New Martinsville offers river history, culture, and outdoor activities for a variety of travel interests. The Wharf on the Ohio River is connected with the history of river transport; theater performances, festivals, and parks offer additional points of interest. For your planning, it’s worth deciding first whether local history, a performance, events, or outdoor recreation should be the focus.
History, Theater, and Events
The Wharf at the end of Washington Street on the Ohio River dates to 1840. It is connected with river transport and the economic, social, and political development of New Martinsville. The Wetzel County Courthouse was built between 1900 and 1902. The Lincoln Theater is a renovated historic theater from the 1920s and hosts a variety of variety shows and musicals. In chronological order, these architectural and cultural landmarks span from the Wharf in 1840 to the Courthouse and then the theater of the 1920s. Visitors interested in historic buildings and stage performances can prioritize them as separate focuses for their stay.
The Wetzel County Museum covers the Indigenous Adena culture through the 20th century. Its scope therefore extends beyond the history of a single building. The New Martinsville Regatta began in 1925. The Back Home Festival takes place annually in downtown New Martinsville. If you’re making the festival the occasion for your trip, check the specific event dates; for a theater visit, the current program is the relevant reference.
Trails, Water, and Parks
The New Martinsville Walking Trail runs from the northern end of Howard Jeffers Drive, also known as Hydro Drive, to the old airport. For orientation, the precise location of the starting point matters: the trail begins at the northern end of the road, and Hydro Drive is its alternate name; the old airport marks the other end.
Lewis Wetzel Pond offers pedal boats and seasonal fishing. New Martinsville Marina on Fishing Creek has a boat launch ramp; First Responder's Park has an accessible boat dock. The water activities therefore vary by location and type: pedal boats and seasonal fishing at the pond, a launch ramp at the marina, and an accessible dock at the park.
Bruce Park has an 18-hole miniature golf course. Fireman's Park offers beach and water access, historical or interpretive exhibits, parking for cars, and a trailhead. While Bruce Park is associated with one specifically named recreational activity, Fireman's Park combines several different visitor amenities.
Hotels and Travel Planning
For a theater performance or the Back Home Festival, event dates are relevant; the season matters for seasonal fishing at Lewis Wetzel Pond. By contrast, a stay focused on local history, the walking trail, or a park activity depends on your interests.
Discover more destinations: Littleton.
Go to the regional travel overview: Wetzel County.
