Parkersburg WV

Parkersburg, West Virginia – A charming riverside city where history, nature, and small-town warmth come together. Nestled along the banks of the Ohio River, Parkersburg offers scenic beauty, rich heritage, and a close-knit community feel. From walking the historic downtown streets to exploring beautiful parks and museums, this hidden gem delivers peaceful vibes with plenty to discover.

• Population: ~29,000
• Weather: Four seasons with warm summers (70–85°F) and cool winters (30–45°F); occasional snowfall in winter.
• Places To Visit: Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park, Fort Boreman Park, Oil and Gas Museum, Point Park, Julia-Ann Square Historic District.
• Top Activities: Riverfront kayaking, hiking scenic overlooks, attending local festivals, antique shopping downtown, enjoying live music at the park.
• Famous Food: Pepperoni rolls, Appalachian-style BBQ, homemade pies at local diners, and hearty dishes with a home-cooked feel.

Parkersburg, WV, located along the Ohio River, is a regional center for healthcare, energy, education, and manufacturing. The city's economy is supported by a mix of public and private sectors, offering a variety of career opportunities in both traditional and emerging industries.

Top 5 Jobs in Parkersburg, WV

Parkersburg, WV is home to a variety of spots where students can take a break, unwind, and enjoy themselves after a long day of classes. Whether you're into scenic parks, shopping, or cultural events, Parkersburg offers something for everyone.

Point Park – Nestled at the confluence of the Ohio and Little Kanawha Rivers, Point Park offers beautiful views and a peaceful setting. It's an ideal spot for a picnic, a leisurely walk along the river, or some frisbee with friends.

Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park – A short ferry ride takes you to this picturesque island. You can explore historical exhibits, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, or enjoy the serene natural surroundings. It's a perfect getaway for both relaxation and learning.

Grand Central Mall – When you're in the mood for some retail therapy, head to Grand Central Mall. With a good selection of stores and a food court, it's a convenient spot to chill, shop, and grab a bite to eat with friends.

Smoot Theatre – Catch a show or concert at this beautifully restored historic theater. The Smoot offers a variety of performances throughout the year, making it a great spot for experiencing local culture and entertainment.

Bicentennial Park – This community park offers open spaces for various sports and outdoor activities. It's an inviting spot for students who enjoy playing basketball, tennis, or simply hanging out with friends in the fresh air.

The Art Center – For art enthusiasts, the Parkersburg Art Center boasts galleries of both local and international artwork. Visiting exhibitions and participating in art classes here can be a fun and inspiring way to spend your time.

Parkersburg, West Virginia, offers a range of public and private colleges that provide quality education in fields such as business, healthcare, technical training, and liberal arts. These institutions are known for making higher education accessible and preparing students for careers in high-demand industries.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Parkersburg

West Virginia University at Parkersburg – As one of the state’s largest public community and technical colleges, this institution offers associate and bachelor's degrees in business, nursing, technology, and education. It is known for affordable tuition, flexible class schedules, and strong workforce training programs.

Marshall University – Mid-Ohio Valley Center – This satellite campus of Marshall University provides local students with access to undergraduate and graduate programs. It supports adult learners with flexible scheduling and online courses, especially in education and professional development.

Ohio Valley University (formerly) – While this private Christian university located in Vienna recently closed, it played a significant role in the region's higher education landscape and left a lasting impact on alumni and the community.

Washington County Career Center – Adult Technical Training – Just across the Ohio River in Marietta, this center serves Parkersburg residents with hands-on programs in healthcare, welding, and information technology, leading to fast-track employment opportunities.

WV Northern Community College – Distance Learning – Though headquartered outside Parkersburg, WVNCC partners with local organizations to offer online programs and workforce training, helping students gain credentials from the comfort of their hometown.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Parkersburg

Mountain State College (formerly) – A former private college in Parkersburg, it specialized in medical and business education before closing. Its legacy remains in the workforce prepared during its operation.

Marietta College – Located just 15 minutes from downtown Parkersburg, this private liberal arts college in Marietta, Ohio, is well-regarded for its petroleum engineering, education, and business programs. The campus also emphasizes leadership and community service.

Ohio Valley University (formerly) – Although this private Christian university shut down in recent years, it contributed to the region's academic and spiritual education through decades of service.

West Virginia Junior College – Online Programs – While not physically based in Parkersburg, WVJC offers online training and certification in medical billing, business administration, and legal office studies to students across the state, including the Parkersburg area.

Seton Hill University (Distance Extension) – Offering virtual degree programs to Parkersburg residents, Seton Hill is a private Catholic university known for its healthcare, education, and digital arts programs, combining a liberal arts foundation with modern career readiness.

Parkersburg, West Virginia, offers several quality high schools that focus on providing students with well-rounded education, preparing them for college or skilled careers. Whether you're looking at public education options or want a private, more personalized approach, Parkersburg has respected institutions that cater to different academic needs.

Top Public High Schools In Parkersburg, WV

• Parkersburg High School – One of the oldest and most well-known high schools in the state, Parkersburg High has a strong focus on academics, honors programs, and extracurricular activities. The school has loyal alumni and a strong community presence.
• Parkersburg South High School – Known for supporting both academic and athletic achievement, Parkersburg South offers Advanced Placement courses, career-technical programs, and mentorships to help students succeed after graduation.
• Williamstown High School – Located just outside Parkersburg, this public school offers a smaller class size and a strong sense of community. It consistently ranks high in state performance metrics and emphasizes both college prep and workforce readiness.
• Vienna Elementary/High Program (via Jackson Middle) – While primarily serving younger students, the Vienna educational track offers transitions into quality high schools within the area, including feeder programs into Parkersburg South and Williamstown High.
• Wirt County High School – Though located slightly outside of Parkersburg, this public high school serves many families in the greater area. It offers a safe learning environment and solid academic performance, especially in science and vocational tracks.

Top Private High Schools In Parkersburg, WV

• Parkersburg Catholic High School – A well-regarded private institution that offers a value-based education in a faith-driven environment. Known for small class sizes and close student-teacher relationships, it focuses on college readiness with advanced coursework options.
• Faith Christian Academy – Offers Christian education that blends strong academics with biblical values. The school provides a nurturing environment and places emphasis on individual development, leadership, and community service.
• Wood County Christian School – Located in Williamstown, just a short drive from Parkersburg, this private school offers K-12 education with a strong high school component. Known for integrating faith and learning, it prepares students for life after high school in both religious and secular paths.
• The Ohio Valley Christian School – Though smaller in enrollment, OVCS serves the wider Parkersburg area and is deeply committed to academic excellence in a safe, faith-centered environment. It offers dual-credit and honors options for high school students.
• Calvary Christian School – This private school provides a disciplined, structured education with emphasis on academic skills and Christian moral guidance. High school students benefit from close mentorship and tailored learning plans.

Parkersburg, West Virginia, may not have major league professional sports teams like those in big cities, but the area has a strong and passionate sports culture. The region supports minor league, semi-professional, and amateur teams, providing exciting local sports entertainment for residents and visitors alike.

🏈 Football – Semi-Pro and High School Football

• Parkersburg South Patriots & Parkersburg Big Reds – These two high school football teams are local powerhouses. Their rivalry is one of the oldest and most intense in the state. Both teams have a rich history and a strong fan base. The Big Reds have won multiple state championships and regularly send players to play at the college level.
• Mid-Ohio Valley Phoenix – A semi-professional football team that has brought competitive football to adults in the region. They play teams around the state and give former high school and college athletes a chance to keep playing competitively.

🏀 Basketball – High School and Community Leagues

• Parkersburg High and Parkersburg South Basketball – School basketball is a big part of the Parkersburg community. Games are well-attended, and many players move on to compete at colleges and universities in West Virginia and surrounding states.
• Community Basketball Leagues – Parkersburg has several recreational and competitive basketball leagues for youth and adults. The YMCA and local churches often host tournaments and provide continuous opportunities for players of all ages.

⚾ Baseball – Minor League and Youth Programs

• Parkersburg Big Reds Baseball – Like their football and basketball programs, Parkersburg’s high school baseball teams are a source of community pride. Games draw enthusiastic local crowds.
• Little League and Youth Teams – Parkersburg has strong youth baseball programs. Little League and travel teams allow kids to learn the sport and compete with teams across the region, often advancing to state and regional tournaments.

⚽ Soccer – Youth Soccer and Club Play

• Wood County Soccer Club (WCSC) – This organization provides year-round programming for young soccer players, from beginners to elite club level. It supports recreational and competitive play for boys and girls of all ages.
• High School Soccer – High schools in Parkersburg have dedicated boys and girls soccer teams that compete at the state level. The sport has grown in popularity, with strong support from local families and schools.

🏒 Hockey – Youth and Recreational Ice Hockey

• Parkersburg Amateur Hockey Association (PAHA) – Although West Virginia is not typically known for ice hockey, PAHA helps promote the sport in the region. They offer youth hockey leagues and skills camps, often partnering with neighboring states for competition.
• Mid-Ohio Valley Ice Rink – This local facility hosts open skates, leagues, and hockey clinics, helping to grow interest in the sport among kids and teens in the area.

While Parkersburg may not have professional-level sports teams, it offers a vibrant and growing sports scene. The community’s commitment to athletics through school teams, youth leagues, and semi-pro clubs brings people together and builds local pride. The city may not host Super Bowl Sundays or MLB home runs, but it’s rich in sports spirit and community support.

Parkersburg, WV is a charming city filled with rich history, natural beauty, and a welcoming community spirit. Located along the Ohio River, it holds surprises for those who take the time to explore. Here are some fun facts about Parkersburg that might just inspire a visit:

1. Blending States – Parkersburg sits at the confluence of the Ohio and Little Kanawha Rivers, making it a gateway between West Virginia and Ohio.
2. Historic Oil Boom – In the 1800s, Parkersburg was a boomtown during West Virginia’s early oil industry, helping shape the modern petroleum market.
3. Home of the Blennerhassett Mansion – Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park features a stunning replica of a 1790s mansion, tied to an alleged plot to form a new country!
4. Birthplace of the Little Kanawha River – This river flows right through the city and holds local importance for commerce and recreation.
5. Railroad Crossroads – Parkersburg was a key transportation hub in the 19th century with the B&O Railroad tunnel, one of the oldest of its kind.
6. Ghost Tales at the Oil and Gas Museum – Besides rich energy history, this downtown museum is rumored to be haunted by ghostly workers of the past.
7. Julia-Ann Square Historic District – One of the state’s largest historic districts features Victorian homes and cobblestone charm stretching over 126 acres.
8. Home to a U.S. Vice President – Parkersburg was once home to Charles W. Fairbanks, Vice President under President Teddy Roosevelt.
9. Parkersburg Art Center – This local gem brings culture to life in downtown, showcasing both regional and national artists since 1938.
10. Blennerhassett Bridge Beauty – The scenic cable-stayed bridge that connects Parkersburg to Belpre, Ohio is one of the most photographed structures in the area.