Items made of coal are available for purchase at the Tamarack. (Photo by Amy Phelps)

BECKLEY — hen someone says Beckley, The Tamarack may be the first thing that comes to mind.

With its peaked red roof and outdoor art gallery along the grounds, it is a striking image along the highway. Inside, the 20-year attraction features retail artisan products, all made in the state of West Virginia.

Metal, apparel, jewelry, souvenirs, wood, glass, furniture, pottery, outdoor decor, fine art, musical instruments, books and food items are all available at the center. There is also space for hands-on workshops, or in-house artists working on their trade to watch.

The Tamarack also offers many programs and shows year-round, in its theater and on the grounds, from music to exhibitions to book signings and more.

More than 2,800 artisans from all 55 counties have taken part in displaying their work at the Tamarack and more than 7 million people have visited.

Bronze deer statues are part of the open-air art exhibits on the grounds of the Tamarack. (Photo by Amy Phelps)

However, the Tamarack is not the only thing Beckley has to offer.

“Beckley is well known for the youth museum and coal mine,” said Lisa Strader, of Visit Southern West Virginia. “It offers a little adventure and is educational. It is very family friendly.”

With its blend of history and heritage as well as fun, the attraction draws in thousands of people annually and boasts and underground mine, recreated coal camp, a picnic area and the Youth Museum, which is made of four railroad boxcars and shows three different exhibits geared toward children yearly.

For those that enjoy the outdoors, the Beckley area has something for them too. “Stephens in Raleigh County has added the splash pad and inflatable toys in the lake,” said Strader. “It makes a very affordable day.”

For those that want to stay, there are plenty of cabins and campgrounds as well.

A wine tree featuring all wines made in the state of West Virginia is shown. (Photo by Amy Phelps)

For those wanting to see a performance, there is the outdoor dramas at Grand Vue. “They are very entertaining and educational,” said Strader. “The whole area would make a fun weekend for the kids.”

As for local festivals, the area hosts the Kids Classic Festival in September. Stephens also hosts the Beach Blast, in which there is music, entertainment, kids’ events and more.

The area’s Miners Baseball team also is a family-friendly way to spend a day. “They don’t serve alcohol at the stadium,” said Strader.

August events include the Honeybee Festival, now in its third year and the Appalachian Arts and Crafts Festival.

Strader said the area is also planning a WV Food and Craft Beer festival for the weekend of West Virginia Day.

Fiesta plates, which are made in West Virginia, are for sale at the Tamarack. (Photo by Amy Phelps)

The Tamarack, on the outskirts of Beckley, offers travelers a look at art and local products all made by West Virginians. (Photo by Amy Phelps)

Glasswork made by a White Sulphur Springs artist, is exhibited in the Tamarack. (Photo by Amy Phelps)

A whole section of the Tamarack is made up of woodworking products produced from around the state. (Photo by Amy Phelps)

Lisa Dawn’s WV Coal Candy is one of the many state-produced food products available. (Photo by Amy Phelps)

Handmade baskets from all across the state are shown at the Tamarack. (Photo by Amy Phelps)