destinations , and the Ohio River Water Trail , which received “ National Trail ” designation in 2020 , offers paddlers 39 miles of the Ohio River and 18 miles of the Little Kanawha River . The Little Kanawha River is also a destination for anglers looking to catch musky and small-mouth bass .
Whether exploring our intriguing history or enjoying one of our many outdoor recreation opportunities , the area is home to a host of unique restaurants and shops that will satisfy your hunger and enhance your experience . Our many remarkable restaurants offer “ foodies ” a wide variety of ethnic flavors , including Lebanese , Italian , Japanese , Filipino and Bulgarian cuisines . Hungry visitors can continue their history exploration at the North End Tavern & Brewery — the oldest operating pub in West Virginia , dating back to 1899 . The NET , as it is affectionately known by locals , is just one of three excellent and awardwinning craft breweries in the area .
Greater Parkersburg offers a wide variety of quality lodging options , including the historic Blennerhassett Hotel . The downtown hotel is over a century old and has maintained its extraordinary turn-of-the-century charm . North Bend State Park has a recently renovated 35- room lodge , and both North Bend and Mountwood Parks offer campgrounds
Blennerhasset Island
Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park is the perfect destination for history buffs and weekend-getaway lovers alike .
Your first stop is the Blennerhassett Museum of Regional History , which houses an outstanding collection of artifacts dating back to the prehistoric time of the mound-builders and the first native peoples to inhabit the land . At the museum , you can see a short film about Harmon and Margaret Blennerhassett , the star-crossed Irish aristocrats who built the most beautiful mansion on the western frontier .
Then board the graceful Island Belle sternwheeler at Point Park for a relaxing 20-minute cruise down the Ohio River and travel back in time . The highlight of the island experience is a docent-led tour of the beautifully reconstructed mansion that was known as “ Eden on the River .” Immerse yourself in the fairytale story of the Blennerhassetts and hear the tragic tale of how their idyllic world came crashing down
and cabins . For a secluded retreat or romantic getaway , the Log House Homestead Bed and Breakfast near North Bend State Park is just the ticket .
Discover the latest events and plan your trip at www . greaterparkersburg . com .
after they became involved with the notorious Aaron Burr and a plot that Thomas Jefferson called treason .
While you are on the island , you may also explore “ Mapleshade ,” another historic home located adjacent to the mansion , take a ride on a horse-drawn wagon or enjoy a peaceful stroll through the towering trees of the Black Walnut Grove .
Purchase tickets online or at the Blennerhassett Museum of Regional History .
CONTACT US
304-428-1130 or 800-752-4982 info @ parkersburgcvb . org
350 7th Street , Parkersburg , WV 26101