Gallipolis has French roots along the Ohio River
Stretched out along the northern bank of the Ohio River, Gallipolis is a village of about 3,300. Founded in the late 1700s by French refugees, the older parts of town still have several historic homes and buildings. “Everything downtown is beautifully preserved,” says Amanda Wilson, a Realtor with ERA Martin and Associates. Today, the “Old French City” is known for its tight community and homey atmosphere. “It’s a charming small town where everybody knows everybody,” says Wilson. “We take care of each other. If something happens, hundreds of people step up to help.” With plenty of options for food, shopping and recreation, this seat of Gallia County is popular with families and retirees.
The streets are dotted with historic and midcentury homes
Residential areas concentrate on the central and west sides of the village, where a grid layout connects houses to nearby commercial zones. Front yards are generally minimal, with porches often creeping up to the sidewalk. Most lots are a quarter acre or smaller, with backyard alleys that lead to sheds or garages. Historic homes from the late 1800s to the early 1900s fill the center of the village, with bungalows, Cape Cods and American Foursquares priced to sell between $40,000 and the $170,000s. Midcentury ranch-style and split-level designs are also available between the $180,000s and the $430,000s, depending on condition and location. Riverside houses often sell in the mid-$500,000s.
Fishing and birding are popular hobbies in the area
Decorated with scenic gazebos and green space, the City Park is a local hub, serving as a meeting place for annual events, picnics and outdoor recreation. “The park is stunning – it’s right on the riverfront,” says Wilson. “There’s tons of fishing there. They have fishing tournaments, and people come from all over the place.” Elizabeth L. Evans Waterfowl and Bird Sanctuary is a 66-acre wetland that provides a habitat for dozens of different birds, mammals and plant life.
Christmas and 4th of July are the biggest annual events
Gallipolis in Lights is one of the village’s biggest events, covering the homes, businesses and parks with lights, decorations and holiday displays for the entire month of December. Regular events include a tree lighting, a parade and the holiday market. “It’s like living in a Hallmark movie,” Wilson says. “Thousands of visitors come every year.” The Gallipolis Recreation Festival has been a 4th of July tradition since 1965. The village celebrates its largest annual block party for three days, with entertainment like carnival rides, fireworks and musical performances.
Shopping and restaurants are on the Ohio River Scenic Byway
Most shopping is along the Ohio River Scenic Byway, including Walmart, Rural King and different fast food options. Aldi is available for groceries and other necessities. Tuscany prides itself on fresh, authentic Italian cooking with menu items like Carbonara, Shrimp Diavolo and bruschetta. A local staple, Remo’s Hot Dogs has a history in the area that goes back to the 1920s. Family owned, it’s been serving up footlong hot dogs with their specialty sauce for decades. “They’ve put multiple generations through college on those hot dogs,” says Wilson.
Gallia Academy High School is building a health and wellness center
The area is served by the Gallipolis City School District, which has five public schools and a C from Niche. Gallia Academy High School began work on a health and wellness facility in 2024, with a completion date estimated for fall 2025.
Highways are convenient routes to Rome and Point Pleasant
The main highways in the area are U.S. Route 35 and State Route 7, which leads to the nearby communities of Rome and Point Pleasant . The Holzer Health System is a 266-bed hospital with emergency services, pediatric care and a maternity ward.
The river and heavy rains create some flooding risks
According to First Street, Gallipolis is at a severe risk of flooding. This risk comes from its proximity to the Ohio River and heavy rainfall in the area’s low topography.
