<h1>Designing "Discover Parkersburg": A Java-Based Tourist Guide Application</h1>

<p>The surging interest in local tourism has sparked a coach of projects in the software development community. Being a firm enthusiast of both travel and coding, I decided it was time to contribute my grain to the sands of this fascinating field. Thus, began my journey of designing "Discover Parkersburg", a Java-based local guide application.</p>

<code>
// Import necessary classes
import java.util.ArrayList;

// Define the main TouristAttraction class
public class TouristAttraction {
    String name;
    String location;
    String description;

    // Constructor
    public TouristAttraction(String name, String location, String description) {
        this.name = name;
        this.location = location;
        this.description = description;
    }

    // Getter methods
    public String getName() {
        return name;
    }

    public String getLocation() {
        return location;
    }

    public String getDescription() {
        return description;
    }
}
</code>

<p>In this initial stage, the project entailed creating a 'TouristAttraction' class, which can store details such as name, location, and a brief description of various tourist attractions in Parkersburg. Going forward, these details can be utilized to give users information that helps them choose their interest zones in the city better.</p>

<code>
// Define the Main Application class
public class DiscoverParkersburg {
    // Create an ArrayList to store the attractions
    private ArrayList<TouristAttraction> attractions = new ArrayList<TouristAttraction>();

    // Method to add attractions
    public void addAttraction(String name, String location, String description) {
        attractions.add(new TouristAttraction(name, location, description));
    }
}
</code>

<p>To build upon this, I instantiated an ArrayList 'attractions' and an 'addAttraction' method in the 'DiscoverParkersburg' class. This allows us to populate the list with instances of our 'TouristAttraction' class. The key selling point of this flexible structure is that it can be easily updated, optimized, or expanded upon as the city's tourist landscape evolves, ensuring that "Discover Parkersburg" remains a relevant resource for travelers.</p>

<code>
// Add attractions to the ArrayList
DiscoverParkersburg dp = new DiscoverParkersburg();
dp.addAttraction("Julia-Ann Square Historic District", "Parkersburg, WV 26101", "Historic homes from the Victorian era.");
dp.addAttraction("Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park", "137 Juliana St, Parkersburg, WV 26101", "A park with historical mansion & museum.");
dp.addAttraction("Parkersburg Art Center", "725 Market St, Parkersburg, WV 26101", "A space for artistic exploration.");
</code>

<p>In the final stage, some popular attractions in Parkersburg were added as instances of the 'TouristAttraction' class via the 'addAttraction' method. This array list will serve as the application's main database, offering users a well-organized catalog of travel experiences.</p>

<p>"Discover Parkersburg" holds the potential to act as a bridge between eager travellers and the enthralling city of Parkersburg. It's a humble attempt to keep Parkersburg's intriguing historic and artistic allure alive in the digital era. As always, I eagerly anticipate the feedback from the developer community and the people of Parkersburg, which will undoubtedly be invaluable in refining and enhancing the final product.</p>