SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
Discover Greater Parkersburg
The Greater Parkersburg area is not only a place of great beauty , but it is also a journey into the past . History comes alive as visitors discover the area ’ s rich heritage through exceptional museum exhibits and well-preserved historical sites .
Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park and Museum brings to life the story of America ’ s westward expansion and life along the mighty Ohio River – our country ’ s first frontier . Tour the museum and then step back in time as you travel down the Ohio River to Blennerhassett Island aboard an old-fashioned sternwheel riverboat .
Stroll through the Julia Ann Square Historic District , the largest residential historic district in West Virginia . The architectural gems that line the streets , most dating from the mid-1800s , were home to some of the area ’ s wealthiest and most powerful figures and iconic names in West Virginia ’ s history . Stop by the Greater Parkersburg visitors center to pick up a comprehensive walking-tour guide .
North of Parkersburg and overlooking the Ohio River is Henderson Hall , one of America ’ s finest and most complete historic homes . Work on the 19-room Italianate Mansion began in 1838 and was completed in 1859 . Until 2010 , an unbroken series of five generations of the Henderson family occupied the residence . As you enter the house , the original land grant signed by Governor Patrick Henry of Virginia in 1785 hangs on the wall . Similar treasures grace the rest of the house . A vast majority of the items and artifacts are original to the hall , purchased or made by the owners over the course of 200 years .
The nationally recognized Oil and Gas
Museum tells the story of the discovery of petroleum and natural gas along the Little Kanawha River and the role those vast sources of energy played in fueling the industrial revolution . The museum also houses exhibits that highlight the area ’ s ongoing history as a center of industry and manufacturing .
And while our part of the state is primarily known as a hot spot for history and heritage enthusiasts , Greater Parkersburg is rapidly developing a reputation as a regional mountain-biking destination , with 225 miles of beautiful and challenging single-track trails located within a 50- mile radius of Parkersburg . Parkersburg is also located at the western terminus of the 72-mile North Bend Rail Trail , a perfect trail for beginners , families and those who just want a leisurely hike or bike ride through the rolling countryside . Mountwood Park , with 35 miles of trail , and North Bend State Park are a couple of the go-to mountain biking venues located adjacent to the rail trail .
North Bend also has a lake that is one of the area ’ s great flatwater kayaking