The Secret West Virginia Mountain Getaway Called 'Nature's Air-Conditioned City' Promises Perfect Summer Weather

Heat waves have made summer travel uncomfortable in many places, particularly in cities where the heat island effect makes everything even more unbearably hot. So, what are travelers to do? If you want to visit the American East, consider skipping obvious and heat-prone destinations like New York City and Washington, D.C. and instead head to the mountains — to places like beautiful Bluefield, West Virginia. Nicknamed "Nature's Air-Conditioned City," this lovely town enjoys mild weather throughout the summer. The average temperature for July — its hottest month — is a cool 72 degrees Fahrenheit, with average highs reaching only 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Extreme hot weather is so rare that Bluefield and its namesake town just across the border in Virginia that officials have promised to give anyone free lemonade if the temperature ever hits 90 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. The tradition has been going on since 1939 and town leaders have kept true to their word, serving lemonade to make up for less-than-perfect weather. Such days remain rare, thanks to Bluefield's privileged location in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Still, we'd happily trade free lemonade for the chance to enjoy West Virginia's astonishing nature or to stroll through town shopping at boutique stores without feeling like we're melting away like ice cream at the beach. And if summer heat does come this way, well, at least there's a refreshing consolation prize.

In its heyday, Bluefield was a thriving coal-mining town that enjoyed significant wealth. The town was so prominent that singers like Frank Sinatra and Tina Turner once performed here. Today, only around 9,100 people call this place home, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, so this destination calls travelers looking for a relaxing time away from large crowds. Catch movies, plays, and concerts at the Granada Theater, housed in a restored 1927 building. Or learn more about Appalachian art at Gary Bowling's House of Art, also located in a 1920s-era structure. For fun in the sun, visit Lotito City Park and hop on the short but sweet Ridge Runner Train.

Of course, heading into the great outdoors is one of the best ways to take advantage of Bluefield's cool summer temperatures. A top priority should be New River Gorge National Park, which protects one of the world's oldest rivers. Whether you go hiking, biking, climbing, or rafting, you'll have a blast in this majestic natural area. Since the drive from Bluefield takes only about an hour, it makes for an easy day trip. Other destinations to enjoy nature that are close to town include Pinnacle Rock State Park, known for an impressive sandstone formation that rises roughly 3,100 feet above sea level, and the East River Mountain Overlook, which provides sweeping views of the city, as well as trails and picnic areas.

If this charming town with amazing weather and gorgeous nature isn't a tourist hotspot, it's probably because of its remoteness. Around two hours and 40 minutes away by car, Charlotte Douglas International Airport in North Carolina is the closest major airport to Bluefield. Those who want to avoid long drives can consider regional flights from Charlotte to Beckley Raleigh County Memorial Airport, followed by about a one-hour drive to Bluefield. You also have the option to use the drive from Charlotte as an opportunity to road trip through North Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia. If you choose this route, make strategic stops in small towns along the way, such as Union Grove, North Carolina and Wytheville, Virginia.

Either way, you'll need to rent a car to reach Bluefield, but that will also give you the freedom to explore nearby parks or visit places like Charleston, West Virginia's pretty and affordable state capital. Plan to take your car to Lynn's Drive-In to experience this all-American tradition. Get a foot-long hot dog and enjoy one of the classic shakes. For a more upscale experience, have dinner at The Vault Downtown. Set inside an 1895 bank lobby, this restaurant and cigar lounge offers one of the best fine-dining experiences in town. For accommodations, stay at Baker's Hill Inn, a charming, family-owned bed-and-breakfast set in a historic house. The personal, intimate service will make you feel so welcome, you may be hesitant to leave.