the uniqueness of the area.

Through the early 1900’s, Fayette County and the New River Gorge region produced more coal than any other in the world and much mining technology was pioneered here. Remnants of the thriving industry exist as historic sites in the area.

Fayette County is also experiencing a progressive effort locally and regionally to attract new business and industry. An increase in business and industrial activity and the creation of good paying jobs is also leading to the attraction of new people moving to the area. New proposals for residential developments are in various stages of progress throughout the County.

In general, an assessment of the primary and secondary schools within the county reveals schools engaged in various efforts of improvement and excellence. The area appears to be consistent with national trends which show small town and rural schools districts flourishing. Over the past several years, area school systems have received high ratings for programs designed to put educational excellence on the agenda. Schools have earned high marks in curriculum standards, student assessments, quality of teaching and school climate, and several schools in the county have achieved Schools of Excellence status. The County schools system is currently engaged in several efforts of school consolidation for improvement.

Fayette County: A great place to live, work, learn and play.