Parkersburg Travel Guide

Discover all the best things to do, see, eat, and experience in Parkersburg, WV with our comprehensive travel guide. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures and more, we've got you covered.


Introduction to Parkersburg

Located in the beautiful Ohio Valley region of West Virginia, Parkersburg is a charming small city that offers a wealth of activities and attractions for visitors. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone in this lovely town.

List of Places to Visit in Parkersburg

If you’re wondering what to do in Parkersburg, we’ve got you covered. Here are some of the top attractions and activities to check out during your visit.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park
  • Oil and Gas Museum
  • Henderson Hall Plantation
  • Julia-Ann Square Historic District
  • The Castle

Natural Attractions of Parkersburg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mountwood Park
  • North Bend Rail Trail
  • Ohio River
  • Point Park
  • Fort Boreman Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Parkersburg

If you love hiking, biking, or just being out in nature, you won’t want to miss these top trails in Parkersburg.

  • Mountwood Park Trails
  • North Bend Rail Trail
  • Riverfront Park Trail
  • Johnson T. Janes Park Trail
  • Blennerhassett Island Trails

Best Things to Do in Parkersburg: Activities and Tours

Looking for fun things to do in Parkersburg? Check out these top activities and tours.

  • Blennerhassett Island Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
  • Point Park Observation Tower
  • Campus Martius Museum
  • Pedego Electric Bike Tours
  • Historic Blennerhassett Island Mansion Tour

Week-Long Itinerary for Parkersburg

If you’re planning to spend a week in Parkersburg, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your visit.

Day Activity
Monday Visit Mountwood Park for hiking, biking, and picnicking
Tuesday Explore Blennerhassett Island and tour the mansion and grounds
Wednesday Learn about local history at the Oil and Gas Museum and the Henderson Hall Plantation
Thursday Take a walking tour of the Julia-Ann Square Historic District
Friday Relax at Point Park and enjoy the views of the Ohio River
Saturday Take a day trip to nearby Athens, Ohio to visit Ohio University and the historic uptown area
Sunday Attend a church service at one of Parkersburg’s historic churches or enjoy a leisurely brunch before departing

Food and Drink Scene of Parkersburg

No visit to Parkersburg would be complete without sampling some of the local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages to enjoy while you’re in town.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pepperoni Rolls
  • West Virginia Hot Dogs
  • Appalachian Stew
  • Pawpaws
  • Ramp Fried Rice

Local Beverages

  • Blennerhassett Island Wine
  • Hops & Hounds Brewery Beers
  • The Coffee Bar’s Specialty Coffee Drinks

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

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel or a cozy guesthouse, there are plenty of lodging options in Parkersburg. Here are some of the top choices.

  • Blennerhassett Hotel
  • The Point Park Marketplace Guest Suites
  • Comfort Inn
  • Travelodge by Wyndham
  • Red Roof Inn

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

Looking to bring home some unique souvenirs or gifts from your trip to Parkersburg? Here are some local products to consider.

  • Blennerhassett Island Wine
  • Handmade Pottery from the Parkersburg Art Center
  • Blennerhassett Island Fudge and Truffles
  • Appalachian Mountain Crafts from the Market Bazaar
  • Parkersburg-themed T-Shirts and Hoodies

Local Culture and Customs of Parkersburg

Parkersburg has a rich cultural heritage, with a vibrant arts scene and a deep love of tradition and community. Visitors can learn about the town’s history and traditions by exploring the local museums and historical sites, attending community events and festivals, and attending cultural performances and concerts.

Best Time to Visit Parkersburg

The best time to visit Parkersburg is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summer can be quite hot and humid, while winter temperatures can be chilly and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Parkersburg

If you’re planning a trip to Parkersburg, here are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind.

Do:

  • Take the time to explore the local history and culture of Parkersburg
  • Sample the local cuisine, including pepperoni rolls and West Virginia hot dogs
  • Enjoy the natural beauty of the Ohio River and surrounding forests

Don’t:

  • Try to swim in the Ohio River, as it can be dangerous and unpredictable
  • Ignore the town’s rich cultural heritage by skipping the local museums and historical sites
  • Forget to bring comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the local trails

Safety and Health

If you’re concerned about safety and health during your visit to Parkersburg, here are some tips to keep in mind.

Safety in Parkersburg

Overall, Parkersburg is a safe town for visitors. However, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and to take precautions to stay safe.

Health in Parkersburg

Parkersburg has a good healthcare system, with several hospitals and clinics in the area. Visitors should make sure they have adequate health insurance coverage for their trip.

Getting to Parkersburg: Transportation Options and Logistics

If you’re wondering how to get to Parkersburg, here are some transportation options and logistics to consider.

Airports Near Parkersburg

The closest airport to Parkersburg is the Mid-Ohio Valley Regional Airport, which is located just a few miles from town. However, many visitors choose to fly into larger airports like the Pittsburgh International Airport or the Columbus International Airport and then rent a car or take a bus or taxi to Parkersburg.

Bus Stations Near Parkersburg

Greyhound and Trailways both have bus stations in Parkersburg, making it easy to get to and from the town by bus.

Other Options

If you prefer to drive, Parkersburg can be easily reached by car via the Interstate 77 or US Route 50. Amtrak also operates train service to nearby cities like Charleston, West Virginia and Marietta, Ohio.

How to Get Around in Parkersburg

While Parkersburg is a relatively small town, it’s still a good idea to have a car or bike to explore the various attractions and activities in the area. However, visitors can also use local taxis, ride-sharing services, and public transportation to get around town.

Where to Go Next from Parkersburg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have some extra time after exploring Parkersburg, there are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to check out. Here are some top choices.

  • Athens, Ohio
  • Marietta, Ohio
  • Belmont County, Ohio
  • Clarksburg, West Virginia
  • Charleston, West Virginia

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor adventures, or just great food and drink, Parkersburg has something for everyone. We hope this travel guide has inspired you to plan a visit to this wonderful town and explore all it has to offer.

Ohio State Route 32 Ohio State Route 32