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Back to school on a budget

By VISIT MOUNTAINEER COUNTRY CVB 4 min read

As students head back to campus for a new semester, it's time to get settled in, explore the community, and make the most of everything Mountaineer Country has to offer. From dining and entertainment to shopping, there are plenty of ways to have fun without breaking the bank. Here's your guide to some of the best student savings and local perks to check out this semester!

Student Savings Pass

Back in Morgantown for the semester? The Visit Mountaineer Country Student Savings Pass is a great way to discover local favorites while getting a little more value along the way. The pass features special offers from participating restaurants, coffee shops, and other local businesses.

The pass is also a fun way to get out and explore beyond campus. Those who check in at 10 or more locations can enter to win a prize valued at $25 or more! Whether you're looking for your next coffee spot, a place to grab dinner with friends or something new to do, the Student Savings Pass gives you a key to explore. For more information, visit: visitmountaineercountry.com/studentsavingspass/

Hit the Trails in Mountaineer Country

Mountaineer Country is home to miles of scenic trails, from easy paths perfect for a casual stroll to more challenging hikes for those looking for an adventure. Explore the forests and overlooks at Coopers Rock, take in the scenery at Snake Hill or enjoy the peaceful trails at the WVU Core Arboretum. Open from sunrise to sunset and with plenty of options to choose from, there's always a new place to explore.

So whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a reason to spend a little more time outdoors, grab your water bottle and hit the trails. For more information, visit: visitmountaineercountry.com/hiking/

12th Annual West Virginia Tattoo Expo

The 12th Annual Tattoo Expo is coming to Morgantown on August 21, bringing tattoo artists, local artists, vendors and plenty of entertainment together at the Morgantown Marriott at

Waterfront Place. The event will feature on-site tattooing and piercing from more than 200 artists, along with contests and so much more.

Beyond the tattooing, you can explore an on-site art gallery featuring artwork available for purchase from tattoo artists and talented local artists. The expo is open to the public, with children under 12 admitted free with a paying adult, day passes run at $20 and weekends passes run at $50. For more information, visit: visitmountaineercountry.com/event/12th-annual-tattoo-expo/

Ruby Summer Concert Series

With the Ruby Summer Concert Series coming to an end, there are still two great artists to catch!

On August 21, Ashley Cooke, one of country’s most magnetic young storytellers will be taking the stage. With a voice that carries both tenderness and quiet confidence, she’s since garnered nominations for New Female Artist of the Year at the ACM Awards and Best New Country Artist at the iHeartRadio Music Awards.

On August 28, 38 Special will close out the 2026 series with another free show. Fueled up on snarling guitars, anthemic melodies and the desire to break new ground, bridging the gap between past and present without forgetting their rock & roll roots.

Both concerts begin at 7 p.m. and are part of the City of Morgantown and Hazel Ruby McQuain Charitable Trust's summer concert series. If you haven't made it to a show yet, these final two concerts are a great opportunity to enjoy live music along the river before the summer series wraps up. For more information on Ashley Cooke, visit: visitmountaineercountry.com/event/ruby-summer-concert-series-switchfoot-2-2-2-2-2/ For more information on 38 Special, visit: visitmountaineercountry.com/event/ruby-summer-concert-series-switchfoot-2-2-2-2-2-2/

Buckwheat Festival Giveaway

Visit Mountaineer Country is giving one lucky winner the chance to enjoy the Preston County Buckwheat Festival, taking place September 24-27. The giveaway includes a Preston County local gift basket, plus $50 gift cards to six local favorites: Cupcake Me Home Bakery + Café, Rosemary's Thyme Mexican Restaurant, Big Sandy Brews, Portland Coffee Shop, High Ground Brewing and Preston County Inn & Restaurant.

Enter for your chance to win and plan a fall getaway to Preston County! The winner will be drawn on August 28.

For more information, visit: visitmountaineercountry.com/buckwheat-festival-2026-giveaway/

Welcome Back, Mountaineers

Whether you're returning to town or experiencing Morgantown for the first time, make this semester about more than just the classroom. Get out, try something new, support local businesses and make some memories along the way. We're glad you're here!

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