Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Parkersburg, WV
Parkersburg sits at the confluence of the Ohio and Little Kanawha Rivers with access to the Blennerhassett Island, the Oil and Gas Museum, and the Veterans Memorial.
The Blennerhassett Island and the historic downtown offer heritage on the river.
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or browse all12 destinations near Parkersburg
New River Gorge National Park & Preserve
USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.9 by 5.9k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 17 min from Parkersburg · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Bridge Walk LLC
Lansing, WV 25862
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.9 by 2.4k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 18 min from Parkersburg · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
The Farm At Walnut Creek
Sugarcreek, OH 44681
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 2.1k+ visitors) · 1 hr 46 min from Parkersburg · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 14.3k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 21 min from Parkersburg · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Blackwater Falls State Park
Davis, WV 26260
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 6.5k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 44 min from Parkersburg · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Canyon Rim Visitor Center
Lansing, WV 25862
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 8.0k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 19 min from Parkersburg · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Cedar Falls
OH 43138, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 1.5k+ visitors) · 1 hr 19 min from Parkersburg · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Ohio Caverns
West Liberty, OH 43357
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Family destination · highly rated (4.8 by 4.7k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 42 min from Parkersburg · fits $20 - $60 budget
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Cathedral Falls
Gauley Bridge, WV 25085
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 2.5k+ visitors) · 1 hr 57 min from Parkersburg · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Whispering Cave
OH 43138, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.2k+ visitors) · 1 hr 21 min from Parkersburg · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Salt Fork State Park
Lore City, OH 43755
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 3.2k+ visitors) · 1 hr 4 min from Parkersburg · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Moonville Tunnel
McArthur, OH 45651
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.6 by 0.8k+ visitors) · 1 hr 11 min from Parkersburg · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from Parkersburg, WV?
The best day trips from Parkersburg include state parks, historic towns, scenic drives, wineries, and outdoor recreation. Our page shows top-rated destinations with real drive times, Google ratings, and budget estimates so you can pick the right trip for your schedule and interests.
How far should I drive for a day trip from Parkersburg?
Most great day trips from Parkersburg are between 1 and 3 hours away. Under an hour gets you local parks and nearby towns. Two to three hours opens up state parks, lakefront destinations, and small cities worth a full day of exploring.
What are cheap things to do near Parkersburg?
Many of the best day trips near Parkersburg are free or low-cost. State parks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small-town Main Streets are all great options. Check the budget estimates on each destination card above to plan a trip that fits your wallet.
What is the best time of year for day trips from Parkersburg?
Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near Parkersburg, with mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is great for beaches and water activities. Winter works well for indoor attractions like museums, historic sites, and food-focused trips. Check the seasonal notes on each card for specific timing tips.
Are there weekend getaways near Parkersburg?
Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of Parkersburg make excellent overnight trips. Look for spots with multiple activities, good dining, and nearby lodging. Use the "Plan This Trip" button on any card to start building an itinerary, or check our drive-time pages for destinations at specific distances. If you need a car, compare rental options to find the best deal.
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