Explore the Top 12 Attractions in Wheeling, West Virginia
Hangin' out in charming Wheeling, West Virginia, this quaint town nestled between West Virginia and Ohio serves up a smorgasbord of delightful experiences that cater to various palates. Here's a lowdown on what you can savor in Wheeling:
What To Do
Take In A Show At A Historic Theatre
The breathtaking Capitol Theatre, open for almost a century, promises a visual treat for your senses. This elegant Beaux Arts structure is adorned with garlands, arched windows, and decorative cartouches, creating an opulent atmosphere. With legends like Loretta Lynn and Johnny Cash gracing its stage, catch a comedy skit, Broadway show, or music performance here for an unforgettable experience.
capitoltheatrewheeling.com; 1015 Main Street, Wheeling, WV 26003; 304-233-7000
Catch A Hockey Game
The Wheeling Nailers, an affiliate team of the Pittsburgh Penguins, bring high-octane action to the ice at the WesBanco Arena. Located in downtown Wheeling, hockey enthusiasts won't want to miss the chance to catch a game as the season runs from November to early April.
wheelingnailers.com; 2 14th St., Wheeling, WV 26003
Check Out The Centre Market
Steeped in history, the Centre Market isn't just a shopping destination—it's older than the state itself and the oldest cast-iron market in the country. Explore the Victorian-era structure for an array of modern businesses, including restaurants, boutiques, cafes, and antiques. Don't forget to visit the SMART Centre Market, a mini museum/science center where kids can interact with minerals, rocks, and fossils.
centremarket.org; 2200 Market St., Wheeling, WV 26003; 304-234-3878
Walk Or Bike The Wheeling Heritage Trail
Formerly a railroad path, the 18-mile Wheeling Heritage Trail weaves through the city and along the Ohio River. Grab a bike rental from local outfitters like Wheelcraft Bicycles or Quick Service Bike Shop for a truly immersive experience, or simply stroll along the trail and take in the breathtaking riverfront views while marble at historical signs and plaques relaying Wheeling's past.
Explore Wheeling Park
Sprawling across 406 acres, Wheeling Park boasts activities for everyone and attracts approximately half a million visitors each year. Enjoy amenities like an Olympic-sized swimming pool, tennis and pickleball courts, pedal boats on a lake, putt-putt, iceskating, rollerskating, a 9-hole short course, and more.
wheelingwv.gov/directory/Parks-Recreation/wheeling-park; 801 National Road, Wheeling, WV 26003; 304-243-4000
Cross The Suspension Bridge
Wheeling's most iconic structure, the Suspension Bridge, arches across the Ohio River as a National Historic Landmark. Even though it shut down vehicular traffic in 2019, pedestrians and cyclists are still welcome to traverse over the 1,307-foot structure, offering stunning views and a unique experience.
Discover Wheeling's History
Spend some time getting acquainted with Wheeling's extensive history. Begin at the West Virginia Independence Hall, an Italian Renaissance Revival building that houses exhibits dedicated to West Virginia's history. Explore additional sites like the Oglebay Mansion Museum and the Institute Glass Museum to delve deeper into local history and culture.
Where To Eat
Savor A Legendary Fish Sandwich
Step into Coleman's Fish Market, nestled in the historic Centre Market district, for a taste of Wheeling's history. This institution, open since 1914, is famous for its mouthwatering fish sandwich. Offered on a simple slice of untoasted white bread, you can opt for the "deluxe" - featuring tartar sauce - but purists may prefer the straightforward classic. A side of soup is highly recommended.
colemansfishmkt.com; 2226 Market St., Wheeling, West Virginia; 304-232-8510
Dine At Sarah's On Main
This cozy downtown eatery is renowned for surprising and delighting customers with its weekly specials, featuring staples like quiche, toasts on salty bread, muffins, and croissants, along with unique offerings like dark chocolate whoopie pies, specialty Danishes, lobster rolls, and bang bang beef bowls.
sarahsonmain.com; 2122 Main Street, Wheeling, WV 26003; 304-905-6881
Visit Waterfront Hall
After revitalizing a historic manufacturing hall from 1877, Waterfront Hall emerged as a lively entertainment venue flaunting two restaurants, Avenue Eats and The Wood Fired Pizza Co., even if you don't catch a live performance. Avenue Eats provides mouthwatering burgers, including the Diner, while The Wood Fired Pizza Co. brings Neapolitan-style pizza to Wheeling in a stylish setting.
waterfronthall.com; 1230 Water St., Wheeling, WV 26003
Taste Appalachian Cuisine
Indulge in elevated regional fare at Vagabond Kitchen, where Chef Matt Welsh whips up inventive dishes using local ingredients. Sample appetizers ranging from frog legs served like buffalo wings to crab and crawfish cakes to fried pig skins, then savor dishes like grilled ribeye, sausage, crawdad, and cornbread-stuffed pork loin glazed with honey and topped with sour applesauce.
thevagabondkitchen.com; 1201 Market St, Wheeling, WV 26003; 304-905-6173
Where To Stay
Indulge In Luxury At Oglebay Resort Park
Immerse yourself in the 2,000-acre park, venue, and resort, offering a wide variety of activities, dining options, and accommodations ranging from rooms in the main lodge to more private cottages and estates spread throughout the grounds.
oglebay.com; 465 Lodge Drive, Wheeling, WV 26003; 304-243-4000
- For a taste of West Virginia's richest appetizers, visit Vagabond Kitchen and try dishes like frog legs, crab and crawfish cakes, and fried pig skins.
- Located in the historic Centre Market district, Coleman's Fish Market serves a legendary fish sandwich that's been a local favorite since 1914.
- Savor specialties like quiche, toasts, muffins, croissants, and dark chocolate whoopie pies at downtown eatery Sarah's On Main.
- At Waterfront Hall's Avenue Eats, indulge in mouthwatering burgers like the Diner or try Neapolitan-style pizza at The Wood Fired Pizza Co.
