Storefronts in Downtown Elkins are Filling Up Fast

Elkins W. Va., March 4, 2024: The downtown area of Elkins, West Virginia, was abuzz this morning as storefronts opened their doors for business, renovation projects were well underway, and the streets bustled with residents on their morning commute. Over the past year, downtown Elkins has seen a remarkable surge in growth, with several establishments relocating to the city or opening their doors for the first time, along with expanded apartment availability in several buildings throughout the neighborhood.

Among the recent additions is the Tygart Hotel, a historic boutique hotel that has undergone a stunning transformation. Originally built in 1906, the Tygart Hotel now stands as a six-floor landmark, offering 56 rooms, a premier restaurant and bar named the Oxley House, and a stylish event center spanning 2,000 square feet. The hotel was purchased and renovated by Woodlands Development and Lending, a local non-profit organization, and managed by Taylor Hospitality, providing an experience like no other in the area. The hotel serves as a cornerstone of downtown Elkins’ rich architectural heritage, blending classic elegance with modern comfort. Recently, the Tygart Hotel was voted as one of the nine “Best Places to Stay in West Virginia” by National Geographic.

Mayor Jerry Marco feels especially enthusiastic about these signs of growth. “I am delighted to see the continued expansion of businesses in Elkins,” he says. “These developments help affirm that we are making the city attractive enough for people to want to invest in it.”

Joining the ranks of new businesses is Alexandria On Main, a literary haven offering a diverse selection of literature, along with an event center hosting monthly book clubs and cultural events. The owners of Alexandria On Main have expressed their desire to bolster community growth. Their recent VIP event for its grand opening showcased the talent of local students who delighted attendees with poetry readings and musical performances.

During the same weekend, Hippie Chick Boutique relocated to downtown Elkins, celebrating the opening of its new storefront with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. This shop provides trendy, boho women’s clothing at an affordable price, bringing an eclectic mix of apparel, accessories, and unique finds to the heart of the city.

Other businesses that opened their doors for the first time this past year include Dandelion Candy Co., which adds a dash of sweetness to downtown Elkins with its array of nostalgic confections and imported treats. Top Knot Hair offers artistic salon services that have garnered rave reviews from clients. Mycelium delivers a sanctuary for artistic expression, selling art supplies and stationery, with its primary goal “to keep our community making art.”

Meanwhile, the Augusta Heritage Center has found a new abode in the area, pitching in to help revitalize one of the key intersections in the downtown district while continuing its mission to celebrate and preserve the rich cultural traditions of Appalachia through educational programs and community outreach.

Big Timber Brewing has also recently relocated into a gorgeously designed space overlooking the Tygart River and featuring a huge main room with fireplace, a second room for bands, expansive outdoor riverfront seating—and, of course, the huge selection of locally crafted beer on tap that has already built Big Timber such a loyal following.

As the city evolves, established businesses are also undertaking transformations. Trickett’s Hardware, a stalwart of the community since 1923, is currently undergoing renovations, reaffirming its commitment to serving the needs of Elkins residents for generations to come.

Jimbo’s Place is expanding its popular sports bar at its current location, while simultaneously opening another bar in Buckhannon this past year, with talks of a third location in the works. Jimbo’s Place isn’t just any sports bar though; it’s a family-friendly restaurant that offers great food, fun entertainment, and exciting sporting events on its televisions throughout the year.

Near the end of the month, Clementine’s Cantina will open its doors to tantalize taste buds with its customized burritos and late-night offerings, building on the success of its sister store, Clementine’s Closet, which opened last year selling pre-loved and new trending fashion designs.

“The influx of new businesses in downtown Elkins underscores the city’s potential as an expanding hub for commerce and culture,” says Marco. “I hope the whole community will join in celebrating and supporting these businesses, along with continuing to support the many businesses that have been here so long already.”

Visit the businesses at their current locations:

The Tygart Hotel, 206 Davis Ave.

Alexandria On Main, 119 3^rd St.

Hippie Chick Boutique, 117 3^rd St.

Dandelion Candy Co., 212 ½ Davis Ave.

Top Knot Hair, 914 South Davis Ave.

Mycelium, 214 Davis Ave.

Augusta Heritage Center, 21 3^rd St.

Big Timber Brewing, 2 Davis Ave.

Trickett’s Hardware, 209 Davis Ave.

Jimbo’s Place, 302 Davis Ave.

Clementine’s Cantina, 122 Davis Ave.

Clementine’s Closet, 222 Davis Ave.