10 Fun Things To Do Near Pea Ridge, West Virginia (Cabell County)

If you find yourself near Pea Ridge, West Virginia, you might wonder, “What is there to do around here?” Good news: quite a lot. Pea Ridge sits just east of Huntington in Cabell County, so you’re only a short drive from parks, rivers, great food, and some surprising local history. Whether you’re passing through on I‑64 or visiting family nearby, this list will help you make the most of your time in the area.

1. Stretch Your Legs at Pea Ridge’s Local Parks

You don’t have to go far at all for your first activity. Right in and around Pea Ridge, you’ll find small neighborhood parks and green spaces that are perfect for a quick walk or an easy evening. These parks are great if you’re:

Traveling with kids who need to burn off energy
Walking the dog after a long drive
Looking for a quiet spot to sit with a coffee

Bring a simple picnic, toss a ball around, or just take a slow stroll. Sometimes the best part of travel is enjoying an ordinary moment in a new place.

2. Enjoy the Riverfront in Huntington

Pea Ridge is only about 10–15 minutes from downtown Huntington, and the Ohio River is the star of the show there. The Harris Riverfront Park area is an easy place to start. You can:

Walk along the river and watch barges drift by
Sit on a bench and enjoy the view of Ohio across the water
Catch events, festivals, or live music in warmer months

If you’re used to city trips with crowded sidewalks, the calm riverfront in Huntington can feel like a deep breath. It’s a simple, relaxing way to spend an afternoon or evening close to Pea Ridge.

3. Explore Heritage Farm Museum & Village

A short drive from Pea Ridge takes you to one of Cabell County’s most interesting attractions: Heritage Farm Museum & Village. It’s just outside Huntington, and it feels like stepping back into Appalachian history. At Heritage Farm, you can:

Walk through historic buildings and cabins
See old tools, wagons, and farm equipment
Learn how people lived in the region generations ago
Enjoy kid-friendly activities and hands-on exhibits on special days

If you have children with you, this place is a winner. They can run around, touch things, and ask questions. Adults tend to love it too, especially anyone curious about Appalachia, West Virginia heritage, or old-time crafts.

4. Visit Marshall University & Downtown Huntington

From Pea Ridge, you’re only a quick drive to Marshall University, a major part of life in Huntington. The campus is walkable and makes a nice low-key outing. Things to do around campus and downtown:

Walk through the Marshall campus and see the Memorial Fountain
Grab coffee, pizza, or a burger at local spots nearby
Check out small shops and local businesses downtown

If you’ve seen the movie We Are Marshall, visiting the campus adds a personal touch. It feels different to stand where that story really happened, instead of just watching it on a screen.

5. Shop, Eat, and Stroll at Pullman Square

For a more modern experience, head to Pullman Square in downtown Huntington. From Pea Ridge, you can be there in roughly 15 minutes, depending on traffic. At Pullman Square, you’ll find:

Restaurants and casual dining
Shops and boutiques
A movie theater

It’s the kind of place where you can park once and do a little bit of everything—shop, eat, hang out, and catch a movie. If you’re staying in Pea Ridge and want an easy night out without driving all over town, this is a solid choice.

6. Get Outside at Ritter Park

If you enjoy parks with a little more space and scenery, make time for Ritter Park in Huntington. It’s one of the region’s favorite outdoor spots and only a short drive from Pea Ridge. What you can do at Ritter Park:

Walk or jog along the wide paths
Relax by the creek
Let the kids play on the playground
Enjoy the beautiful rose garden in season

On a warm evening, the park fills with locals walking dogs, pushing strollers, or just getting some air after work. It’s a great way to feel the local vibe, not just the “tourist” side of Cabell County.

7. Explore the Shops and Restaurants Around Pea Ridge

While Pea Ridge itself is more residential, you’re right next to a cluster of restaurants, strip malls, and local businesses along the main roads and nearby Barboursville and Huntington. This is especially handy if you:

Need a quick bite close to your hotel or Airbnb
Want to pick up groceries, snacks, or road-trip supplies
Prefer chains and familiar names mixed with local spots

Think of Pea Ridge as a convenient home base. You can enjoy the peace and quiet at night, then drive just a few minutes to find food, coffee, or anything you forgot to pack.

8. Take a Short Drive to Barboursville Park

Just a bit east of Pea Ridge, near the village of Barboursville, is Barboursville Park, one of the largest parks in the area. If you like the outdoors, it’s worth the short drive. At Barboursville Park, you’ll find:

Large open fields and picnic shelters
Playgrounds for kids
Walking trails
Sports areas and ponds

It’s the kind of park where you can spend several hours—hiking, playing, or simply sitting with a book under a tree. Pack a cooler, bring a frisbee, and make it a full day outside.

9. Discover Local History and Culture

Pea Ridge is surrounded by towns with deep roots, and Cabell County, West Virginia has more history than you might expect at first glance. Around Pea Ridge and Huntington, you can:

Look for local museums and small historical exhibits
Visit the Marshall University area to learn about local stories
Drive around older neighborhoods to see historic homes and churches

Even if you’re not a “museum person,” taking time to notice old buildings, monuments, and markers adds another layer to your visit. It turns a simple road trip stop into a chance to connect with the region’s past.

10. Take a Scenic Drive Through the Hills

Sometimes the best “thing to do” near Pea Ridge is… go for a drive. The hills and back roads around Cabell County and nearby areas offer:

Rolling hills and wooded views
Curving country roads with classic West Virginia scenery
Small towns and hollows that show everyday Appalachian life

Fill up your gas tank, pick a direction, and explore a bit. Pull over at overlooks or wide spots in the road and just take in the view. In fall, when the leaves change color, these drives can feel like something out of a postcard.

Tips for Visiting Pea Ridge & Cabell County

Getting around: A car is almost essential. Many of the best things to do near Pea Ridge are a short drive away, not within easy walking distance.
Timing: Spring and fall are especially pretty, but summer evenings along the river and in the parks are hard to beat.
Food: Try at least one local place in Huntington or Barboursville instead of sticking only to big chains.
Pace: This isn’t a rush-rush city destination. Take it slow and enjoy the quieter, more relaxed rhythm.

Final Thoughts: Why Pea Ridge Makes a Great Base

Pea Ridge, West Virginia may not be a huge tourist magnet on its own, but that’s part of the charm. You’re close to Huntington, Barboursville, the Ohio River, and beautiful parks, yet you can still enjoy calm evenings and easy parking. If you like trips that mix simple comforts with a touch of local flavor, Pea Ridge is a smart, low-stress place to stay.

What Would You Add?

Have you spent time in Pea Ridge or Cabell County? Did you find a favorite coffee shop, walking trail, or hidden gem nearby?

Share your tips in the comments.
Tell your story if you grew up in the area or visit often.
Pass this along to friends or family planning a trip near Huntington or traveling along I‑64.

If you found this guide helpful, please share it on social media or send it to someone heading to West Virginia. Your share might help another traveler discover a few fun things to do near Pea Ridge that they would have otherwise missed.

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