West Virginia Welcome Center

Was traveling up 81 and figured I would hit a quick happy hour at my favorite West Virginia Welcome Center.

According to their IG it’s free cover on Tuesday and Thursday from 6-7pm. I arrived around 5:45 and didn’t have much time, and was charged the $10 cover to enter. Setup is the first door opens into a locked off vestibule. Right the bell (hard to find - it’s low and to the left of the main door). ID scan, $10 cover, and then empty pockets for a metal defector and quick pat down. Given there were less than 8 patrons, it seemed excessive, but whatever. I did notice 3-4 cars in the parking lot with people sitting in them. Figured they were likely waiting for the 6:00 waived cover, and I was right. Right at 6:00, four more people came in.

Got a mid-tier mixed drink and I believe it was $9. ALS got $1s and I don’t believe there was a fee on them. The few other times I have been here have been around this time. During the day they use a stage to the right when you enter as opposed to the main stage that’s behind you if you’re sitting at the bar. I prefer the day-stage. Luckily, there were 5-6 people already posted up at the stage so I wasn’t alone.