Mid-Ohio Valley |
The Mid-Ohio
Valley Region doesn't boast of big city entertainment and hubbub,
spectacular vistas, or large theme/amusement parks. It does
boast of its small towns, its history, its friendly people,
its relaxing atmosphere, its green landscape, its gems of glass
works, museums, world's oldest Five-and-dime store, gourmet
chocolate factory and its river towns. Outdoor activities such
as hiking, biking, hunting, fishing and picnicking abound. Vacation
at a relaxing pace, ride a steamboat, motor through the lush
countryside, make new frinds--all this and you will have a memorable
time in this region.
Things to See and Do
Attractions
The Cultural
Center of Fine Arts in Parkersburg - Presents dynamic and exciting
changing art displays of regional and national works of art
as well as traveling art exhibits. Classes, tours, gift shop.
Grand Central
Mall between Parkersburg and Vienna - Contains over 100 shops,
boutiques, specialty shops, restaurants and 12-screen theater.
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Holl's
Swiss Chocolatier in Vienna - Satisfy your sweet tooth cravings
with chocolates handmade the Old World way, in small batches
to ensure quality and freshness. Creations like triple-sec truffles,
raspberry truffles, to regular Swiss chocolate bits that will
delight and excite.
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The
Fenton Art Glass Company in Williamstown - Experience the
entire art of glass-making from the furnace to the finished
pressed or hand-blown products as you tour the factory. For
nearly a century, Fenton has created exquisite works of art
glass. Gift shop.
Covered Bridges
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Sarvis
Fork covered bridge located near Sandyville, WV (Jackson County).
This bridge was built in 1889 and spans Sandy Creek. From Sandyville,
take Secondary Route 21 north for 2.1 miles. Turn right onto
Secondary Route 21/15.
Staats
Mill covered bridge located near Ripley, WV (Jackson County).
This bridge was built in 1888. Located southeast of Ripley.
Historic Sites
Blennerhassett
Island Historic State Park
in Parkersburg - Located on Blennerhassett Island on the Ohio
River. The island was settled in 1798 by Harman Blennerhassett
where he built a large mansion containing 7,000 sq. ft of living
space and elegantly furnished. In 1806, an alleged military
conspiracy with Aaron Burr resulted in Harman's imprisonment.
The mansion, burned to the ground in 1811, was reconstructed
to its original image recently for visitors to see. The
Historic Blennerhassett Hotel in Parkersburg - Registered
as a National Historic Landmark. Gaslight era architecture,
authentic English doors and antiques, brass and leaded glass
chandelier. -
Museum
Oil
& Gas Museum in Parkersburg - Encompasses the history
of the oil and gas discovery and industry in West Virginia.
In 1771, George Washington purchased 250 acres that contained
an oil and gas spring, becoming America's first oil speculator.
First major wells were drilled in 1819. -
Fenton
Museum in Williamstown - More than 1,000 pieces of art glass
on display including rare Carnival Glass that made Fenton a
household name. Opalescent, hob nail, exotic colors and patterns
are here for your viewing pleasure.
Parks & Trails
North
Bend State Park
in Cairo - A 1,400-acre park surrounded in nature's beauty.
Fishing, hiking, biking, picnic shelters, playground, outdoor
pool, miniature golf, lodge, campgrounds and cabins, restaurant.
Mountwood
Park in Parkersburg - Has 2,600 acres of wooded hills and
valleys with 15-miles of hiking and biking trails, lake area
for fishing and non-motorized boat rentals, picnic area with
tables, grills, and shelter. Concession stand.
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