How Local Tourism Agencies in West Virginia Can Boost Visitors Through Digital Marketing
If you run a tourism board, attraction, or local convention and visitors bureau (CVB) in the Mountain State, you know that attracting out-of-town guests and day-trippers is more competitive than ever. But with the right digital marketing strategies, West Virginia’s most beautiful places can reach the right audience at the right time—online.
Whether you’re marketing the Hatfield-McCoy Trails, Blackwater Falls, Harpers Ferry, or Bridge Day in Fayetteville, here’s how West Virginia tourism agencies can use digital tools to boost visits, hotel stays, and spending in your communities.
Start With Geo-Focused Search Campaigns
Many travelers plan their weekend getaways using Google. That’s why running search engine campaigns for queries like “weekend trips near Parkersburg” or “things to do in southern West Virginia” can give your region a boost. By targeting longtail keywords tied to your destination and attractions, your campaign captures visitors with clear intent.
Example high-performing keywords:
- West Virginia family vacation ideas
- Romantic getaways near Morgantown WV
- Hiking trails near Lewisburg
- Day trips from Charleston West Virginia
Pair this with dedicated landing pages featuring high-quality images, local guides, and booking tools, and you’ll see traffic (and tax revenue) grow.
Showcase Experiences With Targeted Social Media Ads
West Virginia’s beauty is visual. That’s why digital ads featuring waterfalls, cabins, trails, and rivers work so well on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. A paid Meta campaign featuring a drone video of Snowshoe Mountain can drive thousands of views—and clicks—within days.
Use Meta’s geographic and interest targeting to show ads to:
- People in nearby cities like Pittsburgh, Columbus, or Charlotte
- Outdoor enthusiasts and hikers
- Couples searching for romantic escapes
- Parents planning school breaks
These targeted strategies help you reach new travelers—many of whom may have never considered your region before seeing your ad.
Optimize for Local SEO and Online Maps
Every tourism office in West Virginia should treat Google Business Profiles (formerly Google My Business) as an extension of their website. These listings appear on Google Maps and search results and help direct travelers to lodging, restaurants, parks, and events.
Be sure to:
- Claim and update your Google profile
- Add professional images and drone footage
- Keep hours, website, and phone number up to date
- Post regular updates about events, festivals, or news
Also, ensure your website ranks for searches like:
- Visitor center near Elkins WV
- Free attractions in the New River Gorge
- Best places to visit in central West Virginia
Use Seasonal Email Campaigns to Drive Return Visits
Email is one of the most underrated tools in tourism marketing. By building a list from past visitors or website sign-ups, you can create seasonal email drip campaigns promoting:
- Fall foliage drives in Pocahontas County
- Summer festivals in Wheeling or Beckley
- Ski weekends in Canaan Valley
- Holiday lights and parades across small towns
With strong subject lines and beautiful photos, you can entice visitors to return again and again.
Work With Local Influencers and Travel Bloggers
West Virginia influencers are already out there hiking trails, sipping local beer, and showing off small towns. Partner with these content creators for authentic digital exposure. Have them tag your destination, use custom hashtags, and promote upcoming events.
Even a single viral TikTok or Instagram Reel about a “hidden gem near Weston” or “haunted tour in Point Pleasant” can drive real traffic.
Why Tourism Needs West Virginia Digital Marketing
Marketing tourism in West Virginia isn’t just about pretty photos—it’s about strategy, reach, and measurable ROI. WV Digital helps tourism boards, city leaders, and attractions tap into the latest digital tools to make West Virginia a top-tier travel destination year-round.
We create complete campaigns that combine:
- Paid search and social ads
- Website design and landing pages
- Video marketing
- Geo-targeting for weekend travelers
- Email and automation tools
- Local SEO optimization
Whether you’re promoting Bridge Day, the Mothman Festival, a state park, or a local music series, our team ensures your destination gets the exposure—and bookings—it deserves.
Want to attract more visitors to your part of West Virginia? Contact WV Digital today to learn how our West Virginia digital marketing solutions can put your town on the map.
