Rebecca RhodesThe Mid-Ohio Valley is known for its historic homes, abandoned railroads and cobblestone alleyways. There is always something new to discover around every corner, and you will be sure to find original and unique shopping destinations with so many local businesses occupying the storefronts of Parkersburg and Marietta. Here are 25 must stop shops:
American Flags & Poles
Jim and Sylvie Caporale opened their doors in September of 1995. The couple shares a passion for dogs and collecting antiques, but most of all, they share a want to provide their customers with quality service. That is exactly what you get when you enter the door of American Flags and Poles and are met with the smiling employees. If you did not guess it already, the shop specializes in military, state and U.S. flags, but it also offers indoor and outdoor décor: seasonal wreaths, hand painted crocks and tart burners. Right now, primitive snowmen and Santas are ready to be taken off their shelves and be placed on your mantle.
276 Front Street
Marietta, OH
740.373.4262
M-Sat: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Baker and Baker Jewelers
A diamond is forever. These iconic words have appeared in every De Beers advertisement since 1948, and the phrase has been named the #1 slogan of the 20th century. The engagement ring is a symbol of love and commitment, and you can be sure to find the right fit at Baker and Baker Jewelers. Wedding sets are not the only glittering objects to line their satin cases. Swiss made watches and perfectly cut diamond necklaces shine among the rest. Of course, the Audrey Hepburn inside you will faun over the gems, but the inner Stevie Nicks will beg you to take home an Alex and Ani bracelet.
105 Putnam Street
Marietta, OH
740.373.7777
M-Th: 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
F: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Sat: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
The Coffee Bar
The bittersweet smell of freshly roasted beans hits your rosy nose as you take in the warm vanilla walls of this Parkersburg business. The Coffee Bar is more than the average coffee shop, it is an art gallery, music venue and a place of artisanal foods. Owners Zak and Amy Huffman designed their hub to feature local artists’ paintings and entertain guests with movie, music, poetry and trivia nights. What better way to spend a winter’s night with a loved one than hitting up a “third wave” coffee house, filling up with a signature drink and trying your hand at a game of trivia.
404 Market Street
Parkersburg, WV
304.900.3492
M, W, Th., F: 7 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
T: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Sat: 12 p.m. – 7p.m.
The Cook’s Shop
Everyone’s hearts can be found in the kitchen, or at least their stomach can. When it comes to cooking, you can never be too prepared. Making sure the pantry is stocked with Lays, muffin mix and Oreos is one thing, but the utensil rack needs to be as well. Cast iron is one of the most durable cookware items around and pops out some of the best tasting foods. Not to mention, there is something nostalgic about cooking with it, regardless if you are frying bacon over the campfire or pulling biscuits out of the oven. The Cook’s Shop just introduced a cast iron set that is making its way to tables around the MOV. This is just one gift among the endless cookie cutters, tea towels and aprons available.
180 Front Street
Marietta, OH
740.538.6003
M-Sat: 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Dad’s Primitive Workbench
Primitive décor goes a long way in making any guest feel welcome or right at home. Braided rugs and quilted bedding are just a few of the items accenting the walls at Dad’s Primitive Workbench. One of the things guests cannot get over is the delicious smell that surfaces as soon as they walk in the door. Well, that would be Heritage Candleberry’s Hot Maple Toddy candle burning. It is not the only thing burning! Your pocketbook will be sure have a hole in it after seeing the antiques, handmade folk-art, jewelry and more.
268 Front Street
Marietta, OH
740.374.9722
T-F: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sat: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Green Acres of Marietta
San Francisco meets Ohio in this antique store. After deciding to start fresh, the Green Acres owner loaded her little car as full as she could and crossed the country to Marietta. While she may be starting a new here, Jennifer is in no shortage of friendships. No one leaves without grabbing a cup of tea and gabbing a bit with the loveable California girl. From the Alice in Wonderland inspired tea sets to the stylish tie headbands, every piece on display is unique and has a story behind it.
128 Front Street
Marietta, OH
740.371.5117
T-Sat: 10 a.m. – 7p.m.
Sun: 11:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Gold Line Jewelers
Located at the heart of Front Street, Gold Line Jewelers has served Marietta for over 28 years. Maybe you will make a little room in your heart for a signature piece found in one of their collections. Nature and fashion meet with the Ayala Bar necklaces. Her style blends earthly elements, beads, stones and fabric to create a masterpiece. Also, employees are proud to show off the variety of leather, paracord and steel Victorinox Swiss Army watches. If your watch experiences a little wear and tear over the holiday season, Gold Line specializes in repairs, special orders and battery replacement.
150 Front Street
Marietta, OH
740.373.7024
T-F: 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Sat: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Healthy Start Nutrition
Every New Year it is the same. After wearing our stretchy pants for the third week in a row, we realize we stuffed ourselves over Thanksgiving and Christmas. So, in order to get back to our beach bodies, we make the resolution to cut carbs and calories, but our resolutions never seem to last. Well, Healthy Start Nutrition is a nutritional club that helps its customers stay motivated and on track by providing personal coaching, wellness evaluations and weight loss challenges. Not to mention they offer herbal teas and other natural products daily.
216 Front Street
Marietta, OH
740.252.6040
M-F: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sat: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Just a Jar Design + Press
Bobby Rosenstock and his wife Sara Always-Rosenstock started their business in 2009. Sara teaches graphic design at Marietta College while Bobby manages their letterpress shop. At Just a Jar, Bobby preserves the history of letterpress and carving wood by using traditional methods and equipment that dates back to the 1800s. The products for sale include fun posters and woodcuts with inscriptions of song lyrics, inspirational quotes and one-of-a-kind characters. Even if you’re not looking to go home with a present, stop in and chat with Bobby to learn more about his trade!
208 Front Street
Marietta, OH
503.853.6720
F: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., or call for an appointment
Marietta Adventure Company
While some of us may be content with sitting at home and binging our favorite shows on Netflix for the fifth time, there are more ways to spend a Saturday afternoon. The Mid-Ohio Valley is a great place for outdoor adventure, and you can find it with the Marietta Adventure Company. It is a full bike and paddle store so, all of your river and trail needs can be met in one stop. New to the company is the EXP Series from Salsa and 2017 model kayaks from Perception and Dagger. Not looking to make outdoor recreation a life-long passion? The Marietta Adventure Company provides guided kayak tours and mountain bike rentals for those looking to plan a perfect day outside.
219 Second Street
Marietta, OH
740.538.0801
T-Th: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
F-Sat: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Sun: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Marietta Brewing Company
Built in 1886, the Union Brewery was a pre-prohibition brewery, and it served patrons until 1919 when the “Thirsty First”, or the Volstead Act, stopped the sale of alcoholic beverages. Actually, it was in 1903 that the establishment was reincorporated as the Marietta Brewing Company. Today, it is a unique pub that greets guests with copper plated brew kettles. Some current drafts on tap are Estella’s Raspberry Wheat and the traditional English Stanleyville Milk Stout. For the teetotalers, Marietta Brewing Company offers a homemade root beer that will have your taste buds wanting more.
167 Front Street
Marietta, OH
740.373.2739
M-Th: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
F-Sat: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Sun: 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Merle Norman & More
From using berry juice as a lip stain, to drawing a burnt match over the eyelid and calling it “eyeliner”, makeup has been a part of a woman’s daily routine for hundreds of years. All of it has been done for the sake of beauty. Instead of relying on household items to get the job done, go to Merle Norman for your Skin Care and Color needs. You will be greeted with a friendly staff that makes it their priority to provide personalized service and satisfaction. Stop by now and check out the holiday gifts. The six piece brush set, metallic nail polish or refreshing skincare set will make for a great stocking stuffer.
6 Tiber Way
Marietta, OH
740.373.8519
M-F: 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Sat: 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Peddler of Dreams Art Space for Children
Art is special in the fact that it is a reminder of the past and the things you hope to come. At Peddler of Dreams, a child’s imagination can run wild with baskets of vibrant yarn, beads and paints available to help them create projects of their own. Owner Prudence Burgardt placed books, live plants and drawing boards throughout the studio for students to get inspired. Classes in which students make relaxation jars, puppet theatres and watercolors are ongoing. Call to reserve a spot for your child today.
270 Front Street
Marietta, OH
740.885.2054
M-F: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sat: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
People’s Bank Theatre
Marietta loves the People’s Bank Theatre! Despite a fire, reconstruction, location change and several name changes, this theatre is a diamond in the ruff. Throughout the years, the stage has seen Broadway plays, magical acts and Hollywood’s Golden Age stars: Dick Van Dyke, Jimmy Stewart and Judy Garland. Today, guests are still enchanted by the names and shows on the shining marquee. Going into the 2017 season, Bookends (a Simon and Garfunkel tribute), Mountain Stage and the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra will have audiences swaying. Clutch MOV has also partnered with the theatre for a special showing of White Christmas tonight. What better way to surprise a friend or loved one than with a ticket to their favorite show.
222 Putnam Street
Marietta, OH
740.371.5152
Box Office Hours
M-F: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Open 1-2 hours prior to scheduled events
Putnam Chocolate
As Forest Gump once stated, “Like is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re gonna get.” But you know exactly what you’re going to get at Putnam Chocolate. Shane Danford has been boxing peanut clusters, cherry cordials and layered truffles for over 30 years. Not to mention the praline pecans are to die for! Shane even does demonstrations upon request for groups. So, stop in and try a melt in your mouth candy at Marietta’s only hand-dipped chocolate shop.
288 Front Street
Marietta, OH
740.373.9119
T-Sat: 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Rossi Pasta
When the Greenbrier and Ritz Carlton Resorts ask for your pasta, you know it is good. As far as pasta goes, it does not get any better than Rossi Pasta. After 33 years in the business, they have perfected their recipe by using only the freshest ingredients in the kitchen. Customers are not just lining up for the noodles, but also for the signature Creamy Roasted Garlic Sauce and the traditional Northern Italian bread. Want to keep it gourmet casual? Rossi Pasta offers amazing dinner box sets for under $30.
106 Front Street
Marietta, OH
800.227.6774
M-Sat: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sun: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Schafer Leather
In 1867, Charles Dickens gave his first public reading and the Jessie James gang robbed a bank in Savannah, but most importantly, Schafer Leather Store was established. While it had its humble beginnings as the local harness shop, Schafer’s now has over 3,000 children’s, ladies and men’s boots. When you first enter the store, you are overtaken with the smell of rawhide and leather dye which transports you into the days of petticoats and Derringers. However, this store has more to offer than western wear, it has handbags, belts with intricate leather stampings and beautiful turquoise jewelry.
140 Front Street
Marietta, OH
740.373.5101
M-W: 9a .m. – 6 p.m.
F: 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Sat: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sun: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Silver Linings
Eccentric tapestries, both vintage and modern, are appearing in homes everywhere. The trend started a few years ago when college students decided to spruce up their drab dorm rooms to achieve a bohemian look. The colorful tapestries found at Silver Linings are sure to add pizazz to any space. Keeping up with the boho vibe, this eclectic shop provides Henna tattooing services. Henna is a natural paste that dyes the skin, and it is widely popular in the Middle East for ceremonies and celebrations. What says “Happy Holidays” better than matching tattoos?
108 Front Street
Marietta, OH
740.525.4864
T-Th: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
F: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Sat: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Simple Pleasures
You can find one of everything at Simple Pleasures, and you will want to take home one of everything. The store’s mission is well, simple; to help customers connect with their personal style and find joy in the little things. With Christmas comes laughter and time spent with loved ones, but it also comes with the stress of a full house and making sure the holiday goes off with a bang. That is why Simple Pleasures offers the Rica Bath Tea. By taking a bath with its herbs and essential oils, your stress melts right off. Want to make a splash in the kitchen? Check out the Whale’s Tail measuring cups in the home goods collection.
176 Front Street
Marietta, OH
740.374.8600
M-Sat: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Teri Ann’s
We all have that one person in the family – the one that never wears sweatpants and always has the perfect handbag to match their outfit. Yes, the fashionista can be one of the hardest people to buy for because they literally have anything and everything. Well, put Teri Ann’s on your shopping list because, they have the latest in ladies’ fashion. What is the latest in women’s clothing? Here’s the answer: plaid ponchos and fur trimmed vests.
290 Front Street
Marietta, OH
740.373.7631
M-F: 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sat: 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Top Drawer Furniture & Design Studio
Your home is an extension of yourself, and Top Drawer Furniture and Design Studio wants to make your space unique and beautiful. Starting in 1997, the family owned and operated business is a member of the American Interior Design Society. Top Drawer is ready to decorate your home with styles ranging from art deco to shabby chic. Add flair to your living room with a contemporary red velvet footstool or bring elegance to the dining room with a brass chandelier.
200 Front Street
Marietta, OH
740.373.8444
T-Th: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
F: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Sat.: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Unicorn Wine Guild
Jane Austen and Mary Shelly literally wrote the book on the Georgian era. This era is defined by the beginnings of the British Industrial Revolution, but also by Anna Maria, the Duchess of Bedford who invented the afternoon tea. The tradition of a mid-day tea time and snack has been passed down through the years, and is served at the Unicorn Wine Guild. The Sunday Blend is perfect when paired with one of the delicious baked goods the Guild has to offer. This is a great venue for a group of friends to have a light lunch, grab a freshly brewed tea or enjoy a wine tasting.
1816 Washington Boulevard
Belpre, OH
740.423.1300
M-Sat: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
A Unique Flower & Gift Shop
The Victorian language of the flower was used to represent a person’s true feelings: Asters for patience, Ferns for sincerity and the Red Rose for love. At A Unique Flower and Gift Shop, employees are excited to assist customers in finding or creating the perfect floral gift for that special someone. If you are not in the department for romance, the shop can fix you up with balloons or fruit and gourmet baskets. A Unique Flower and Gift Shop is a must stop for any occasion.
154 Front Street
Marietta, OH
740.373.8647
M-Sat: 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 a.m.
Whit’s Frozen Custard
Eating Whit’s Frozen Custard is like tasting the pearly gates of heaven. The frozen custard recipe dates back to the early 1900’s. Hey, if something is good, do not try and fix it! Whit’s spares no expense in providing patrons with the highest quality frozen treat. They use fresh cream, pasteurized eggs and premium chocolates and fruits to create the perfect serving. Right now, flavors like Candy Cane, Pumpkin Crunch and Buckeye Madness are on the menu, but one of the best flavors is the Raspberry Chocolate Chip.
335 Second Street
Marietta, OH
740.371.5085
M-Sat: 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Sun: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Wit &Whimzy
We all have a little geek inside of us. That still small voice that wants us to watch Mysteries at the Museum, pick up a stick and cast the Patronus spell or wish we were that crazy cat lady that lived down the street. Wit & Whimzy makes geek look chic with Abraham Lincoln inspired posters, animal keychains that might just represent you or a friend’s patronus and purfect kitty cards. Clutch MOV also has t-shirts and long sleeves available for any true Buckeye or Mountaineer.
152 Front Street
Marietta, OH
740.371.5002
T, W, Sat: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Th., F: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Sun: 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Rebecca is a Mineral Wells native attending WVU Parkersburg. By studying public relations, she hopes to one day use her skills to benefit non-profit organizations in the Mid-Ohio Valley. Even though Rebecca loves the written word, she has a passion for history. You can find her digging through postcards at any antique store or giving tours at The Castle of Marietta.
Photography by Liv Hefner