Wood County offers a strong quality of life built around community, recreation, culture, and convenience. Anchored by Parkersburg, Vienna, and Williamstown, the region combines the amenities of a regional center with the welcoming character of a close-knit community. Residents enjoy easy access to outdoor recreation, local dining, family attractions, arts, entertainment, and year-round events, all set along the Ohio and Little Kanawha rivers. Outdoor destinations such as Mountwood Park and Fort Boreman Historical Park offer hiking, biking, boating, camping, scenic views, and opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the Mid-Ohio Valley. The region is also home to unique attractions including Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park, museums, historic neighborhoods, and riverfront recreation.
Culture & Community
Wood County also offers a vibrant mix of arts, entertainment, and community experiences. The Parkersburg Art Center, Smoot Theatre, Actors Guild of Parkersburg, and Discovery World on Market provide opportunities for residents and families to enjoy culture close to home. Festivals, live events, local shops, restaurants, breweries, and community celebrations bring people together throughout the year.
With strong amenities, accessible recreation, rich history, and a welcoming community, Wood County gives residents the opportunity to build careers, raise families, stay connected, and enjoy a well-rounded place to call home.
Step into the past at the Blennerhassett Museum of Regional History, featuring a collection of local artifacts, portraits, and a display about the lives of the Blennerhassett family.
Henderson Hall is a living legacy of the pioneers and patriots who walked its halls through an unbroken chain of five generations. A must-see historical landmark in wood county.
Discover the impact of West Virginia’s oil and gas industry on the Appalachian region by touring the Oil and Gas Museum.
Originally constructed in 1926 for vaudeville acts, the theater was converted to a showcase for films when live entertainment lost the public’s favor. In 1930 it was sold to the Warner Brothers Company which redecorated the building, converting it into one of Parkersburg’s leading movie houses.
Symphony Sundays with quality symphonic and pops music under the direction of Lawrence Loh. All concerts take place in the auditorium at Blennerhassett Middle School.
A taste of Soho in the heart of Parkersburg, the Art Center showcases regional and national works in a dynamic, contemporary gallery setting. Visitors can explore rotating exhibitions, take part in classes and guided tours, shop for unique gifts, attend special events, and enjoy a creative space that also serves as a distinctive venue for private rentals.
Variety of musical, comedic and dramatic offerings by an organization that has won state and national recognition for performance excellence. Performances on selected weekends.
Greater Parkersburg is home to a variety of public art murals and selfie stations for models and photographers to enjoy! These locations are a great place for senior pictures or to show you visited the area! Make sure to use the hashtags #visitpkb!
Experience timeless elegance in the heart of downtown Parkersburg! This historic landmark combines luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining, and rejuvenating spa services. Whether planning a romantic getaway or a relaxing retreat, discover unforgettable hospitality and charm!
Wood County offers a competitive package of state and local incentives designed to support business growth at every stage. These may include tax credits, workforce training assistance, infrastructure support, and access to low-interest loan and grant programs.
Our team works directly with each company to identify and customize the best available options, while also coordinating with state and regional partners to maximize your investment. We streamline the process so you can focus on launching and scaling your operation with confidence.
Wood County benefits from a diverse and dependable workforce drawn from a strong regional labor shed. The area is supported by a network of technical schools, colleges, and workforce training programs that align with the needs of key industries.
Whether you require skilled trades, advanced manufacturing talent, or professional services, we can connect you with the right pipeline. Ongoing workforce development initiatives ensure your team has access to continuous training and upskilling opportunities.
We offer a range of development-ready sites and existing buildings to meet your project timeline and operational needs. From shovel-ready industrial sites to flexible commercial spaces, our available properties are strategically located and supported by essential infrastructure.
Our team will guide you through site selection, provide detailed property data, and help coordinate due diligence—ensuring a smooth and efficient path from planning to groundbreaking.
Wood County is strategically positioned with access to major transportation networks, including highways, rail service, and regional air connections. This connectivity allows businesses to efficiently reach key markets across the Midwest and beyond.
In addition, the region offers reliable and scalable utilities—including electric, natural gas, water, wastewater, and broadband—ensuring your operations can grow without interruption.
Wood County offers an exceptional quality of life that supports both professional success and personal well-being. Residents enjoy a low cost of living, strong schools, accessible healthcare, and a safe, welcoming community.
The region also features abundant outdoor recreation, local dining, arts, and cultural experiences—making it an attractive place for employees and their families to live, work, and thrive.
We connect forward-thinking companies with the resources, workforce, and strategic advantages needed to grow and succeed. Our mission is to help your business thrive right here in beautiful, Wood County, West Virginia.
lindsey@developwoodcountywv.com
kate@developwoodcountywv.com
Wood County Economic Development
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