Whether kooky, spooky, or quirky, taking the path less traveled can be the best way to make your own history.

Julia-Ann Square Historic District

The Julia-Ann Square Historic District is filled with mansions that echo the newfound wealth of the 20th-century oil, gas and timber wealth. These were the homes of some of the most influential figures in West Virginia’s early history. Each year, visitors have the rare opportunity to tour select homes and enjoy a Victorian tea during the summer (June) and Christmas (December) tours.

As located within Julia-Ann Square Historic District, the Riverview Cemetery offers a fascinating look at memorials of the notables interred there. Its legendary Weeping Lady is said to awaken when the moon is full and mourn the souls lost in the Civil War.

The Haunted Parkersburg Ghost Tours

(late Sept. through early Nov.), one of the nation’s most popular, leads visitors through a downtown tour of haunted history and paranormal tales.

Berdine’s 5 & Dime

On a lighter note, Berdine’s 5 & Dime, America’s oldest, still offers nooks and crannies filled with tin toys, bulk candies and unusual items of yesteryear, as it has since 1908.

North Bend Rail Trail

Finally, if you’re looking to stretch your legs, visit the nearby North Bend Rail Trail. Stretching 72 miles through 13 tunnels (a few are haunted), the North Bend Rail Trail winds through rural countryside and historic sites, and its low grade makes it perfect for biking, hiking, or horseback riding.

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