Whether you visit Bridgeport for holiday festivities, outdoor recreation, autumn foliage, or exceptional cuisine, there is reason to be wowed.
The 10.65-square-mile North Central West Virginia city is known for its passion to celebrate in a big way. December Light Up Night and June Summer Kickoff & Food Truck Festival bring locals to Main Street to mingle, enjoy activities, listen to live music and, of course, sample area fare.
Cuisine reflecting the area’s Italian heritage is plentiful at privately owned eateries where generations have passionately served. Among popular entrees at Oliverio’s Ristorante are Mushroom Sacchetti and a Sicilian Trio of lasagna, stuffed shells, and baked penne. Twin Oaks Restaurant is another staple, offering one of the area’s most popular pizzas and the famous Mom Ielapi’s Lasagna. Then, there is Mia Margherita’s Coal Fired Pizzeria, which, in addition to its artisan pizzas, features everything from Bruschetta to Shrimp Linguine. Each restaurant offers spirits and a full wine list with selections to complement any entrée.
But pastas and pizza are not the only foods for which Bridgeport is known. There are culinary selections to suit every palate, including those offered at Meagher’s Irish Pub, Hello Vietnam, and China One. Della’s Deli’s made-to-order sandwiches and homemade pepperoni rolls as well as T&L Hot Dogs oldies diner are other solid choices. Visitors often praise Cody’s for its unique selections inspired by world travel and farm-to-table process. Another hot spot is Winnie’s Café, where sandwiches, salads, and its famous Egg-in-a-Hole are among signature treats. Almost Heaven Desserts and Coffee Shop features homemade desserts and an on-site barista to whip up espressos, lattes and other specialties. Stonewall Coffee, Great Harvest Bakery and Stone Tower Brews draw patrons for coffee, pastries, and sandwiches, the latter also featuring a variety of craft beer. Mountain State Brewing Co. is a microbrewery and tap room that offers a full menu.
Bridgeport is steeped in exceptional food choices, and the same holds true for shopping. Locally owned boutiques and artisan shops offer everything from art to home décor and head-to-toe attire. Another must visit is Bridgeport Farmers Market, open Sunday, May through October. Produce, flowers, artisan wares, brunch options and live music combine to make it a popular gathering spot.
During summer months, Hinkle and Deegan Lakes are plentiful with anglers and kayakers, as well as those picnicking or strolling the trail. The city trail system stretches across town, winding through wooded areas where archery targets and even doggie fountains are located.
Bridgeport City Pool and Spray Ground is a respite from the summer heat. The grounds also feature basketball and tennis courts; the latter transformed into a synthetic ice-skating rink during winter months. Nearby Alligator Park is one of several playgrounds in Bridgeport.
One of the city’s newest amenities, The Bridge Sports Complex, is heavily populated year-round for its outdoor fields – including multiple soccer fields and a baseball fourplex utilized for various levels of play. Inside the state-of-the art City Net Center are basketball, volleyball and pickle ball courts, an indoor turf, walking track, swimming pools and colorful climbing wall. The campus will soon be home to Medbrook Children’s Charity All-Inclusive Playground. Financed by the community, the recreation venue will be a place where all kids can play together, regardless of disabilities.
Anchored by Boscov’s, Meadowbrook Mall draws shopping traffic from throughout much of the state. Popping up regularly in recently developed White Oaks and Charles Pointe are a variety of businesses, including nationally known favorites such as Menards, Buffalo Wild Wings, and IHOP. Six of the city’s 11 hotels are in the area. With regular flight service to and from Orlando, Destin, and Myrtle Beach, North Central West Virginia Airport offers top-notch transportation.
Bridgeport’s slogan is “Opportunity Lives Here,” and that holds true in all seasons. •