Discover Kenova

Kenova offers several distinct reasons to visit: a historically significant swimming pool, a seasonal pumpkin tradition, access to rivers, and insights into the city’s history. When looking for a hotel in Kenova, you can start by deciding what brings you to the area. Is Halloween decoration the main draw, are you interested in swimming or rivers, or would you like to include local history and city events? These priorities can help you choose Kenova as a destination based on your own interests.

Dreamland Pool: History and Swimming Options

Dreamland Pool first opened in 1926. It was once the largest swimming pool in the United States east of the Mississippi, measuring 250 by 125 feet. Dreamland Pool has an Olympic-size swimming pool and a shallow children’s pool. The historical dimensions offer a different perspective from the two pool options: Kenova’s pool history and the swimming facility’s specific variety come together here.

Pumpkin House: Victorian Home and Halloween

The Kenova Pumpkin House is a Victorian home built in 1891, located at 748 Beech Street, and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Every Halloween, more than 3,000 hand-carved jack-o’-lanterns decorate the building. The exact display dates vary from year to year; if you plan to travel specifically for this event, check the dates for the relevant year. President Grover Cleveland once visited the house. Its construction date and former visitor provide historical context, while the jack-o’-lanterns make the house a seasonal attraction at Halloween.

River Access and City Events

Virginia Point Park provides access to the Big Sandy and Ohio rivers via a large boat ramp. There are also campsites along the riverbanks. The boat ramp appeals to travelers interested in access by boat, while the campsites offer a riverside stay. If you are weighing swimming against river access with camping when choosing a destination, Kenova offers these different options.

Towne Square is the hub for the many concerts and special activities hosted by the city. If a concert or special activity is the reason for your trip, check the dates for your desired travel period before planning. This helps you time a stay centered on an event to coincide with the specific occasion.

Local History and Businesses

The Kenova Historical Museum houses an extensive collection relating to the local companies Pilgrim and Kemple. A large steam locomotive stands in front of the museum, reflecting the city’s rich railroad history. This presents two different ways to explore local history: the collection relating to Pilgrim and Kemple and the locomotive’s connection to railroads.

The Griffith and Feil Soda Fountain adds food and drinks to the local attractions. The menu includes sandwiches, salads, daily specials, milkshakes, malts, sundaes, and floats. The selection may change.

Discover more destinations: Crum

Go to the broader travel overview: Wayne County.