Points of Interest between Chester, West Virginia to Marietta, Ohio

picture of Chester, West Virginia

Road Trip from Chester, West Virginia to Marietta, Ohio: Top Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit

Are you looking for a fun road trip that combines history, nature, and culture? Look no further than the route from Chester, West Virginia to Marietta, Ohio. This trip takes you through some of the most scenic areas of the Ohio River Valley, and there are plenty of museums, parks, and landmarks to visit along the way.

An Interesting Fact about the Route

Did you know that the Ohio River is the largest tributary of the Mississippi River? It runs for 981 miles from Pittsburgh to Cairo, Illinois and passes through six states, including West Virginia and Ohio. The Ohio River Valley has been an important transportation and trade route since prehistoric times, and today it's an area known for its natural beauty and rich history.

The Halfway Point: Cadiz, OH

If you're looking for a good spot to take a break and explore, consider stopping in Cadiz, Ohio. This small town is located about halfway between Chester and Marietta and has a charming downtown area with antique shops, restaurants, and historical buildings. The Harrison County Courthouse is a standout example of Greek Revival architecture and dates back to 1895.

The Length of the Trip

The distance between Chester and Marietta is about 80 miles, which takes around 2 hours to drive without stopping. However, if you want to visit all the museums, parks, and landmarks along the way, you should plan to spend at least a full day on this road trip.

Top 5 Places to Visit

  1. Museum of Ceramics, East Liverpool, Ohio: This museum is dedicated to the history of ceramic production in the region, which dates back to the 19th century. Visitors can see examples of pottery, china, and other ceramic objects made in local factories, as well as learn about the techniques used to create them. Point of Interest: Nearby Robinson's Restaurant is a great spot for lunch or dinner, serving classic American dishes and homemade pie.

  2. Beaver Creek State Park, East Liverpool, Ohio: This park is a beautiful place to hike, fish, or have a picnic. The park's centerpiece is the restored Gaston's Mill, which is still in operation and grinds cornmeal and flour. Point of Interest: Take a short drive to nearby Ohio River Scenic Byway for stunning views of the river and surrounding hills.

  3. Carroll County Historical Society Museum, Carrollton, Ohio: This museum features exhibits about the history of Carroll County, including Native American artifacts, military artifacts, and household items from the 19th century. Point of Interest: The Bluebird Farm Park nearby is a great place to take a walk or go fishing in the stocked pond.

  4. Dennison Railroad Depot Museum, Dennison, Ohio: This museum is dedicated to the history of railroading in Ohio and the Midwest. Visitors can tour the restored train depot and see exhibits about the role of trains in transporting troops and supplies during World War II. Point of Interest: The nearby Tuscarawas River offers opportunities for canoeing and kayaking.

  5. Ohio River Museum, Marietta, Ohio: This museum is located in a converted steam plant that once supplied electricity to Marietta. Exhibits focus on the history of the Ohio River and its influence on the region. Visitors can learn about steamboat travel, the Underground Railroad, and the ecology of the river. Point of Interest: Take a walk along the nearby Harmar Historic District, which features shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.

Point of Interest Recommendations

  • The route between East Liverpool and Carrollton takes you through the rolling hills of eastern Ohio, which are especially beautiful in the fall.
  • The stretch of the Ohio River between Beaver Creek State Park and Marietta is known as "The Long Reach" and is popular with anglers for its deep pools and plenty of fish.
  • The town of Marietta was founded in 1788 and is the oldest city in Ohio. It has a well-preserved historic district that is worth exploring.

Conclusion

This road trip from Chester, West Virginia to Marietta, Ohio is a great way to experience the history, nature, and culture of the Ohio River Valley. With stops at museums, parks, and landmarks, you'll be able to explore the area's rich past and beautiful scenery. Depending on how much time you have, you can make a day trip or spend several days exploring this fascinating region.