Ceredo West VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ceredo, West Virginia.
1. Ramsdell House
HISTORIC CIVIL WAR SITE
The Ramsdell House stands as one of the top attractions in Ceredo, offering visitors a glimpse into the area's Civil War history. Visitors can explore this well-preserved historical site to learn about local heritage and the region's role during this pivotal time in American history. The house features period furnishings and informative displays that bring the past to life for history enthusiasts of all ages.
2. Ceredo Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Ceredo Historical Society Museum houses a wealth of artifacts and documents relating to the history of Ceredo and surrounding areas like Kenova, Westmoreland, and Catlettsburg. Founded in 1975 to preserve Ceredo's history for future generations, this museum showcases Civil War artifacts, locally-produced glass pieces, the famous Ceredo Petroglyph, and C-K High school memorabilia. Open on Tuesdays and Fridays from 10 am to 4 pm, this free museum welcomes visitors to explore its extensive collection of historical materials including genealogy books, census records, yearbooks, and newspaper clippings.
3. Rocco's Ristorante
AUTHENTIC ITALIAN DINING
Rocco's Ristorante is a beloved local gem nestled in a quiet neighborhood in Ceredo that serves authentic Italian cuisine. This restaurant offers a taste of Italy deep in the hills of western West Virginia, making it a repeated destination for locals and visitors alike. Visitors can enjoy generous plates of pasta and other Italian specialties in a warm, welcoming atmosphere that captures the rich Italian heritage present throughout West Virginia.
4. Kenova Pumpkin House
SPECTACULAR HALLOWEEN DISPLAY
The Kenova Pumpkin House serves as the centerpiece of the Ceredo-Kenova AutumnFest and has become one of West Virginia's favorite tourist attractions. What began in 1978 with only 5 carved pumpkins has grown into a spectacular display featuring 3,000 hand-carved pumpkins that welcomes nearly 30,000 visitors each year. Located at 748 Beech Street in Kenova, this celebrated seasonal attraction has become a multi-generational tradition for many families who return year after year to experience the impressive Halloween display.
5. Frostop Drive-In
NOSTALGIC ROOT BEER EXPERIENCE
Frostop Drive-In offers visitors a nostalgic dining experience reminiscent of a 1950s diner, complete with its famous root beer that locals consider among the best in the region. Opened in 1959, this iconic establishment features a giant root beer mug that spins on the roof, making it a perfect backdrop for memorable photos. Visitors can enjoy the restaurant's signature root beer along with classic American fare in this beloved establishment that maintains its mid-century charm.
6. Redman Bingo
ENTERTAINMENT AND GAMING
Redman Bingo offers an exciting gaming experience in a massive building that was formerly a Lowe's in West Huntington. This entertainment venue provides visitors with the opportunity to play bingo while enjoying food and drinks in a lively atmosphere. The establishment is known for being the kind of large-scale bingo operation typically only found in major metropolitan areas, making it a unique attraction for the region.
7. Huntington Museum of Art
CULTURAL ARTS CENTER
The Huntington Museum of Art stands as a nationally accredited institution offering wonderful art and cultural experiences to visitors. This special museum has been a cornerstone of the region's cultural landscape for many years, providing access to significant art collections and exhibitions. Visitors can explore diverse artistic expressions while appreciating the museum's contribution to the cultural enrichment of the Huntington area and surrounding communities like Ceredo.
8. Ceredo-Kenova AutumnFest
SEASONAL COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
The Ceredo-Kenova AutumnFest brings together the communities of Ceredo and Kenova for a vibrant seasonal celebration each fall. This festival features various activities and attractions that celebrate the autumn season, with the famous Pumpkin House serving as its centerpiece. Visitors from throughout the region gather to enjoy this community event that showcases local culture, food, and entertainment while highlighting the unique charm of these connected West Virginia towns.
9. Ceredo Plaza
LOCAL SHOPPING CENTER
Ceredo Plaza serves as a convenient shopping destination for residents and visitors to the Ceredo area. This local shopping center offers various retail establishments and services that cater to everyday needs and specialty items. Visitors can enjoy the small-town shopping experience while finding necessary goods without having to travel to larger commercial areas in neighboring cities.
10. Paul Ambrose Trail for Health
RECREATIONAL WALKING PATH
The Paul Ambrose Trail for Health (PATH) offers an extensive network of walking and biking trails that connect communities in the greater Huntington area, including Ceredo. Named in memory of Dr. Paul Ambrose, a Huntington native who died in the September 11 attacks, this trail system promotes community health and outdoor recreation. Visitors can enjoy scenic routes that showcase the natural beauty of the region while providing opportunities for exercise and leisure activities.
11. Camden Park
HISTORIC AMUSEMENT PARK
Camden Park delights visitors as one of America's few remaining trolley parks, operating since 1903 just a short drive from Ceredo. This historic amusement park features classic rides, including the Big Dipper wooden roller coaster and a vintage carousel that have entertained generations of families. Visitors can experience a nostalgic day of fun while enjoying traditional park foods and games in this cherished local attraction that has maintained its mid-century charm.
12. Ritter Park
URBAN GREEN SPACE
Ritter Park provides a beautiful urban retreat spanning 75 acres in the heart of Huntington, just minutes from Ceredo. This award-winning park features walking trails, tennis courts, a playground, and the stunning Rose Garden with hundreds of rose varieties on display during the blooming season. Visitors can enjoy peaceful strolls along the meandering Four Pole Creek, picnics under mature trees, or participate in various recreational activities within this green oasis that has earned recognition as one of America's Great Public Spaces.
13. Heritage Farm Museum and Village
APPALACHIAN HISTORY EXPERIENCE
Heritage Farm Museum and Village offers an immersive journey into Appalachian history through its collection of authentic log structures and period exhibits near Huntington and Ceredo. This living history museum showcases the ingenuity and self-sufficiency of early Appalachian settlers through hands-on demonstrations of traditional crafts and skills. Visitors can explore more than a dozen restored buildings including a blacksmith shop, one-room schoolhouse, and various homesteads that bring the region's rich cultural heritage to life.
14. Beech Fork State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Beech Fork State Park encompasses over 3,100 acres of natural beauty within easy reach of Ceredo, offering visitors outstanding recreational opportunities throughout the year. The park features a 720-acre lake perfect for fishing and boating, along with extensive camping facilities that include both traditional and modern options for overnight stays. Visitors can explore miles of hiking trails through hardwood forests, observe diverse wildlife in their natural habitats, or simply relax while enjoying the serene Appalachian landscape.
15. Marshall University
HISTORIC EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION
Marshall University stands as a historic educational institution with a beautiful campus just minutes from Ceredo, offering visitors various cultural and sporting events throughout the year. The university's campus features impressive architecture, public art installations, and the moving Memorial Fountain commemorating the 1970 plane crash that claimed the lives of 75 football players, coaches, and supporters. Visitors can tour the campus, catch a Thundering Herd athletic event, or attend performances at the Joan C. Edwards Performing Arts Center, experiencing the vibrant academic community that serves as a cultural anchor for the region.