West Virginia is a land of mountains, myths, and memories. Nowhere is that more evident than the area surrounding The Greenbrier Resort. If you’re visiting White Sulphur Springs and itching to uncover more than just scenic trails and luxury amenities, you’re in luck. This region is packed with quirky, moving, and downright fascinating historic attractions that tell the story of Appalachia in unexpected ways.
So lace up your walking shoes (or charge that e-bike from Greenbrier Outfitters!) and get ready to dive into the past. Here are five standout historic sites near The Greenbrier that are well worth the adventure.
1. John Henry Monument – Talcott, WV
If you’ve ever heard the legendary ballad of John Henry, the steel-driving man who took on a steam drill and won (but lost his life in the process), you’ve already touched on a vital piece of West Virginia lore.
Located just under an hour from The Greenbrier in Talcott, this modest monument marks the entrance to Big Bend Tunnel — the site of the iconic battle between man and machine. The monument may be small, but the story it commemorates is huge. Standing there, with the rumble of passing trains echoing nearby, you can almost hear the clang of John Henry’s hammer.
Insider Tip: Visit during one of the annual John Henry Days events in July, when the legend comes to life with music, food, and storytelling.
2. Blue Sulphur Springs Pavilion – Alderson, WV
Tucked along a rural road about 30 minutes from the resort is a hauntingly beautiful relic of antebellum West Virginia: the Blue Sulphur Springs Pavilion.
Built in 1834, this Greek Revival pavilion was once part of a thriving health resort, similar in spirit to The Greenbrier. It hosted 200 rooms, a ballroom, and even a casino, attracting wealthy visitors seeking the healing properties of the mineral springs. Today, only the spring house remains — a stately columned rotunda surrounded by grassy fields.
The site is quiet, with the faint scent of minerals still lingering in the air. It’s an ideal picnic stop and a great photo op for history lovers.
3. Lost World Caverns – Lewisburg, WV
For those who want their history underground, look no further than Lost World Caverns. Just a 15-minute drive from The Greenbrier, this otherworldly attraction offers a glimpse into Earth’s deep past.
Discovered in 1942, these massive limestone caverns feature stalactites and stalagmites dating back millions of years. It’s not just a geological wonder — there’s human history too. The cave once hosted the Guinness World Record for the longest time spent underground (45 days!), and its formations have been drawing tourists and scientists alike for decades.
Self-guided tours make it easy to explore at your own pace, and the on-site museum adds context with fossils and minerals found on-site.
4. Greenbrier County Courthouse – Lewisburg, WV
Downtown Lewisburg, just minutes from the resort, is full of charm. But if you’re looking for a true window into local history, head straight for the Greenbrier County Courthouse.
This historic building was completed in 1837 and has stood the test of time — through war, political upheaval, and modernization. Its red brick façade is a classic example of early American civic architecture, and the square surrounding it often hosts community events, live music, and markets.
Even if you’re not heading inside, the courthouse anchors a walking tour of Lewisburg’s National Register Historic District, where every street corner has a story.
5. Hanging Rock Raptor Observatory – Monroe County, WV
Although it’s a bit off the beaten path (just over an hour away), the Hanging Rock Raptor Observatory blends natural history and environmental conservation in a breathtaking way.
Originally a fire tower built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, this mountaintop lookout has since become a premier spot for watching migrating raptors. In the fall, the skies come alive with hawks, eagles, and falcons — making it a paradise for birders and casual hikers alike.
Not only does it offer a view into Appalachian wildlife history, but the structure itself is a piece of New Deal-era architecture with stunning 360° views of the Ridge and Valley region.
Pro Tip: Bring binoculars and a journal. You’ll want to remember what you spot.
Final Thoughts
The hills around White Sulphur Springs don’t just hide outdoor thrills — they hold stories carved into rock, told in song, and remembered through monuments. Whether you’re tracing the legend of John Henry, wandering an ancient spring pavilion, or standing high above the raptor-filled skies, there’s no shortage of historic attractions near The Greenbrier.
So next time you’re here, go beyond the beaten trail. West Virginia’s past is waiting.