For History Buffs
Perfect for history buffs interested in America's energy story
Day 1: Start your morning at the Oil and Gas Museum in downtown Parkersburg to understand how the region sparked America's energy revolution. Then, head southeast about 20 minutes to Burning Springs to see where it all began with that first successful oil well in 1860—don't miss the roadside park with historic artifacts.
Stop for lunch at a local restaurant in nearby Elizabeth before heading back north to Henderson Hall to see how oil wealth transformed local society. End your day with a stroll through Point Park along the Ohio River to watch the sunset where the Little Kanawha meets the Ohio.
Day 2: Cross the river east into Ohio to visit Campus Martius Museum in Marietta to learn about the broader settlement story of the Northwest Territory. Next, take a walk down to the riverfront to tour the W.P. Snyder Jr. sternwheeler at the Ohio River Museum to understand how rivers transported this new wealth.
Take a break to grab lunch at one of Marietta's downtown eateries, then take time to explore the historic downtown district and maybe walk along the Marietta River Trail. Head back west across the river to Parkersburg to explore Julia-Ann Square Historic District, where oil barons built their grand mansions. Cap off your weekend with dinner downtown and a leisurely walk through the historic district.
