Ohio Valley Travel Guide
Here's everything you need to know before visiting Ohio Valley, including a detailed list of the best places to visit, the top things to do, the best time to visit, and more.
- Introduction to Ohio Valley
- List of Places to Visit in Ohio Valley
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Ohio Valley
- Best Things to Do in Ohio Valley: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Ohio Valley
- Food and Drink Scene of Ohio Valley
- Where to Stay in Ohio Valley: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Ohio Valley: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Ohio Valley
- Best Time to Visit Ohio Valley
- Do’s and Don’ts of Ohio Valley
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Ohio Valley: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Ohio Valley
- Where to Go Next from Ohio Valley: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Ohio Valley
Located in the south of West Virginia, USA, Ohio Valley is a stunning and unique travel destination that attracts travelers from all over the world thanks to its rich history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. This comprehensive tour guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your Ohio Valley trip, including a detailed list of the best places to visit, the top things to do, the best time to visit, and more.
List of Places to Visit in Ohio Valley
There are plenty of exciting places to visit in Ohio Valley that offer a diverse range of experiences for travelers of all ages and interests. The following list provides an overview of the best places to visit:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Ohio Valley Museum of Archaeology
- Heritage Farm Museum and Village
- WVU Art Museum
- Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park
Natural Attractions of Ohio Valley: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
- Seneca Rocks
- Coopers Rock State Forest
- Greenbrier River Trail State Park
Hiking/Biking Routes of Ohio Valley
Ohio Valley is home to some of the most picturesque hiking and biking routes that offer breathtaking views of the region’s natural beauty. Below are some of the best hiking/biking routes:
- Kanawha Trace Trail
- Cheat Mountain Ridge Natural Trail
- North Bend Rail Trail
- Greenbrier River Trail State Park
Best Things to Do in Ohio Valley: Activities and Tours
From thrilling outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, Ohio Valley offers travelers an array of things to do. Here are some of the top activities and tours to consider:
- White water rafting in New River
- Zip-lining in Bridgeport
- Horseback riding in Hatfield-McCoy Trails
- Coal mine tour in Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine
Week-Long Itinerary for Ohio Valley
To make the most of your Ohio Valley trip, we’ve put together a week-long itinerary that covers the must-visit places and top things to do:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Visit the Ohio Valley Museum of Archaeology and Heritage Farm Museum and Village |
| Day 2 | Explore the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve |
| Day 3 | Go white water rafting in New River |
| Day 4 | Hike the Kanawha Trace Trail |
| Day 5 | Zip-line in Bridgeport and visit the WVU Art Museum |
| Day 6 | Tour the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine |
| Day 7 | Visit Seneca Rocks and Coopers Rock State Forest |
Food and Drink Scene of Ohio Valley
Ohio Valley is famous for its delectable food and drink options that reflect the region’s cultural heritage and traditions. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Hot bologna sandwich
- West Virginia pepperoni rolls
- Fried catfish with cornbread
- Shrimp and grits
Local Beverages
- Greenbrier Valley Brewing Company’s Mothman Black IPA
- Mountain State Brewing Company’s Seneca Indian Pale Ale
- Smooth Ambler Spirits’ Old Scout Bourbon
Where to Stay in Ohio Valley: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Ohio Valley offers a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses that cater to all budgets and preferences. Some of the best options are:
- The Greenbrier
- Stonewall Resort
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Winchester South Stephens City
- Canaan Valley Resort & Conference Center
What to Buy in Ohio Valley: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Ohio Valley is famous for its unique crafts and products that reflect the region’s culture and heritage. Some of the must-buy souvenirs and local products are:
- Handmade pottery
- Appalachian quilts
- Wood carvings and chainsaw carvings
- Blenko Glass
Local Culture and Customs of Ohio Valley
Ohio Valley is a vibrant place known for its rich cultural heritage and traditions. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and it’s important to respect their customs and traditions. Some of the key cultural aspects of Ohio Valley are Appalachian crafts, music, and cuisine.
Best Time to Visit Ohio Valley
The best time to visit Ohio Valley is in the fall season (September to November) when the temperatures are cooler, and the foliage is vibrant and beautiful. Spring (April to June) is another great time to visit when the weather is pleasant, and the flowers are in full bloom.
Do’s and Don’ts of Ohio Valley
Do:
- Respect the locals and their customs
- Dress appropriately for the weather and activities
- Explore the natural beauty of Ohio Valley
- Try the local cuisine and beverages
Don’t:
- Litter or damage the natural environment
- Disrespect historical monuments and places
- Engage in any illegal activities
- Ignore safety measures while participating in outdoor activities
Safety and Health
Safety in Ohio Valley
Ohio Valley is a safe travel destination, and incidents of crime are rare. However, it’s important to always be cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.
Health in Ohio Valley
Ohio Valley has good medical facilities, and there are hospitals and clinics available in case of emergencies. It’s important to stay hydrated and use sunscreen while participating in outdoor activities in the summer season.
Getting to Ohio Valley: Transportation Options and Logistics
Ohio Valley is easily accessible by road from major US cities. The nearest airports are located in Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, and Charleston. Buses and trains are also available, and the Amtrak serves the region.
Airports Near Ohio Valley
- Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT)
- Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)
- Yeager Airport, in Charleston (CRW)
Bus Stations Near Ohio Valley
- Greyhound Bus Station in Parkersburg
- Megabus stop in Morgantown
Other Options
- Amtrak train service connects Ohio Valley to major US cities.
- Car rental is available at most airports and major cities.
How to Get Around in Ohio Valley
Travelers can rent a car to get around in Ohio Valley. Taxis and Uber/Lyft are also available in major cities.
Where to Go Next from Ohio Valley: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Ohio Valley is located close to other beautiful and interesting places that are excellent for a day trip or excursion. Some of the top nearby destinations are:
- Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio
- Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Conclusion
Ohio Valley is a stunning travel destination that offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure. With this comprehensive guide, you’re now ready to plan your Ohio Valley trip and make unforgettable memories.
