Indoor Activities To Try In The New River Gorge: Climbing, Bowling and More
February 19, 2026Don’t let winter weather slow down your plans. The New River Gorge offers plenty of ways to stay warm indoors while still having fun. From climbing and bowling to art galleries and escape rooms, here are seven indoor activities to add to your next Gorge getaway.
Climb and Play at Gripped Fitness
Located in Fayetteville, Gripped Fitness is a go-to spot for indoor recreation. Its main feature is a 2,500-square-foot bouldering gym with routes that are reset weekly, so there’s always something new to try. The entire facility gets fresh climbs every six weeks, giving returning visitors new challenges each time.
There’s also a dedicated climbing area designed for kids ages 3–10, and a 60-minute introductory class that teaches beginners how to climb safely and effectively. Training equipment is available for those who want to build skills and strength.
Gripped Fitness also features four indoor pickleball courts with professional-level CushionX surfaces designed to support play and reduce fatigue. Options include open play for all skill levels, beginner classes and private court reservations. Beyond climbing and pickleball, the facility includes a wide range of fitness equipment for a variety of workout styles.
Test Your Skills at Escape-A-Torium
Ready to solve your way out? Escape-A-Torium in Fayetteville offers West Virginia–themed escape rooms where groups work together to solve puzzles and clues in under 60 minutes. Each room drops you into a different setting and storyline, making it a fun, interactive experience for families, friends and coworkers.
Go Bowling at Pinheads Fun Center
For a classic indoor activity, head to Pinheads-New River Gorge in Oak Hill. With 12 bowling lanes and an on-site restaurant, it’s a great choice for family fun or a relaxed night out. Visit on Friday or Saturday evening for cosmic bowling and a high-energy twist on the traditional game.
Hit the Virtual Links at Tee Time
Keep your golf game sharp year-round at Tee Time’s high-definition golf simulators. Choose from 30- or 60-minute sessions and play a variety of virtual courses. Staff can walk you through available options when you arrive. Once you’re done playing, enjoy a meal on site to complete your outing.
Unwind at New River Yoga
If a slower pace sounds appealing, spend some time recharging at New River Yoga in Fayetteville. Classes range from beginner-friendly flows to meditation and flexibility-focused sessions. It’s a calm, welcoming space to stretch, breathe and reset during your trip.
Explore Art at Love Hope Center for the Arts
Add a creative stop to your visit at the Love Hope Center for the Arts in Fayetteville. This gallery showcases rotating exhibits from Appalachian artists and hosts pop-up events throughout the year. It’s the best place to experience local talent and community arts in one space.
Learn at Local Museums
Step into local history at museums and heritage sites throughout the Gorge.
The Contentment Museum (Colonel George Imboden House) in Ansted features antiques, period clothing and Civil War artifacts. Built around 1830 and later expanded by Colonel Imboden, Ansted’s first mayor, the home reflects the area’s early development. It also serves as headquarters for the Fayette County Historical Society.
In Mount Hope, the DuBois on Main Museum highlights Black history in Fayette County, with a focus on the legacy of the segregated DuBois High School. Exhibits include photographs, newspapers and donated memorabilia. You can pair your visit with the African American Heritage Auto Tour, a self-guided drive featuring 17 historic sites across the Gorge region, including Camp Washington Carver and the Hawks Nest Workers Memorial and Grave Site.
If the weather allows, consider a drive along the eight-mile Fayette Station Road and follow the National Park Service audio tour. The route traces the coal boom era, when dozens of mining communities lined the New River Gorge.
Find Your Next Activity
The New River Gorge offers plenty to do indoors, even in the colder months! Add a few of these stops to your itinerary and make the most of your winter visit. Request a free travel guide to start planning your New River Gorge getaway.