The city of Parkersburg is the county seat of Wood County, WV. Founded in 1810, the town is known for its loving atmosphere and has a long, rich history dating back decades before that. Many don't know, but the first governor and first federal congressmen of the Mountain State both hail from the area. It even boasts what was once the longest bridge in the world, connecting the city to Belpre, OH. Fort Boreman, an outpost for the Union army during the American Civil War, presides beautifully over the city's southwest corner.

But those are just a few of the things Parkersburg has to offer. Though I've only lived here six months, I'm still discovering hidden treasures in this concrete prairie! Here are five places you HAVE to visit if you ever find yourself in the Savings Bond Capital of America.

1) Speedway - 1400 7th St, Parkersburg, WV 26101

Speedway, constructed sometime during the 20th or 21st century, is a sure fire hit for tourists. Located just next to Rubi's Pizza&Grill, the store boasts at least one working restroom and several nearby car dealerships.

2) Speedway - 3211 Murdoch Ave, Parkersburg, WV 26101

Located just a few minutes from the Grand Central Mall (on a good day), Speedway is a regular stop for locals. With smoking cashiers, stale corndogs, and more rats than people, the two-star restaurant has more character than most give critics let on. Honestly, if not for gas prices, I would frequent the location myself!

3) Speedway - 4408 Emerson Ave, Parkersburg, WV 26101

Speedway is a common stop for students of the faith-based Ohio Valley University. Only a mere 5-minute drive from campus, visiting the location at any time of day is bound to turn up at least one group of 20-somethings who are searching for food off campus and begging for help to pay off loans which just keep piling up. But trust us, the most recently available image of the building and surrounding works just show you how invested Speedway is in the community!

4) Speedway - 3401 Emerson Ave, Parkersburg, WV 26104

Only a few blocks from the third location on our list, Speedway is cultural center in the heart of uptown Parkersburg. Neighboring one of the Parkersburg Fire Department stations, fires are put out in no time. Which is great when you consider the amount of petrol stored at the location! Remember to turn off those pagers before fueling.

5) Speedway - 415 Division St, Parkersburg, WV 26101

Last, but certainly least, is Speedway. Located south of the Little Kanawha River, this secluded diamond in the rough is easily forgotten as it falls just outside of Parkersburg proper. Many locals will tell you, however, that they'd much sooner visit the station for no other reason than to save four cents a gallon when fueling up. Bargains galore!

(All picture credits to Google Maps and Google StreetView)