Living history and modern fun in Marietta, Ohio, and Parkersburg, West Virginia
PARKERSBURG, VIRGINIA & MARIETTA, OHIO–JUNE 2026—Few places bring early American history to life like the river towns of Marietta, Ohio, and Parkersburg, West Virginia. Located on the banks of the Ohio River, these mid-Ohio Valley towns are filled with places and stories that tell of the authentic American experience. Just a two-hour drive via I-70 and I-77 from Columbus, Ohio, or Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, visitors can walk in the footsteps of the past while embracing the energy of the present in a fresh, contemporary destination where rich history and modern charm come together to create an unforgettable experience.
A visit to Blennerhassett Island is one of the Mid-Ohio Valley’s most memorable experiences. The adventure begins with a scenic ride aboard an authentic sternwheeler riverboat, transporting visitors across the Ohio River to an island that feels worlds away. Many travelers start their journey at the Blennerhassett Museum of Regional History (137 Juliana Street, Parkersburg, West Virginia 26101; 304-420-4800), where engaging exhibits provide fascinating insight into the region’s history and the island’s intriguing past.
Once on the island, Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park (137 Juliana Street, Parkersburg, West Virginia 26101; 304-420-4800) invites visitors to step into the early 19th century. The island’s magnificent Palladian-style mansion, beautifully recreated and furnished, offers a glimpse into the elegant lifestyle of its original owners. Guests can tour the mansion and grounds, stroll beneath towering trees, enjoy leisurely horse-drawn carriage rides and soak in the peaceful beauty of this unique river island.
Back on the mainland, downtown Marietta is one of the most historic cities in the Midwest. Founded in 1788 as the first permanent settlement in the Northwest Territory, it combines beautifully preserved architecture, riverfront views and nationally significant historic sites. Marietta’s Historic District features brick streets, Victorian-era commercial buildings, historic churches and beautifully preserved homes.
Campus Martius Museum (601 2nd Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-373-3750) is one of Marietta’s premier historic sites. It stands on the location of the original outpost built by pioneers in 1788. Exhibits explore the settlement of the Northwest Territory, frontier life and the city’s role in America’s westward expansion. The Rufus Putnam House is enclosed inside the museum. Putnam was the first surveyor-general of the United States and made some of the earliest maps of the Northwest Territory. The original Ohio Company Land Office was moved here in 1953 to ensure its future preservation. In this office, land deeds were allotted for the original Ohio Company Purchase.
The Castle (418 Fourth Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-373-4180), is a striking Gothic Revival mansion built in 1855 and is one of Marietta’s architectural treasures. Guided tours reveal stories of Victorian-era life, local history and the prominent families who helped shape the city.
Just out of town, Henderson Hall (517 Old River Road, Williamstown West Virginia 26187; 304-375-2129) is listed on the National Register of Historical Places as a historic district unto itself and offers a glimpse into the early American Victorian Era. The 8,000-square-foot hall with its 21 rooms was the centerpiece of the original 2,600 acres along the Ohio River. The district also includes barns and outbuildings, two smaller residences and three Native American burial mounds.
In Parkersburg, visitors can stroll the Victorian homes of the Julia-Ann Square Historic District (304-422-9861). This is the largest and oldest historic district in West Virginia and was an important center in West Virginia’s early history. The Historic Walking Tour of the district features 54 houses, a historic church and one of the area’s first cemeteries.
The Oil & Gas Museum (119 Third Street, Parkersburg, West Virginia 26101; 304-485-5446) highlights the rich history and broad impact of oil and gas in the Appalachian Basin. It features some of the oldest oil and gas artifacts in existence and offers a valuable insight into the ever-changing oil and gas business. It is located in the former W. H. Smith Hardware store, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The building also houses the area’s Civil War Museum and other exhibits which tell the stories of the innovators and entrepreneurs who fought to create the new state of West Virginia and develop its industries.
Where to stay
There is a full complement of accommodations options in the Marietta and Greater Parkersburg area. For those who want to immerse themselves in local history, these unique lodging properties will definitely add to the experience.
The Blennerhassett Hotel & Spa (320 Market Street, Parkersburg, West Virginia 26101; 304-422-3131) is a historic, boutique and wellness hotel in downtown Parkersburg. This Victorian hotel was designed to reflect the wealth of the oil and gas boom of the 1880s. Since 1889, the Blennerhassett Hotel has been known for serving its guests with outstanding hospitality and luxury.
The Lafayette Hotel (101 Front Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-373-5522), perched on the banks of the Ohio River, offers views of the same magical beauty that fascinated early settlers in 1788. Visitors can experience the charm of the riverboat era while enjoying modern amenities and luxurious service.
The Hackett Hotel (203 1/2, 2nd Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-373-3613) was built in 1899 and is a boutique hotel that includes five rooms plus a common area known as the Confluence. The combination of early 20th-century décor and modern conveniences meets all the needs of today’s traveler who aims to enjoy the history of the destination.