You step off the trolley in the heart of downtown, and the first thing you notice is the Ohio River, wide and calm, with a sternwheeler docked nearby. A few locals wave as they stroll past brick storefronts, their chatter mixing with the faint hum of a distant boat. It’s a small-town scene, welcoming and unhurried, with history in every corner.
This riverside spot buzzes with a quiet charm, home to about 14,000 people who take pride in their community. You’ll find over 50 historic sites, from museums to old homes, and a downtown packed with local shops and eateries. Events like First Friday, with live music and open stores, draw crowds monthly, keeping the streets lively.
Welcome to Marietta, Ohio, the state’s oldest city, founded in 1788 at the confluence of the Ohio and Muskingum rivers. This place blends history, outdoor fun, and small-town warmth. Let’s take a walk through its highlights.
Historic Downtown Stroll
Front Street is the heart of Marietta, lined with brick buildings housing spots like The Galley, where locals grab burgers and craft beer. You can browse antiques at Schafer Leather or pick up kitchen gadgets at The Cook’s Shop. The area’s pedestrian-friendly, with free parking nearby, making it easy to explore.
River Adventures
The Ohio River is Marietta’s lifeblood. Hop on the Valley Gem Sternwheeler for a narrated cruise, starting at $15 for adults, or rent a kayak from Marietta Adventure Company for about $25 an hour. The River Trail, a paved 4-mile path, is perfect for a family bike ride or a relaxed walk, accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Museums and History
History buffs will love the Campus Martius Museum, where $7 gets you into exhibits on Ohio’s early settlers. The Ohio River Museum, a short walk away, showcases steamboat models and costs $8. Both are kid-friendly, with hands-on displays, and guided tours often feature locals like docent Susan, who’s been sharing Marietta’s stories for a decade.
Community Vibes
Marietta’s events shine a light on its people. The Ohio River Sternwheel Festival in September brings free concerts, races, and fireworks, organized by volunteers like the festival committee’s chair, Tom. Year-round, First Friday events feature local musicians and artists, with Kid Central at Armory Square offering free crafts for families. Check the Marietta Main Street website for schedules.
Outdoor Escapes
The Marietta Trail Network offers 10 miles of beginner-friendly mountain bike and hiking trails, maintained by the River Valley Mountain Bike Association. Kroger Wetland, a 5-minute drive from downtown, is a free spot to spot native birds and plants. Both are safe and open daily, with maps at trailheads.
Marietta’s not flashy, but it’s real—think friendly faces, affordable eats, and history you can touch. Public buses run downtown for $1, and most attractions are within a 10-minute walk. For families, the Children’s Toy & Doll Museum ($5 entry) is a hit, with vintage toys sparking nostalgia.
Nearby Gems
Drive 15 minutes to the Historic Harmar Village for quaint shops and the Harmar Bridge, a pedestrian walkway with love locks. The Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park, 30 minutes away in Parkersburg, WV, offers island tours for $10. About 20 minutes north, the Covered Bridge Scenic Byway leads to Ohio’s oldest covered bridge in Barlow.
Ready to explore? Start at the Campus Martius Museum at 601 Second St, Marietta, OH 45750, and use a map to wander downtown. Check the Washington County CVB’s website for event updates and plan your visit to this river town gem.