Benwood West VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Benwood, West Virginia.
1. Benwood City Park
LOCAL COMMUNITY GATHERING
Benwood City Park serves as a recreational hub for residents and visitors in the heart of the municipality. The park features open green spaces, playground facilities, and areas for picnics, making it ideal for family outings or community events. Its accessible location and family-friendly atmosphere make it a pleasant stop for anyone exploring Benwood.
2. Fourth Street Playground
CHILDREN'S PLAY AREA
The Fourth Street Playground offers a safe and fun environment for children to play and enjoy outdoor activities. With its modern play equipment and secure setting, it is a popular spot for local families. Benches and shady areas make this playground comfortable for both children and supervising adults.
3. Saint John Roman Catholic Church
HISTORIC LOCAL CHURCH
Saint John Roman Catholic Church stands as a spiritual and architectural landmark in Benwood. This church, with its long-standing history, serves both as a place of worship and a gathering spot for the local Catholic community. Visitors appreciate its welcoming atmosphere and the beautiful stained glass windows adorning the sanctuary.
4. Wheeling Island Casino and Racetrack
GAMING AND RACING VENUE
Wheeling Island Casino and Racetrack offers an exciting combination of casino games and live greyhound racing. Guests can enjoy slot machines, table games, and live entertainment in a lively setting just across the river from Benwood. The venue also features dining options and special events throughout the year.
5. West Virginia Independence Hall
CIVIL WAR HISTORY SITE
West Virginia Independence Hall is a significant historical site where the state of West Virginia was founded during the Civil War. The museum inside presents exhibits on the region's Civil War history and the movement for West Virginia's statehood. Visitors can explore restored courtrooms, interactive displays, and artifacts from the 1860s.
6. Victoria Theater
CLASSIC PERFORMING ARTS
Victoria Theater is the oldest operating theater in West Virginia and hosts a variety of performances throughout the year. Audiences enjoy live music, plays, and classic film screenings in a beautifully preserved historic venue. The theater's intimate atmosphere and vintage charm make it a cultural gem in downtown Wheeling.
7. Cathedral of Saint Joseph
ARCHITECTURAL MASTERPIECE
The Cathedral of Saint Joseph is renowned for its stunning architecture and striking stained glass windows. As the seat of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, it holds both historical and religious significance. Visitors marvel at the intricate details inside the sanctuary and the serene environment for reflection.
8. Oglebay Resort & Conference Center
RESORT AND PARK RETREAT
Oglebay Resort & Conference Center features expansive parklands, a zoo, golf courses, gardens, and a variety of seasonal festivals. Families and outdoor enthusiasts relish the many recreational options, including hiking trails and lakes for fishing or boating. Its resort accommodations and attractions make Oglebay a premier destination for travelers in the Ohio Valley.
9. Wheeling Suspension Bridge
HISTORIC ENGINEERING LANDMARK
The Wheeling Suspension Bridge is a National Historic Landmark known for its impressive 19th-century engineering. Spanning the Ohio River, it offers picturesque views of the waterfront and is an iconic symbol of Wheeling's early transportation history. Visitors can walk or drive across the bridge and appreciate its unique construction and setting.
10. Grave Creek Mound Archaeological Complex
ANCIENT NATIVE AMERICAN SITE
Grave Creek Mound Archaeological Complex showcases one of the largest conical burial mounds constructed by the Adena people over 2,000 years ago. The museum features exhibits on Native American cultures and the history of mound building in the Ohio Valley. Guests can tour the mound and explore artifacts that shed light on ancient life in the region.
11. West Virginia Penitentiary
HISTORIC PRISON TOUR
The West Virginia Penitentiary is a Gothic-style prison dating back to 1876, now open for historical and paranormal tours. Visitors can explore the cell blocks, learn about the facility's infamous inmates, and discover stories of life behind bars. Ghost tours and overnight investigations offer a unique and chilling experience for the adventurous.
12. Palace of Gold
HINDU TEMPLE AND GARDENS
Palace of Gold, located in the spiritual community of New Vrindaban, is a stunning temple adorned with marble, gold leaf, and beautiful stained glass. The palace gardens are filled with fragrant flowers and offer serene walking paths. Visitors are welcome to enjoy guided tours and learn about the site's cultural and religious significance.
13. Marx Toy Museum
VINTAGE TOY COLLECTION
The Marx Toy Museum celebrates the legacy of the Marx Toy Company, once a major manufacturer of toys in the United States. Inside, families discover thousands of vintage toys displayed in colorful exhibits spanning decades of American childhood. Special events and demonstrations highlight the history and innovation behind classic playthings.
14. Grand Vue Park
ADVENTURE AND NATURE PARK
Grand Vue Park offers outdoor recreation with zip lines, hiking trails, disc golf, and a scenic overlook of the Ohio Valley. The park's cabins, campsites, and adventure amenities cater to families, groups, and thrill-seekers alike. Its panoramic views and well-maintained facilities make it a favorite for both locals and visitors.
15. Good Zoo at Oglebay
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ZOO
The Good Zoo at Oglebay features over 50 species of animals, interactive exhibits, and educational programs for all ages. Animal lovers enjoy close encounters with red pandas, river otters, and exotic birds within a beautifully landscaped environment. Seasonal events and tram rides add to the fun, creating memorable experiences for families.