The Mid-Ohio Valley Hidden Gems Trail

The WV Department of Tourism has created all kinds of tourism trails to draw in visitors to the various attractions around the state. A recent example include the Waterfall Trail, which covers waterfalls all around the state. The Pepperoni Roll Trail, created by the Marion County CVB, includes local bakeries and restaurants in Harrison and Marion counties. I have thoroughly enjoyed exploring these trails for myself. I thought it would be a fun idea to create my own tourism trail based around my favorite West Virginia attractions that I’ve visited.

The Mid-Ohio Valley Hidden Gem Trail outlines some of my personal favorite places around the Mid-Ohio Valley tourism region. I have roots in this area, so I have spent a lot of time here throughout my life. I hope that after you read this article, you will want to visit some of my favorite places as well! The first stop on this trail will be Carolyn’s Sandwich Shop in Harrisville, which is my favorite place to have breakfast. The workers here are so friendly and will make you some delicious home-cooked meals! My personal favorites are the Western omelet and the biscuits and sausage gravy. Or, if you’re not wanting breakfast food, their cheeseburgers are great too. After having a tasty meal at Carolyn’s, head just down the street to Berdine’s Five and Dime, an old-fashioned general store that has all kinds of cool tchotchkes, toys, and old-fashioned items. This is such a fun store that people of all ages are sure to enjoy. I have so many childhood memories here of exploring the numerous shelves and playing with all the toys. Make sure you don’t leave without sampling some candy from the candy counter! Next, head to Creston in Wirt County, which is about an hour away, and stop by Burning Springs Park, the site of the country’s first oil and gas field. Here, you can wander and explore the various historical structures, such as the old Rathbone Well, and learn about the local industry and how it is connected with the Civil War and West Virginia’s journey to statehood. If you’re someone who likes to learn about local history, you’re sure to enjoy your visit here. Next, head about thirty minutes down the road to the Calhoun County Park. Here you can visit the Heritage Village, courtesy of the Calhoun County Historical Society. The Heritage Village is made up of various buildings from around the community that were built in the 1800s thru the early 1900s that have been preserved. By visiting this village, you are getting a firsthand look at a vital part of Calhoun County’s local history. You can even schedule a tour to learn more in-depth about these buildings and the functions they once served in the community! Finally, I’d like to encourage you to end your trip at Pizzas and Cream in Nebo. As the name suggests, you can stop here for some delicious fresh-baked pizza and ice cream. Sit outside at a picnic table and enjoy your meal. Pizzas and cream is only about 10 minutes away from I-79, so it’s easy to jump on the highway here and head home. I hope you decide to explore this trail and discover these hidden gems for yourself!