Parkersburg

Visit Brunello Restaurant & Lounge, a Parkersburg favorite that combines fine dining with warm hospitality. Step inside the Blennerhassett Hotel and browse the tempting menu, which features innovative takes on American and Continental classics.  If you crave authentic Middle Eastern food, check out Cham’s. This Lebanese family restaurant has authentic shawarma, chicken kebabs and possibly the best hummus around. Der Dog Haus is unpretentious and casual— just what you expect from a basic diner. Parkersburg locals rave about their West Virginia-style hot dogs. Try one! These come with “sauce” (chili-style meat) and plenty of slaw.

One of the biggest gastronomic events in town is Taste of Parkersburg. Every spring, chefs, brewers and musicians gather at this evening festival. Reserve a table and buy tasting tickets! Some of the best wine, desserts, craft beer and cuisine will be there. Parkersburg Brewing Company is a local favorite. Try the Cell Block 304, a gold winner of the 2018 World Beer Cup. During summer, the Point Park Music Series unfolds on the first Friday of the month. All sorts of singers and musicians take the stage at this free event. Sit by the water, listen to catchy tunes and watch as evening settles over downtown Parkersburg. 

Tour six galleries at Parkersburg Art Center, the oldest of its kind in West Virginia. There’s even a section with nothing but children’s art. You can also buy local jewelry, textiles, and more in the gift shop.  J & M’s Used Bookstore showcases a wide selection of novels, literature and sci-fi classics. They have a decent selection of board games, too.

One of Parkersburg’s most popular destinations is Blennerhassett Island, a place that’s witnessed plenty of drama. Visit Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park and learn all about the mysterious Aaron Burr conspiracy. Join your friends for a weekend of brain teasers and excitement. The Escape Room WV puts you in a “locked” house riddled with clues and codes. Can you solve the mystery before time’s up? Nearby North Bend State Park offers a stretch of the 72-mile North Bend Rail Trail which follows a B&O Railroad corridor with several tunnels along the way.

Take a walk through Julia-Ann Square, a delightful member of the National Register of Historic Places. Keep a lookout for frilly gingerbread trim, graceful columns and adorable gardens— Victorian and Edwardian homes come by the dozen here. Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park has considerable 18th and 19th-century lore. Vice President Aaron Burr once stayed here while allegedly conspiring against the United States. You can tour a Palladian mansion that’s modeled after the one he used as his headquarters. Other island attractions include a sternwheeler boat, horse-drawn wagons and scenic hiking paths.

The Blennerhassett Hotel is your passport to a luxurious stay in Parkersburg. No room is exactly the same at this historic place, which boasts Old World elegance and atmosphere. Amenities include an atrium, library and sophisticated restaurant. North Bend State Park boasts a 29-guest room lodge, secluded and cozy cabins and a variety of campsites. Whatever your preference, North Bend has you covered.