01 · Outdoors2 source records
East Marion Park
East Marion Park offers a 32‑acre blend of sports courts, a wave pool, waterslide, and a dedicated mini‑golf course that runs daily from 11 AM to 8 PM for a modest $2 admission. The variety of facilities lets families split their time between active play on tennis or basketball courts and relaxed water fun, while the mini‑golf provides a low‑key evening activity. Its central location on State Street Extension makes it a convenient first stop after arriving in Fairmont.
Before you go: Suggestion: schedule a midday visit to combine pool time with a round of mini‑golf, then use the remaining afternoon for a quick walk on the hiking trail or a casual game on the courts.
02 · Outdoors2 source records
Mary Lou Retton Park
Mary Lou Retton Park spans 25 acres and features four baseball fields, a football field, tennis courts with a practice wall, playgrounds, and the West Virginia Miner's Memorial. The park’s layout supports both organized sports and informal recreation, while the memorial adds a historical dimension that can interest visitors of any age. Its location on Mary Lou Retton Drive provides easy access from downtown Fairmont.
Before you go: Suggestion: arrive in the morning to take advantage of daylight for field use, and consider packing a picnic to enjoy near the playground or memorial area.
03 · Outdoors2 source records
Pricketts Fork State Park
Prickets Fork State Park, reachable via WV‑3 at I‑79 exit 139, combines a living‑history fort recreation from 1774 with extensive outdoor amenities. Costumed guides demonstrate colonial crafts at the Pickett’s Fort site, while the park also offers Pricketts Creek, a bay on the Monongahela River, an interpretive nature trail, and a 400‑seat amphitheatre. Hiking, cycling, boating, and fishing are all available, making the park a versatile hub for both education and recreation.
Before you go: Suggestion: allocate several hours to watch the fort demonstrations, then transition to water‑based activities such as fishing or a short boat ride; bring a bike if you plan to explore the trail network.
04 · Outdoors2 source records
Valley Falls State Park
Valley Falls State Park covers 1,145 acres and provides a mix of fishing spots, horseshoes, white‑water rafting, and 18 miles of hiking and biking trails. The park’s signature foaming waterfalls and the remnants of an old sawmill and grist mill add visual interest and a sense of local heritage. Although the exact route is listed as WV‑310 off I‑79 (exit 137) and may need confirmation, the park’s size supports a full‑day outing that blends land and water pursuits.
Before you go: Suggestion: plan a full‑day schedule that starts with a trail hike, includes a waterfall photo stop, and ends with a guided rafting trip; pack gear suitable for both hiking and water activities.
05 · Food2 source records
Country Club Bakery
Country Club Bakery is celebrated as the home of the original pepperoni roll, West Virginia’s official state snack. The bakery offers fresh, hot rolls for about $1 each, alongside Italian breads, rolls, and cookies. Located on Country Club Road, it provides a quick culinary stop that lets travelers taste a local specialty without a lengthy sit‑down meal.
Before you go: Suggestion: swing by the bakery after a day of park activities to refuel with a hot pepperoni roll; it’s an easy, affordable way to experience Fairmont’s food culture before heading back to your lodging.
