Elkins swells with tourists for the annual Augusta Workshops. This features one week mountain crafts and music workshops by nationally renowned artists from late June to August. Nearby are great places to see wildlife, explore backcountry (Blackwater Falls, Cranberry Glades), go caving, canoe or raft wild rivers or ski (Snowshoe, Silver Creek, Canaan Valley). Don't miss the fall colors and Forest Festival in mid-October.
Quick Tips:
Elkins public airport closed several years ago, so it's best to either drive to town or fly into Pittsburgh or Charleston, WV and rent a car from there. Many of Elkin's attractions are outside town, but less than an hour away.
If you are coming during the Forest Festival or during Augusta, be sure to book your room as early as possible. I'd recommend staying in a Bed and Breakfast, as many of them are quite charming, and hosts are friendly and helpful. You can also camp at Stuart's Park, East of town.
The area around Davis and Elkins College is beautiful, and you can walk the trails in back of the college and use the tennis, swimming and spa facilities there. There is also an exercise place downtown.
Eat at Cheat River Inn, by Stuart's Park, or have lunch at the Posten House downtown. Hike, swim or cross country ski at Stuart's or Otter Creek (free). Listen to local musicians any evening in the city park, or play with them. Try caving, mountain climbing or whitewater rafting. How you enjoy yourself is up to you.
Best Way To Get Around:
Driving your own car (or a rental) is best, as the taxi service is very limited and there is no public transportation. Most actual Elkins attractions are within easy walking distance, but the two strip malls are a distance away.