Huntington, West Virginia Travel Guide

Discover Huntington, West Virginia: A perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty nestled in the scenic Appalachian Mountains.

Nestled along the Ohio River, Huntington, West Virginia, offers a charming blend of historical richness and natural beauty. This city is home to Marshall University, giving it a vibrant and youthful atmosphere. The scenic views of the Appalachian Mountains provide a stunning backdrop, making it a picturesque destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike. Huntington's downtown area is a hub of activity, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks. The Huntington Museum of Art and the Heritage Farm Museum and Village provide a glimpse into the local culture and history. For those who love the outdoors, Ritter Park is a must-visit, offering scenic walking trails, gardens, and a historic rose garden. Food enthusiasts will delight in Huntington's diverse culinary scene, with options ranging from traditional Appalachian fare to modern cuisine. The city's festivals, such as the annual ChiliFest and the Rails & Ales Beer Festival, are perfect opportunities to sample local flavors and immerse yourself in the community spirit.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Huntington.

Visit Pullman Square for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Check out the events calendar at Marshall University for concerts, lectures, and sports.
Take a stroll or bike ride along the Paul Ambrose Trail for Health (PATH) for scenic views.
Explore the Ohio River by taking a riverboat tour for a unique perspective of the city.
Don't miss the Heritage Farm Museum and Village for a step back in time.
Visit in the fall to experience the beautiful foliage and local festivals.

Explore Huntington: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Huntington

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Ritter Park

Discover the natural beauty of Ritter Park, an urban oasis in Huntington, WV, featuring lush gardens, scenic trails, and family-friendly spaces.

4.7

Camden Park

Experience the joy of rides and nature at Camden Park, a family-friendly amusement park in Huntington, West Virginia, perfect for all ages.

3.9

Harris Riverfront Park

Discover the beauty of Harris Riverfront Park, a tranquil escape in Huntington, WV, featuring lush landscapes, river views, and community events.

4.3

Heritage Farm Museum & Village

Discover West Virginia's rich heritage at the Heritage Farm Museum & Village, where history, culture, and family fun intertwine.

4.8

Best landmarks in Huntington

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Pullman Square

Explore Pullman Square, Huntington's premier shopping mall offering diverse retail, delightful dining, and vibrant entertainment in a lively community setting.

4.4

Ritter Park

Discover the natural beauty and serene landscapes of Ritter Park, a tranquil escape in Huntington, West Virginia, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.

4.7

Camden Park

Experience the joy of rides, games, and family fun in the heart of Huntington, West Virginia at Camden Park.

3.9

I-64 Eastbound West Virginia Welcome Center

Discover the heart of West Virginia at the I-64 Eastbound Welcome Center—your essential stop for travel tips, local insights, and scenic adventures.

4.5

Best restaurants in Huntington

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Texas Roadhouse

Experience authentic American dining at Texas Roadhouse in Huntington - home to hand-cut steaks and warm hospitality.

4.4

Bahnhof WVrsthaus & Biergarten

Discover authentic German cuisine at Bahnhof WVrsthaus & Biergarten in Huntington, where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.

4.5

Frostop Drive-In

Experience the charm of classic American fast food at Frostop Drive-In in Huntington, WV – home of delicious burgers and iconic root beer!

4.6

Red Lobster

Experience fresh seafood delights at Red Lobster in Huntington - where family-friendly dining meets flavorful ocean fare.

4.3

Best bars in Huntington

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Huntington Ale House

Savor the best of American cuisine at Huntington Ale House, where gourmet steaks and craft beers create an unforgettable dining experience.

4.4

The Cellar Door

Discover the vibrant culinary experience at The Cellar Door, Huntington's go-to spot for tapas, exquisite wines, and crafted cocktails.

4.5

The Lantern

Discover the nightlife of Huntington at The Lantern, a lively cocktail bar known for its innovative drinks and welcoming atmosphere.

4.2

Inn Between Bar & Grill

Discover the flavors of Huntington at the Inn Between Bar & Grill, where delicious food meets a warm, inviting atmosphere for all visitors.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Huntington

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Stonewall

Unleash your night at Stonewall, Huntington's premier bar for thrilling music, delectable drinks, and unforgettable memories.

4.4

Sharkey's

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Huntington at Sharkey's, where karaoke and live music create unforgettable memories in West Virginia.

3.8

The Jockey Club

Discover The Jockey Club, a premier cocktail bar in Huntington, WV, offering a vibrant atmosphere and expertly crafted drinks for the perfect night out.

4.7

Lucille's II

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Lucille's II, a lively lounge in Huntington, WV, perfect for drinks, bites, and unforgettable evenings.

4.6

Best shops in Huntington

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Walmart Supercenter

Discover Walmart Supercenter in Huntington, WV - your ultimate destination for groceries, electronics, clothing, and more at unbeatable prices.

3.9

Pullman Square

Explore the dynamic Pullman Square in Huntington, WV – a shopping haven filled with trendy stores, delicious dining, and vibrant entertainment options.

4.4

Gabe's

Explore Gabe's in Huntington, WV, where budget-friendly prices meet quality clothing and accessories for the entire family.

4.3

Eastern Heights Shopping Center

Discover a diverse shopping experience at Eastern Heights Shopping Center, Huntington's go-to destination for fashion, gifts, and delicious dining.

4.1

Explore Huntington on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Huntington, mapped for you.

Huntington Essentials

Huntington is located in the western part of West Virginia. The nearest major airport is Huntington Tri-State Airport (HTS), approximately 11 miles from downtown Huntington. It offers several flights daily connecting to larger hubs. Alternatively, Yeager Airport (CRW) in Charleston, West Virginia, is about an hour's drive away and provides more flight options. For those traveling by train, Amtrak serves Huntington with its Cardinal route. The city is also accessible via major highways including I-64, U.S. Route 60, and U.S. Route 52.
Huntington is a relatively small city, and many attractions are within walking distance in the downtown area. For longer distances, the Tri-State Transit Authority (TTA) offers bus services across the city and nearby regions. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available. Renting a car is a convenient option if you plan to explore the surrounding areas. Bicycling is another viable option, with several bike-friendly paths and lanes throughout the city.
The official currency in Huntington is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city, so accessing cash should not be an issue. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash for use in smaller establishments or in areas where card payments might not be accepted.
Huntington is generally safe for tourists, but as with any city, it's advisable to take standard precautions. The downtown area is well-patrolled and considered safe for visitors. However, certain neighborhoods such as Fairfield West and Highlawn have higher crime rates and should be avoided, especially at night. Always be vigilant about your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Huntington has several medical facilities, including Cabell Huntington Hospital and St. Mary's Medical Center, which provide comprehensive healthcare services. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are readily available for minor health issues, and many are open 24/7.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Casual attire is widely accepted, but avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local religious practices and places of worship. Public Transport: Do be courteous to drivers and fellow passengers. Don't play loud music or talk loudly on your phone. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine, including the famous Huntington hot dogs. Don't forget to tip your server, as it is customary in the U.S.
To experience Huntington like a local, visit the Heritage Station, which offers a range of local crafts and foods. Enjoy a walk along the Ohio River at the Harris Riverfront Park. For a unique experience, catch a show at the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center. Don't miss the opportunity to attend local festivals such as the annual ChiliFest or the Huntington Music and Arts Festival. Engage with locals at small diners and cafes, where you'll often find friendly faces and great stories.

When is the best time to visit Huntington?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Huntington

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Huntington. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
- YesYep
  [yep]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no prob-lem]
- Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
  [ex-kyooz me/sor-ee]
- How are you?How ya doin'?
  [how yuh doin]
- Fine. And you?Fine. Yerself?
  [fine. yer-self]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak ing-glish]
- I don't understandI ain't gettin' ya
  [eye aint get-tin yuh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please
  [can eye see the menu, please]
- I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [eye dont do meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI'll settle up, please
  [eye'll set-tle up, please]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Git!
  [git]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops]
- Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc]
- I'm lostI'm turned around
  [eye'm turned around]
- I'm illI'm sick
  [eye'm sick]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [eye wanna buy]
- I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [just brow-sin]
- How much is it?How much?
  [how much]
- That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
  [that's a bit steep]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya knock it down?
  [can yuh knock it down]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [what's the time]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [it's one]
- Half past (10)Ten thirty
  [ten thur-tee]
- MorningMornin'
  [mornin]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [after-noon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [evenin]
- YesterdayYest'day
  [yest-day]
- TodayToday
  [today]
- TomorrowTomorrah
  [tom-or-rah]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [seven]
- 8Eight
  [eight]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [where's the]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [what's the address]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me (on the map)?
  [can yuh show me (on the map)]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [when's the next (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket (to)]

History of Huntington

Huntington was officially founded on February 27, 1871, by the visionary Collis P. Huntington. It was named after him, an influential railroad magnate responsible for the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway (C&O Railway). The new town quickly grew due to its strategic location along the Ohio River and its status as a key railway hub.
The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw Huntington thriving as an industrial powerhouse. With its extensive rail connections, the city became a significant center for manufacturing and shipping. Steel mills, glass factories, and other heavy industries provided employment for thousands, making Huntington a crucial part of America's industrial heartland.
Founded in 1837, Marshall University is one of the cornerstones of Huntington's identity. Named after Chief Justice John Marshall, the university has grown alongside the city, providing higher education and cultural enrichment. It gained national attention in 1970 when a tragic plane crash killed most of the football team, leading to the inspiring story of the program's rebirth.
In January 1937, Huntington was severely affected by the Ohio River flood, one of the worst in American history. The floodwaters reached unprecedented levels, inundating much of the city. The disaster led to significant changes in flood management and infrastructure improvements to prevent future occurrences.
The late 20th century saw a cultural renaissance in Huntington. The establishment of the Huntington Museum of Art in 1952 and the revitalization of the downtown area brought new cultural and artistic opportunities. Festivals, art shows, and live music events have since become integral parts of the city's vibrant cultural scene.
Like many industrial cities, Huntington faced significant economic challenges in the late 20th century due to the decline of manufacturing. However, recent years have seen efforts to revitalize the city through economic diversification, with investments in healthcare, education, and technology sectors, helping to reshape Huntington's future.
Opened in 1928, the Keith-Albee Theatre is an architectural gem and a testament to Huntington's rich cultural heritage. Originally a vaudeville theater, it has been transformed over the decades into a beloved venue for films, performances, and community events, preserving its historic charm while serving modern needs.