Marietta Travel Guide

A helpful and informative travel guide for Marietta including places to visit, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, where to stay and eat, local culture, safety, transportation and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Marietta

Located in the southeastern part of Ohio, Marietta is a charming city that has a lot to offer to visitors. Known as the first permanent settlement in the Northwest Territory, Marietta is rich in history and culture, while also encompassing a natural beauty. It boasts a wide range of activities, food and drink options, and beautiful landscapes to explore. This comprehensive travel guide will provide an in-depth tour of Marietta, including a list of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, where to stay and eat, local culture, safety, transportation, and nearby destinations.

List of Places to Visit in Marietta

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The Castle

The Castle, located in downtown Marietta, is a beautifully restored Gothic Revival structure once belonging to a prominent family. Visitors have access to the grand ballroom, a library, a dining room, and a music room, with exhibits showcasing the history of the area. The Castle also hosts events and workshops throughout the year.

Campus Martius Museum

The Campus Martius Museum is a must-see attraction in Marietta, as it offers an in-depth look at the local history. Named after the Campus Martius fortification in Rome, the museum is home to exhibits on the early history of the Ohio River Valley, the Northwest Territory, and the state of Ohio. The museum also houses a planetarium.

The Ohio River Museum

Located in Marietta, the Ohio River Museum features exhibits on the ecology, industry, and culture of the Ohio River and its surrounding region. Visitors can learn about steamboats, its role in shaping the region, and its current status through interactive exhibits and displays.

Natural Attractions of Marietta: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Wayne National Forest

Located just 16 miles south of Marietta, the Wayne National Forest is a popular spot for outdoor lovers. The forest features several hiking and biking trails, fishing and hunting opportunities and picnic areas. The forest also hosts a variety of programs, including youth conservation education.

Marietta River Trail

The Marietta River Trail follows along the Muskingum River and provides picturesque views of the historic downtown area. The trail is a popular spot for walkers, runners, and cyclists. It also features interpretive signs detailing the history of Marietta and the river.

The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail

The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail is a 110-mile trail that starts in Cleveland and ends in New Philadelphia, Ohio. A picturesque section of the trail passes through Marietta and provides an unobstructed view of the stunning Ohio River.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Marietta

Marietta has a great number of beautiful parks and hiking trails to explore. Here are a few noteworthy routes:

  • North Bend State Park: 14 miles of moderate hiking through a forested park
  • Fort Frye Trail: 5-mile trail through the wooded area
  • The Baker Trail: 7.5-mile hike that provides a glimpse of Marietta’s history and scenic views of the Ohio River.

Best Things to Do in Marietta: Activities and Tours

Riverboat Tours

A visit to Marietta isn’t complete without experiencing the Ohio River, and there’s no better way to do that than with a riverboat tour. The Valley Gem Sternwheeler runs sightseeing cruises during the season that pass historic landmarks and scenic views of the river.

Marietta Wine Cellars

Marietta Wine Cellars is a family-owned winery located in downtown Marietta. The winery offers wine tastings, tours, as well as a spacious outdoor seating area that overlooks the river.

Week-Long Itinerary for Marietta

A week-long itinerary for Marietta can be planned with the following activities:

  • Day 1: Visit the Campus Martius Museum and Marietta River Trail
  • Day 2: Explore the Ohio River Museum and take a riverboat tour
  • Day 3: Hike in Wayne National Forest and sample local wines at Marietta Wine Cellars
  • Day 4: Visit The Castle and shop at local boutiques in downtown Marietta
  • Day 5: Bike the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail and end with dinner at one of Marietta’s unique eateries
  • Day 6: Enjoy a picnic at Muskingum Park, Marietta’s oldest public park
  • Day 7: Explore more outdoor options such as fishing or kayaking on the Muskingum River at Marietta Harbor.

Food and Drink Scene of Marietta

Must-Try Dishes

Buckley House Restaurant

The Buckley House is a historic restaurant in Marietta that has a mix of classic and modern dishes. It offers seasonal fares showcasing local ingredients and flavors, such as their Truffle Risotto Cake and Pan Seared Scallops.

Harmar Tavern

This tavern is Marietta’s oldest continually operating tavern, and famous for Turtle Soup. Harmar Tavern’s menu also includes a variety of seafood dishes and burgers, available daily with different specials offered every day.

Local Beverages

Marietta Brewing Company

Marietta Brewing Company is known for its craft beer selections. The spacious taproom provides an atmosphere for visitors to try different brews. One can enjoy a guided tour of the brewing facility as well.

Lock 15 Brewing Company

Lock 15 Brewing Company is a brewpub in Marietta featuring craft beer and a dynamic food menu-for instance, Bison Krunchwrap, Pizza Bagels, and Beer Cheese Soup.

Where to Stay in Marietta: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Quality Inn

The Quality Inn is a comfortable three-star hotel with an indoor pool and fitness center. It is conveniently located near several attractions, including Marietta College and the Ohio River Museum.

Lafayette Hotel

The Lafayette Hotel is a historic landmark hotel in downtown Marietta with sweeping river views. It features luxurious guest rooms, elegant dining options, and proximity to local museums and restaurants.

What to Buy in Marietta: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Marietta has several local shops and boutiques to explore, notable mentions are The Cook’s Shop, Twisted Sisters Boutique, and Teri Ann’s. Souvenirs can include a bottle of locally made wine, trinkets handmade by local artisans, or Marietta t-shirts, among other things.

Local Culture and Customs of Marietta

Marietta celebrates its rich heritage through festivals and fairs, original events such as the Marietta Sweet Corn Festival, Marietta Riverfront Roar, and Ohio River Sternwheel Festival.

Best Time to Visit Marietta

The weather in Marietta is moderate and pleasant throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy the changing seasons in temperate weather with occasional rainfall starting from May through August. The best time to visit Marietta depends on personal preference, as Marietta has an array of activities to enjoy during all four seasons.

Do’s and Don’ts of Marietta

Do:

  • Explore downtown Marietta on a walking tour
  • Visit the local museums and historical places
  • Try the local wines and craft beer
  • Take a riverboat tour on the Ohio River
  • Pack comfortable shoes for outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Talk about Ohio sports if you’re rooting for the out of state teams
  • Litter in the natural areas or parks
  • Assume that visitors will find accommodations if attending events during peak season

Safety and Health

Safety in Marietta

Marietta is a relatively safe city, but visitors should use common sense. Tourists should practice precautionary measures such as keeping their valuables in a safe place, locking their cars, and utilizing the buddy system when alone.

Health in Marietta

Marietta has a few medical facilities, including Marietta Memorial Hospital, Selby Hospital, and several clinics within the community. Visitors should carry necessary medication, including insect repellant, and stay hydrated.

Getting to Marietta: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Marietta

Located just an hour away, the Mid-Ohio Valley Regional Airport is the closest airport, catering to daily flights. Other airports in proximity include John Glenn Columbus International Airport, Pittsburgh International Airport, and Akron-Canton Regional Airport.

Bus Stations Near Marietta

Greyhound, a major bus line, has a station located in Zanesville, Ohio, which is 45 miles from Marietta.

Other Options

Marietta is accessible via the Amtrak railway system, while commuters may use car rental facilities, uber rides, and taxi services to travel within the city.

How to Get Around in Marietta

Marietta has a well-connected road system, offering visitors the option to use public transportation, rent a car or bike, or walk to explore the localities.

Where to Go Next from Marietta: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Marietta makes for a great base to explore several nearby destinations, such as:

  • The Hocking Hills State Park (60 miles from Marietta)
  • The Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack & Resort in West Virginia (30 miles from Marietta)
  • Athens, Ohio (38 miles from Marietta)
  • Wheeling, West Virginia (51 miles from Marietta)

Conclusion

Marietta, Ohio, has something to offer visitors of all ages and preferences. It has a rich culture and history, natural beauty, outdoor adventures, food and drinks, fun events, and friendly locals. With a week-long itinerary, food options, where to stay, and nearby destinations all covered in this comprehensive guide to Marietta, you’re all set for a memorable adventure in this charming city.

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