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| Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Mid-Ohio Valley Regional Airport (PKB) | • Enterprise and Hertz serve the airport • Car delivery coordinated for flight arrivals • Immediate access upon landing • Some sources list Enterprise as 24/7 "open for final arrivals" |
• Limited commercial flights affect availability • Coordination required between local offices and airport • Cars stationed at airport only when flights arrive • Terminal may close after hours, requiring key arrangements |
| Parkersburg City Locations | • Multiple options (Enterprise on 7th St, Hertz on St. Marys Ave) • Regular business hours • Greater selection of vehicles • Often lower rates than airport |
• Transportation needed from airport (8 miles (13 km), 15-minute drive) • Limited weekend hours at some locations • Advance reservation recommended • Local taxi or rideshare required for pickup |
On average, car rentals in Parkersburg cost around $79 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $37 per day.
Compare airport vs. downtown pickups. City branches (8 mi (13 km) away) usually beat airport pricing, so factor in a quick rideshare to save overall.
Widen the search to nearby Marietta, OH (15 min drive). Extra inventory across the river can drop daily rates, and most suppliers waive interstate fees.
Time it to the season. Summer festivals and fall foliage = book 2-3 months early for choice. In quiet January–February you can score last-minute bargains.
Check weekly rates even for 5-6 days. A "7-day" deal is often cheaper than paying the standard daily price.
Book the smallest car you're comfortable with. Upgrades are common in Parkersburg, so you often pay econo prices and drive off in something bigger.
Skip the 50-cent Memorial Bridge toll by looping over the free US-50 bridge when topping up fuel in Ohio before return.
| Location | Cost | Availability | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown Parkersburg | Metered | Good availability | Some free 2-hour zones; meters enforced weekdays |
| Government Square | Metered | Limited during business hours | Near courthouse and municipal buildings |
| Grand Central Mall | Free | Abundant | No time restrictions for shoppers |
| Point Park | Free for limited time | Good except during events | Popular area for river views and events |
| City Park | Free | Abundant | Large park for various recreational facilities |
| Mid-Ohio Valley Regional Airport | Free | Ample | Convenient free lot at this small airport |
A rental lets you reach riverside landmarks, state parks and neighboring cities without relying on limited transit.
Get a car to see:
North Bend State Park – rail trail, lake
Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park – mansion, museum
Marietta, OH – riverfront, museums
Charleston, WV – Capitol Complex

Is there a fee for crossing into Ohio from Parkersburg?
Yes, you'll pay a $0.50 toll for your car at the Memorial Bridge (near downtown) to Ohio. However, you can use the US-50 Blennerhassett Island Bridge (to Belpre) or the Williamstown Bridge (between Williamstown, WV and Marietta, OH) for free.
Do I need different insurance when driving between West Virginia and Ohio?
No, your rental car insurance is still good when you cross state lines. Your standard rental coverage works in both states and you don't need anything extra.
What's the best way to visit Blennerhassett Island with a rental car?
Park your rental car at Point Park in downtown Parkersburg, then take the Island Belle sternwheeler to the island (seasonal, May–October). When you buy a boat ticket, it also pays for your museum admission and transportation on the island.
Are there any scenic drives recommended around Parkersburg?
You can drive the Ohio River Scenic Byway along the river on both the West Virginia and Ohio sides. We also recommend driving to North Bend State Park on US-50. It follows historic routes through pretty small towns.
Can I easily take day trips to both West Virginia and Ohio attractions?
Absolutely. Because Parkersburg is so close to the state line, you can easily explore both states. You can visit places in Ohio like The Wilds or Hocking Hills and still get back to Parkersburg the same day.