It looks differently here than it does when we go on our vacations.
Around here, it could be a combination of a number of different activities. Maybe something historical, then some quirky food, and then perhaps the casino slots? Or perhaps a round of golf, a bite to eat at a festival, and a show at the Capitol Theatre?
There’s always shopping at Centre Market, The Highlands, and possibly an old-school stroll through the mall, too.
“There really is so much here that attracts a lot of people to this area each year, including our culture and our history because the city of Wheeling is where so many historical events have taken place through the years,” explained Frank O’Brien, executive director of the Wheeling Convention and Visitor’s Bureau. “Not only is Wheeling where the state of West Virginia became a state back in 1863, but this region’s history reaches back to the Revolutionary days, too, and many people find those things very fascinating.”
“At this point in time, I can say that tourism is back here in the Upper Ohio Valley after a couple of years when we weren’t allowed to travel and when we didn’t know if it was safe to travel. But now? Tourism is back,” he said. “We have had several successful festivals this summer, and they have played into the number of attractions we have here in this region. It’s been a very good summer for those events.
Those Rolling Hills
It has almost been 100 years that Oglebay Park has been open to the public as property of the city of Wheeling, and the size of the facility has grown over the years to 1,650 acres.
Within its borders, visitors can reside in a large, luxurious lodge or in one of the updated cottages, they can swim and golf, bike and hike, putt-putt and paddleboat, study history and visit exotic animals, and cruise the annual Festival of Lights, an Oglebay tradition since 1985.
“What would this area be without Oglebay? That’s something to really think about,” O’Brien said honestly. “There are a lot of terrific attraction in this area, but would they be there if Oglebay was not? I really can’t answer that question. I just know that Oglebay has been our top attraction for many years, and that a lot of people depend on it in many ways.
“Not only do hundreds of local residents work there, but thousands stay at Wilson Lodge or in one of the cottages each year,” he said. “I know Oglebay is still trying to catch up on hiring enough employees just like everyone else, but the park is amazing is many different ways.”
And, O’Brien said, the economic impact spreads throughout the Wheeling area.
“Centre Market is an area that tour groups love to visit for a few hours because they can get something to eat at one of our iconic eateries, and they can go shopping at one of the many boutiques that are now in that area,” he said. “Plus, there is an art gallery, a number of antique shops, and a few other specialty shops that are very popular.
“We are very lucky in this area to have many other attractions and amenities in Marshall and Belmont counties, too, so, when tourists do come into the Wheeling area, there are a lot of options as far as places to stay and things to do, “O’Brien explained. “
Travel Sports
Six basketball/volleyball courts, one full-size field inside and out, four batting cages and pitching tunnels and a second-floor mezzanine.
And it is located along Interstate 70 and is surrounded by big-box shopping and a wide variety of restaurants. Check! Check! Check!
“Now that the pandemic has let up and we’re allowed to be out and about a lot more than before, we are realizing what a wonderful attraction the Highlands Sports Complex has become for the Wheeling area. I know when construction first started, there were a lot of hopes it would add a lot of commerce to the area, but when it was finished and it opened, there were still a lot of restrictions in place,” O’Brien said. “But now that there’s not, I believe the place is busier than anyone imagined.
“One of the best things about the complex is that it’s a facility that will be open all four seasons so the businesses and hotels at The Highlands are expecting a lot of visitors during the winter months, too,” he added. “There are a lot of different reasons to visit this area, and the athletic complex has added another reason that’s been really popular this year.”
