Things To Do
in Parkersburg

Parkersburg is a charming city located in West Virginia, known for its rich history and scenic views along the Ohio River. The city boasts a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and theaters that showcase local talent. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the area's parks and recreational opportunities, while history buffs can explore its well-preserved architecture and museums.

Parkersburg serves as a gateway to the natural beauty of West Virginia, making it a perfect destination for a weekend getaway.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Downtown Parkersburg
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, followed by a stroll through the historic downtown area, visiting shops and galleries.

afternoon
:

Visit the Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park, where you can take a ferry to explore the island's trails and historical sites.

evening
:

Dine at a waterfront restaurant, enjoying local seafood while watching the sunset over the river.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Have breakfast at a local bakery, then head to the Parkersburg Art Center to view local art exhibitions.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at the Fort Boreman Park, where you can enjoy hiking and panoramic views of the city.

evening
:

Catch a live performance at the Smoot Theatre, followed by drinks at a nearby pub.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Burger Meal$10
Coffee$3
🍕Pizza Slice$2.50
🚌Public Transport Ticket$1.50
🏨Hotel (per night)$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich history and cultural sites.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation options may be sparse.
  • Some areas might feel less vibrant during winter.

Places to Visit in Parkersburg

Visit one of these nice places.

Blennerhassett Island

Captivating views of the Ohio River and the historic mansion make this a perfect spot for landscape photography.

Fort Boreman Park

Offers panoramic views of Parkersburg and the river, ideal for sunset shots.

Parkersburg City Park

With beautiful gardens, a lake, and walking paths, this park provides numerous opportunities for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Parkersburg

Parkersburg offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects both local flavors and diverse influences. Visitors can savor a variety of dishes that highlight West Virginia's agricultural heritage.

Parkersburg Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pepperoni Rolls

A West Virginia classic, these bread rolls filled with pepperoni make for a delicious snack or meal.

Must-Try!

Biscuits and Gravy

A hearty breakfast dish featuring fluffy biscuits topped with creamy sausage gravy, perfect for starting your day.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Parkersburg Farmers Market

Open seasonally, this market features local produce, homemade goods, and street food vendors offering delicious bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

Parkersburg experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Average summer temperatures range from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C), making it ideal for outdoor activities. Winters can be chilly, with temperatures averaging 20°F to 40°F (-6°C to 4°C), often accompanied by snow. Spring and fall provide mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, making these seasons particularly enjoyable for visitors.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Southern Hospitality

Friendly greetings and polite conversation are the norms; always say 'hello' and 'thank you.'

Respect Personal Space

Maintain a comfortable distance in conversations, especially with strangers.

Punctuality

Being on time is appreciated, especially for social gatherings and events.

Safety Guide

Safety

Parkersburg is generally a safe city, but as with any travel destination, it is advisable to take common safety precautions. Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoid poorly lit areas. Keep personal belongings secure and consider using a hotel safe for valuables. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 911.

Tipping in Parkersburg

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Standard tipping is around 15-20% for restaurant service. It's appreciated to tip bartenders $1-2 per drink.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is advisable for smaller vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, perfect for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm weather brings opportunities for water sports and outdoor events, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Fall

The changing leaves provide stunning fall foliage, making it a picturesque time for hikes and photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures and potential snowfall can limit outdoor activities, but holiday events and decorations add charm to the city.

Nightlife Guide

Parkersburg at Night

Parkersburg's nightlife is a blend of casual pubs, live music venues, and intimate bars. The downtown area comes alive in the evening with locals enjoying drinks and entertainment. Live music, karaoke nights, and trivia events are popular, offering a fun atmosphere for socializing. While not as bustling as larger cities, there's a cozy charm that invites visitors to relax and enjoy the local scene.

Hiking in Parkersburg

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

North Bend State Park Trail

Offers a scenic 1.5-mile loop trail with beautiful views of the river and surrounding forest.

Harris Riverfront Park Trail

This easy trail runs along the Ohio River, perfect for a leisurely hike or bike ride with excellent water views.

Airports

How to reach Parkersburg by plane.

Mid-Ohio Valley Regional Airport (PKB)

Located about 10 miles from Parkersburg, this airport offers limited domestic flights, making it convenient for regional travel.

Getting Around

Walkability

Parkersburg is relatively walkable, especially in the downtown area where many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are pedestrian crossings at major intersections. However, some neighborhoods may require a vehicle for more comprehensive exploration, particularly those farther from the city center.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

This group is growing in Parkersburg, attracted by job opportunities and the affordable cost of living.

Retirees

Many retirees choose Parkersburg for its peaceful atmosphere, recreational activities, and community engagement.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

High school and college football are particularly popular, with local teams drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Basketball

Community leagues and school teams promote a vibrant basketball culture in the area.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Parkersburg is generally light, with peak congestion during rush hours. Public transportation options include local buses, but many residents rely on personal vehicles. Visitors may find it easiest to explore the city by car, especially when venturing to outdoor areas or nearby attractions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Parkersburg.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Parkersburg offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, so inquire about options when dining out.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some local eateries provide gluten-free options, and it's advisable to ask staff about specific menu items.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Parkersburg offers access to healthcare services through several local clinics and hospitals, including Camden Clark Medical Center. Emergency services are available, and most healthcare facilities are equipped to handle common medical issues. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance and know the location of the nearest medical facility.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide