Diverse retail, creative dining and family-friendly attractions highlight these vibrant Mid-Ohio Valley downtowns
PARKERSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA & MARIETTA, OHIO–OCTOBER 2026–The Mid-Ohio Valley towns of Parkersburg, West Virginia and Marietta, Ohio, combine the stories and traditions of historic river towns with the new energy of dynamic downtowns and captivating family-friendly attractions. Located only two hours, via I-70 and I-77, from Columbus, Ohio, or Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, access is easy and the experience is one the whole family will enjoy.
These beautifully preserved downtown districts are experiencing a new wave of energy fueled by independent restaurants, boutique shops and cultural institutions. Visitors can spend the day browsing locally owned stores, exploring galleries and museums, and end the evening with dinner and live entertainment along historic streets that reflect the Mid-Ohio Valley’s riverfront heritage.
Grounded in history
As the first planned settlement in the U.S. western territory, this destination is proud to honor and share its history. Campus Martius Museum (601 2nd Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-373-3750) 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. One of Marietta’s architectural treasures is The Castle (418 Fourth Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-373-4180), a striking Gothic Revival mansion built in 1855. Guided tours reveal stories of Victorian-era life, local history and the prominent families who helped shape the city. In Parkersburg, the Julia-Ann Square Historic District (tour starts at the arch on 9th and Juliana Street; 304-422-9861) is the largest and oldest historic district in West Virginia and was an important center in West Virginia’s early history. A self-guided walking tour features 54 houses, a historic church and one of the area’s first cemeteries. Visitors can pick up a free copy of the walking tour guide at the Visitor Center.
Art and retail
Parkersburg Art Center (725 Market Street, Parkersburg, West Virginia 26101; 304 485-3859) is an anchor of the local creative community. The center has five gallery spaces displaying works of regional artists and crafters. Artists’ work is for sale in the center’s PAC 713 Market gift shop, which is also a dynamic, contemporary gallery. In addition to its exhibitions, visitors can also enjoy guided tours and classes. Greater Parkersburg is also home to a variety of public art murals and selfie stations perfect for capturing fun vacation moments.
Marietta’s downtown is known for its diverse retail landscape featuring art and fine craftsmanship. From the fifth-generation Schafer Leather Store (140 Front Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-373-5101), opened in 1867, shoppers can find handcrafted quality leather products. The inventory includes hand-selected boots, hats, jewelry and fine leather goods, fitted in person. Contemporary shops also line the streets. Clutch Collective (152 Front Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-525-5510) features the work of more than 80 local and regional artists, including a variety of fine art, prints, ceramics and cards. Green Acres of Marietta (128 Front Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-371-5117) is known for its variety of art, antiques, jewelry, collectibles repurposed items and handmade one-of-a-kind items. From apparel at Teri Ann’s (290 Front Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-373-7631) to that uncommon find at Wit and Whimsy (125 Front Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-371-5022), the retail experience offers much to explore.
Children’s and family fun
Discovery World on Market (900 Market Street, Parkersburg, West Virginia 26101; 681-588-5800) is a dynamic children’s museum in the heart of downtown Parkersburg designed primarily for little ones up to 10 years old. Its focus is on playing and learning together with explorations of the River Adventure, Ball Factory, Design Studio and more. Little visitors are encouraged to dream big and imagine themselves as the scientists, engineers and artists of the future. At the Children’s Toy & Doll Museum (206 Gilman Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-373-5900) visitors get to step back into the past to see what entertained and educated children in the late 19th and 20th centuries. The nine rooms of antique and vintage toys and dolls include exhibits like The Old Woman in the Shoe dollhouse and Madame Alexander dolls that represent First Ladies in the White House.
Marietta Trolley Tours (241 Front Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-373-5178) offers an excellent way for the whole family to explore the downtown landscape and hear its fascinating stories. For those who want to explore the river, there are plenty of options to enjoy. The Valley Gem Sternwheeler (601 Front Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-373-7862) and its sister vessel, the Major/Riviera, offer narrated sightseeing cruises, dinner cruises and Lock & Lunch Tours, along with special seasonal cruises. They also offer day trips to Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park. From Parkersburg, visitors to the historic Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park (137 Juliana Street, Parkersburg, West Virginia 26101; 304-420-4800) enjoy a 20-minute sternwheel boat ride to the island, which feels a world away. The island’s preserved Palladian-style mansion and beautiful grounds offer home tours, horse-drawn wagon rides and opportunities to stroll the grounds and enjoy views of the river.
Distinctive dining
The variety of culinary experiences only adds to the experience here. Distinctive flavors and creative preparations are on the menu along the historic streets and at waterfront venues. Levee House Bistro (127 Ohio Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-371-7035) offers a river view and upscale menu in a casual setting. The innovative menu includes fresh seafood, hand-cut steaks, pastas, specialty salads and homemade desserts. Austyn’s Restaurant (130 Front Street, Marietta, Ohio 45750; 740-374-8188) is known for what it calls a “different-than-the-norm” menu. Specialties include lamb, beef and seafood dishes, as well as a wide selection of cocktails, wines and beers.
Wine Down on Market (701 Market Street, Parkersburg, West Virginia 36101; 681-588-0425) has become a casual gathering place known for exceptional food. Here, a chef-driven menu and an award-winning wine program are joined by genuine hospitality. Distinctive is the perfect description for the dining experience at Zak Huffman’s Prime Steakhouse (404 Market Street, Parkersburg, West Virginia 36101; 304-244-0024). Menu highlights include USDA Certified Prime cuts, fresh seafood and handcrafted sushi. Spirits include classic cocktails, rare whiskeys and an exceptional wine list.
Where to stay
Stays at these two historic hotels will add to the experience, especially for those who love a historic touch. The Blennerhassett Hotel & Spa (320 Market Street, Parkersburg, West Virginia 26101; 304-422-3131) is a historic, boutique hotel in downtown Parkersburg. This Victorian hotel was designed to reflect the wealth of the oil and gas boom of the 1880s. 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.