I didn’t know what to expect from Huntington—and that turned out to be a gift. There was no pressure to rush or check off a list. Instead, this riverside town opened up slowly, one small moment at a time. A walk in the park. A bite of something homemade. A quiet afternoon that turned into an unexpectedly full day. I remember thinking, “This isn’t a place that tries too hard—it just is.”
Best Things to Do in Huntington, WV
Breathing Easy in Ritter Park
Ritter Park was the kind of place that made me want to put my phone away—not out of obligation, but because real life was better than any screen. The shade from hundred-year-old trees stretched over the walking path like a canopy of calm, and everything about the space felt intentional: the laughter from a nearby playground, the dog walkers, the sound of gravel underfoot. I remember thinking, “This is where a town reveals its heartbeat.”
What I Loved Most: Sitting on a bench along the trail near the rose garden, watching petals drift gently onto the path—it felt like nature's version of a deep breath.
My highlights? After a long stroll, I stopped at Glenn’s Café nearby for a late breakfast. I had the cinnamon roll French toast—pillowy, sweet, and drizzled with just the right amount of cream cheese glaze. Paired with a mug of coffee and a window view of quiet streets, it was the kind of moment that made me forget I had anywhere else to be.
Ritter Park At a Glance
- Drive Time from Downtown Huntington: ~5 minutes
- Vibe: Peaceful, classic, community-centered
- Highlights: Walking trails, rose garden, playground, dog park
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall for peak blooms
- Cost: Free
- Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk
- Address: 13th Ave & Ritter Dr, Huntington, WV 25701
Time Travel at Heritage Farm Museum and Village
Visiting Heritage Farm felt like walking into a storybook—the kind worn soft from being read again and again. The wooden walkways creaked underfoot, lanterns hung beside log cabins, and Appalachian history came alive in the smallest details. I remember watching a blacksmith shape glowing metal and thinking, “This is what history looks like when it breathes.”
What I Loved Most: Touring the Progress Museum, where everything from vintage kitchen appliances to old mining gear told the story of perseverance in Appalachia. There was a quiet pride in it all.
My highlights? After a few hours of exploring, I visited the Front Porch Café on-site and had a warm bowl of chicken and dumplings with cornbread—comfort food that matched the setting perfectly. It wasn’t just a meal—it was part of the story.
Heritage Farm At a Glance
- Drive Time from Downtown Huntington: ~15 minutes
- Vibe: Immersive, historic, hands-on
- Highlights: Working village, museums, artisans, farm animals
- Best Time to Visit: Spring to fall for full programming and events
- Cost: Admission fee ($10–12 typical adult entry)
- Hours: Thurs–Sat 10am–3pm (check seasonal hours)
- Address: 3300 Harvey Rd, Huntington, WV 25704
Pullman Square: Where the City Gathers
Pullman Square wasn’t flashy—but it had presence. Right in the heart of Huntington, it buzzed with casual energy. Parents sipping iced coffees, college students flipping through books at the bookstore, friends gathering for dinner—it all blended into a steady hum. I remember sitting on a shaded bench watching the fountain sparkle under the sun and thinking, “This is the kind of place where everyone belongs.”
What I Loved Most: The way Pullman held space for both locals and visitors. It wasn’t a “destination”—it was a backdrop for everyday magic.
My highlights? Dinner at Black Sheep Burrito & Brews, where I ordered the Korean BBQ pork tacos with house pickled veggies and a cold local brew. The food had a fun edge, the vibe was laid back, and the people-watching from the patio was a bonus.
Pullman Square At a Glance
- Drive Time: Located downtown
- Vibe: Social, walkable, relaxed
- Highlights: Local dining, shopping, live music, cinema
- Best Time to Visit: Afternoons into evening for dining and events
- Cost: Free to visit; shopping and dining prices vary
- Hours: Most shops 10am–8pm; restaurants later
- Address: 220 9th St, Huntington, WV 25701
Quiet Wonder at the Huntington Museum of Art
The Huntington Museum of Art wasn’t just a gallery—it felt like a sanctuary. Nestled in the trees on a hill above the city, the building itself felt peaceful, surrounded by trails and gardens that whispered of calm even before I walked through the doors. Inside, the collection surprised me—spanning centuries and styles, from American folk art to glasswork that caught the light like something alive. I remember thinking, “This is the kind of place that reminds you how art makes time feel different.”
What I Loved Most: The conservatory tucked inside the museum—a lush, glass-walled space filled with tropical plants and soft light. I sat on a bench beneath a banana tree and didn’t want to leave.
My highlights? Afterward, I stopped at Grindstone Coffeeology on my way back into town. I had a honey lavender latte and a warm croissant—the kind of simple treat that made the day feel whole.
Huntington Museum of Art At a Glance
- Drive Time from Downtown: ~10 minutes
- Vibe: Reflective, inspiring, lush
- Highlights: Fine art galleries, glass exhibits, outdoor trails, conservatory
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, especially on a quiet afternoon
- Cost: Suggested donation ($5–10)
- Hours: Tues–Fri 10am–5pm; Sat–Sun noon–5pm
- Address: 2033 McCoy Rd, Huntington, WV 25701
Dialing Into Nostalgia at the Museum of Radio and Technology
Walking into the Museum of Radio and Technology felt like opening a time capsule. The scent of old electronics, the soft static of vintage radios clicking on—it all hit me the moment I stepped through the door. This wasn’t just a museum—it was a love letter to innovation. I remember standing in front of a fully intact 1940s living room display, thinking, “This is what progress sounded like.”
What I Loved Most: Watching a child react to hearing a vinyl record for the first time. There was something full-circle about it—past and present sharing space.
My highlights? After geeking out over old tech, I grabbed lunch at Fat Patty’s—a short drive away. I had the “Bleu Moon” burger with blue cheese crumbles and a side of sweet potato fries. It hit the spot after a full morning of retro immersion.
Museum of Radio and Technology At a Glance
- Drive Time from Downtown: ~10 minutes
- Vibe: Retro, geeky, deeply nostalgic
- Highlights: Vintage radios, WWII-era electronics, hands-on exhibits
- Best Time to Visit: Weekends or scheduled tours
- Cost: Free (donations encouraged)
- Hours: Sat 10am–4pm, Sun 1–4pm
- Address: 1640 Florence Ave, Huntington, WV 25701
River Views and Slow Moments at Harris Riverfront Park
Harris Riverfront Park was where the city exhaled. The Ohio River moved slow and wide alongside the walking paths, and everything about the park felt open. Simple. Real. I remember sitting on a bench near the boat ramp, watching the sunlight dance on the water, and thinking, “This is what peace feels like when it shows up quietly.”
What I Loved Most: Watching the sun set behind the bridge with a to-go coffee in hand, the whole scene softened by golden light and river breeze. It made the day feel wrapped up.
My highlights? Before heading to the park, I grabbed an iced latte and a pistachio muffin from Nomada Bakery. I found a shaded spot near the railing, unwrapped the treat, and let the stillness settle in like good company.
Harris Riverfront Park At a Glance
- Drive Time: Walking distance from downtown
- Vibe: Open, peaceful, local
- Highlights: River views, walking trails, boat access, summer concerts
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon or early evening
- Cost: Free
- Hours: Open daily dawn to dusk
- Address: Veterans Memorial Blvd, Huntington, WV 25701
Creative Spirit at Heritage Station
Heritage Station was where old bones met new ideas. Once a 19th-century train depot, now home to boutiques, cafés, and artisan spaces—it carried the past forward with personality. The brick walls, weathered signs, and local art gave the whole space a pulse. I remember walking through the courtyard thinking, “This is what happens when you love where you live.”
What I Loved Most: Browsing the locally made ceramics and prints at Full Circle Gifts, then chatting with the barista at Butter It Up about her favorite sandwich on the menu. The whole place had a handmade kind of charm.
My highlights? Brunch at Butter It Up inside Heritage Station—I had the "Power Bowl" with scrambled eggs, avocado, sweet potatoes, and house-made salsa. It was fresh, filling, and served with a side of local pride.
Heritage Station At a Glance
- Drive Time: Central downtown
- Vibe: Artsy, adaptive, community-driven
- Highlights: Local shops, live music, events, cafés
- Best Time to Visit: Weekends or during seasonal markets/events
- Cost: Free to explore; shopping/dining prices vary
- Hours: Varies by business (10am–6pm common)
- Address: 210 11th St, Huntington, WV 25701
Travel Tips: How to Get to Huntington, WV
- By Car: I’ve driven in from Charleston and Lexington, and the trip’s an easy one thanks to I-64 and U.S. Route 60. The drives are scenic—especially in the fall.
- By Air: When I fly in, I use Tri-State Airport (HTS). It’s a short 15-minute ride into town, which I always appreciate after a long travel day.
- By Train: I’ve taken Amtrak’s Cardinal Line into Huntington, and honestly, it’s a lovely way to arrive. There’s something about stepping off the train in a small city that sets a relaxing tone for the whole trip.
Where to Stay in Huntington, WV
- Recommended for Families: Delta Hotels by Marriott Huntington Downtown – I stayed here on a family visit, and it was perfect—close to everything, clean rooms, and an indoor pool that the kids loved. Plus, Pullman Square is just steps away.
- For Couples: Chessie Room at Heritage Station – This one’s a hidden gem. I discovered it while writing a piece on repurposed train depots, and the boutique feel, artistic vibe, and location surrounded by local shops makes it ideal for a romantic weekend.
- For Budget Travelers: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott – I’ve stayed here when I needed something simple and convenient. It’s close to the university, clean, and budget-friendly. Great value all around.
Closing Thoughts on Huntington
Huntington may not shout for your attention, but if you give it the space, it speaks volumes. It’s a place stitched together by river light, historic charm, and the kind of pride that runs deep and quiet. Every corner—whether a museum tucked into the trees or a café inside an old train station—felt personal. I didn’t just pass through Huntington. I met it. Slowly. Fully.
Jump to a Spot...
- • Breathing Easy in Ritter Park
- • Time Travel at Heritage Farm Museum and Village
- • Pullman Square: Where the City Gathers
- • Quiet Wonder at the Huntington Museum of Art
- • Dialing Into Nostalgia at the Museum of Radio and Technology
- • River Views and Slow Moments at Harris Riverfront Park
- • Creative Spirit at Heritage Station