Vienna West VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Vienna, West Virginia.
1. McDonough Wildlife Refuge
NATURE TRAILS AND WILDLIFE
McDonough Wildlife Refuge offers a peaceful escape with hiking trails, duck marshes, and scenic overlooks amid the natural beauty of Vienna. Visitors can explore marked trails, view local flora and fauna, and unwind at picnic facilities within the reserve. The refuge is a favorite spot for birdwatching, leisurely walks, and enjoying the tranquility of West Virginia's landscape.
2. Grand Central Mall
PREMIER SHOPPING DESTINATION
Grand Central Mall is Vienna's largest and most popular shopping and dining complex, featuring a wide array of national retailers, specialty stores, and popular restaurants. The mall provides a convenient one-stop location for shopping enthusiasts and families looking for entertainment or a great meal. Regular events and seasonal activities also make this venue a lively gathering spot throughout the year.
3. Jackson Memorial Park
FAMILY RECREATION PARK
Jackson Memorial Park serves as a community hub with playgrounds, walking paths, sports courts, and spacious green fields for relaxation and recreation. Locals and visitors alike enjoy picnicking under tree-shaded areas, participating in athletic activities, or attending community events held at the park. Its well-maintained facilities make it ideal for families seeking outdoor fun or a bit of exercise.
4. Holl's Swiss Chocolatier
ARTISAN CHOCOLATE SHOP
Holl's Swiss Chocolatier invites visitors to indulge in handcrafted chocolates made using traditional Swiss recipes and premium ingredients. The charming shop offers tours, tastings, and a delightful selection of truffles, pralines, and confections suitable for gifts or personal treats. It has become a beloved destination for both locals and tourists with a sweet tooth.
5. Parkersburg Country Club
HISTORIC GOLF COURSE
Parkersburg Country Club, located in Vienna, features a meticulously maintained golf course, tennis courts, swimming facilities, and a clubhouse with dining options. The club, with its storied history and scenic views, offers a range of memberships and hosts various tournaments and social events. Guests can enjoy a round of golf or take in the sociable, relaxed atmosphere of this local institution.
6. Ohio Valley University
CAMPUS AND EVENTS VENUE
Ohio Valley University has been a prominent educational institution in Vienna, with a picturesque campus that often hosts public events, lectures, and cultural activities. Visitors can stroll the peaceful grounds or attend special events that engage both students and the wider community. The university setting provides a unique venue for learning as well as recreation.
7. Indian Acres Park
LEISURE AND PLAY SPACES
Indian Acres Park, located just south in Parkersburg, offers expansive play areas, walking trails, and picnic shelters for a variety of recreational pursuits. The park is popular for its playground equipment, basketball courts, and family-friendly atmosphere. It provides a pleasant green space that's easily accessible from Vienna and surrounding communities.
8. Smoot Theatre
HISTORIC PERFORMING ARTS
Smoot Theatre in downtown Parkersburg captivates visitors with its beautifully restored 1926 interior and a diverse schedule of live performances, from concerts to Broadway-style shows. The venue's vintage charm and acoustics make it a beloved destination for theatre and music enthusiasts. Regular events offer entertainment options for all ages just a short drive from Vienna.
9. Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park
RIVER ISLAND HISTORY PARK
Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park offers a unique journey back in time with its restored mansion, horse-drawn wagon rides, and historical reenactments on a scenic Ohio River island. Accessible by sternwheeler boat from Parkersburg, the park provides engaging tours and events highlighting the story of Harman and Margaret Blennerhassett. The island's picnic spots and nature trails add outdoor adventure to this cultural landmark.
10. The Castle Historic House
VICTORIAN-ERA MANSION MUSEUM
The Castle Historic House, located across the river in Marietta, Ohio, is a beautifully preserved 1855 Gothic Revival mansion offering guided tours that delve into local history and architecture. The museum also hosts seasonal events, educational programs, and themed tours for visitors of all ages. Its lush grounds and period furnishings provide a glimpse into 19th-century life in the Mid-Ohio Valley.
11. Campus Martius Museum
PIONEER SETTLEMENT MUSEUM
Campus Martius Museum in Marietta showcases artifacts and exhibits on Ohio's pioneer era, with reconstructed fortifications and engaging galleries that recount early American frontier life. Visitors can explore authentic log buildings and learn about the region's founding through interactive displays. It's a must-visit for history buffs interested in the roots of the Northwest Territory.
12. Oil and Gas Museum
ENERGY INDUSTRY HISTORY
The Oil and Gas Museum in Parkersburg tells the story of West Virginia's vital role in the nation's energy industry, with in-depth exhibits, restored machinery, and archival displays. The museum highlights the region's history as an early center of oil and gas innovation. Visitors can explore the impact of energy on local communities through fascinating artifacts and stories.
13. Fort Boreman Park
CIVIL WAR OVERLOOK PARK
Fort Boreman Park offers panoramic views of Parkersburg and the Ohio River from its hilltop Civil War-era fortification site. Visitors can walk interpretive trails that explain the area's strategic military significance and enjoy scenic picnic areas. The park combines historical insight with spectacular vistas, making it a favorite for both sightseeing and learning.
14. Valley Gem Sternwheeler
SCENIC RIVERBOAT TOURS
Valley Gem Sternwheeler in Marietta offers scenic cruises along the Ohio and Muskingum Rivers aboard a classic paddlewheel boat. Passengers experience breathtaking views and narrated tours that highlight local history and river lore. The cruises are popular for families, tourists, and anyone wanting to see the region from a unique vantage point.
15. Henderson Hall Plantation
HISTORIC PLANTATION ESTATE
Henderson Hall Plantation near Williamstown is a National Historic Landmark featuring a 17-room pre-Civil War mansion, original furnishings, and sprawling grounds. Guided tours reveal intriguing stories of the Henderson family, the home's architecture, and its place in regional history. Visitors are transported to a bygone era through well-preserved artifacts and sweeping views of the Ohio River landscape.