Tucked away in southern Ohio, you’ll find a special town that’s worth a drive from any corner of the state.
The historic riverboat town of Marietta, Ohio is known as the first permanent settlement of the Northwest Territory—and it’s unbelievably charming. The town borders West Virginia and is nestled along the banks of both the Muskingum and Ohio River. It’s known for its Victorian-style houses, rich history, European ambience, brick streets and sternwheelers.
It all began in 1788, when pioneers aboard the “Adventure Galley” landed at Marietta and deemed it the first permanent settlement in the Northwest Territory.
Mike Tewkesbury/Flickr The town is also home to multiple prehistoric earthworks and other major monuments, which were preserved by the earliest settlers.
Marietta was named in honor of the Queen of France, Marie Antoinette.
Sarah Murray/Flickr (Marietta is actually a nickname for “the Queen.”)
Today, the small city is home to about 14,000 residents.
Mike Tewkesbury/Flickr It’s also home to the liberal arts Marietta College, which was a station on the Underground Railroad before the Civil War.
Downtown, you’ll find several local eateries and shops you’ll want to explore.
Mike Tewkesbury/Flickr (Pictured is Front Street.)
Narrated trolley tours are also available in April-October, which give a historic overview of the architecture and sites of the city.
Trolley Tours/Facebook All tours start and end at the Levee House Cafe on the corner of Ohio and Second Street. The cost is $12 per adult, $10 for seniors and $7 for children ages 5-12.
The Lafayette Hotel is a must-see landmark for visitors—even though it has quite the haunted reputation.
Richie Diesterheft/Flickr This old-world hotel dates back to 1918, and is rumored to be haunted by its former owner. The third floor is infamous for paranormal activity. Guests have reported unexplained oddities for years. Missing items, suitcases turned upside-down and emptied shampoo bottles are just a few of the reported occurrences. (If you’re feeling brave, stay overnight and make a weekend out of it.)
One of the most unique features of the town is its gorgeous riverfront views.
Marietta Ohio/Facebook Strolling alongside the river is the perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon or an evening after a long day.
Be sure to walk the Marietta River Trail to experience the full essence of the town.
Mike Tewkesbury/Flickr This gorgeous 3-mile trail along the Muskingum River passes through Marietta’s quaint downtown and Harmar Railroad Bridge (pictured), which allows pedestrians to cross over the Muskingum River and into the historic Harmar Village.
The annual Ohio River Sternwheel Festival is the town’s most popular festival, bringing in people (and sternwheelers) from all over.
Mike Tewkesbury/Flickr The festival always takes place on the weekend after Labor Day at the Ohio River Levee on the corner of Front and Greene Streets downtown.
So whether you come for the festival or take your own day trip, make a point to visit Ohio’s oldest town. <3
Mike Tewkesbury/Flickr
Have you ever been to Marietta, Ohio before? What was your experience like? Share your stories and photos with us!
Mike Tewkesbury/Flickr
The town is also home to multiple prehistoric earthworks and other major monuments, which were preserved by the earliest settlers.
Sarah Murray/Flickr
(Marietta is actually a nickname for “the Queen.”)
It’s also home to the liberal arts Marietta College, which was a station on the Underground Railroad before the Civil War.
(Pictured is Front Street.)
Trolley Tours/Facebook
All tours start and end at the Levee House Cafe on the corner of Ohio and Second Street. The cost is $12 per adult, $10 for seniors and $7 for children ages 5-12.
Richie Diesterheft/Flickr
This old-world hotel dates back to 1918, and is rumored to be haunted by its former owner. The third floor is infamous for paranormal activity. Guests have reported unexplained oddities for years. Missing items, suitcases turned upside-down and emptied shampoo bottles are just a few of the reported occurrences. (If you’re feeling brave, stay overnight and make a weekend out of it.)
Marietta Ohio/Facebook
Strolling alongside the river is the perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon or an evening after a long day.
This gorgeous 3-mile trail along the Muskingum River passes through Marietta’s quaint downtown and Harmar Railroad Bridge (pictured), which allows pedestrians to cross over the Muskingum River and into the historic Harmar Village.
The festival always takes place on the weekend after Labor Day at the Ohio River Levee on the corner of Front and Greene Streets downtown.
To see more historic river towns in Ohio, check out our previous article: 10 Charming River Towns In Ohio To Visit.
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