How to get to Morgantown

Morgantown is a vibrant university city in the United States, nestled amongst the picturesque hills of West Virginia. When planning a trip to Morgantown, you will appreciate the variety of routes available: it is easy to reach by car via expressways, by bus, or by flying into nearby airports. A journey to this corner of America promises to be comfortable thanks to the region's well-developed transport infrastructure.

The city itself is served by the municipal Morgantown (MGW) airport, which handles small aviation flights (such as Southern Airways Express); however, the choice of destinations here is limited. For more flexible travel planning, tourists often choose to fly via major neighbouring hubs.

The most convenient option is the international airport in Pittsburgh (PIT), located 90 km from the centre, from where it is easy to reach your final destination. You can also consider arriving in Clarksburg (CKB), situated just 51 km away, or in Latrobe (LBE), which allows you to select the optimal flight connection within the USA.

There is no direct rail service to the city of Morgantown, as there is no active passenger station here. Travellers who prefer the charm of train travel are advised to reach major stations in neighbouring cities and then transfer to road transport.

The nearest major Amtrak railway hub is located in the city of Pittsburgh (about 90 km away). A station is also available in Latrobe (91 km), from where you can continue your journey to the hills of West Virginia by rental car or taxi.

Bus services connect Morgantown with neighbouring regions, offering a budget-friendly way to travel. The trip from the city of Clarksburg takes about 2.4 hours, covering a route of 74 km.

A popular route is from the metropolis of Pittsburgh: the journey of approximately 165 km takes around 2.9 hours. The route from Latrobe is the longest and most complex: travel time is about 8.7 hours (285 km) due to logistics and transfers.

Travelling by car is one of the fastest and most scenic ways to get to Morgantown. The shortest route leads from the city of Clarksburg: the distance of 62 km can be comfortably covered in just 0.7 hours.

The road from the major centre of Pittsburgh (120 km) will take about 1.3 hours, making it a convenient starting point. The journey from Latrobe is also quick, taking approximately 1.5 hours for a distance of 104 km.

To make your stay in Morgantown as pleasant and carefree as possible, we have prepared a list of important recommendations. Considering its status as a university city and the specific terrain, these tips will help you adapt quickly.

1. Clothing and Weather. All four seasons are distinct in West Virginia. A warm jacket and non-slip shoes are essential in winter, while light clothing is suitable for summer, but do not forget an umbrella—rain is not uncommon here.
2. Transport and Terrain. The city is located on steep hills. Walking can be tiring, so make active use of taxi apps (Uber, Lyft) or the local PRT (Personal Rapid Transit) system.
3. Finances. The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Cards are accepted everywhere, but keeping some cash (1-5 dollar bills) is useful for tips and small purchases.
4. Tipping. In restaurants and cafes, it is customary to leave 15–20% of the bill amount. This is an important part of local etiquette and the staff's earnings.
5. Health and Safety. The city is safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be observed. The emergency number is 911. Pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens) are easily found in all districts.
6. Language. The primary language is English. Locals are friendly and ready to help, even if you speak with an accent or use a translation app.
7. Match Days. On days when the university team (WVU Mountaineers) plays, the city becomes crowded, and traffic jams occur on the roads. Plan your movements in advance and avoid driving near the stadium during these times.
8. Unique Transport. Be sure to take a ride on the futuristic Morgantown PRT system—it is not just transport, but a local attraction connecting the university campuses.

By following these simple rules, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on exploring this colourful American city. Enjoy the hospitality and views of the USA!