I have heard that the Smoot Theatre is a delight, if you can catch it open during your visit. An old-time vaudeville venue, it is the old grand dame for the older set.

I've heard that Parkersburg has the largest gay population in the state, and as a result, hosts one or two gay bars that jump at night.

J.P. Henry's is a more tradition young person's bar with a more rauchous atmosphere... but there are several smaller bars around town. Marietta, just 13 miles to the north have a lot of bars in a row downtown too.