SOUTHEAST OHIO
Matamoras Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Ohio River
SCENIC WATERWAY | MATAMORAS OHIO
The Ohio River forms the eastern border of Matamoras, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and picnicking along its banks. The river's rich history as a major transportation route adds to its allure for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike.
2. Wayne National Forest
OUTDOOR RECREATION | MARIETTA OH
Wayne National Forest is a vast outdoor playground near Matamoras, offering diverse recreational activities. Visitors can explore over 300 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The forest also provides opportunities for camping, fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing in its scenic Appalachian foothills setting.
3. North Bend State Park
NATURE & RECREATION | CAIRO WV
North Bend State Park, located near Matamoras, offers a variety of outdoor activities and scenic beauty. The park features a 305-acre lake for fishing and boating, 29 miles of hiking trails, and a 72-mile rail trail for biking and horseback riding. Visitors can also enjoy camping, picnicking, and wildlife observation.
4. The Castle
HISTORIC MANSION | MARIETTA OH
The Castle in Marietta is a stunning Gothic Revival-style mansion built in 1855. Visitors can explore the beautifully preserved interiors, period furnishings, and learn about the area's history through guided tours. The Castle also hosts special events, workshops, and educational programs throughout the year.
5. Campus Martius Museum
HISTORICAL MUSEUM | MARIETTA OH
Campus Martius Museum in Marietta showcases the early settlement of the Northwest Territory. Visitors can explore exhibits on pioneer life, Native American artifacts, and the region's role in westward expansion. The museum features the original Ohio Land Company Office and the Rufus Putnam House, offering insights into 18th-century frontier life.
6. Ohio River Museum
MARITIME HISTORY | MARIETTA OH
The Ohio River Museum in Marietta offers a fascinating look at the river's maritime history. Visitors can explore exhibits on steamboats, flatboats, and the river's ecosystem. The museum features the W.P. Snyder Jr., the last intact steam-driven sternwheel towboat in the United States, providing a unique glimpse into river transportation history.
7. Valley Gem Sternwheeler
RIVER CRUISES | MARIETTA OH
The Valley Gem Sternwheeler offers scenic river cruises on the Ohio and Muskingum Rivers from Marietta. Passengers can enjoy narrated sightseeing tours, dinner cruises, and special event voyages while experiencing the charm of a traditional sternwheel boat. The cruises provide unique views of the riverfront and surrounding landscapes.
8. Marietta Adventure Company
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES | MARIETTA OH
Marietta Adventure Company offers outdoor enthusiasts a range of exciting activities near Matamoras. Visitors can rent kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards to explore the Ohio and Muskingum Rivers. The company also provides guided tours, bike rentals, and outdoor gear sales, making it a hub for adventure seekers in the area.
9. The Adelphia Music Hall
LIVE MUSIC VENUE | MARIETTA OH
The Adelphia Music Hall in Marietta is a popular live music venue near Matamoras. The intimate setting hosts a variety of musical acts, from local bands to national touring artists. With its historic charm and excellent acoustics, the Adelphia offers visitors a unique entertainment experience in a welcoming atmosphere.
10. Peoples Bank Theatre
HISTORIC THEATER | MARIETTA OH
Peoples Bank Theatre in Marietta is a beautifully restored 1919 vaudeville theater near Matamoras. The venue hosts a diverse range of performances, including concerts, plays, comedy shows, and film screenings. With its ornate decor and excellent acoustics, the theater provides visitors with a nostalgic entertainment experience in a historic setting.
Matamoras Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN MATAMORAS
Matamoras, Ohio, is best known for its picturesque location along the Ohio River, offering visitors a glimpse into small-town Appalachian life and access to beautiful natural surroundings. The town's proximity to the Ohio River provides opportunities for scenic views, fishing, and boating, making it a draw for outdoor enthusiasts.
One of the most popular attractions near Matamoras is the Wayne National Forest, which offers extensive hiking trails, camping sites, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The forest's diverse ecosystem and recreational facilities attract nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
For those interested in history, the nearby city of Marietta offers several notable attractions. The Campus Martius Museum and Ohio River Museum provide insights into the region's rich history, from early settlement to river transportation. The Castle, a beautifully preserved Gothic Revival mansion, offers visitors a glimpse into 19th-century life in the area.
While Matamoras itself may be small, its location in Washington County and proximity to larger towns like Marietta ensures that visitors have access to a variety of cultural and recreational activities. From river cruises on the Valley Gem Sternwheeler to live performances at the Peoples Bank Theatre, the area offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences that make it a unique destination in Southeast Ohio.