ABOUT RIVERTOWN

Located in the heart of downtown Marlinton, West Virginia, Rivertown is a vibrant community space where art, food, music, and small-town charm come together under one historic roof. Once home to the beloved Richardson’s Hardware, a local institution for more than a century, this iconic turquoise building has been thoughtfully reimagined into a hub for creativity and connection.

Founded by Bob and Alison Safrit, along with partner Daniel McKee, Rivertown is the centerpiece of Revitalize Marlinton, LLC, a project aimed at expanding local dining, shopping, and cultural experiences for both residents and visitors. Today, Rivertown features a cozy café with globally inspired, locally sourced fare; a live performance stage hosting the Homegrown Music Series; and a collection of artisan studios, galleries, and shops on the upper level.

Visitors can explore handcrafted goods, join a pottery class, catch a concert, or simply enjoy a cup of coffee brewed from locally roasted beans. With tenants like Alison Pottery, Little Mountain Yoga, Creekside Candy, and Mountain Echo, Rivertown champions local entrepreneurs and artists who reflect the spirit and beauty of Appalachia.

Honored as the 2024 Pocahontas County Tourism People of the Year, the Safrits and their partners continue to invest in downtown Marlinton’s revival—with plans for outdoor gathering spaces, expanded retail offerings, and future community lodging.

Whether you're here for the art, the food, the music, or the people, Rivertown invites you to slow down, stay a while, and experience the best of what Marlinton has to offer.

Interior of a cozy cafe with a wooden counter, chalkboard menus hanging from the ceiling, and shelves filled with supplies. A large wooden table and black stools are in the foreground, and the ceiling features exposed pipes and a large industrial fan
Cozy reading nook with vintage sofas, wooden coffee table, bookshelf, wood stove, and bicycles indoors.
Empty cafe or bar with wooden tables and black chairs, wooden shelving with model cars, and a counter with an American flag, large windows, and a chalkboard menu in the background.
Interior of a cozy coffee shop or cafe with wooden floors and furniture, bookshelves, tables and chairs, a counter area with a chalkboard menu, and a staircase, lit by industrial-style ceiling lights.
Interior of a cozy cafe or bookstore with wooden shelves filled with books, a staircase, a green table with black chairs, and a sitting area with a striped couch.
Empty rustic cafe or bar with wooden tables, black chairs, high shelves with model cars, and large windows in the background.