In the burrow of the Appalachian Mountains you’ll find the Northern Panhandle, one of only two panhandles in West Virginia, where the scenery is palpable and the city life is booming. This travel region combines historic charm with non-stop attraction, meaning adventure awaits at every turn.
Visit these renowned arts and entertainment destinations scattered across Four cities and leave the worries of everyday life behind.
Moundsville
West Virginia State Penitentiary
The city of Moundsville in Marshall County boasts fascinating sites with southern flare. You don’t want to miss an interactive experience at the West Virginia State Penitentiary, a former state prison that now offers guests an inside look into its interesting history. The facility offers a variety of tours, including 3-hour investigations and sleepovers to spend the night with the paranormal – if you dare.
Prabhupada’s Palace of Gold
Prabhupada’s Palace of Gold is an absolute must-see during your travels. It was built in 1973 as a home for Srila Prabhupada to write his books and enjoy the countryside. Today, it is a place to visit and gaze over captivating architecture. With marble halls, crystal chandeliers and mirrored ceilings, the palace is a work of art.
New Cumberland
Tomlinson Run State Park
Located at the very top of the Northern Panhandle, Tomlinson Run State Park lies on nearly 1,400 acres of heavily forested hills. The park features a wide array of recreational activities including hiking, fishing, boating and swimming. Book a stay and rent out cozy cabins or unique yurts. While half of the park is developed with volleyball/basketball courts, miniature golf and more, the other half remains untouched with overhanging cliffs of sandstone and shale.
Mountaineer Casino Resort
Nestled on 77 acres of wooded hillside in New Cumberland, Mountaineer Casino Resort is a lively resort-style hotel that offers a casino and thoroughbred race track. This resort is 6.9 miles from Tomlinson Run State Park. If you plan to spend the night, you’ll be greeted by rooms with contemporary decor as well as other modern amenities. Upgrades include two stories, patios or balconies, and/or living rooms.
Wheeling
The Capitol Theatre
Wheeling is the former capitol of our beloved Mountain State and radiates with Victorian beauty. Recapture the magic and catch a show at The Capitol Theatre. This tasteful venue is a historic spot to catch a variety of performances. Previous productions on the stage have included celebrities like Johnny Cash and Loretta Lynn. You never know what surprise may be in store at showtime.
Centre Market
Centre Market is an eclectic, historic mix of shops and quality dining. This market has been around since 1853, making it older than the Mountain State itself. The Upper Market House, the oldest market house in the country, was originally an open air market while the Lower Market House being built in 1891. Unique eateries, a number of antique shops and salons are all within a one block walking area. Shopping for local goods at Centre Market is a perfect way to spend your day trip.
Wheeling Nailers
The Wheeling Nailers are a professional East Coast Hockey League ice hockey team based in the heart of Wheeling. This team is the ECHL affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins of the National Hockey League and the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins of the American Hockey League. Catch a game here while the league is in season. Let’s Go Nailers!
Weirton
Weirton Area Museum and Culture Center
Weirton has roots dating back to the 1700s yet maintains the upkeep of a modern community with historic vibrancy. You can visit the Weirton Area Museum and Culture Center to learn all there is to know about the city. Each exhibit divulges different periods, from the revolutionary days to the intriguing history of the Weirton Steel Company. The museum will hold yearly gatherings like the “Festival of Nations” and the “Robert Haworth Memorial Exhibition.”
Weirton Event Center
The Weirton Event Center is located in downtown Weirton, an outdoor concert venue that often puts on some great shows. This location is also popular for festivals, farmer’s markets and more, so be sure to keep an eye out for local Weirton happenings! From May through August, the venue even offers free Friday concerts.
Discover more fun to be had in the Northern Panhandle with the help of our newest West Virginia Vacation Guide.
More Northern Panhandle AdventuresExplore The Northern Panhandle’s #AlmostHeaven Charm
This post was last updated on April 16, 2024
