August 3-9, 2026 local guide
Charleston and South Charleston: August 3-9
Plan a local week around Kanawha State Forest, arts and history, then choose a Charleston Dirty Birds game Friday through Sunday.
The Charleston area has an easy weekday mix of forest, science, art and state history. A three-game Dirty Birds home stand gives families several weekend choices instead of one fixed date.
Things to do from Monday through Sunday
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Monday-Tuesday
Kanawha State Forest
Choose a trail, picnic area or nature stop only a short drive south of Charleston, checking alerts and conditions before visiting.
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Wednesday
Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences
Plan an indoor day around science exhibits, art or a current performance, verifying hours and ticket requirements first.
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Thursday
West Virginia State Museum and Capitol grounds
Explore state history and the Capitol complex in a focused downtown visit before the weekend crowds arrive.
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Friday-Sunday
Charleston Dirty Birds home games
The team lists games Friday and Saturday at 6:35 p.m. and a Sunday Back to School Bash at 12:34 p.m. Check tickets and promotions.
Build an easy South Charleston and Trace Fork plan
Steak Escape Trace Fork on RHL Boulevard works before the drive downtown, after a forest outing or during South Charleston errands. The three baseball dates let families select the day that best matches the rest of the week.
Three details to check before you go
- Check forest trail and weather advisories before hiking.
- Confirm museum and Clay Center hours before arriving.
- Verify Trace Fork restaurant hours for the planned meal window.
Local meal stop
Steak Escape Trace Fork
Find made-to-order cheesesteaks, grilled subs, fries and bowls at 81 RHL Boulevard, S. Charleston, WV 25309. Menu items, hours and ordering availability vary by location.