Your Next Historic Adventure

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.

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.

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.

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.

The front of The Castle in Marietta ohio

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

covered bridges in Washington County Ohio

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.

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.

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Your Next Historic Adventure

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