- Guided Tours
- The Pioneers
- First Residents
- About The City
- Washington County
Planning your next Marietta adventure? Request a free copy of our visitor guide, packed with even more helpful details on where to dine, shop, stay and play across Marietta, Washington County and the surrounding region.
Request a guide
Request
RECOMMENDED READ<<<
![Your Next Historic Adventure - Washington County CVB (2) Your Next Historic Adventure - Washington County CVB (2)](https://i0.wp.com/mariettaohio.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/the-pioneers-book-cover.png)
If you’re interested in diving deeper into Marietta’s early history, read “The Pioneers” by Pulitzer Prize-winning historian David McCullough. Rediscover an important and dramatic chapter in the American story— the settling of the Northwest Territory by dauntless pioneers who overcame incredible hardships to build a community based on ideals that would come to define our country.
Museums & Historic Sites
Ohio River Museum
Three buildings of the exhibits about steamboats and life on the river. Explore the steam towboat W.P. Snyder Jr., a replica of the 1788 flatboat "Adventure Galley," and more. ...
(740) 373-3750
Hidden Marietta
Hidden Marietta offers tours and special events that illuminate our area's rich history including Ancient Earthworks, Ghost Trek, Anchorage, and Lafayette Hotel tours, Curiosity Shop, and Antique ...
(740) 629-1805
Peoples Mortuary Museum
An eclectic collection of early funeral customs. Horse drawn and motorized vehicles, period clothing and funeral home equipment, all tastefully displayed in a fully accessible site. ...
(740) 373-1111
Local History and Genealogy Library
Computerized genealogical records, military records, city directories, census records, microfilm newspapers dating to 1807, and many books on local and regional history.
(740) 376-2172
Henderson Hall
Overlooking the Ohio River, sits Henderson Hall, where five generations of Hendersons left intact this one-of-a-kind historical treasure.
(304) 488-7912
Matamoras Area Historical Society
The Matamoras Area Historical Society is a nonprofit organization dedicated to recording and preserving the history of the Matamoras area for future generations. By appointment only. ...
Campus Martius Museum
The original site of the fortress Campus Martius, built in 1788. Houses the home of General Rufus Putnam. Three floors of exhibits portray the start of the Northwest Territory and local history. ...
(740) 373-3750
Hardly Able Carriage Company
Horse drawn carriage rides in Historic Downtown Marietta. May-October. Conestoga Wagons available for special events. Available for weddings, proposals and anniversaries.
(304) 869-3051
Belpre Farmers Castle Museum and Education Center
Early pioneer history and Native American artifacts are on display. View an 1840 horse drawn carriage, an 1880 Portland Cutter Victorian Sleigh, a Blacksmith Shop, a Victorian Room with furniture ...
(740) 423-7588
Oil and Gas Museum
This nationally recognized museum presents the intriguing history of the oil and gas industry, including how the accumulation of wealth from oil impacted West Virginia's statehood. Also expanded ...
(304) 485-5446
Mound Cemetery
Take a guided tour of Marietta's most historic cemetery. Hear tales of the 2,000 year old Adena mound and Marietta citizens who changed our nation's history.
(740) 373-4180
Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park
Features reconstructed Blennerhassett Mansion and Putnam-Houser House, guided tours, concession stand, gift-shop, narrated wagon rides, hiking trails and picnic facilities. Open May-October via s ...
wvstateparks.com/park/blennerhassett-island-historical-state-park
(304) 295-6926
The Castle
Step back in time and take a guided tour of this outstanding example of Gothic Revival architecture. Teas, concerts, workshops, ghost tours, jazz series and other special activities. Handicapped ...
(740) 373-4180
Marietta College Legacy Library
An exciting exhibit featuring the early history of Marietta through rare books, manuscripts, and artwork, inspired by the release of David McCullough's newest book, The Pioneers. Open and availab ...
(740) 376-4757
Washington County Public Library
The Marietta Branch Library is the only library in the United States built atop an Indian mound. The Marietta Branch Library serves as the anchor for the Washington County Public Library system w ...
(740) 373-1057
Anchorage
Overlooking Harmar, the 1859 Italianate style 22-room mansion was the dream home of Eliza Putnam. Her husband, Douglas, was one of the wealthiest and influential men in town.
(740) 373-1788
Henry Fearing House
Tour the home built in 1847 for prominent Marietta resident, Henry Fearing. Also home to Civil War General Benjamin D. Fearing.
wchshistory.org/henry-fearing-house
(740) 373-9437
First Congregational Church
Church of the pioneers. Established Dec. 6, 1796, a congregation of welcoming and compassionate people. Sunday service: 10 a.m. our community gathers for worship.
(740) 373-0741
Washington County Historical Society
The archives feature Washington County records on cemeteries/burial locations, births, marriages, obituaries, census, photos, maps, reference books on family, history and courthouse deeds. ...
(740) 373-1788
Oliver Tucker Museum
The Oliver Tucker Museum is a museum, that is small on the outside, big on the inside. It's filled with local historical items waiting for you to discover and enjoy.
(740) 509-0640
Trolley Tours
Enjoy a 90-minute, narrated tour which introduces visitors to Marietta's history, beauty and charm. Learn about Marietta's museums, architecture, historic churches, Native American and river hist ...
(740) 350-9852
Guided Tours
Henderson Hall
Overlooking the Ohio River, sits Henderson Hall, where five generations of Hendersons left intact this one-of-a-kind historical treasure.
(304) 488-7912
Trolley Tours
Enjoy a 90-minute, narrated tour which introduces visitors to Marietta's history, beauty and charm. Learn about Marietta's museums, architecture, historic churches, Native American and river hist ...
(740) 350-9852
Campus Martius Museum
The original site of the fortress Campus Martius, built in 1788. Houses the home of General Rufus Putnam. Three floors of exhibits portray the start of the Northwest Territory and local history. ...
(740) 373-3750
The Castle
Step back in time and take a guided tour of this outstanding example of Gothic Revival architecture. Teas, concerts, workshops, ghost tours, jazz series and other special activities. Handicapped ...
(740) 373-4180
Oliver Tucker Museum
The Oliver Tucker Museum is a museum, that is small on the outside, big on the inside. It's filled with local historical items waiting for you to discover and enjoy.
(740) 509-0640
Scott’s Super Adventures
Tour historic Marietta in 21st Century style! Our tours feature the Segway X2 that will take you through Ohio's first city in modern convenience.
(740) 516-0002
Henry Fearing House
Tour the home built in 1847 for prominent Marietta resident, Henry Fearing. Also home to Civil War General Benjamin D. Fearing.
wchshistory.org/henry-fearing-house
(740) 373-9437
Hidden Marietta
Hidden Marietta offers tours and special events that illuminate our area's rich history including Ancient Earthworks, Ghost Trek, Anchorage, and Lafayette Hotel tours, Curiosity Shop, and Antique ...
(740) 629-1805
The Pioneers
Established in 1788, Marietta is the oldest city in the state of Ohio, and the first official American settlement territory north and west of the Ohio River. Known as the “Riverboat Town,” it is located at the confluence of the Ohio and Muskingum rivers. Washington County’s earliest visitors arrived more than 2,000 years ago, and today thousands of visitors continue to come to the area each year to enjoy its charm, natural beauty, flowing rivers and rich heritage.
![Your Next Historic Adventure - Washington County CVB (3) Your Next Historic Adventure - Washington County CVB (3)](https://i0.wp.com/mariettaohio.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/AC-traveling-flatboat-Alfred-Waud-1024x608.jpg)
To retrace the steps of our brave, early settlers, head west to Belpre, Little Hocking, Barlow, and Vincent. Belpre, originally known as “Belle Prairie” was the second settlement of the Northwest Territory, with important footholds in history spanning from early Indian encampments to stations on the Underground Railroad, to the state’s first library. A history lover’s paradise, western Washington County is also home to Native American burial mounds, historic covered bridges, and an extensive history exhibit at the Belpre Farmer’s Castle Museum and Education Center. Be sure to stop along the way to indulge in wine and treats at the Unicorn Wine Guild, shop at great antique stores and local gift shops, and have a meal at one of the many tasty, locally-owned restaurants.
The charming towns of Little Hocking, Barlow, and Vincent, considered too dangerous to settle by most white pioneers due to indigenous residents understandably unwilling to cede or share their homeland, are connected today by a series of country roads that take visitors through rolling foothills, over bubbling streams, and across six of the county’s nine still-operational covered bridges.
![Your Next Historic Adventure - Washington County CVB (4) Your Next Historic Adventure - Washington County CVB (4)](https://i0.wp.com/mariettaohio.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Historic-westward-2-1024x549.jpg)
From fun festivals to exploring with your friends and family to an outdoor adventure kayaking down the Muskingum River, the area just north of Marietta has so much to offer visitors looking for a fun day getaway. The towns of Beverly, Lowell, and Waterford draw visitors who have a passion for history, charming small towns, and eating locally sourced foods. The northern part of Washington County is home to festivals that can easily become a yearly tradition to make memories with those who mean the most to you. Springfest in Lowell is a great way to welcome the warm season – watching your little one giggle as she gets ice cream on her nose trying Uncle Dan’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream for the first time. Also, don’t miss out on Octoberfest with your friends as you dance to German tunes with a pint in hand! If hitting the water for a weekend is more your speed, the Muskingum River is a great choice and is the longest navigable waterway in Ohio.
![Your Next Historic Adventure - Washington County CVB (5) Your Next Historic Adventure - Washington County CVB (5)](https://i0.wp.com/mariettaohio.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/sp-moundsceremony-1024x608.jpg)
Washington County’s First Residents
The Hopewell and Adena Indian cultures claimed the territory we now call Washington County around 100 B.C. Although the cultures had disappeared by 500 A.D., they left behind 95 acres of earthly artworks. Marietta’s founding fathers detected the importance of the mounds, embankments and passageways the ancient tribes created, and they did their best to preserve them. Today, portions of these ceremonial structures still stand, including the Conus Mound, a 30 foot structure located in the Mound Cemetery.
Around 1650, American Indian tribes came from all directions to vie for the territory where Washington County is now established. Tribes such as the Delaware, Mingo and Shawnee settled here until approximately 1850. These tribes created villages, cultivated crops and made our region their home.
Welcome to The Riverboat Town
Our charming riverboat town, nestled amongst the rolling hills of the Mid-Ohio Valley, holds nearly as many important historical moments–and secrets–as bricks paving our vibrant downtown streets.Our All-American town serves as the county seat for Washington County, situated at the confluence of the mighty Ohio and Muskingum Rivers. Marietta was the first permanent settlement in the Northwest Territory, serving as the starting point for Westward expansion by early pioneers.
![Your Next Historic Adventure - Washington County CVB (7) Your Next Historic Adventure - Washington County CVB (7)](https://i0.wp.com/mariettaohio.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/DSC_7932-1024x608.jpg)
As the colorful storefront architecture takes you on a journey from Colonial to Victorian to Contemporary, you’ll stroll past flower-adorned lampposts and into the welcoming shops of up to 5th generation shop owners. Here, education, history, and adventure intersect as you meet artists, professors, and historians along your one-of-a-kind journey. Oh, and your taste buds? They’ll forever thank you for indulging in the abundant dining experience with a focus on seasonal and regional flavors. If you listen closely, the ancient mounds and historic homes just might share their secrets with you. However you choose to spend your time with us, our friendly people and scenic places will stay with you
Washington County And Beyond
While downtown Marietta has plenty of attractions to keep you entertained, we’re fortunate to be surrounded by communities and natural wonders throughout the Mid- Ohio Valley and scenic Southeast Ohio.
Marietta is the county seat of Washington County, full of small towns, big fun, and endless destinations. Many historical sites have been beautifully preserved throughout the region, a reminder that America’s storied westward expansion began right here.
Head North
The route from Marietta to its northern neighbors is a scenic one, and the people and places you’ll meet make it worth the scenic drive. Driving north from Marietta along the Muskingum River, you’ll find three friendly communities –Lowell, Beverly, and Waterford. Settled as early as 1789, the area where Cats Creek meets the Muskingum developed into two villages, then into three as Beverly and Waterford separated to opposite sides of the river.
![Your Next Historic Adventure - Washington County CVB (9) Your Next Historic Adventure - Washington County CVB (9)](https://i0.wp.com/mariettaohio.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Screen-Shot-2022-05-06-at-9.33.48-PM-1024x608.jpg)
Explore East
The eastern portion of Washington County is a must-see area for thrill-seekers and nature lovers. A short drive eastward from Marietta, you’ll find 64,000 acres and more than 300 miles of hiking, biking, and climbing adventures in this section of the Wayne National Forest, Ohio’s only national forest along the Ohio River. Two small towns Newport and New Matamoras are tucked among the natural beauty of the area. Fisherman also flocks to this area to reel in a catfish at one of the best fishing spots in the state at Willow Island Lock and Dam. Couples and families make warm fall memories (and yes, fun fall social media posts) apple-picking at Hidden Hills Orchard, and enjoying the stunning views of a drive along the Ohio River Scenic Byway.
Wild or mild, you’ll find plenty to do in the natural splendor of eastern Washington County. Looking for even more to explore? Our friends across the river (and state line into West Virginia) at the Greater Parkersburg CVB have their own exciting adventures in-store, making our region a can’t miss two-state destination in one easy-to-navigate region.
Planning your next Marietta adventure? Request a free copy of our visitor guide, packed with even more helpful details on where to dine, shop, stay and play across Marietta, Washington County and the surrounding region.
Request a guide
Request
RECOMMENDED READ<<<
![Your Next Historic Adventure - Washington County CVB (11) Your Next Historic Adventure - Washington County CVB (11)](https://i0.wp.com/mariettaohio.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/the-pioneers-book-cover.png)
If you’re interested in diving deeper into Marietta’s early history, read “The Pioneers” by Pulitzer Prize-winning historian David McCullough. Rediscover an important and dramatic chapter in the American story— the settling of the Northwest Territory by dauntless pioneers who overcame incredible hardships to build a community based on ideals that would come to define our country.