Things to do
From world-class off-road trails to deep historical dives,
Matewan offers a unique blend of adventure and heritage.
Walking Tours
Step back in time with our immersive walking tours. Whether you choose a guided experience with a local historian or a self-guided exploration using our detailed maps, you'll walk the very pavement where history was made.
See the Bullet Holes: Visit the site of the Matewan Massacre and see the physical scars left on the buildings from that fateful day in 1920.
Historic Architecture: Admire the preserved early 20th-century brick buildings that define our downtown.
Great For: History buffs, students, and anyone wanting to connect deeply with the past.
River & Ridge Adventures
For those who hear the call of the wild, Matewan is your gateway to the rugged beauty of Appalachia. The Tug Fork River offers a serene escape for kayakers and anglers, winding through deep valleys and past historic sites. Whether you're paddling the calm waters or casting a line for smallmouth bass, the river provides a unique perspective on the landscape.
Above the valley floor, the ridges beckon. As a trailhead town for the Hatfield-McCoy Trails (Devil Anse Trail System), we offer direct access to hundreds of miles of off-road adventure. But you don't need an ATV to enjoy the views—hiking trails and scenic overlooks provide breathtaking panoramas of the town and the surrounding mountains, perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Explore Matewan
Eat, Shop, Stay and Experience Matewan
Discover local restaurants, shops, museums, overnight accommodations and trail-friendly businesses throughout Matewan and the surrounding area. Browse the directory by business type to begin planning your visit.
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Local Flavor
Food & Drink
From trail-ready meals and hometown pizza to coffee and casual dining, Matewan offers convenient places to refuel before or after an Appalachian adventure.
Trailhead Bar and Grill
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8 Mate Street, Matewan, WV 25678
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Hours: Monday–Thursday 11 AM–10 PM;
Friday–Saturday 11 AM–11 PM; Sunday 12 PM–8 PM
Chit and Chat Coffee Shop
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Mate Street, Matewan, WV 25678
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Hours: Tuesday–Wednesday 10 AM–6 PM;
Thursday–Saturday 10 AM–8 PM
Mi Pueblito
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Hours: Monday–Friday 11 AM–10 PM;
Saturday 12 PM–10 PM; Sunday 12 PM–9 PM
Giovanni's Pizza
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Hours: Monday–Saturday 4 AM–11 PM;
Sunday 8 AM–11 PM
Tipple Tavern
Wild Roots Coffee
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Located inside Giovanni's Pizza
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Hours: Monday–Friday 6 AM–7 PM;
Saturday 9 AM–7 PM; Sunday 12 PM–5 PM
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Local Shops and History
Shopping & Attractions
Shop local artwork, Appalachian gifts, trail gear and Matewan souvenirs, or explore the stories that helped shape West Virginia's labor and coal-mining history.
Appalachian Lost & Found General Store
We sell Hatfield-McCoy Trail gear, souvenirs, local arts and crafts, antiques, jewelry and a variety of food and drinks. Stop by to browse Appalachian handcrafted gifts created locally in the heart of Hatfield and McCoy Feud country. Ask about custom scrip.
Mountain State Boutique
Explore a selection of handpicked clothing, accessories and homeware thoughtfully chosen to complement your adventurous spirit.
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225 Mate Street, Matewan, WV 25678
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Hours: Tuesday–Wednesday 10 AM–6 PM;
Thursday–Saturday 10 AM–8 PM
Old Mountain Field Fine Arts & Crafts
OMFFAC showcases handmade creations from more than 15 local artists and craftspeople, including pottery, stained glass, textiles and original art. Located in the Matewan Depot Replica, the shop promotes work by West Virginian and Kentuckian artisans, with a special focus on women creators.
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100 Bridge Street, Matewan, WV 25678
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304-426-5744 or
304-784-6778
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Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 9 AM–5 PM
West Virginia Mine Wars Museum
The museum carries Mine Wars-themed merchandise, including shirts, hats, stickers and postcards. Its book collection features carefully selected titles that provide a strong foundation in the history of the West Virginia Mine Wars. Tours are also available.
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401 Mate Street, Matewan, WV 25678
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Rest After the Ride
Places to Stay
Choose from historic homes, cabins, inns, campgrounds, RV sites and trail-accessible vacation rentals throughout Matewan and the surrounding area.
Matewan Historic House
Historic lodging on Mate Street
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Contacts: David and Ellen Hatfield
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155 Mate Street, Matewan, WV 25678
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606-625-0688 or
304-426-5607
Ole Roys Trailhead Getaway
Trail-friendly getaway in McCarr, Kentucky
Blue Goose Inn
Downtown lodging on Mate Street
Buffalo Mountain Inn
Mate Street accommodations
Devil's Backbone Adventure Resort
Adventure resort near Matewan
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100 Adventure Lane, Matewan, WV 25678
Hatfield/McCoy Cabin Rentals
Cabin rentals on West Virginia Route 49
Hatfield McCoy Resort Inn
Inn lodging in downtown Matewan
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Owner: Kathy McCoy
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74 Mate Street, Matewan, WV 25678
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Available through Airbnb and Vrbo
Hatfield's Hideout Cabins and Campground
Cabins and campground in McCarr, Kentucky
Matewan RV Reservations
Eleven RV sites available through Town Hall
Eleven RV sites are available in a gravel parking area with connections for power and water. A sewer dump is also available.
Hatfield's Lodging LLC
Pet-friendly lodging near multiple trail systems
Accommodates four people and includes a microwave, mini fridge, 43-inch smart television, fire pit and a large blacktop parking area. The property is five minutes from historic Matewan and close to gas, food and a car wash. Guests have access to the Buffalo and Rockhouse trail systems and are approximately one mile from the Devil Anse Trailhead. Country Roads ATV Tour Guides are located directly behind the lodge. No minimum-night stay is required, and pets are allowed.
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Contact: Valerie Perkins
Coal Camp Lodging
Family-owned cabins with room for groups
Coal Camp Lodging is a family-owned and operated business built around the region's coal-mining and timbering history. Each cabin has a queen-size bed with a full bathroom downstairs and two bedrooms with a full bathroom upstairs. Cabins accommodate up to eight people, with no minimum-night stay.
Roger's Retreat
Family lodging beside the trail system
Bring the whole family to this spacious property with room for fun. The rental offers ample parking and added amenities for ATV riders. The property is adjacent to the Hatfield-McCoy Trail system, so no trailering is required. Guests can ride directly to nearby trails, restaurants and stores. Amenities include large beds, a sleeper sofa, screened porch with an extra refrigerator, game room with a pool table and arcade game, fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher, detached garage and plenty of outdoor space.
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Available through Airbnb
Matewan Lock-Up and City Hall
Historic overnight accommodation
The historic Lock-Up and City Hall once served as Police Chief Sid Hatfield's office and the local jail. Situated in one of West Virginia's most storied towns, the property offers convenient access to the Hatfield-McCoy Trail system, with shops, restaurants and attractions within walking distance. The accommodation sleeps four guests and includes two beds, one bathroom and a kitchenette.
Trailhead Haven
One mile from the Devil Anse Trailhead
Trailhead Haven offers six king-size beds, three full bathrooms, a washer and dryer, private saltwater swimming pool, fire pit, foosball table and a large parking area.
FeudLine Lodging
Downtown vacation rental on Mate Street
Please note: Hours, rates, amenities and availability
may change. Visitors are encouraged to contact each business or lodging
provider directly before traveling or making reservations.
Explore Historical Landmarks
Use this map to locate key historical sites throughout the town.
Matewan
Historic Landmarks
Explore Historical Landmarks
Walking Tour
Where to Stay for History & Adventure
Trailhead Haven — A Featured Local Stay
Featured Stay
Trailhead Haven
A spacious Matewan rental built for adventure weekends, group trips, and Devil Anse Trail riders — with comfort features that make you want to stay an extra night or two.
1 mile to Devil Anse Trailhead
Private saltwater pool
Hot tub + fire pit
Group-friendly stay
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Sleeping
6 King Beds
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Bathrooms
3 Full Baths
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Amenities
Hot tub, fire pit, foosball, washer & dryer
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Parking
Plenty of room to park for guests, groups, and trailers
Tip: This is a great fit for trail groups, families, and weekend visitors looking for extra space and resort-style amenities close to Matewan.
Featured Rental
Stay Near the Action
Trailhead Haven gives guests quick access to the Devil Anse Trailhead while offering a comfortable, amenity-rich place to unwind after a full day out.
• Private saltwater pool
• Hot tub + fire pit evenings
• Room for large groups
• Washer/dryer for longer stays
• Easy trail access
More Than Just
A Small Town
Matewan is a living monument to American labor history and a gateway to the wild beauty of West Virginia. From the legendary Hatfield-McCoy feuds to the pivotal Battle of Matewan, our streets echo with stories of resilience and courage.
Today, we welcome travelers seeking connection—to the past, to nature, and to a community that stands proud in the heart of the coalfields.
Mine wars museum
Preserving the people's history of the WV Mine Wars.
Discover Matewan
Experience The Region
River & Ridge Adventures
Kayak the Tug Fork River or explore the rugged ridges
surrounding the town. Nature reclaims the industrial past.
Walking Tours
Guided and self-guided tours of historic downtown Matewan.
Events
Reenactments, festivals, and community gatherings.
The Matewan Massacre
Learn about the pivotal 1920 shootout that sparked the
West Virginia Mine Wars and changed labor history forever.
Start Your Journey
Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a family looking for a meaningful getaway, Matewan has a story for you. Let us help you plan your perfect trip.
Visitor FAQs
Where is Matewan, West Virginia located?
Matewan is located in southern West Virginia along the Tug Fork River, near the West Virginia–Kentucky border. The town sits in a scenic Appalachian valley surrounded by ridges and historic coalfield communities.
What is Matewan best known for?
Matewan is best known for its role in American labor history, particularly the Matewan Massacre of 1920, a pivotal event in the West Virginia Mine Wars. Today, it is also known for its museum, walkable historic downtown, river scenery, and Appalachian culture.
How long should I plan to stay in Matewan?
Many visitors explore Matewan as a day trip, but a one- to two-night stay allows time to visit the Mine Wars Museum, walk the historic downtown, enjoy river views, and explore nearby outdoor attractions.
Is Matewan a walkable town?
Yes. Matewan’s historic downtown is compact and walkable. Visitors can easily walk between the Mine Wars Museum, historic sites, local shops, and restaurants.
Are there guided tours available?
Yes. Matewan offers guided and self-guided walking tours that focus on labor history, the Matewan Massacre, and the town’s historic landmarks. Group and educational tours may be available by request.
Learn about the pivotal 1920 shootout that sparked the West Virginia Mine Wars and changed labor history forever.
Explore
Contact us
Visit Matewan
Ready to experience history and adventure? Start planning your trip today.