Huntington WV

Huntington, West Virginia, is a small city packed with charm, history, and unique stories that may surprise even the locals. Nestled along the Ohio River, it offers a blend of Appalachian culture, rich heritage, and a tight-knit community. Here are 10 fun facts about this beautiful river city:

1. The Home of Marshall University – Huntington is the proud home of Marshall University, known for its strong academics and emotional football legacy featured in the movie We Are Marshall.
2. The City Was Founded by a Railroad Tycoon – The city was named after Collis P. Huntington, a railroad magnate who helped expand the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway in the 1870s.
3. The First Electric Streetcar – Huntington was one of the first cities in the U.S. to have an electric streetcar system, starting back in 1888.
4. Heritage Farm Museum & Village – This popular attraction lets visitors step back in time to see how Appalachian pioneers lived with hands-on exhibits and restored buildings.
5. Riverfront Park Beauty – Huntington’s Harris Riverfront Park offers views of the Ohio River and is a popular spot for concerts, festivals, and evening strolls.
6. The First Food Truck Festival in WV – Huntington started West Virginia's first food truck festival, drawing crowds from all around to try everything from BBQ to international treats.
7. Quirky Art Scene – From public murals to glassblowing studios, Huntington is home to a thriving arts community that supports local artists in creative ways.
8. Heavenly Hot Dogs – The city is famous for its chili dogs, often topped with slaw. The historic Frostop Drive-In is a must-visit for locals and visitors alike.
9. Museum with a Mummy – The Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center and Huntington Museum of Art regularly showcase fascinating exhibits—including an actual Egyptian mummy!
10. America’s Best Community – In 2017, Huntington won the title of America’s Best Community in a national competition, thanks to its revitalization efforts and community spirit.

Huntington, West Virginia is a regional hub for education, healthcare, and manufacturing. With strong ties to institutions like Marshall University and Cabell Huntington Hospital, the local economy supports a diverse range of in-demand careers. Below are the top 5 jobs in this growing Appalachian city.

Huntington, WV is home to several high-performing high schools that aim to provide quality education and well-rounded development for students. Whether public or private, these schools are focused on academic excellence, student support, and college readiness.

Top Public High Schools in Huntington, West Virginia

• Huntington High School – The largest public high school in the area, known for strong academics, Advanced Placement courses, and athletic programs.
• Cabell Midland High School – Located just outside of Huntington, this school offers a wide variety of extracurriculars, Honors programs, and a focus on career-technical education.
• Spring Valley High School – A modern facility that focuses on student achievement, technology integration, and college readiness programs.
• Wayne High School – This school has a reputation for offering supportive learning environments, great educators, and strong community involvement.
• Poca High School – Although technically located in nearby Poca, it serves many from the Huntington area and is well-known for its small class sizes and strong academic outcomes.

Top Private High Schools in Huntington, West Virginia

• St. Joseph Central Catholic High School – A college-preparatory Catholic school offering rigorous academics, leadership programs, and faith-based learning.
• Grace Christian School – A Christian-based school committed to academic excellence and character development through a biblical worldview.
• Our Lady of Fatima Parish School – While technically a K–8 school, it provides a strong foundation to students who often go on to excel at private high schools like St. Joseph.
• Tri-State STEM+M Early College High School – A tuition-free public charter option with a strong focus on science, technology, engineering, math, and medicine, giving it the benefits of both public and private school models.
• Huntington Christian Academy – A small private school that offers individualized learning plans within a faith-centered environment.

Huntington, West Virginia is a vibrant city with a strong educational foundation. The city is home to several respected public and private colleges that offer a wide range of academic programs, from healthcare to liberal arts. These institutions contribute greatly to the city's economy, workforce, and cultural life.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Huntington

Marshall University – A flagship public research university in West Virginia, Marshall is known for its excellent programs in health professions, business, education, and science. The university also operates a well-regarded School of Medicine and a cutting-edge forensic science program.

Mountwest Community & Technical College – This institution offers two-year degrees and technical certifications designed to help students enter the workforce quickly. Programs in health technology, cybersecurity, and business are among its most popular.

Tri-State Institute of Technology (formerly) – Previously operating in the region, this institution focused on trade education and technical programs. While it's no longer active, it left a legacy in workforce training in the Huntington area.

West Virginia State University (nearby in Institute, WV) – Located within driving distance of Huntington, WVSU is a historically Black university offering strong programs in agriculture, business, and the arts. It serves many students from the Huntington community.

Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College (Logan and Williamson campuses) – While not directly in Huntington, this college serves the broader region with programs in applied technology, nursing, and criminal justice, supporting local workforce development.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Huntington

St. Mary's School of Nursing – Affiliated with St. Mary's Medical Center, this respected private nursing school provides clinical and classroom-based nursing education. It prepares students for careers in West Virginia’s growing healthcare industry.

Huntington Junior College – A private two-year college offering focused programs in business management, medical assisting, legal studies, and administrative technologies. Its small class sizes and hands-on training make it a strong option for career-focused education.

Mountwest Community College (Private Affiliates & Continuing Education) – While the main school is public, its partnerships with private institutions and businesses create special certificate and workforce programs that operate in private education contexts.

Holzer School of Nursing (Private program affiliate) – This affiliated nursing program focuses on combining academic coursework with real-world hospital experience, preparing students to enter nursing careers right in the tri-state area.

Christian-centered Higher Education Programs (Various Churches and Ministries) – Several private, faith-based institutions in Huntington offer religious and ministry training. Though small, these programs provide liberal arts, counseling, and pastoral education aligned with Christian values.

Huntington, West Virginia, may not have any major league professional sports teams, but the city boasts a passionate sports culture. While residents support many regional and national teams, Huntington is home to semi-professional and minor league franchises that contribute to the vibrant local sports scene.

🏈 Football – West Virginia Miners (American Arena League)

• West Virginia Miners – Originally known for representing Beckley in baseball, the name "Miners" was adopted for a Huntington-based arena football team founded in the 2020s. As part of the American Arena League (AAL), they play a fast-paced, high-scoring version of football. Though new to the league, they are building a loyal fan base and helping to bring professional football excitement to the Tri-State area.

⚾ Baseball – Huntington Hounds (Prospective Minor League)

• Huntington Hounds – Proposed as a potential minor league expansion team, the Hounds reflect the area's rich baseball heritage. Though not currently active in a major minor league system, past semi-pro teams and community support suggest that Huntington could sustain a minor league franchise in the future.

🏀 Basketball – No current pro team, but strong local presence

• Though Huntington does not have a professional basketball team, it has produced elite players like O.J. Mayo and Patrick Patterson. The city regularly plays host to tournaments and high-level games at Marshall University’s Cam Henderson Center, fostering talent and enthusiasm for the sport.

⚽ Soccer – West Virginia United (USL League Two)

• West Virginia United – Though based in nearby Charleston, this USL League Two team garners support from soccer fans throughout the Huntington area. Competing in a developmental league for future talent, the club provides young athletes with high-level competition during the summer months and has strong regional ties.

🏒 Hockey – Regional support, no local pro team

• Huntington currently does not have a professional hockey team. However, fans cheer on nearby teams like the Columbus Blue Jackets in the NHL and the Wheeling Nailers of the ECHL. Indoor hockey events and youth leagues keep local interest in the sport alive.

Huntington, WV is a charming city with plenty of spots where students can unwind, have fun, and enjoy some leisure time. Whether you're into nature, food, or local vibes, Huntington has something to offer.

Ritter Park – A beautiful park perfect for a relaxing afternoon. You can walk, run, or even have a picnic with friends. The scenic trails and rose garden add an extra touch of tranquility.

Pullman Square – This is the go-to spot for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Catch a movie or grab a bite at one of the many eateries. It's a great place to hang out and enjoy some downtime.

Heritage Station – Known for its local shops and the farmers market, this historic area provides a quaint atmosphere with a variety of events and music festivals throughout the year.

Harris Riverfront Park – Situated by the Ohio River, this park is ideal for those who enjoy waterfront views. It's a great place to relax, play frisbee, or attend one of the concerts and events hosted here.

Camden Park – For a fun day out, this amusement park offers a mix of nostalgia and excitement with its classic rides and carnival games. Perfect for a fun-filled break from studies.

The Red Caboose – A unique spot for art enthusiasts. Enjoy local crafts, artwork, and unique finds. It's an excellent place to explore creativity and support local artists.