The outlet has other glass besides Fostoria, and at Christmas time, when everyone wants to go to Wheeling for the City of Lights display, those people also want to shop for serving pieces. Therefore, they offer a good selection of holiday serveware. The outlet is like a party at that time of year--everyone is there admiring and buying. West Virginians do love their glass! Last trip, I bought an inexpensive cake stand and was happy to see it at Walmart for a few dollars more than I had paid. These cheaper selections are in the back room; those people back there unpacking boxes aren't employees, so walk right in. The Fostoria is out front in the showroom.

I suppose this shop is also a museum, using the term loosely. All the merchandise is new, but the patterns are antique--since the 1930's, I believe. Perhaps this explains why the customers act as though they're on a history tour or at an antique shop. I don't really think of going to the Fostoria Outlet as "shopping," because everyone there is relaxed and happy. Of course, this may be because I know I get to have lunch or dinner next door at T. J.'s Sports Garden. Or, it may be because I've just come from Oglebay, where I usually do tour something. It's a routine we somewhat locals have developed for visiting Wheeling: Oglebay, Fostoria, T.J.'s, Centre Market antique shops, River City Ale Works--in that order. Many of us do it every year the same way. We look forward to it and call it a fun day. At some point during the day, we may fit in another attraction or stay overnight to take in more of Wheeling. If we're behind schedule, good thing the Fostoria Outlet is open until 8:00 p. m.