The Up-and-Coming City in West Virginia That’s Perfectly Sized

One of my favorite things about West Virginia is how many small towns we have. We've only got just over a dozen cities with populations over 10,000, so sparsely populated places that might be considered teeny tiny in other states are pretty solidly mid-sized for us. One such mid-sized city is Vienna, tucked away in Wood County right along the Ohio River. This picturesque location means that it's got plenty of natural beauty perfect for those looking to enjoy the outdoors, but you'll also find opportunities for shopping and dining. It's a great spot for a weekend getaway, no matter the season.

Vienna was originally founded in 1794 by Revolutionary War veteran Dr. Joseph Spencer. Interestingly enough, the city wasn't named for the famous capital of Austria, but rather for Vienna, New Jersey—Dr. Spencer had fought in a battle there. West Virginia's Vienna made a name for itself in the early 20th century as a site where Vitrolite was produced. This colored glass was popular in the construction of Art Deco buildings.

The city is home to the Grand Central Mall, a sprawling shopping center with over 90 tenants. It's the only mall in the region, making it a popular spot to shop. Like most malls, Grand Central Mall is home to a variety of national chain stores, but you'll also find locally owned boutique shops throughout Vienna. We love Peyton & Peppy Boutique, a women's clothing and jewelry store with tons of great apparel.

Looking to grab a bite to eat while you're in the area? Little Stirr Bakery sells some of the best cakes and pastries in West Virginia. The Lost Anchor is another popular spot that's not far from the river and serves up delicious burgers and seafood.

Here in the Mountain State, we love the outdoors, and you'll find plenty of opportunities for fun in nature in Vienna. Spencer Park, Eagle Park, and Jackson Memorial Park are all small municipal parks with amenities like playgrounds and dog parks. If you're looking for something a little larger, McDonough Wildlife Refuge might be just the ticket. It's a wonderful place to get out and stretch your legs, and you'll find a variety of trails there with some pretty spectacular views. Learn more about the hiking opportunities at McDonough Wildlife Refuge from our friends at AllTrails.

Want to enjoy a few days in the Vienna area? Check out this nifty waterfront log cabin—it looks like the perfect place to stay, and it's just a few miles away from Vienna, in Parkersburg. Love exploring West Virginia's towns? Read on to learn more about one of our favorite destinations: Harpers Ferry.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.