Downtown Alderson

While visiting the tranquil town of Alderson, don’t forget to keep an eye out for the lions. Statues of the king of the jungle crafted from a variety of materials are on display, in wry tribute to “French,” an African lion kept as a pet by a prominent Alderson family in the early 1890s. Much to the consternation of the citizenry, the tamed lion occasionally escaped its owners’ fenced yard and roamed the community, eventually leading the town to pass an ordinance requiring all lions to be leashed. “French” having long since passed, there are no pet lions stalking the streets, but the leash ordinance is still on the books, just in case.

Today, the town boasts historic sites, quaint shops and plenty of fun on the river with activities including fishing and kayaking. The iconic Alderson’s Store, founded in 1887, maintains weekend shopping hours in an Art Deco building bursting at the seams with unique clothing, jewelry, decor, artworks and a hugely popular selection of vintage and rare books about West Virginia. 

Alderson is also home to a Strawberry Festival and the state’s largest 4th of July festival, packed with competitions, river events, musical performances and a grand fireworks display. Located in the town’s Historic District is the Old Victorian Inn, within walking distance of the 1896  C&O Railroad Depot and featuring charming period decor. Among nearby restaurants is Fruits of Labor, a culinary training center known for its baked goods and the chef’s signature chili.

Take a walking tour of Alderson using our guide of historic sites.