10 Fun Things To Do Near New Martinsville, West Virginia (Wetzel County)
If you’re looking for a small river town with easy charm, friendly people, and classic Appalachian scenery,
New Martinsville, West Virginia is a great place to explore. Sitting right on the Ohio River in
Wetzel County, it’s a quiet base for outdoor adventures, history, and simple small‑town fun.
Whether you’re planning a weekend road trip, visiting family, or just passing through on Route 2, here are
10 things to do in and around New Martinsville that show off the best of this corner of West Virginia.
1. Stroll the New Martinsville Riverfront & Watch the Barges Go By
One of the best things about New Martinsville is how close you are to the
Ohio River. You don’t need tickets or a tour; just park, walk, and take it in.
- Walk along the riverfront and watch the boats and barges.
- Bring a lawn chair and enjoy a slow WV sunset over the water.
- Pack a simple picnic and listen to the sounds of the river.
On a warm evening, you’ll see locals walking dogs, kids riding bikes, and folks just sitting on tailgates talking. It’s laid‑back, peaceful, and very “small‑town USA.”
2. Explore Downtown New Martinsville’s Historic Streets
New Martinsville has that classic
old main street feel. If you like wandering through small towns, you’ll enjoy poking around here for an hour or two.
- Check out historic brick buildings and old storefronts.
- Look for local shops and restaurants tucked into side streets.
- Stop for coffee, a slice of pie, or a home‑style meal.
Walk slowly and look up—many buildings downtown still have vintage signs, old painted ads, and architectural details that hint at the town’s riverboat and railroad past.
3. Spend a Relaxing Day at Bruce Park
Just a short drive from the center of town,
Bruce Park is New Martinsville’s local hangout for families, dog‑walkers, and anyone who needs some fresh air.
You’ll typically find:
- Playgrounds for the kids
- Shaded picnic areas and shelters
- Open green space for tossing a football or frisbee
If you’re on a road trip and need a break from the car, this is a great place to stretch your legs. Grab some takeout from downtown, find a picnic table, and enjoy a simple outdoor meal.
4. Visit the Wetzel County Museum & Step Back in Time
To really understand New Martinsville and
Wetzel County, make time for a stop at a local history museum (or small local collections when they’re open). These places may not be huge, but they’re packed with stories.
You can expect to see:
- Artifacts from the early river and railroad days
- Photos of New Martinsville “back in the day”
- Items from local industries like oil, gas, and glass
If you love learning how a small town grew up along the Ohio River, you’ll enjoy chatting with the volunteers and staff. They often know the kind of stories you won’t find in any travel brochure.
5. Fish the Ohio River or Nearby Creeks
If you like to fish, the New Martinsville area gives you plenty of options. The
Ohio River, along with local creeks and backwaters, can be surprisingly productive.
You might catch:
- Catfish
- Smallmouth and largemouth bass
- Bluegill and other panfish
Bring your fishing gear, a folding chair, and a cooler. Find a spot along the riverbank or check out public access areas. Just be sure you have the proper
West Virginia fishing license before you cast a line.
Have kids with you? Even a simple hour of bobber‑fishing can be a trip highlight.
6. Take a Scenic Drive Along the Ohio River on Route 2
Sometimes the journey really is the destination. The stretch of
WV Route 2 that passes through New Martinsville is a classic Ohio River drive, with hills on one side and water on the other.
On this scenic drive you can:
- Stop at small river towns for photos or snacks.
- Look for river overlooks and pull‑offs with nice views.
- Spot barges, bridges, and old industrial sites along the way.
If you’re coming from Wheeling, Moundsville, or Parkersburg, leave yourself extra time. The views can be especially pretty in the fall when the hills explode with color.
7. Enjoy Community Events & Festivals (Check the Local Calendar)
New Martinsville may be small, but like many West Virginia towns, it comes alive during local events and festivals.
Depending on the time of year, you might find:
- Seasonal festivals with food booths and live music
- Parades and holiday celebrations downtown
- Local sports games and school events that welcome visitors
If you’re planning a trip, check community pages, the city website, or local social media groups for what’s happening. Small‑town festivals are a great way to meet locals and taste real regional food, from barbecue to church‑baked desserts.
8. Hike and Explore Wetzel County’s Hills and Back Roads
Once you leave the river, you quickly climb into classic Appalachian foothills. While Wetzel County doesn’t have giant national parks, it does offer plenty of
quiet rural scenery.
Ideas:
- Drive the back roads and enjoy ridge‑top views.
- Look for short local trails, churchyards, or old cemeteries with views.
- Bring a camera—misty mornings and sunset light can be beautiful here.
If you’re used to city life, the quiet can feel almost shocking at first. But that’s the charm. Rolling hills, narrow roads, and old farmhouses give you a real sense of rural West Virginia.
9. Take a Day Trip to Nearby Attractions in the Ohio Valley
One nice thing about staying in New Martinsville is that you’re within easy driving distance of other Ohio Valley spots. If you don’t mind a short drive, you can build in a fun day trip.
Popular nearby options include:
- Moundsville, WV – home to the historic West Virginia Penitentiary and the Grave Creek Mound Archaeological Complex.
- Wheeling, WV – with its Victorian neighborhoods, Oglebay Park, and riverfront.
- Small Ohio towns just across the river for a quick “state hop.”
Use New Martinsville as a quieter, more affordable base, then head out in the morning and return in the evening. It’s a good way to mix laid‑back small‑town evenings with busy sightseeing days.
10. Support Local Diners, Bakeries, and Mom‑and‑Pop Shops
One of the most rewarding things to do in New Martinsville is also the simplest:
eat and shop local.
Look for:
- Family‑owned diners serving big breakfasts and home‑cooked dinners.
- Local pizza places, ice cream spots, or drive‑ins.
- Small shops selling crafts, antiques, or WV‑themed souvenirs.
In towns like this, your business really does matter. Plus, you’re likely to get friendly conversation along with your meal. Don’t be shy about asking for tips on other things to do in Wetzel County—locals often know the best scenic spots and hidden gems.
Planning Your Trip to New Martinsville, WV
Here are a few quick tips to make your visit smoother:
- Season: Spring and fall are especially pretty; summers are warm but great for river views.
- Transportation: You’ll want a car—this is a driving area, not a big public‑transit region.
- Pace: Things move slower here. Stores may close earlier than in big cities, so plan ahead.
New Martinsville isn’t about big crowds or flashy attractions. It’s about
slowing down, breathing in some fresh river air, and enjoying the kind of simple pleasures that are easy to overlook in busier places.
Share Your New Martinsville Experience
Have you visited
New Martinsville, West Virginia or anywhere in
Wetzel County?
- What was your favorite thing to do near New Martinsville?
- Did you discover a great local restaurant, festival, or hidden scenic spot?
Share your tips, stories, and questions in the comments—your experience can help other travelers planning a trip to this quiet corner of the Ohio Valley.
If you found this guide to
things to do near New Martinsville, WV helpful, please
share it with friends or family who love small‑town road trips and river towns. It might just inspire their next weekend getaway.
Comments
Post a Comment