Kingwood blends mountain views, history and hospitality
Kingwood's quality of life is shaped by nature, traditions and neighborliness. "It's very community-oriented, that's the greatest thing about Kingwood," says associate broker Vickie Jenkins, who's lived here her whole life and founded Real Estate by Vickie Jenkins and Associates. The historic downtown features local eateries, antique shops and artisan stores. "The restaurant owners always try to help people. Some give a free meal for Thanksgiving," Jenkins says. The Cheat River and Allegheny Mountains provide a backdrop for hiking, fishing and four-wheeling. Despite its rural setting, the town has city amenities, including schools, medical facilities, and police and fire departments. Drives through the countryside reveal springtime wildflowers and farmland. A hallmark of Kingwood is the annual Preston County Buckwheat Festival, a feature since 1938, which celebrates the town's agricultural heritage.
Homes with acreage or in-town convenience
Smaller homes in Kingwood needing renovation are generally priced between $80,000 and $235,000. Larger or newer properties range from $250,000 to $375,000. "That is the nice thing about Kingwood – you can get into something affordable," Jenkins says. “Most of the homes that come on the market are going off the market quickly.” Some homes on Kingwood's outskirts may be on 100 acres or more than 500 acres. Those homes have the widest range, from around $775,000 to over $4.2 million. Jenkins notes that even though Kingwood is rural, it offers high-speed internet through multiple providers, making it a draw for remote workers seeking a simpler life. Homes are often older — some built as far back as the early 19th century. Architecture tends to be ranch and farmhouse styles, Craftsman bungalows, Cape Cods and Colonial Revivals.
High schoolers can graduate with a head start on college
Preston County Schools serve Kingwood, with Kingwood Elementary and Preston High receiving C-minus ratings on Niche, and Central Preston Middle School earning a B-minus. Preston High offers dual enrollment through One Walk, Two Degrees, enabling students to earn an associate degree at Pierpont Community & Technical College while still in high school. Over 300 majors are available at West Virginia University in nearby Morgantown.
Trails, rivers and forests support varied recreation
Kingwood offers various outdoor activities such as mountain biking on forest trails and walking along the river. The West Virginia Northern Rail Trail is a 10-mile path connecting Kingwood and the town of Tunnelton. It begins at the Kingwood Civic Center, passes through residential and forested areas, and offers rest spots with scenic views. Cheat River Rail-Trail runs parallel to its namesake waterway. The river is popular for trout fishing, swimming and white-water rafting. The surrounding area offers camping, off-road driving and hunting areas. Coopers Rock State Forest, located less than 25 miles away, affords canyon views and bouldering opportunities. In winter, its network of trails is also used by cross-country skiers.
A historic downtown area showcasing local businesses
Downtown Kingwood's historic storefronts spread out along East Main and Price streets, showcasing Greek Revival, Italianate and Victorian-style designs. Monroe's serves as a steakhouse, deli and seafood restaurant with options like roast beef sandwiches and crab cakes. The Preston County Inn, dating to 1857, hosts wing nights and Sunday breakfasts. Pockets of Time features local vendors selling artisan goods, including hand-painted Christmas decor. Sophie's Attic sells everything from home decor to handbags. Metheny's Farmers Market and Garden Center sells farm-fresh meat and fresh produce that can be sold in bulk. Locals also buy groceries at Shop' n Save Express in Kingwood Plaza.
Local fairgrounds and zoo offer fun for all ages year-round
The Preston County Buckwheat Festival is held at the local fairgrounds in Kingwood every September, drawing thousands to town. The festival always features a parade, carnival rides, live music, agricultural exhibits and vendors selling the town's famous buckwheat pancakes and sausage. "It's the third biggest festival in the state. It involves the local fire department, has pageants and parades, and is a great place for families to gather," Jenkins says. Another draw to town is Hovatter’s Wildlife Zoo — also known as the West Virginia Zoo — a popular destination for families.
Buckwheat Express provides rides around town
Travelers on the Old Route 7 Byway can enjoy Kingwood’s local atmosphere, with stops at produce stands and scenic overlooks along roads bordered by wildflowers and fields. West Virginia state Route 26 also serves as a main road. Buckwheat Express offers regular and on-demand rides to medical appointments or for senior and shopping needs. Preston Memorial Hospital provides emergency and specialty care in town.
Written By
Kathryn Ashworth
