30 Best Things to do in Wheeling!

Wheeling in West Virginia, is a charming city located along the Ohio River. Known for its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning natural beauty, Wheeling offers a blend of old-world charm and modern attractions. From historic landmarks to outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in this quaint city. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a peaceful getaway, we’ll showcase the best things to do in Wheeling during your visit to West Virginia.

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1. Must-See Attractions

West Virginia Independence Hall

Built in 1859, West Virginia Independence Hall is a historic site that played an important role in the state’s formation. It was originally served as a custom house, courthouse and even a post office for the federal government. During the Civil War, it became the headquarters for the Restored Government of Virginia, playing a key role in the process that ultimately led to West Virginia breaking away and becoming its own state. The hall hosted the Wheeling Convention in 1861 and the West Virginia Constitutional Convention in 1863, making it an important landmark for visitors to learn state’s history.

Wheeling Historic District

The Wheeling Historic District is also known as the Wheeling Central Business District, includes 205 contributing buildings, showcasing architectural styles from the early 19th century, including Greek Revival and Late Victorian designs. The area was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979, recognizing its importance in American history. The district includes the original site of Fort Henry, a key location during the late 1700s. Visitors can explore historic landmarks such as the Baltimore and Ohio Passenger Terminal, built in the early 1900s and the Capitol Theatre, constructed in 1928.

Grave Creek Mound Historical Site

Built by Adena culture between 250 and 150 BC, Grave Creek Mound Historical Site is well-known as one of the largest conical burial mounds in the United States. The Adena people moved over 60,000 tons of earth to construct it, using layers of soil to build the structure over time. The first recorded excavation took place in 1838, uncovering artifacts and human remains that provided insight into the Adena way of life. Today, visitors can explore the Grave Creek Mound Archaeological Complex, which includes a museum displaying artifacts, photographs and exhibits about the region’s ancient history.

Cathedral of St. Joseph

Located at 1300 Eoff Street, The Cathedral of St. Joseph is an important religious and historical site, serving as the seat of the Catholic Diocese of Wheeling – Charleston and is home to the oldest Catholic congregation in Wheeling. The cathedral is also a part of the East Wheeling Historic District, making it listed on the National Register of Historic Places to recognize it’s importance. Built in 1926, it features Romanesque Revival architecture, with sandstone walls, arched windows and detailed interior designs. Inside, visitors can take guided tours to learn about its history and role in the community.

Artworks Around Town

The Artworks Around Town is a nonprofit art center, supporting both local and regional artists by providing an opportunity to showcase their work and talent. Visitors can explore a variety of paintings, sculptures, ceramics and photography, all created by artists from the area. The center hosts monthly gallery hops, where guests can meet artists, view new exhibits and enjoy live music. Art classes and workshops are available for people of all ages, offering a chance to learn new techniques and styles. It also features guest-artist lectures and demonstrations, making it a hub for creative expression.

Wheeling University

The Wheeling University is a private Catholic university known for its strong academic programs and commitment to student success. Founded in 1954 as Wheeling College, the university was originally a Jesuit institution until 2019. The campus covers 65 acres and competed in NCAA Division II sports during the Mountain East Conference, with its teams known as Cardinals. Wheeling University is ranked among the top regional universities in the South, offering students to participate in research projects, honors programs, and service-learning opportunities, helping them gain real-world experience.

2. Outdoor Adventures

Wheeling Heritage Trail

The Wheeling Heritage Trail is a scenic 18 miles paved path that follows the Ohio River and Wheeling Creek, offering a peaceful place for walking and biking. The trail is a part of rail-to-trail project, which helps converting the old railroad routes into recreational paths. Along the way, visitors can see historic signs that tell the story of Wheeling’s past, including its role as an industrial hub. The Wheeling Creek Trail connects directly to Heritage Port and stretches towards Elm Grove, crossing Wheeling Creek via the Hempfield Viaduct before it passes through the historic Hempfield Tunnel, built in 1904.

Wheeling Island Hotel-Casino-Racetrack

The Wheeling Island Hotel-Casino-Racetrack is a famous entertainment destination offering gaming, dining and live racing. The casino features slots, table games and poker, providing visitors with a variety of gaming options. The high-limit room offers a more exclusive experience for those looking for higher stakes. The racetrack hosts live greyhound racing, making it one of the few remaining tracks in the country. Guests can also enjoy off-track betting for both greyhound and horse racing. The hotel provides comfortable rooms and suites, allowing visitors to stay overnight and enjoy the experience.

Hiking Trails

Wheeling has several hiking trails that offer a mix of nature, history, and scenic views. Covering 1,650 acres, Oglebay Park is one of the most popular spots, with trails passing through wooded areas and open meadows. The park has well-marked paths, making it easy for visitors to explore. Wheeling Park is a 406 acres space, also has walking trails, along with picnic areas and recreational facilities. For those looking for a shorter hike, Falls Vista Trail is an easy 0.8-mile path with nice views.

Susan Wheeler Walking Trail, at 1.4 miles, offers a slightly more challenging route through natural surroundings. Driehorst Trail, at 1.2 miles, is another good option for a peaceful walk. The Serpentine Trail (Red) is 1.7 miles long, providing a mix of wooded paths and open spaces. The Wheeling Heritage Trail at 17.2 miles, is the longest in the area, following the Ohio River and Wheeling Creek, making it great for both hiking and biking.

Kayaking and Boating

Wheeling provides opportunities for kayaking and boating, with scenic waterways that make for a relaxing outdoor experience. The Ohio River is a popular spot, providing wide, calm waters for paddling and boating. Another great option is Wheeling Creek Water Trail offering a mix of village and city skyline as it flowing towards the Ohio River. Wheeling Island Marina and Schenk Lake at Oglebay provides kayak rentals and guided tours, helping visitors explore the local waterways. North Bend State Park and Tygart Lake State Park offer additional kayaking and boating options within driving distance.

Golfing Courses

Wheeling has golf courses that offer a mix of challenging layouts and scenic views. Speidel Golf Club at Oglebay features two championship courses designed by Arnold Palmer and Robert Trent Jones, Sr., making it a top choice for golfers of all skill levels. The Oglebay Park Par 3 has rolling fairways and scenic hills, while the Jones Course is known for its longer layout and strategic bunkers. Crispin Golf Course, also at Oglebay, is a shorter 18-hole course that is great for casual golfers and beginners. Wheeling Park Golf Course offers a Par 3 course and a driving range, making it a good spot for practice.

3. Iconic Landmarks

Oglebay Mansion Museum

Built in 1846, Oglebay Mansion Museum was once the summer home of Cleveland industrialist Earl W. Oglebay, who purchased the property in 1900. The museum features 13 period rooms, showcasing furniture, artwork and artifacts from Wheeling’s early settlement through the Edwardian era. It became the first museum in West Virginia to earn accreditation from the American Association of Museums and was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. Guided tours provide detailed information about the estate’s history and the Oglebay family’s contributions to the region.

Wheeling Suspension Bridge

The Wheeling Suspension Bridge spans across the Ohio River, connecting downtown Wheeling with Wheeling Island. Built in 1849, it was the largest suspension bridge in the world at the time and remains one of the oldest still in use today. Designed by Charles Ellet Jr., the bridge was an important part of the National Road, helping travelers cross the river easily. The bridge has a 1,010 foot main span, with stone towers on both sides that support the suspension cables. In 1975, the bridge has earned designation as a National Historic Landmark, honoring its significance in transportation history.

West Virginia Penitentiary

The West Virginia Penitentiary is a historic prison that was operated since 1866 till 1995 and today, it is open for guided tours and events. The prison was built in a Gothic Revival style features with castle-like stone walls, battlements and turrets. Today, visitors can explore the prison through historical tours, learning about its past, including escapes, riots and executions. The site is also known for its paranormal activity, attracting ghost hunters and those interested in supernatural experiences. Special events like overnight investigations and haunted house attractions, take place throughout the year.

National Imperial Glass Museum

The National Imperial Glass Museum showcases an extensive collection of Imperial glassware, featuring designs like Candlewick, Cape Cod, carnival glass and slag glass. Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight the artistry behind these unique pieces and learn about the production process that shaped Imperial’s legacy. The museum honors the employees who contributed to the success of Imperial Glass, recognizing their role in shaping its tradition. Open from April through October, the museum offers guided tours for visitors and school groups by appointment and show live demonstrations.

Wheeling Centre Market

The Wheeling Centre Market is a historic shopping and dining district that has been a local favorite since 1853. It is home to small shops, restaurants and specialty stores, offering a mix of food, antiques and handmade goods. The area was originally an open-air market, serving as a hub for commerce in 19th century. Today, visitors can explore boutiques and art galleries, making it a great place to spend an afternoon. Coleman’s Fish Market is known for its famous fish sandwich, a must-visit spot for food lovers. The market hosts seasonal events, live music, and art festivals, making it a lively place.

Highlands Sports Complex

Located in Triadelphia, Highlands Sports Complex is a modern sports and recreation facility offering a variety of activities for visitors. It is part of The Highlands, a multi-use development featuring shopping, dining and entertainment. The facility includes indoor and outdoor spaces designed for sports and training programs. It has basketball courts, volleyball courts, turf fields and a climbing zone, making it a great place for athletes. The arcade fun center provides entertainment for kids, while the complex hosts sports leagues, tournaments and training camps, attracting teams from across the region.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

Kruger Street Toy & Train Museum

The Kruger Street Toy & Train Museum is a nostalgic attraction housed in a restored Victorian school, showcasing thousands of toys and train exhibits. Visitors can explore dolls, cars, soldiers, miniatures, ride-on toys and model train layouts, bringing childhood memories to life. The museum offers guided tours, sharing the history of various toys and how they have evolved over time. Guests can see different themed rooms, each filled with unique collections from various eras. Special programs and workshops allow visitors to understand the mechanics behind model trains and toy manufacturing.

Bellaire Toy and Plastic Brick Museum

The Bellaire Toy and Plastic Brick Museum features over 4 million LEGO bricks, making it one of the largest private LEGO collections in the world. The exhibits showcase life-sized LEGO sculptures, including a classroom scene, an astronaut and a Star Wars display, all built with impressive detail. The museum also holds the Guinness World Record for the largest LEGO mosaic, designed by Brian Korte of Brickworkz LLC and assembled with the help of museum staff and children. Visitors can explore themed rooms, each highlighting different LEGO creations, from ocean scenes to small old-west towns.

Oglebay Good Zoo

The Oglebay Good Zoo features around 50 species, including some rare and endangered animals. It is the only zoo in West Virginia accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, ensuring high standards of care. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits that allow close encounters with red pandas, lemurs and kangaroos. A scenic train ride takes guests through parts of the zoo, making it a fun experience for families. The zoo has a discovery lab where visitors can learn about animal habitats, conservation efforts, and watch feeding sessions to learn more about the daily routines of zookeepers.

Capitol Theatre

Opened in 1928, the Capitol Theatre in Wheeling, is the largest theater in West Virginia and a key part of the city’s history. It was originally built for movies and stage performances but later became home to Jamboree USA, a live country music show that ran from 1926 to 2007. The show featured famous artists like Johnny Cash, Loretta Lynn and Merle Haggard, bringing large crowds to Wheeling. Designed by Charles W. Bates, the theater features Renaissance Revival architecture, and it continues to host concerts, Broadway shows, comedy acts and special events, making it a popular venue for visitors.

Wesbanco Arena

The WesBanco Arena is a multi-purpose venue that has been hosting sports, concerts and events since 1977 in Wheeling. The arena is home to the Wheeling Nailers ice hockey team and the Wheeling Miners indoor football team. It also hosts the Mounta in East Conference basketball tournament and Ohio Valley Athletic Conference wrestling tournament, making it a key location for regional sports. Originally known as the Wheeling Civic Center, the arena was officially renamed in 2003. Over the years, it hosts major touring acts, trade shows, and conventions, making it a popular entertainment spot.

Wheeling Artisan Center Shop

The Wheeling Artisan Center Shop is a local boutique that highlights handmade goods from West Virginia and surrounding region. The shop has been supporting local artisans for over two decades, offering a variety of glass products, pottery, jewelry, fabric arts and souvenirs. Visitors can browse unique items, including West Virginia food products and locally crafted gifts for everyday use or special occasions. The building itself has a rich history, dating back to 1855, and has undergone renovations. The shop’s curators carefully select merchandise to showcase the best of West Virginia craftsmanship.

5. Natural Attractions

Wheeling Park

The Wheeling Park is a 406 acres of space that has been a favorite spot for outdoor activities since it opened in 1925. One of the main features is the Bloch Memorial Golf Course, a 9-hole course that provides a relaxed golfing experience. The park has indoor and outdoor tennis courts, a miniature golf course, and a large playground with a rubberized safety surface. Good Lake, located within the park, offers paddle boating, giving visitors a chance to enjoy the water. The J.B. Chambers Memorial Rink provides ice skating in winter and roller skating in warmer months, making it a year-round attraction.

Oglebay Park

Covering 1,650 acres, Oglebay Park offers a mix of outdoor activities, historical sites and family-friendly attractions. Originally the estate of Earl W. Oglebay, the land was donated to the city in 1926 to be used for public recreation. The park features walking trails, golf courses, gardens and picnic areas, making it a great place for visitors to relax and explore. Schenk Lake offers paddle boating and fishing, while the Wilson Lodge provides comfortable accommodations for overnight stays. The park hosts seasonal events, including Winter Festival of Lights, which attracts visitors from across the region.

Wheeling Creek

The Wheeling Creek is a 25 miles long tributary of the Ohio River, flowing through the northern panhandle of the state. The creek starts in Marshall County and passing through Ohio County, reaching the downtown area, where it meets the Ohio River. Historically, it played a role in early settlement and transportation, with its waters supporting industries and residents. Today, Wheeling Creek is popular for fishing, kayaking and tubing, offering a mix of flatwater and small riffles. The creek passes through parks, wooded and urban areas, giving visitors a chance to experience both nature and city views.

6. Day Trips & Excursions

Bear Rock Lakes Wildlife Management Area

From Wheeling, just a short drive to Bear Rock Lakes Wildlife Management Area offers a peaceful outdoor day trip. Covering 242 acres, the area has rolling hills, hardwood forests and open fields, creating a quiet setting for visitors. The main attractions are the four man-made lakes — Bear Lake, Baker Lake, Wood Pond and Rock Lake, offering fishing and kayaking. Bear Lake, the largest at eight acres, has a boat ramp and allows electric motors only, making it a good place for a calm paddle. The lakes are stocked with trout, largemouth bass and channel catfish, giving anglers plenty of fishing options.

Morgantown

Planning a day trip to Morgantown takes about 1.5 hours from Wheeling, covering 71 miles along I-70 and I-79 South. Morgantown is home to West Virginia University, where visitors can explore the WVU Core Arboretum, a 91 acres nature preserve with walking trails and river views. Downtown Morgantown has a variety of restaurants, including local favorites like Black Bear Burritos and Iron Horse Tavern, serving delicious meals with regional flavors. The Monongahela River runs through the city, offering kayaking and scenic spots along the Caperton Trail, a part of the Mon River Rail-Trail system.

Pittsburgh, PA

Start a day trip from Wheeling and drive about 1.5 hours to reach Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania, covering 57 miles along I-70 East and I-79 North. The Duquesne Incline is a good place to start, providing a scenic ride up Mount Washington with views of the city skyline. Downtown area has plenty of restaurants, including local favorites like Primanti Bros., known for its sandwiches with fries inside. The Strip District is a lively area with markets, coffee shops and specialty stores, perfect for browsing. The Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a peaceful spot with indoor and outdoor plant displays.

Akron, OH

Planning for day trip to Akron in Ohio takes about 2 hours from Wheeling, covering 105 miles along I-77 North. Akron is known for its connection to industry and innovation, with places like the Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, a historic estate with beautiful grounds and guided tours. The Akron Art Museum features modern and contemporary works, making it a great stop for art lovers. Nearby Akron, the Cuyahoga Valley National Park has scenic trails and waterfalls, offering a peaceful escape into nature. The Akron Zoo is a fun destination for families, with exhibits featuring animals from around the world.

How to Reach Wheeling

Wheeling is located along Interstate 70, connecting it to nearby cities like Pittsburgh and Columbus. Drivers coming from Pittsburgh can take I-79 South, then merge onto I-70 West, reaching Wheeling in about an hour, while those traveling from Columbus can follow I-70 East, with a drive time of around two hours. Bus services, including Greyhound, provide routes to Wheeling, with stops at the Wheeling Intermodal Transportation Center downtown.

For air travel, the closest major airport is Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), about 60 miles northeast, offering domestic and international flights. From the airport, visitors can rent a car or take a shuttle to Wheeling. The city is also accessible via Amtrak, with travelers arriving in Pittsburgh and then driving or taking a bus to Wheeling. Interstate 70 runs directly through the city, making it convenient for road trips from neighboring states like Ohio, Pennsylvania and Maryland.

Local Transportation

Getting around Wheeling is simple with several transport options available for residents and visitors. The Ohio Valley Regional Transit Authority (OVRTA) provides public bus service, covering seven fixed routes in West Virginia and four in Ohio. The buses run through key areas, making it easy to travel within the city. OVRTA also offers AdVANtage, a 24 hours curb-to-curb paratransit service for riders with disabilities. For those needing a taxi, IC Cab operates in Wheeling and nearby cities, offering both metered and fixed-rate rides.

Uber is available in Wheeling, allowing riders to book trips through the app at any time. Greyhound provides bus service to and from Wheeling, with a station located at 1207 Market Street. For special events or group travel, Wheeling WV Limousine & Party Bus Service offers luxury transportation, including limousines and party buses. Airport Limousine Service Inc. provides corporate and airport shuttles, helping travelers reach Pittsburgh International Airport and other destinations.

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FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

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