I know, it’s hard to believe, but all three of these surprisingly refreshing businesses are located in one spot on Harper Road in Beckley.

The Chocolate Moose (formerly ‘The Little Brick House’) is a ‘sweet’ treat offering a small, but tasty selection of quality ice cream, custom coffees, custom sodas and fruit smoothies all for reasonable prices.

The atmosphere is both cozy and socially inviting, depending on where you choose to sit. There is a sprawling outdoor wrap-around porch leading to the ‘Mountain State Miniature Golf’ course. There is an upper deck with tables and sun umbrellas. The miniature golf course, by the way, is incredibly charming. It has a ‘WV’ theme, showcasing small versions of some of the State’s best attractions. The course itself is designed to mimic the rugged mountains of our State. It’s challenging, but a fun activity for the family.

The ‘Outside-In Climbing Gym’ is surprisingly spacious with an entire, large climbing vault laced with various climbing and bouldering routes ranging from easy-beginner to advanced.  The very top of the climbing routes have a ‘bell’ to ring, at a dizzying height of about 50′ up.

The folks who work on belay are friendly and helpful. There are also climbing shoe rentals available. They offer subscriptions with substantial savings for those who plan to come climbing on a regular basis. They always have fun, upbeat music streaming to help keep those energy levels up. Don’t forget to ‘tip’ your belayers!

There are also different rooms inside the main coffee shop to suit different needs. There is a quieter, cozier ‘back room’, with a small couch, a few chairs and a small table. The main front area has a window bar and seating that encourages people to socialize, as well as a large TV screen (usually streaming current news). There are board games available as well, for those who just want to play a game.

Often, you will see students in a study group, enjoying their various beverages or treats while pouring over books.

You can also enjoy live music at the Chocolate Moose. Different bands come in to entertain on a regular basis, as well as a group who shows up to play on Monday evenings.

Only two caveats: I would like to see some type of fresh, but easy food selection offered (other than just snacks and treats) and parking is a little limited, but one can park nearby without much difficulty.

RB loves to enjoy a rootbeer float while taking a break from his climbing and definitely gives this little tucked away spot an enthusiastic ‘thumbs up’!

Date of Experience: 10/3/2016
The Chocolate Moose is located in Beckley, WV