Marietta, Ohio, and Parkersburg, West Virginia
PARKERSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA & MARIETTA, OHIO–JULY 2026–In Marietta, Ohio, and Parkersburg, West Virginia, along the Ohio River, live music spills from riverfront parks, brewery patios and historic theaters. From outdoor concerts and festivals to performances at beautifully restored venues, the Mid-Ohio Valley offers a lively music scene where riverboat heritage and Appalachian sounds create an unexpectedly vibrant nightlife.
At the confluence of the Ohio and Muskingum rivers, just a two-hour drive via I-70 and I-77 from Columbus, Ohio, or Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, visitors can enjoy time on the water aboard sternwheelers, imagining earlier eras while enjoying the scenic beauty and contemporary charm of these waterfront communities.
From Parkersburg, visitors to historic Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park (137 Juliana Street, Parkersburg, West Virginia 26101; 304-420-4800) first enjoy a 20-minute sternwheel boat ride to the island. The island’s magnificent Palladian-style mansion and beautiful grounds offer home tours, horse-drawn wagon rides and plenty of opportunities to stroll beneath towering trees and enjoy views of the river. From Marietta, Valley Gem Sternwheeler (601 Front Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; (740) 373-7862) offers a trip that includes a two-hour cruise to the island with a full breakfast, two hours on the island and lunch served on the cruise back to Marietta.
For those looking for a more traditional river cruise, the Valley Gem and its sister vessel, the Major/Riviera, also offer narrated sightseeing cruises, dinner cruises and Lock & Lunch Tours, along with special seasonal cruises. Marietta Harbor (#1 Butler Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-374-3600) is a municipal marina that offers pontoon rentals for those who want to take to the river on their own. Onsite, visitors can enjoy concessions and riverfront amenities.
For even more on-the-water entertainment, The Company at the Valley Gem (601 Front Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-373-7862) performs a variety of shows ranging from cabarets and murder mysteries to historical figure portrayals and live music. They also produce fully staged dinner theater plays and musical productions, providing a host of opportunities for entertainment on the river.
On land, these riverfront communities offer a variety of ways to enjoy live music and theatre in an impressive combination of historic and contemporary venues.
The Ohio Valley Opry (1948 Washington Boulevard, Belpre, Ohio 45714; 740-525-9218) has been delighting audiences with classic country, gospel and bluegrass music for more than two decades. In its second year at its new theatre location, the opry continues to offer unforgettable live performances.
The Actors Guild of Parkersburg (724 Market Street, Parkersburg, West Virginia 26101; 304-485-1300) has been a part of the community since the 1950s. Today, it is an award-winning organization that presents a variety of musical, comedic and dramatic offerings in its historic home in downtown Parkersburg.
The Historic Smoot Theatre (213 Fifth Street, Parkersburg, West Virginia 26101; 304-422-7529) is a restored 1926 vaudeville house known as the Grand Lady of downtown Parkersburg. Artists of national and international prominence as well as local artists can be found presenting unforgettable performances on the Smoot’s stage.
An evening at the The Adelphia Music Hall (205 Second Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-374-8278) is the signature Marietta entertainment experience. Renowned musicians and comedy acts grace the Adelphia stage every weekend for live entertainment.
Peoples Bank Theatre (222 Putnam Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-373-0894) boasts a history of great entertainment. The venue has been beautifully renovated and restored to its early 20th century splendor and today features nationally known entertainers, live concerts, comedy, theatre and special events.
Since 1959, Mid-Ohio Valley Players Theater (229 Putnam Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 304-428-6528) has provided a variety of first-class, year-round entertainment. Musicals, comedies, drama, mysteries and children’s theatre are all part of the theatre’s calendar of events.
For those who want to celebrate a combination of river history and contemporary entertainment, the Ohio River Sternwheel Festival (Ohio River Levee, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-373-5178) offers the perfect experience. This weekend event honors the era when sternwheelers were the primary vessel for transporting goods on the Ohio River. The free festival includes sternwheeler races, entertainment and fireworks.
Where to eat
Whether after a day on the water or before a night on the town, there are plenty of spots to feed the hunger of visitors craving outstanding meals from a variety of menus.
Breakfast at Busy Bee (226 Gilman Avenue, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-373-3755) features local meats, farm-fresh eggs, fruit and produce from local farmers. Located in historic Harmar Village, this family-owned business was established in 1944 and continues to be a local favorite.
Harmar Tavern (205 Maple Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-373-8727) is Marietta’s oldest tavern and is known for its “Sure to be Famous Bologna Sandwich.” This local institution is a neighborhood gathering place that welcomes visitors to join them at the table.
Levee House Bistro (127 Ohio Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-371-7035) offers upscale, casual dining on the riverfront in Marietta. The innovative menu includes fresh seafood, hand-cut steaks, pastas, specialty salads and homemade desserts.
Chams Lebanese Cuisine (610 Market Street, Parkersburg, West Virginia 36101; 304 428-2730) is known for serving some of the best Lebanese food in the region. Fresh ingredients and a passion for the cuisine result in authentic dishes, vibrant flavors and a welcoming family atmosphere.
Wine Down on Market (701 Market Street, Parkersburg, West Virginia 36101; 681-588-0425) is a gathering place where elevated food, exceptional wines and genuine hospitality come together. The menu includes a distinctive variety of wines and a creative chef-driven menu.
Zak Huffman’s Prime Steakhouse (404 Market Street, Parkersburg, West Virginia 36101; 304-244-0024) is the perfect spot for a special dinner to remember. USDA Certified Prime cuts, fresh seafood and handcrafted sushi are highlights of the menu. Diners are invited to enjoy steaks seared at 1,800 degrees, classic cocktails and rare whiskeys in a welcoming, upscale atmosphere.