Discovery World on Market
Downtown Parkersburg, Parkersburg, WV
Downtown Parkersburg children's museum with hands-on exhibits, open play admission, family programs, and birthday parties.
The Ball Factory is one of the museum's most active kid-favorite zones.
Photo 1 of 3. The Ball Factory is one of the museum's most active kid-favorite zones.
Editorial notes
What stands out
Best as a half-day museum-style outing with enough variety for siblings and a little breathing room for grown-ups.
Good fit
- Families with mixed ages who want hands-on exhibits instead of one big play structure
- Rainy-day downtown outings with preschoolers and elementary-age kids
- Parents who appreciate a quieter sensory-friendly option once a month
Consider another option if
- Families looking for trampoline-park energy or nonstop gross-motor play
- Quick midweek visits when Tuesday and Wednesday are reserved for field trips
Know Before You Go
- Food
- Small café and gift area on site.
- Supervision model
- Caregiver supervised
- Hours vary due to private events
- Yes
What to Expect
For kids
- Babies
- Toddlers
- Preschoolers
- Big kids
- Mixed ages
- Pretend play
For caregivers
- Cafe on site
- Free parking
- Caregiver supervised
- Visit type
- Self paced exhibit hopping rather than one continuous climb and run session
Read more about this location
Discovery World on Market is a hands-on children's museum in downtown Parkersburg built for families who want interactive play with a STEAM and local-history twist. Kids can move between favorites like the Ball Factory, River Adventure, Design Studio, and Discovery Zone, while grown-ups get a museum-style outing that still feels playful and manageable. General admission is offered later in the week, with memberships, birthday parties, seasonal programs, and a monthly Sensitive Playtime for families who prefer a quieter visit.
Hours & Admission
Posted hours
Check posted weekly hours
View full weekly hours
| Monday | Closed |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | Closed for field trips |
| Wednesday | Closed for field trips |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Friday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM |
Based on posted weekly hours. Holidays, private events, seasonal schedules, and special closures may differ.
Admission
| Visitor | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults | $9 |
| Seniors | $8 |
| Children | $10 for children through age 16 |
| Children 2 And Under | Free |
Admission details can change. Confirm current fees before visiting.
Birthday Parties
Starting at $250
Accessibility
Sensory
Sensitive Playtime is offered on the first Thursday of each month for families who prefer a lower-stimulation visit.
Accessibility and comfort
Sensory-friendly
Accessibility and comfort
Quiet hours
Location
900 Market Street
Parkersburg, WV, 26101
Other options nearby
LSC Fun Center
Parkersburg family fun center with glow mini golf, arcade games, party space, and rotating indoor attractions.
Play Planet
Vienna indoor playground with a separate toddler zone, big-kid structure, all-day play, and straightforward birthday options.
Sources & Updates
Source-checked Apr 7, 2026 against 3 public sources
View source and update details
- Last check on record
- Apr 7, 2026
- Sources reviewed
- 3 public sources
Public sources
- Discovery World on Market official sitedwonmarket.org
Checked: address, hours, exhibits, programs
- Discovery World on Market tickets and FAQdwonmarket.org
Checked: admission pricing, memberships
- Discovery World on Market birthday partiesdwonmarket.org
Checked: party pricing, party room details
What changed
April 7, 2026
Added address, pricing, party details, editorial planning notes, and official venue imagery.