This beautiful Oglebayfest weekend, how can one not realize how truly blessed we are?
I am talking about our park system. The residents of Wheeling and the whole Upper Ohio Valley are truly fortunate to have such fabulous parks that enhance the quality of life for everyone. These parks serve as community focal points, recreational spaces, and natural sanctuaries, contributing to both physical and mental well-being.
From the iconic Oglebay Park to the laid-back Wheeling Park, the green spaces in the city are unmatched in terms of beauty, accessibility, and variety of offerings.
One of the greatest aspects of Wheeling’s parks is how they foster a sense of community. Families, friends, and even strangers gather at these spaces for picnics, sports, festivals, and events. Take Oglebay Park, for instance. It is not just a park. It’s a tradition. In all my memories, Oglebay Park has been a place where families return year after year, generation after generation, for everything from fireworks celebrating the Fourth of July, to the first weekend in October for Oglebayfest, or to the annual Festival of Lights during the holiday season.
These events are woven into the fabric of the Wheeling experience, creating shared memories and strengthening the bonds among neighbors.
Another reason Wheeling is lucky to have such parks is the accessibility they provide. In a time when many urban areas are dealing with limited green space, Wheeling offers a welcome abundance. Whether you’re looking for a tranquil spot to enjoy nature or a place for active recreation, Wheeling’s parks offer something for everyone.
Trails for hiking and biking, playgrounds for children, golf courses, and even areas for fishing or paddle boating make these parks all-inclusive. Oglebay’s Good Zoo adds an educational component that’s rare to find in local parks elsewhere. These spaces are vital for promoting outdoor activity, making it easy for residents to stay physically active, engage with nature, and explore new hobbies or sports.
The parks in Wheeling also help preserve the natural beauty of the region. Nestled in the Appalachian foothills, these parks are full of rolling hills, lush forests, and scenic landscapes. This natural beauty makes them destinations for people from surrounding areas, bringing in tourists and boosting local business.
Wheeling Park, for example, is a beautiful blend of manicured lawns and natural landscapes, offering a perfect retreat without ever leaving the city. The parks are a reminder of how close we are to nature, even within our unique urban setting, and they encourage environmental awareness and stewardship.
Beyond recreation and tourism, these parks are an economic asset to Wheeling.
Oglebay, with its resort and conference center, brings in visitors from all over the country for business meetings, weddings, and weekend getaways. This influx of visitors supports many of the local restaurants, shops, and other hotels, contributing to the local economy. The parks also provide jobs, from groundskeepers and event planners to seasonal workers and educators at places like the Good Zoo. This blend of tourism and local employment ensures that the parks are not only a source of pride for the community but also a vital part of its economic sustainability.
Both Wheeling Park and Oglebay Park served as the first employers for the three Storch children.
Seth and Payton got their initial work experience at Wheeling Park working for probably one of the best managers, Nat Goudy. Alexis first developed her customer service skills in the dining rooms of Wilson Lodge as a hostess. All of them developed a strong work ethic from this experience at pivotal ages in their development.
Wheeling’s parks also offer a unique historical dimension.
They are not just places to relax. They are also sites that tell the story of the area’s past. Oglebay Park, originally the estate of industrialist Earl Oglebay, now serves as a community treasure. The Mansion Museum within the park offers a glimpse into local history, connecting today’s visitors with Wheeling’s rich industrial and cultural heritage. Similarly, the historical landmarks and structures scattered throughout Wheeling Park allow visitors to reflect on the area’s past while enjoying its present beauty.
One of the less realized and underappreciated aspects of Wheeling’s parks is their role in supporting mental health. In an era when many people feel the stresses of modern life, these beautiful spaces offer a sanctuary for relaxation and reflection. Numerous studies have shown that spending time in nature reduces stress, improves mood, and enhances overall well-being.
The accessibility of our parks means that residents have ample opportunities to step away from their daily routines and immerse themselves in the calming effects of the outdoors. Whether it’s taking a quiet walk along a wooded trail, meditating by water, or simply sitting on a bench to watch the leaves change, these parks offer a much-needed mental health break.
Additionally, Wheeling’s parks are evolving to meet the community’s changing needs.
The governing body has made a dedicated effort to keep these spaces modern and welcoming, from updated playground equipment to the renewed use of space in Wheeling Park’s White Palace to the recently completed upgrades of Wilson Lodge. All of the space is evolving to create the best experience for locals and visitors alike. This forward-thinking approach ensures that the parks will continue to serve future generations as places of recreation, relaxation, and inspiration.
Wheeling’s parks exemplify the best of what a community can offer, natural beauty, recreational opportunities, historical significance, and economic benefit. They are places where memories are made, where families come together, and where individuals find peace.
In a world where many communities are developing their green space, Wheeling stands out as a city that understands the value of its parks and invests in them for the future. This commitment to preserving and enhancing these beautiful parks is why Wheeling is so lucky.
