You can get a hot dog in just about any Mountain State town. But if you’re on the hunt for the very best, you have to hit the road and head to the southern part of the state. With a stand on almost every corner, Huntington is the undisputed hot dog capital of West Virginia. It’s even home to the state’s annual hot dog festival! From the celebration of the humble hot dog to the eateries that serve them, a visit to Huntington is every hot dog lover’s dream come true.
July is National Hot Dog Month. On the last Saturday of July, the city of Huntington celebrates this iconic food with a festival of epic proportions showcasing dozens of hot dog businesses in one locale.
The West Virginia Hot Dog Festival features a hot dog eating contest, "bun run," live music, and much more. The family-friendly festival is also dog-friendly, with a parade just for the pups.
The Mountain State's very first drive-in is a great place to start. Stewart's Original Hot Dogs is the establishment that first kicked off the hot dog festival.
It only sold root beer and popcorn in 1932, its first year, but this roadside stand is now wildly famous for its dogs. The dogs are sold in combos to please families and hot dog hungry diners.
Frostop with its root beer mug perched on the roof is a classic drive-in for dogs, burgers, and root beer. Enjoy a slaw and sauce dog West Virginia style at this old-fashioned spot.
Address: Hal Greer Boulevard, Huntington, WV 25701.
Established in 1939, Midway Drive-In has been on the hot dog scene for decades. Although the eatery has changed hands a few times, its friendly and retro vibe hasn't changed a bit.
Sam's Hot Dog Stand may have become a regional chain in the south, but it got its start in Huntington. The tiny but mighty restaurant brought its first dogs and signature sauce to the table in 1983.
Have you ever visited West Virginia’s hot dog capital? After visiting this delicious city, you may need to work off some extra pounds. Head to this one town in the Mountain State that is a nature lover’s dream come true.
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