Looking for cheap Flights to Beckley, Raleigh, West Virginia, USA (BKW) airport?

Beckley, accessible via affordable flights to Beckley at BKW airport (Raleigh County Memorial Airport), is a historic city in Southern West Virginia, serving as a gateway to the stunning New River Gorge National Park and Preserve and offering a deep dive into the region's coal mining heritage, making it an engaging destination for adventurers and history buffs.

The Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, where visitors descend into a real coal mine on a guided tour by a veteran miner, provides an intimate understanding of the dangerous yet vital work that shaped the region. The mine includes a recreated coal camp with historic buildings. The adjacent Youth Museum of Southern West Virginia features a "Mountain Homestead" with historic log structures, offering a glimpse into Appalachian pioneer life. The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, a national treasure, boasts the iconic New River Gorge Bridge, the longest single-span arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere, and offers world-class whitewater rafting, hiking, rock climbing, and scenic overlooks. The Tamarack Marketplace showcases Appalachian arts, crafts, food, and music. The Summit Bechtel Reserve, a world-renowned outdoor adventure center, hosts the National Scout Jamboree. Annual events celebrate Appalachian culture, music, and outdoor recreation. Savor authentic Appalachian comfort food like pepperoni rolls and biscuits and gravy. With cheapest flights available to Beckley, this city blends industrial history and rugged natural beauty for an authentic West Virginia experience.

Why Visit Beckley, West Virginia

Beckley captivates with its immersive Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and proximity to the New River Gorge’s breathtaking landscapes. Adventure seekers enjoy rafting and climbing, while history buffs explore coal camps and the Tamarack’s crafts. Families love the Youth Museum, and foodies savor Appalachian dishes. With discount airfare to Beckley, it’s affordable for solo travelers, families, and couples. Events like the Appalachian Festival add cultural vibrancy, making Beckley a must-visit for heritage and outdoor enthusiasts.

Quick Facts & Highlights

• Population: Approximately 16,400 (2023 estimate)
• Founded: 1838
• Area: 9.5 square miles
• Key Highlight: Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine
• Notable Event: Appalachian Festival, annual August event
• Fun Fact: Gateway to New River Gorge, a national park since 2020
• Local Treat: Pepperoni rolls
• Landmark: New River Gorge Bridge

Geographic Location & Climate

Beckley, in Raleigh County, Southern West Virginia, lies 60 miles southeast of Charleston, at 2,400 feet elevation near the New River Gorge. The climate is humid continental, with warm summers (average high 83°F) and cold winters (average high 41°F). Annual rainfall is 40 inches, with 25 inches of snow. Spring and fall (50-70°F) are ideal for hiking, summer suits rafting, and winter offers mild indoor attractions.

Vital Statistics & Demographics In Beckley, West Virginia

Total Population

Beckley’s population is 16,400 (2023), with a 0.5% decline from 2022, reflecting rural trends.

Age Distribution

Median age is 40.8 years; 19.2% under 18, 8.5% 18-24, 24.3% 25-44, 27.1% 45-64, 20.9% 65+.

Ethnic & Racial Composition

White 78.4%, Black 16.2%, Hispanic 2.1%, Asian 1.3%, Two or More Races 2.0%, Native American 0.2%.

Gender Breakdown

Males 48.7%, females 51.3%.

Household Types & Sizes

Average household size 2.3; family households 60.1%, non-family 39.9%; 24.6% with children.

Population Growth Trends

Decline of 2.1% since 2020, projected to stabilize at 16,000 by 2028, with tourism growth.

Economy & Living Standards In Beckley, West Virginia

Major Industries & Employers

Healthcare, tourism, and education lead; top employers:

• Raleigh General Hospital, 1710 Harper Rd, Beckley, WV 25801
• Beckley VA Medical Center, 200 Veterans Ave, Beckley, WV 25801
• Raleigh County Schools, 2001 S Kanawha St, Beckley, WV 25801
• City of Beckley, 409 S Kanawha St, Beckley, WV 25801
• Tamarack Marketplace, 1 Tamarack Park, Beckley, WV 25801
• Appalachian Regional Healthcare, 306 Stanaford Rd, Beckley, WV 25801
• Walmart Supercenter, 1330 N Eisenhower Dr, Beckley, WV 25801
• West Virginia University Tech, 410 Neville St, Beckley, WV 25801
• Kroger, 1734 Harper Rd, Beckley, WV 25801
• LifePoint Health, 1710 Harper Rd, Beckley, WV 25801

Employment Rate & Job Market

Unemployment rate is 4.2%; jobs focus on healthcare (30%), tourism, and education, with seasonal outdoor roles.

Median Income & Cost of Living

Median household income is $44,800; cost of living 85.4% of U.S. average; median home value $135,200.

Poverty Rate & Economic Challenges

Poverty rate is 17.6%; challenges include rural job scarcity and healthcare access.

Business Environment & Investment Opportunities

Tourism from New River Gorge drives hospitality and adventure businesses. West Virginia’s tax incentives support small ventures.

Health & Wellness In Beckley, West Virginia

General Health Overview

Health metrics are moderate; life expectancy is 75.8 years, supported by Raleigh General and VA Medical Center.

Common Health Issues

Obesity (35%), heart disease, opioid issues; addressed by community health programs and outdoor access.

Fitness Centers & Wellness Studios

• Planet Fitness, 1920 Harper Rd, Beckley, WV 25801
• Beckley Fitness Center, 219 N Kanawha St, Beckley, WV 25801
• Anytime Fitness, 3258 Robert C Byrd Dr, Beckley, WV 25801
• Yoga Haven, 200 S Heber St, Beckley, WV 25801
• CrossFit Beckley, 121 Plaza Dr, Beckley, WV 25801

Mental Health Resources

• Beckley VA Mental Health, 200 Veterans Ave, Beckley, WV 25801
• FMRS Health Systems, 101 S Eisenhower Dr, Beckley, WV 25801
• Southern Highlands CMHC, 200 Stanaford Rd, Beckley, WV 25801
• Raleigh Psychiatric Services, 28 Mallard Ct, Beckley, WV 25801
• Hope Haven Counseling, 501 N Kanawha St, Beckley, WV 25801

Public Health Initiatives

Raleigh County Health Department runs opioid prevention, vaccination clinics, and fitness programs; local gyms promote wellness.

Hospitals & Clinics In Beckley, West Virginia

Hospitals & Emergency Services

• Raleigh General Hospital, 1710 Harper Rd, Beckley, WV 25801
• Beckley VA Medical Center, 200 Veterans Ave, Beckley, WV 25801

Urgent Care & Walk-In Clinics

• MedExpress Urgent Care, 1709 Harper Rd, Beckley, WV 25801
• Access Health, 252 Rural Acres Dr, Beckley, WV 25801
• Community Health Systems, 202 Bill Baker Way, Beckley, WV 25801
• FastCare Clinic, 2157 Ritter Dr, Daniels, WV 25832

Specialty Medical Centers

• Raleigh Heart Clinic, 304 Carriage Dr, Beckley, WV 25801
• Beckley Oncology, 275 Dry Hill Rd, Beckley, WV 25801
• Orthopedic Associates, 1717 Harper Rd, Beckley, WV 25801
• EyeCare Associates, 1828 Harper Rd, Beckley, WV 25801

Telehealth & Remote Care Options

Raleigh General offers telehealth app; FMRS provides telepsychiatry; most clinics support virtual visits.

Veterinary Services & Pet Care In Beckley, West Virginia

Animal Hospitals & Emergency Vets

• Beckley Veterinary Hospital, 520 Maxwell Hill Rd, Beckley, WV 25801
• Emergency Vet Clinic, 3051 Robert C Byrd Dr, Beckley, WV 25801

Pet Clinics & Routine Care

• Raleigh County Animal Hospital, 120 Collie Ln, Beckley, WV 25801
• PetSmart Veterinary Services, 1330 N Eisenhower Dr, Beckley, WV 25801
• Oak Hill Animal Clinic, 2691 Summerlee Rd, Oak Hill, WV 25901

Grooming & Boarding Facilities

• Paws & Claws Grooming, 204 Antonio Ave, Beckley, WV 25801
• Beckley Pet Resort, 110 Smoot Ave, Beckley, WV 25801
• Happy Tails Boarding, 300 Frontage Rd, Princeton, WV 24740

Pet-Friendly Parks & Trails

• Little Beaver State Park, 1402 Grandview Rd, Beaver, WV 25813
• New River Park, 513 Ewart Ave, Beckley, WV 25801
• Piney Creek Preserve, 1600 Piney Creek Rd, Beckley, WV 25801

Local Government & Public Services In Beckley, West Virginia

City Hall and Administrative Offices

• Beckley City Hall, 409 S Kanawha St, Beckley, WV 25801

County Government Services

• Raleigh County Courthouse, 215 Main St, Beckley, WV 25801

Public Records and Licensing

• Raleigh County Clerk, 215 Main St, Beckley, WV 25801
• Beckley City Clerk, 409 S Kanawha St, Beckley, WV 25801

Planning and Zoning Departments

• Beckley Planning Department, 409 S Kanawha St, Beckley, WV 25801
• Raleigh County Planning, 215 Main St, Beckley, WV 25801

Tax and Revenue Offices

• Raleigh County Tax Office, 215 Main St, Beckley, WV 25801
• Beckley Finance Department, 409 S Kanawha St, Beckley, WV 25801

Police, Fire, and Emergency Services

• Beckley Police Department, 501 Neville St, Beckley, WV 25801
• Beckley Fire Department, 302 S Heber St, Beckley, WV 25801
• Raleigh County Sheriff, 201 S Eisenhower Dr, Beckley, WV 25801

Courts and Legal Aid

• Raleigh County Circuit Court, 222 Main St, Beckley, WV 25801
• Beckley Municipal Court, 409 S Kanawha St, Beckley, WV 25801
• Legal Aid of West Virginia, 102 McCreery St, Beckley, WV 25801

Public Works and Utilities

• Beckley Public Works, 409 S Kanawha St, Beckley, WV 25801
• Beckley Water Company, 108 Main St, Beckley, WV 25801

Voter Registration and Civic Engagement

• Raleigh County Voter Registration, 215 Main St, Beckley, WV 25801
• Beckley-Raleigh County Library, 221 N Kanawha St, Beckley, WV 25801

Current U.S. Senators & U.S. House Representatives

Senators: Joe Manchin (I), Shelley Moore Capito (R)
House Representative (WV-1 District): Carol Miller (R)

Education & Libraries In Beckley, West Virginia

Public School Districts

Served by Raleigh County Schools.

Public School Names and Full Addresses

• Beckley Elementary, 399 Gray Flats Rd, Beckley, WV 25801
• Stratton Elementary, 1129 S Fayette St, Beckley, WV 25801
• Woodrow Wilson High School, 400 Stanaford Rd, Beckley, WV 25801
• Park Middle School, 212 Park Ave, Beckley, WV 25801
• Beckley-Stratton Middle School, 401 Gray Flats Rd, Beckley, WV 25801

Charter and Private Schools

• Greater Beckley Christian School, 140 Crusader Dr, Beckley, WV 25801
• St. Francis de Sales School, 614 S Oakwood Ave, Beckley, WV 25801
• Mt. Tabor Christian School, 2624 Sweeneysburg Rd, Beckley, WV 25801

Colleges and Universities

• West Virginia University Tech, 410 Neville St, Beckley, WV 25801; Majors: Engineering, Nursing, Business
• New River Community and Technical College, 280 University Dr, Beaver, WV 25813; Majors: Culinary, IT, Health Sciences

Public Libraries and Learning Centers

• Beckley-Raleigh County Library, 221 N Kanawha St, Beckley, WV 25801
• Mabscott Library, 1127 S Main St, Mabscott, WV 25871

Flights & Travel Logistics In Beckley, West Virginia

Best Time to Book Flights

Book 2-3 months ahead for low-cost flights to Beckley; January and November offer the best flight deals; avoid summer tourism peaks.

Airlines That Serve Beckley, West Virginia

BKW served by Contour Airlines; connections via Charlotte (CLT) or Washington, DC (IAD).

Nearby Airports and Alternatives

BKW is primary; alternatives: Charleston (CRW, 1 hour), Roanoke (ROA, 2 hours). Drive via I-64; no direct Amtrak; Greyhound to Charleston.

Transportation After Arrival

Car rentals at BKW (Enterprise, Hertz); taxis ($10-15 downtown); Uber/Lyft ($8-12); Raleigh County Transit ($2/trip).

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Pack for cool winters; book coal mine tours early; try pepperoni rolls; rent a car for New River Gorge; check rafting schedules. Secure cheap round-trip flights to Beckley for savings.

Ready to explore Beckley? Book inexpensive flights to Beckley, West Virginia, USA (BKW) airport and save up to $148 with early booking. Keep in mind that the nearest airport to Beckley, West Virginia, USA (BKW) may offer low-fare flights and alternate date options depending on departure city and season.

Where to Stay In Beckley, West Virginia

Budget-Friendly Accommodations

• Quality Inn Beckley, 1924 Harper Rd, Beckley, WV 25801
• Microtel Inn & Suites, 2130 Harper Rd, Beckley, WV 25801
• Super 8 Beckley, 2014 Harper Rd, Beckley, WV 25801

Boutique Hotels and Inns

• The Morris Harvey House B&B, 201 W Maple Ave, Fayetteville, WV 25840
• Historic Morris Harvey Inn, 114 Main St, Beckley, WV 25801

Luxury Resorts and Spas

• The Resort at Glade Springs, 255 Resort Dr, Daniels, WV 25832
• Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites, 114 Dry Hill Rd, Beckley, WV 25801

Family-Friendly Lodging

• Hampton Inn Beckley, 110 Harper Park Dr, Beckley, WV 25801
• Courtyard by Marriott, 124 Hylton Ln, Beckley, WV 25801
• Comfort Inn Beckley, 300 Harper Park Dr, Beckley, WV 25801

Vacation Rentals and Extended Stays

• Airbnb New River Gorge Cabins, Various, e.g., 100 Main St, Beckley, WV 25801
• VRBO Appalachian Homes, Near Harper Rd, Beckley, WV 25801
• Country Inn & Suites, 2120 Harper Rd, Beckley, WV 25801

Getting Around In Beckley, West Virginia

Public Transportation Overview

Raleigh County Transit offers buses ($2/trip); limited downtown shuttle services.

Car Rentals and Ride Shares

Rentals at BKW (Avis, Budget); Uber/Lyft $8-12 for local trips; taxis $10-15; bike rentals ($15/day).

Walkability and Bike-Friendly Areas

Downtown scores 65/100 walkability; New River Park and Piney Creek Preserve bike-friendly.

Parking Tips and Local Driving Rules

Free parking downtown; metered near Tamarack ($1/hour); 25 mph in city; watch for rural roads.

Natural Wonders & Outdoor Activities In Beckley, West Virginia

National Parks and Scenic Areas

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve (20 min); Grandview State Park (15 min).

Hiking, Biking, and Nature Trails

• New River Gorge Trail, 100 Grandview Rd, Beaver, WV 25813
• Little Beaver State Park, 1402 Grandview Rd, Beaver, WV 25813
• Piney Creek Preserve, 1600 Piney Creek Rd, Beckley, WV 25801

Wildlife Viewing

Deer, black bears, bald eagles, and river otters in New River Gorge and state parks.

Lakes, Rivers, and Water Activities

• New River, whitewater rafting, 101 E Wiseman Ave, Fayetteville, WV 25840
• Little Beaver Lake, fishing, 1402 Grandview Rd, Beaver, WV 25813

Camping and RV Parks

• New River Gorge Campground, 106 S Court St, Fayetteville, WV 25840
• Beckley RV Park, 2968 S Kanawha St, Beckley, WV 25801

Seasonal Outdoor Adventures

Spring hiking, summer rafting, fall foliage biking, winter indoor cultural tours.

History & Heritage In Beckley, West Virginia

Founding and Historical Background

Founded 1838; grew as a coal mining hub in the late 19th century.

Major Disasters and Events

Happy: New River Gorge National Park designation (2020). Sad: 1914 Eccles Mine Disaster; 2010 Upper Big Branch explosion.

Recovery Efforts for Recent Disaster

Post-2010 mine disaster: Safety regulations strengthened, community memorials established.

Historical Landmarks

• Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, 513 Ewart Ave, Beckley, WV 25801
• New River Gorge Bridge, 8763 Fayetteville Rd, Fayetteville, WV 25840
• Wildwood House Museum, 121 Laurel Ter, Beckley, WV 25801

Museums and Cultural Centers

• Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, 513 Ewart Ave, Beckley, WV 25801
• Youth Museum of Southern WV, 509 Ewart Ave, Beckley, WV 25801
• Raleigh County Historical Society, 1210 S Kanawha St, Beckley, WV 25801

Local Folklore and Legends

Coal miner ghost stories; New River Gorge bridge tales; Appalachian folk traditions.

Indigenous and Pioneer History

Shawnee and Cherokee lands pre-1800s; settlers arrived 1830s; coal mining shaped growth.

Prominent Public and Private Personalities In Beckley, West Virginia

• Nick Rahall: Former U.S. Congressman, Beckley native.
• Tamarack Artisans: Collective of Appalachian craftsmen.
• John Lilly: Bluegrass musician, Beckley resident.

Arts & Culture In Beckley, West Virginia

Performing Arts Venues

• Tamarack Conference Center, 1 Tamarack Park, Beckley, WV 25801
• Beckley Concert Association, 200 S Heber St, Beckley, WV 25801

Art Galleries and Exhibitions

• Tamarack Marketplace, 1 Tamarack Park, Beckley, WV 25801
• Raleigh Playhouse Gallery, 403 Neville St, Beckley, WV 25801

Local Artists and Artisans

Woodworkers, quilters, and musicians at Tamarack and Appalachian Festival.

Cultural Festivals and Events

• Appalachian Festival, 513 Ewart Ave, Beckley, WV 25801
• Chili Night, Downtown Beckley, WV 25801

Music Scene and Live Performances

• Raleigh Playhouse and Theatre, 403 Neville St, Beckley, WV 25801
• Foster’s Main Street Tavern, 403 S Kanawha St, Beckley, WV 25801

Food & Drink In Beckley, West Virginia

Restaurants by Cuisine

• American - Calacino’s Pizzeria, 3611 Robert C Byrd Dr, Beckley, WV 25801; Specialty: Pepperoni rolls
• Southern - Tudors Biscuit World, 1408 N Eisenhower Dr, Beckley, WV 25801; Specialty: Biscuits and gravy
• Italian - Pasquale’s, 224 Harper Park Dr, Beckley, WV 25801; Specialty: Pizza
• BBQ - Smokehouse BBQ, 3203 Robert C Byrd Dr, Beckley, WV 25801; Specialty: Pulled pork
• Appalachian - Tamarack Marketplace, 1 Tamarack Park, Beckley, WV 25801; Specialty: Local trout

Farm-to-Table and Local Ingredients

Tamarack uses local produce; Beckley Farmers Market sources ramps, honey.

Breweries, Wineries, and Distilleries

• Weatherford Brewing Co, 2027 S Fayette St, Beckley, WV 25801
• Daniel Vineyards, 200 Twin Oaks Rd, Crab Orchard, WV 25827

Street Food and Casual Dining

• Beckley Farmers Market, 100 Worley Rd, Beckley, WV 25801
• King Tut Drive-In, 301 N Eisenhower Dr, Beckley, WV 25801

Vegan, Vegetarian, and Dietary Options

Tamarack offers vegetarian dishes; Calacino’s has gluten-free pizza; most eateries provide dietary options.

Shopping & Leisure In Beckley, West Virginia

Local Boutiques and Artisan Shops

• Tamarack Marketplace, 1 Tamarack Park, Beckley, WV 25801
• Beckley Art Center, 600 Johnstown Rd, Beckley, WV 25801

Malls and Shopping Districts

• Crossroads Mall, 2 Crossroads Mall, Mt Hope, WV 25880
• Downtown Beckley, S Kanawha St, Beckley, WV 25801

Antique Stores and Markets

• Antique Emporium, 102 S Heber St, Beckley, WV 25801
• Raleigh Antique Mall, 3207 Robert C Byrd Dr, Beckley, WV 25801

Souvenirs and Specialty Goods

• Tamarack Gift Shop, 1 Tamarack Park, Beckley, WV 25801
• Coal City Emporium, 109 Main St, Beckley, WV 25801

Events & Entertainment In Beckley, West Virginia

Annual Festivals and Parades

• Appalachian Festival, 513 Ewart Ave, Beckley, WV 25801
• Beckley’s Kids Classic Festival, 100 Main St, Beckley, WV 25801

Farmers Markets and Local Gatherings

• Beckley Farmers Market, 100 Worley Rd, Beckley, WV 25801
• Rods and Rails Show, 409 S Kanawha St, Beckley, WV 25801

Sports Events and Recreational Leagues

• Raleigh County Parks and Recreation, 1400 S Kanawha St, Beckley, WV 25801
• Beckley Little League, 100 Athletic St, Beckley, WV 25801

Holiday Celebrations and Seasonal Fun

• Beckley Christmas Parade, Downtown Beckley, WV 25801
• Winterplace Ski Resort Events, 100 Old Flat Top Rd, Ghent, WV 25843

Nearby Destinations In Beckley, West Virginia

Popular Day Trips

• Fayetteville, WV (20 min): New River Gorge adventures
• Lewisburg, WV (1 hour): Historic Greenbrier Valley

Hidden Gems in the Region

• Grandview State Park, 4700 Grandview Rd, Beaver, WV 25813
• Lake Stephens, 1400 Lake Stephens Rd, Surveyor, WV 25932

Scenic Drives and Routes

• New River Gorge Scenic Drive, US-19, Fayetteville, WV 25840
• Midland Trail, US-60, Charleston, WV 25301

Regional Attractions Worth Visiting

• Winterplace Ski Resort, 100 Old Flat Top Rd, Ghent, WV 25843
• Hawks Nest State Park, 49 Hawks Nest Park Rd, Ansted, WV 25812

Audience-Specific Guides In Beckley, West Virginia

Family Travel Tips

Visit Youth Museum, tour coal mine, stay at family-friendly hotels, attend Kids Classic with budget airline tickets to Beckley.

Solo Traveler Highlights

Explore Tamarack, dine at Calacino’s, hike New River Gorge, visit Raleigh Playhouse with cheap one-way flights to Beckley.

Romantic Getaways

Dine at Tamarack, stay at Glade Springs, tour New River Gorge, visit Grandview with low-budget flights to Beckley.

Business Travel Essentials

Near BKW airport, meeting spaces at Tamarack, quick dining, Wi-Fi at Hampton Inn with economical flights to Beckley.

Accessible Travel Resources

ADA-compliant parks and museums, wheelchair rentals at Raleigh General, accessible transit, WV Relay services.

Natural Resources

Coal, timber, trout, limestone, natural gas.

Article Published on August 27, 2025, Last Modified on October 2, 2025. Content subject to change at any time.