3 Reasons to Visit Central City During the WV Brownfields & Main Street Conference

The 2026 West Virginia Brownfields & Main Street Conference is coming to Huntington, WV, this Sept 2026. If you’re in Huntington for the event, set aside some time to walk through the Historic Central City Antiques District in West Huntington! Central City was once its own industrial town from 1893 - 1909 and was founded to capitalize on the area's rich natural resources. Today, the district features antique shops, art galleries, a farmers market, a cafe, and a coffee shop on 14th Street West in Huntington. Central City is easily accessible from I-64 off Exit 6, and just 3 miles from Downtown. Today we’re highlighting three reasons why it’s worth the detour.

The Central City Antiques District is home to more than 15 locally owned shops offering a variety of products and services such as antiques, collectibles, furniture, vintage clothes, glassware, decor, local food and drink, and spa services. Start your day with a coffee or tea from Cicada Books & Coffee, then stroll the district and discover a treasure inside one of the antique shops. Grab lunch at the Central City Cafe, and be sure to visit our year-round farmer's market, The Wild Ramp! There’s so much to explore, and every stop supports a local business.

Central City features public art, including murals and sculptures, enhancing the historic area. Be sure to explore the Central City Quilt Trail, our newest public art installation, featuring 8 quilt-block murals tucked throughout the district! You'll also find Becky Borlan's “Kaleidoscope” sculptures at the Central City Gazebo, Sassa Wilkes' "Unbound" mural at RenewAll, and more scattered throughout the area, showcasing local and regional artists.

Register for the conference and join us on the walking tour on September 8th, from 3 PM - 5PM. It’s a quick way to see the district’s revitalization up close and hear the story behind it. Meet your tour guide, Lauren Kemp, at the Central City Gazebo on Sept. 8th at 3PM. 

Central City is a must-visit if you’re in Huntington, WV. Come see it for yourself while you’re in town for the conference!