New Martinsville: History, River, and Recreation

New Martinsville combines the history of the Ohio River with cultural attractions and a variety of opportunities for active days. Those planning a trip around different interests will find historic sites, a theater, museums, parks, and water-based activities here. When looking for a suitable vacation rental, it is worth deciding on your personal focus: Would you like to explore culture, spend time by the water, or combine various recreational activities?

Experience History Along the Ohio River

A prominent historic site is The Wharf at the end of Washington Street on the Ohio River. The landing dates from 1840 and is connected with river transport as well as with the economic, social, and political development of New Martinsville. It therefore offers a tangible connection to the city's history and its relationship with the river.

The Wetzel County Courthouse is also part of New Martinsville's historic character. The building was constructed between 1900 and 1902. At the Wetzel County Museum, the subject matter ranges from the Indigenous Adena culture to the 20th century. Those interested in regional history and the area's development can include these stops in their travel plans without limiting their stay to a single topic.

Theater, Festivals, and Local Traditions

The Lincoln Theater is a renovated historic theater dating from the 1920s. It hosts various variety shows and musicals. This makes the theater a cultural option for an evening when the focus is not on being outdoors but on attending a performance.

The New Martinsville Regatta is also part of the local tradition and began in 1925. The Back Home Festival takes place annually in downtown New Martinsville. Both references show different sides of the area: The regatta points to a long history of events, while the festival is regularly rooted in the downtown area. For your specific travel plans, check the current dates separately.

Water and Recreation for Different Daily Plans

At Lewis Wetzel Pond, you can enjoy pedal boating, and seasonal fishing is also possible there. Depending on your interests, you can plan time on the water or a quieter fishing activity. Bruce Park has an 18-hole miniature golf course and adds a playful recreational option to the offerings.

Fireman's Park provides access to the beach and water, historic or interpretive exhibits, parking for cars, and a starting point for hiking trails. For a trip with children, such varied options can be appealing because active and less intensive activities can be alternated.

Orientation for Walks and Boating Experiences

The New Martinsville Walking Trail runs from the northern end of Howard Jeffers Drive, also called Hydro Drive, to the old airport. Its route provides clear guidance for anyone who would like to include a walk in their plans. New Martinsville Marina is located on Fishing Creek and has a boat launch ramp. In addition, First Responder's Park has an accessible boat launch. These places appeal to different interests and should be considered when choosing your vacation rental based on your planned itinerary.

Choose the Right Starting Point

New Martinsville is suitable for travel plans in which culture, history, water, and recreation do not have to be considered separately. A vacation rental can serve as your own retreat. What matters is which experiences are most important to you and which location within your search best fits that plan.

If you would like to compare additional destinations after visiting the town page, you can also discover Littleton.

For the broader travel overview: Wetzel County.