What Makes Parkersburg Tourism a Must-Experience Destination?

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1. Why is Parkersburg, WV, a Hidden Gem for Tourism?

Parkersburg, West Virginia, stands out as a hidden gem for tourism due to its rich history, scenic beauty, and unique attractions. Nestled at the confluence of the Ohio and Little Kanawha Rivers, Parkersburg offers a blend of cultural heritage and outdoor adventures that appeal to a wide range of travelers.

• Historical Significance: Parkersburg boasts a history that dates back to the 18th century, with landmarks such as Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park offering insights into the early American frontier. The island, once home to Harman Blennerhassett, a key figure in Aaron Burr’s alleged conspiracy, provides a fascinating glimpse into the past. According to the West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture and History, the Blennerhassett Mansion is a meticulously reconstructed 18th-century mansion that showcases the lifestyle of the wealthy during that era.

• Natural Beauty: The city is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts. Mountwood Park, located a short drive from Parkersburg, offers hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and scenic overlooks. According to the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, Mountwood Park features over 25 miles of trails suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

• Cultural Attractions: Parkersburg offers a variety of cultural attractions, including the Parkersburg Art Center, which hosts exhibitions, workshops, and events throughout the year. The Smoot Theatre, a beautifully restored historic theater, presents live performances, concerts, and film screenings. The Oil and Gas Museum offers insights into the region’s petroleum industry history, showcasing artifacts, exhibits, and educational programs.

• Local Charm: Parkersburg exudes a small-town charm with its friendly locals, unique shops, and family-owned restaurants. The city’s downtown area features a mix of historic buildings and modern amenities, creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. Events such as the Parkersburg Homecoming Festival bring the community together and provide visitors with a taste of local culture.

• Accessibility: Parkersburg is easily accessible by car, with major highways such as I-77 passing through the area. The Mid-Ohio Valley Regional Airport provides air service to and from the city, connecting it to larger transportation hubs. Its central location makes it a convenient base for exploring other attractions in West Virginia and neighboring states.

Greater Parkersburg Convention and Visitors Bureau President and CEO Mark Lewis appeared before the Wood County Commission on Monday to discuss the organization’s accomplishments over the past year which saw an increase in visitors to the Welcome Center near Point Park with 8,180 visitors in 2024.

2. What are the Top Attractions in Parkersburg for First-Time Visitors?

For first-time visitors, Parkersburg offers a variety of attractions that showcase the city’s history, culture, and natural beauty.

• Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park: This is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Parkersburg. The island offers a unique glimpse into the early American frontier, with its reconstructed 18th-century mansion and costumed interpreters. Visitors can take a sternwheeler boat to the island and explore the mansion, museum, and grounds.

  • Historical Significance: The island was once home to Harman Blennerhassett, an Irish aristocrat who built a grand mansion on the island in the late 1700s. Blennerhassett became involved in Aaron Burr’s alleged conspiracy to create an independent republic in the western United States.

  • Attractions: The park features the Blennerhassett Mansion, a museum with exhibits on the island’s history, and scenic walking trails. Visitors can also take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the island.

  • Activities: Guided tours of the mansion, museum visits, hiking, and picnicking are popular activities. Special events, such as historical reenactments and festivals, are held throughout the year.

• Oil and Gas Museum: This museum offers insights into the region’s petroleum industry history, showcasing artifacts, exhibits, and educational programs. Visitors can learn about the early days of oil and gas exploration in West Virginia and the impact of the industry on the local economy.

  • Exhibits: The museum features exhibits on the history of oil and gas drilling, refining, and transportation. Visitors can see antique drilling equipment, photographs, and documents.

  • Educational Programs: The museum offers educational programs for students and adults, including guided tours, lectures, and workshops.

  • Research Library: The museum has a research library with a collection of books, articles, and documents on the history of the oil and gas industry.

• Mountwood Park: This park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with its hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and scenic overlooks. Visitors can explore the park’s diverse landscapes, from forests and meadows to lakes and streams.

  • Trails: The park features over 25 miles of trails suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The trails range in difficulty from easy to challenging.

  • Fishing: Mountwood Lake is a popular spot for fishing, with a variety of fish species, including bass, catfish, and bluegill.

  • Camping: The park has a campground with tent and RV sites.

• Parkersburg Art Center: This art center hosts exhibitions, workshops, and events throughout the year, showcasing the work of local and regional artists. Visitors can admire a variety of art forms, including painting, sculpture, photography, and ceramics.

  • Exhibitions: The art center hosts a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, featuring the work of local and regional artists.

  • Workshops: The art center offers workshops for adults and children, teaching a variety of art techniques.

  • Events: The art center hosts a variety of events, including art openings, concerts, and film screenings.

• Smoot Theatre: This beautifully restored historic theater presents live performances, concerts, and film screenings. Visitors can experience the grandeur of this historic venue and enjoy a variety of entertainment options.

  • History: The Smoot Theatre opened in 1926 and was a popular venue for vaudeville acts, films, and concerts. The theater was restored in the 1990s and reopened in 2002.

  • Performances: The theater presents a variety of live performances, including plays, musicals, concerts, and dance performances.

  • Film Screenings: The theater screens classic and independent films.

3. How Can SIXT.VN Enhance Your Travel Experience in Parkersburg?

While SIXT.VN primarily operates in Vietnam, the principles of convenience, reliability, and exceptional service it embodies can inspire how you plan and enhance your travel experience in Parkersburg. SIXT.VN focuses on providing seamless travel solutions, from airport transfers to hotel bookings and curated tours. Although SIXT.VN’s direct services aren’t available in Parkersburg, you can apply the same principles to plan your trip:

• Plan Your Itinerary: Start by researching the top attractions and activities in Parkersburg. Create a detailed itinerary that includes the places you want to visit, the things you want to do, and the time you want to spend at each location. Consider using online resources such as TripAdvisor, Expedia, and local tourism websites to gather information and plan your itinerary.

• Book Accommodations: Find the perfect place to stay in Parkersburg, whether it’s a hotel, motel, or vacation rental. Look for accommodations that are conveniently located near the attractions you want to visit and that offer the amenities you need. Consider using online booking platforms such as Booking.com, Hotels.com, and Airbnb to find the best deals and read reviews from other travelers.

• Arrange Transportation: Figure out how you’re going to get around Parkersburg. If you’re flying into the Mid-Ohio Valley Regional Airport, arrange for a rental car or airport shuttle service. If you’re driving, make sure you have directions and parking information for the places you want to visit. Consider using ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft for convenient transportation around the city.

• Find Local Tours: Discover the best of Parkersburg with guided tours that showcase the city’s history, culture, and natural beauty. Look for local tour operators that offer a variety of tours, such as historical walking tours, scenic driving tours, and outdoor adventure tours. Consider using online platforms such as Viator and GetYourGuide to find and book tours in Parkersburg.

• Enjoy Local Cuisine: Try the local cuisine in Parkersburg, from hearty Appalachian comfort food to international flavors. Look for restaurants that offer a variety of dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Consider asking locals for recommendations on the best places to eat in the city.

• Utilize Local Resources: Take advantage of local resources such as the Greater Parkersburg Convention and Visitors Bureau to get information and assistance with planning your trip. The CVB can provide you with maps, brochures, and recommendations on attractions, accommodations, and restaurants.

4. What Outdoor Activities Can You Enjoy Near Parkersburg?

Parkersburg is surrounded by natural beauty, offering a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. From hiking and biking to fishing and kayaking, there’s something for everyone to experience in the great outdoors.

• Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Mountwood Park, North Bend State Park, and Wayne National Forest. These parks offer a variety of hiking trails, ranging in difficulty from easy to challenging.

  • Mountwood Park: Features over 25 miles of trails suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The trails wind through forests, meadows, and along the shores of Mountwood Lake.

  • North Bend State Park: Offers over 20 miles of hiking trails, including the North Bend Rail Trail, a 72-mile-long trail that follows the former Baltimore and Ohio Railroad.

  • Wayne National Forest: Features over 300 miles of trails, including the Buckeye Trail, a 1,444-mile-long trail that circles the state of Ohio.

• Biking: Ride the North Bend Rail Trail, a 72-mile-long trail that follows the former Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. The trail is paved and relatively flat, making it suitable for cyclists of all skill levels.

  • North Bend Rail Trail: The trail passes through small towns, forests, and farmland, offering a scenic and enjoyable biking experience.

  • Mountain Biking: Mountwood Park offers several miles of mountain biking trails, ranging in difficulty from easy to challenging.

• Fishing: Cast a line in the Ohio River, Little Kanawha River, or Mountwood Lake. These waterways are home to a variety of fish species, including bass, catfish, and bluegill.

  • Ohio River: The Ohio River is a popular spot for fishing, with a variety of fish species, including catfish, bass, and walleye.

  • Little Kanawha River: The Little Kanawha River is a smaller river that flows into the Ohio River at Parkersburg. The river is home to a variety of fish species, including bass, catfish, and bluegill.

  • Mountwood Lake: Mountwood Lake is a 50-acre lake located in Mountwood Park. The lake is stocked with fish, including bass, catfish, and bluegill.

• Kayaking and Canoeing: Paddle the Ohio River, Little Kanawha River, or Mountwood Lake. These waterways offer calm waters and scenic views, making them ideal for kayaking and canoeing.

  • Ohio River: The Ohio River is a wide and slow-moving river, making it suitable for kayaking and canoeing.

  • Little Kanawha River: The Little Kanawha River is a smaller river that flows into the Ohio River at Parkersburg. The river is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, turtles, and beavers.

  • Mountwood Lake: Mountwood Lake is a calm and scenic lake, making it ideal for kayaking and canoeing.

• Camping: Spend a night under the stars at Mountwood Park or North Bend State Park. These parks offer campgrounds with tent and RV sites.

  • Mountwood Park: The park has a campground with tent and RV sites. The campground features amenities such as restrooms, showers, and a playground.

  • North Bend State Park: The park has a campground with tent and RV sites. The campground features amenities such as restrooms, showers, and a swimming pool.

5. What Cultural Events and Festivals Should You Attend in Parkersburg?

Parkersburg hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, showcasing the city’s history, arts, and community spirit.

• Parkersburg Homecoming Festival: This annual festival is held in August and celebrates the city’s heritage with live music, food vendors, arts and crafts, and a parade. The festival attracts thousands of visitors each year and is a highlight of the summer season.

  • Live Music: The festival features live music performances by local and regional bands.

  • Food Vendors: A variety of food vendors offer a range of culinary delights, from classic festival fare to local specialties.

  • Arts and Crafts: Local artists and crafters showcase their work at the festival, offering unique and handmade items.

  • Parade: The festival includes a parade that winds through the streets of downtown Parkersburg.

• Taste of Parkersburg: This annual food festival is held in June and features samples from local restaurants and caterers. Visitors can sample a variety of dishes and vote for their favorites.

  • Local Restaurants: The festival features samples from local restaurants and caterers.

  • Culinary Delights: Visitors can sample a variety of dishes, from appetizers to desserts.

  • People’s Choice Awards: Visitors can vote for their favorite dishes, and the winners are announced at the end of the festival.

• West Virginia Honey Festival: This annual festival is held in August and celebrates the state’s honey industry with honey tastings, beekeeping demonstrations, and honey-related products.

  • Honey Tastings: The festival features honey tastings from local beekeepers.

  • Beekeeping Demonstrations: Visitors can learn about beekeeping from local experts.

  • Honey-Related Products: The festival features honey-related products, such as honey soaps, lotions, and candles.

• Parkersburg Art Center Events: The Parkersburg Art Center hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including art exhibitions, workshops, and concerts.

  • Art Exhibitions: The art center hosts a variety of art exhibitions, featuring the work of local and regional artists.

  • Workshops: The art center offers workshops for adults and children, teaching a variety of art techniques.

  • Concerts: The art center hosts a variety of concerts, featuring local and regional musicians.

• Smoot Theatre Performances: The Smoot Theatre presents a variety of live performances, concerts, and film screenings throughout the year.

  • Live Performances: The theater presents a variety of live performances, including plays, musicals, and dance performances.

  • Concerts: The theater hosts a variety of concerts, featuring local and regional musicians.

  • Film Screenings: The theater screens classic and independent films.

6. What are the Best Day Trips from Parkersburg?

Parkersburg’s central location makes it a convenient base for exploring other attractions in West Virginia and neighboring states. Here are some of the best day trips from Parkersburg:

• Marietta, Ohio: This historic river town is located just across the Ohio River from Parkersburg. Marietta is home to a variety of attractions, including the Campus Martius Museum, the Ohio River Museum, and the historic Harmar Village.

  • Campus Martius Museum: This museum tells the story of the Northwest Territory and the founding of Marietta.

  • Ohio River Museum: This museum showcases the history of the Ohio River and the steamboat era.

  • Harmar Village: This historic village is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.

• Athens, Ohio: This college town is home to Ohio University and a vibrant arts and culture scene. Athens offers a variety of attractions, including the Ohio University campus, the Kennedy Museum of Art, and the Hocking Hills State Park.

  • Ohio University Campus: The Ohio University campus is a beautiful and historic campus with a variety of attractions, including the Cutler Hall, the Galbreath Chapel, and the Bentley Hall.

  • Kennedy Museum of Art: This museum features a collection of art from around the world, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs.

  • Hocking Hills State Park: This state park is home to a variety of natural attractions, including waterfalls, caves, and hiking trails.

• Harpers Ferry, West Virginia: This historic town is located at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers. Harpers Ferry is home to a variety of attractions, including the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, the John Brown’s Fort, and the Appalachian Trail.

  • Harpers Ferry National Historical Park: This national park tells the story of Harpers Ferry’s role in American history, including its importance during the Civil War.

  • John Brown’s Fort: This fort was the site of John Brown’s raid on Harpers Ferry in 1859.

  • Appalachian Trail: The Appalachian Trail passes through Harpers Ferry, offering hikers a chance to experience this famous trail.

• Charleston, West Virginia: This capital city is home to a variety of attractions, including the West Virginia State Museum, the West Virginia State Capitol Building, and the Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences.

  • West Virginia State Museum: This museum tells the story of West Virginia’s history, from its earliest inhabitants to the present day.

  • West Virginia State Capitol Building: This capitol building is a beautiful and historic building with a variety of architectural features.

  • Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences: This arts center features a variety of exhibitions, performances, and educational programs.

7. What Are Some Family-Friendly Activities in Parkersburg?

Parkersburg offers a variety of family-friendly activities that are sure to keep kids of all ages entertained.

• Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park: This park is a great place for families to explore history and nature. Kids will love riding the sternwheeler boat to the island and exploring the mansion, museum, and grounds.

  • Sternwheeler Boat Ride: The boat ride to the island is a fun and exciting experience for kids.

  • Mansion Tour: The mansion tour is a great way for kids to learn about history.

  • Museum Visit: The museum features exhibits on the island’s history, which are interesting for kids.

  • Grounds Exploration: The grounds of the park are a great place for kids to run around and play.

• Mountwood Park: This park offers a variety of outdoor activities for families, including hiking, fishing, and picnicking.

  • Hiking: The park features over 25 miles of trails suitable for hiking.

  • Fishing: Mountwood Lake is a popular spot for fishing.

  • Picnicking: The park has several picnic areas with tables and grills.

• Parkersburg City Park: This park features a playground, swimming pool, and picnic areas.

  • Playground: The playground is a great place for kids to burn off energy.

  • Swimming Pool: The swimming pool is a great place to cool off on a hot day.

  • Picnic Areas: The park has several picnic areas with tables and grills.

• ভাঁiệt Museum Discovery World: This hands-on museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits for kids of all ages.

  • Interactive Exhibits: The museum features a variety of interactive exhibits that are designed to engage kids and teach them about science, technology, engineering, and math.

  • Planetarium: The museum has a planetarium that offers shows about the solar system and the universe.

  • Science Demonstrations: The museum hosts science demonstrations throughout the day.

• Parkersburg Art Center: This art center offers a variety of workshops and classes for kids.

  • Workshops: The art center offers workshops for kids of all ages, teaching a variety of art techniques.

  • Classes: The art center offers classes for kids of all ages, teaching a variety of art techniques.

8. What Types of Accommodation are Available in Parkersburg?

Parkersburg offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences.

• Hotels: Parkersburg has a variety of hotels, ranging from budget-friendly options to more luxurious accommodations.

  • Budget-Friendly Hotels: These hotels offer basic amenities and comfortable accommodations at an affordable price.

  • Mid-Range Hotels: These hotels offer a range of amenities and services, such as swimming pools, restaurants, and fitness centers.

  • Luxury Hotels: These hotels offer luxurious accommodations and a range of upscale amenities and services.

• Motels: Motels are a more affordable option than hotels, offering basic accommodations and limited amenities.

  • Roadside Motels: These motels are located along major highways and offer convenient accommodations for travelers.

  • Downtown Motels: These motels are located in the downtown area and offer easy access to attractions, restaurants, and shops.

• Bed and Breakfasts: Bed and breakfasts offer a more intimate and personalized accommodation experience.

  • Historic Bed and Breakfasts: These bed and breakfasts are located in historic buildings and offer a glimpse into the past.

  • Cozy Bed and Breakfasts: These bed and breakfasts offer a warm and inviting atmosphere and personalized service.

• Vacation Rentals: Vacation rentals offer a more spacious and private accommodation option.

  • Apartments: Apartments are a great option for families or groups of friends traveling together.

  • Houses: Houses offer even more space and privacy, making them a great option for longer stays.

9. What Local Cuisine Should You Try in Parkersburg?

Parkersburg offers a variety of local cuisine that reflects the region’s Appalachian heritage.

• Pepperoni Rolls: These are a West Virginia staple, consisting of a soft bread roll filled with pepperoni and cheese.

  • Local Bakeries: Many local bakeries in Parkersburg offer pepperoni rolls, often made with their own unique recipes.

  • Gas Stations and Convenience Stores: Pepperoni rolls are also widely available at gas stations and convenience stores throughout the area.

• Biscuits and Gravy: This classic Southern dish consists of soft, fluffy biscuits topped with creamy gravy.

  • Local Restaurants: Many local restaurants in Parkersburg offer biscuits and gravy on their breakfast menus.

  • Homemade Gravy: The gravy is often made from scratch, using local ingredients and traditional recipes.

• West Virginia Hot Dogs: These hot dogs are topped with chili, slaw, mustard, and onions.

  • Hot Dog Stands: Parkersburg has several hot dog stands that specialize in West Virginia hot dogs.

  • Local Variations: Each hot dog stand often has its own unique variations on the classic recipe.

• Tudor’s Biscuit World: This regional chain is known for its oversized biscuits and hearty breakfast sandwiches.

  • Local Favorite: Tudor’s Biscuit World is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

  • Variety of Biscuits: The chain offers a variety of biscuits, including the “Ron,” the “Thundering Herd,” and the “Peppi.”

• Ramp Dishes: Ramps are a type of wild onion that grows in the Appalachian Mountains. They are often used in a variety of dishes, such as ramp soup, ramp pesto, and ramp cornbread.

  • Seasonal Delicacy: Ramps are a seasonal delicacy, typically available in the spring.

  • Local Farmers Markets: Ramps can be found at local farmers markets in Parkersburg.

10. How Can You Plan a Budget-Friendly Trip to Parkersburg?

Planning a budget-friendly trip to Parkersburg is easier than you think. There are many ways to save money while still enjoying all that the city has to offer.

• Travel During the Off-Season: The off-season in Parkersburg is typically during the fall and winter months. During this time, hotel rates and airfare prices are often lower.

  • Fewer Crowds: Traveling during the off-season also means fewer crowds at attractions and restaurants.

  • Fall Foliage: The fall months offer stunning displays of fall foliage in the surrounding mountains.

• Look for Free Activities: Parkersburg offers a variety of free activities, such as hiking at Mountwood Park, visiting the Parkersburg City Park, and exploring the downtown area.

  • Mountwood Park: This park offers miles of hiking trails and scenic views.

  • Parkersburg City Park: This park features a playground, swimming pool, and picnic areas.

  • Downtown Exploration: The downtown area is home to a variety of historic buildings, shops, and restaurants.

• Take Advantage of Discounts: Many attractions and restaurants offer discounts to students, seniors, and military personnel.

  • Student Discounts: Some attractions and restaurants offer discounts to students with a valid student ID.

  • Senior Discounts: Some attractions and restaurants offer discounts to seniors with a valid ID.

  • Military Discounts: Some attractions and restaurants offer discounts to military personnel with a valid ID.

• Pack Your Own Food and Drinks: Packing your own food and drinks can save you a significant amount of money on dining expenses.

  • Picnics: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at Mountwood Park or Parkersburg City Park.

  • Snacks: Bring snacks to munch on while exploring the city.

  • Drinks: Pack your own drinks to avoid purchasing expensive beverages at restaurants and attractions.

• Stay in Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Parkersburg offers a variety of budget-friendly accommodation options, such as motels and vacation rentals.

  • Motels: Motels are a more affordable option than hotels.

  • Vacation Rentals: Vacation rentals can be a more affordable option than hotels, especially for families or groups of friends traveling together.

FAQ about Parkersburg Tourism

• What is the best time to visit Parkersburg?
  The best time to visit Parkersburg is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer is also a popular time to visit, but the weather can be hot and humid.

• How do I get to Parkersburg?
  Parkersburg is accessible by car, with major highways such as I-77 passing through the area. The Mid-Ohio Valley Regional Airport provides air service to and from the city.

• What are some free things to do in Parkersburg?
  Some free things to do in Parkersburg include hiking at Mountwood Park, visiting the Parkersburg City Park, and exploring the downtown area.

• What are some family-friendly activities in Parkersburg?
  Some family-friendly activities in Parkersburg include visiting Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park, Mountwood Park, and the Parkersburg Art Center.

• What types of accommodation are available in Parkersburg?
  Parkersburg offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals.

• What local cuisine should I try in Parkersburg?
  Some local cuisine you should try in Parkersburg includes pepperoni rolls, biscuits and gravy, West Virginia hot dogs, and ramp dishes.

• How can I plan a budget-friendly trip to Parkersburg?
  You can plan a budget-friendly trip to Parkersburg by traveling during the off-season, looking for free activities, taking advantage of discounts, packing your own food and drinks, and staying in budget-friendly accommodation.

• Is Parkersburg a safe place to visit?
  Parkersburg is generally a safe place to visit. However, it’s always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

• What is the weather like in Parkersburg?
  The weather in Parkersburg varies depending on the season. Summers are typically hot and humid, while winters are cold and snowy. Spring and fall are mild and pleasant.

• What is there to do in Parkersburg at night?
  There are several things to do in Parkersburg at night, including catching a show at the Smoot Theatre, visiting a local restaurant or bar, or attending a concert or event at the Parkersburg Art Center.

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