Things To Do
in Parkersburg
Parkersburg is a city in West Virginia, United States, located at the confluence of the Ohio and Little Kanawha Rivers. It is known for its rich history, including its role in the oil and gas industry and the Civil War. The city offers a mix of urban amenities and outdoor recreational opportunities, with parks, trails, and access to the Ohio River for boating and fishing.
Parkersburg also has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with museums, theaters, and festivals celebrating local heritage.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park. Enjoy a scenic ferry ride and explore the beautiful grounds.
After lunch, head to the Oil and Gas Museum to learn about the area's rich industrial history. The exhibits provide an engaging look into Parkersburg's past.
Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll along the Ohio River. Enjoy the sunset views and perhaps dine at a riverside restaurant.
Begin at the Parkersburg Art Center, showcasing local artists. Take your time to appreciate the varied exhibitions and maybe join a workshop.
Visit the Smoot Theatre, a historic venue offering performances and tours. Check their schedule for any afternoon shows or events.
Enjoy dinner at a local bistro followed by a live music event at a downtown venue. Experience the vibrant local arts scene.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable cost of living compared to national averages.
- Scenic views and access to outdoor activities, including nearby rivers and parks.
- Strong sense of community and friendly residents.
- Rich historical background and cultural sites.
- Growing job opportunities in certain sectors such as healthcare and manufacturing.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Fewer entertainment and dining choices compared to larger cities.
- Potential challenges with local economy and job market stability.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with cold winters and humid summers.
- Some areas may experience higher crime rates compared to national averages.
Best Activities in Parkersburg
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a riverboat ride to this island park and enjoy historical tours, hiking, and picnicking.
Explore this 72-mile trail for hiking, biking, and horseback riding amid scenic views and historical landmarks.
Enjoy outdoor activities like walking, picnicking, and birdwatching in this park with panoramic views of the Ohio River.
Tours
Uncover the best of Parkersburg with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Parkersburg
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the Ohio and Little Kanawha Rivers, as well as the historic railroad bridge.
Provides picturesque views of the Ohio River and scenic landscapes, with opportunities for photography and outdoor exploration.
Features beautiful historic architecture and tree-lined streets, offering charming photo opportunities and scenic views.
Food in Parkersburg
Parkersburg Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A West Virginian classic, the pepperoni roll consists of pepperoni baked in a soft white yeast bread. It's a popular grab-and-go snack, perfect for a quick bite while exploring the city. Recommended place: Country Club Bakery.
Must-Try!
A unique dish featuring slow-cooked squirrel meat in a rich gravy, often served over biscuits. It's a traditional Appalachian delicacy that provides a taste of the region's culinary heritage. Recommended place: North Market Bistro.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Parkersburg better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Experience the vibrant local food scene and discover fresh produce, artisanal goods, and homemade treats. The market also features food trucks offering diverse street food options, such as gourmet sandwiches and international cuisine.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Parkersburg, it is important to be mindful of personal space and to not invade others' personal boundaries when interacting with them.
It is customary to greet others with a friendly 'hello' or 'good morning' when entering a public space or when meeting someone for the first time.
Politeness and courtesy are highly valued in Parkersburg, and it is important to use phrases like 'please' and 'thank you' in interactions with others.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Parkersburg with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Parkersburg
Ensure a smooth experience
In Parkersburg, United States, tipping is a common practice in restaurants, bars, hotels, and for other services such as taxi rides and hairdresser appointments. The standard tip percentage is generally 15-20% of the total bill.
Payment in Parkersburg, United States, is commonly made using credit or debit cards, cash, or mobile payment apps. Most businesses accept major credit and debit cards. Contactless payment methods are also becoming increasingly popular.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Parkersburg.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperate climate, budding trees and blooming flowers, ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.
Warm and humid weather, perfect for water activities and outdoor events.
Cooler temperatures, vibrant foliage, and harvest festivals.
Cold and snowy, suitable for winter sports and holiday celebrations.
Parkersburg at Night
Hiking in Parkersburg
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located just a short drive from Parkersburg, North Bend State Park features a variety of hiking trails amidst beautiful landscapes, including hills, forests, and streams.
This urban park offers scenic walking and hiking paths along the Ohio River, providing a flat and easy route for casual hikers.
Accessed by ferry, this park has several hiking trails that let you explore the historical island and its natural beauty.
This park features walking and hiking trails alongside the Little Kanawha River, perfect for a peaceful day out in nature.
A local park with a network of trails suitable for hiking, walking, and exploring the natural surroundings, ideal for families.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Parkersburg through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Parkersburg by plane.
The main airport serving the Pittsburgh area, located approximately 100 miles from Parkersburg, WV.
John Glenn Columbus International Airport, located around 120 miles from Parkersburg, is a major airport in Ohio.
Located in Charleston, West Virginia, about 70 miles from Parkersburg. It serves as a regional hub.
Located in Huntington, West Virginia, approximately 70 miles from Parkersburg.
Located roughly 150 miles from Parkersburg, this major airport serves the Cincinnati area and beyond.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant demographic group in Parkersburg, comprising a significant majority of the population.
The second largest demographic group, contributing to the cultural diversity of the community.
A growing demographic group, including individuals from diverse backgrounds across Hispanic heritage.
Represents a smaller segment of the population, including individuals from various Asian ethnic backgrounds.
Individuals identifying with multiple racial backgrounds, reflecting increased multiracial identities.
A small demographic group that includes individuals of Native American origins.
One of the smallest demographic groups within Parkersburg, representing individuals from Pacific Island cultures.
The Soul of Parkersburg
Discover the essence of Parkersburg through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular indoor sport played by two teams of five players each, aiming to score points by shooting a ball through the opponent's hoop.
A widely followed team sport where two teams compete to advance an oval ball into the opponent's end zone to score points.
A bat-and-ball game played between two teams, where players score runs by hitting a pitched ball and running around a series of bases.
A globally popular sport where two teams of eleven players each attempt to score by getting a ball into the opposing team's net using any part of their body except their hands.
A combat sport involving grappling techniques, where two competitors aim to gain control over each other on a mat.
A collection of athletic events that involve running, jumping, and throwing, often featured in school and community competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Parkersburg.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Parkersburg offer vegetarian and vegan menu items, ranging from fresh salads and plant-based bowls to innovative meat alternatives. Notable places include The Coffee Bar and The Greenhouse of Vienna.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find accommodating options at various eateries in Parkersburg. From gluten-free baked goods at The Village Cakery to customizable gluten-free dishes at The Blennerhassett Hotel Restaurant, there are options to suit different dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Parkersburg with these cultural adventures.
