9 Of The Most Eccentric Towns In West Virginia
West Virginia is the only state that is entirely in the Appalachian Mountains. Being that it is one of the oldest mountain chains on the planet, West Virginia is naturally a hotspot for eccentric towns and quirky attractions. Get an adrenaline rush while walking through the creepy halls at the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum in Weston. Discover the state's strange legends and lore, from Point Pleasant's Mothman to Sutton's Flatwoods Monster. Hop on the Appalachian Trail from Harper's Ferry or dive into the bewitching Civil War history all over West Virginia. The entire state is a treasure trove of oddities, mysteries, and enticing attractions.
Point Pleasant
Hugged by the Ohio River, Point Pleasant is a quirky town featuring many attractions tied to the chilling legend of Mothman. Take a deep dive into this eerie phenomenon at the Mothman Museum. From historical newspaper clippings to Mothman sightings, the exhibits offer an intriguing chronology of the lore. The museum also showcases props from the 2002 film The Mothman Prophecies. Right beside the museum, take a photo with the Mothman Statue. Standing tall at 12 feet, the steel monument is equally iconic and odd. Continue the Mothman adventure at the Coffee Grinder, a local cafe selling Mothman cookies. Pair one with a nice cup of coffee and call it a day well spent in Point Pleasant.
Kick off the spooky season at the annual Mothman Festival, usually the third weekend in September. Hop on the Mothman Hayride at Mason County Farm Museum for an uncanny evening thrill, or take a TNT Bus Tour to learn about Mothman encounters and other unusual happenings. Before heading out, check out some of the vendors for a unique souvenir to commemorate the weirdness in West Virginia.
Helvetia
Tucked deep within the woods of West Virginia, Helvetia is a picture-perfect Swiss alpine village straight out of a storybook. Uncover Helvetia's stories and traditions with an hour-long customized village tour. Visitors may also wish to do a self-guided tour along the Helvetia Historic Trail. Pass by the old cemetery, hike up the mountains, wander through the forest, and stroll along a farm. Rest up after the walk and enjoy a meal made with love at The Hütte Restaurant. Savor some Zurich Sauerbraten or Helvetia Cheese Soup while cozying up in the rustic farmhouse ambiance that feels like Oma and Opa's.
Though secluded and quiet, the town knows how to party. Fasnacht is a lively celebration including a masquerade, a lantern parade, and the burning of Old Man Winter. With a packed day schedule, fill up on a delicious lunch, enjoy the Swiss and Appalachian live music, and finish off with an Alpine-inspired square dance in the evening. Join the locals in the summer for the Swiss National Day, held on the first Saturday in August. Step into Switzerland with alpine horns, yodeling, folk music, and the tossing of the Swiss flag.
Princeton
Princeton made its mark historically as a bustling railroad and coal mining hub in West Virginia. Today, the city is home to many well-preserved landmarks that reflect its heritage. Stop by the McNutt House, the former residence of Dr. Robert B. McNutt. The dwelling is the sole survivor after a town fire during the Civil War. For a closer look at America's military history, head to the Those Who Served The War Museum, conveniently down the street from the McNutt House. Within its walls, the museum houses a wide-ranging collection of artifacts that spans key moments in history. From the Revolutionary War and World War II to the Korean War and Vietnam War, it is a must-see for history and war buffs alike. Tiny but mighty, the Princeton Railroad Museum is captivating for all ages. Tour the restored caboose and take a peek at railroad books, art, photographs, and related memorabilia.
Mingle with the locals on Mercer Street, the go-to spot for all the happenings. Fall brings the Princeton AutumnFest. Support the economy by purchasing from one of the vendors selling art, handiwork, and delicious culinary delights. Bring the kids for the bounce house, foam party, pie-eating contest, and pumpkin bowling. During the year, Mercer Street still possesses an energetic vibe. Find a new favorite book from The Hatter's Bookshop and rejuvenate with a farm-fresh meal from Bucha Brewhouse & Bistro. From shopping to dining and adorable boutiques, Mercer Street is the place to be.
Weston
Weston easily is one of the top contenders when it comes to eccentric towns in West Virginia. One of the more famous landmarks in Weston is the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum. The "House of Horrors" regularly attracts tourists interested in the strange, dark, and mysterious. Previously used as a mental institution in the mid-1800s, it is currently a creepy attraction. Adrenaline junkies and paranormal enthusiasts will love the Ghost Tours, especially the October Ghost Hunt, which takes place from 11:30 pm to 6 am.
A bizarre souvenir from Appalachian Oddities is the ultimate reminder of the otherworldly mystique of West Virginia. Drop in for a tarot reading and purchase a one-of-a-kind t-shirt. Throughout the year, the shop hosts offbeat events such as Hallowspring. Be in awe at a live performance by The Stolen Stitches, chit-chat with the Witch Sisters, and hang out at the Cryptid Corner.
For a museum experience like no other, discover the enchanting compilation at The Museum of American Glass. Permanent exhibits showcase a striking Lady Jane Stained Glass Dollhouse and a magnificent array of artistic glass that belonged to Martin Massman.
Harper’s Ferry
Regarded as the psychological halfway point on the Appalachian Trail, Harper’s Ferry is a sleepy mountain town with a significant Civil War history and ghostly ambiance. Wander around the Ruins of St. John's Episcopal Church. Constructed in 1851, it was a Civil War hospital and soldier encampment. Previously a military gathering spot in the 1850s, the White Hall Tavern is now an empty shell of its past. Although it still exudes character and echoes of what once was. Finish off the historical adventure in Harper's Ferry with an evening ghost tour. Perhaps an old Civil War spirit may try to make contact during this thrilling excursion.
With a backstory as fascinating as Harper's Ferry, the town naturally has a bevy of vintage hotels for a bewitching stay. Let The Town's Inn accommodate you, with a choice of staying at the circa 1820 Mountain House or the circa 1840 Heritage House. The guestrooms are flourishing with elegance and vintage flair, and perhaps a ghost or two may make itself known. Allegedly one of the most haunted hotels in West Virginia, the Harper's Ferry Guest House is another classic that may not be for the faint of heart. Hauntedrooms.com states that at least five spirits roam the grounds. Both inside and out, the property is stunning and is in a convenient location. The Appalachian Trail and Harper's Ferry National Historical Park are within walking distance.
Lewisburg
With a reputation of being one of America's Coolest Small Towns, Lewisburg is a West Virginia treasure. Grab a good pair of shoes and take an hour to explore the Lost World Caverns. Venture around rock formations that are out of this world. Sparkling white calcite, stalagmites, and stalactites are a few examples of the incredible feats thriving in the cave.
From natural beauty to Civil War roots and a few ghost stories, Lewisburg truly has it all. Standing tall since 1820, with its white columns, the North House Museum is a timeless showpiece featuring red brick and a notable past. The home originally belonged to a lawyer named John North and later became a tavern and inn. Now serving as a museum, the house features a permanent collection of North family heirlooms, along with artifacts from the Greenbrier Valley and the Civil War. Pay respects to fallen soldiers at the Confederate Cemetery, containing the remains of just under 100 unknown soldiers from the 1863 Battle of Lewisburg.
Peculiar and unforgettable, the Greenbrier Ghost Historical Marker commemorates one of West Virginia's most unparalleled legends. The marker states that this is the only known case where a ghost helped to convict a murderer. Elva Zona Heaster-Shue's compelling story adds to the never-ending mysteries of West Virginia.
Sutton
Along the banks of the Elk River, Sutton is a peaceful town that is wildly devoted to Bigfoot and other cryptids. Relatively new to the area, the West Virginia Bigfoot Museum opened its doors in 2021. Take an in-depth look at this magnificent creature. Walk around this kooky museum and uncover original footprint casts, replica skulls, and documented sightings complete with a map. There is no better way to start the summer than at the annual West Virginia Bigfoot Festival. Held at the end of June, the event has an extensive list of guest speakers, Monster Sasquatch Truck Rides, and chainsaw carvings.
Continue discovering West Virginia's quirky curiosities at the Flatwoods Monster Museum. Journey down Main Street downtown to this jam-packed museum with historical tidbits and a vast collection of Flatwoods Monster paraphernalia. Many visitors state it is an engaging and must-see attraction in Sutton.
As with many West Virginia towns, Sutton is no exception when it comes to the paranormal. Many ghost hunters and supernatural enthusiasts find their way to 110 S. Stonewall Street. The Queen-Anne-style property was built in 1894 and has many accounts of strange happenings. Although the home is privately owned, tours are available upon request.
Green Bank
Surrounded by the Allegheny Mountains, Green Bank is a tiny West Virginia town. With an astounding population of only 38, according to the 2025 World Population Review, Green Bank is a textbook example of true off-the-grid living. Residents have no cell service or Wi-Fi. The reason for this is that Green Bank is home to the Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope, the world's largest fully steerable radio telescope. This towering masterpiece can be found at the Green Bank Observatory. Satisfy curiosities with an hour-long tour of the Science Center, or book a SETI tour for a behind-the-scenes look at all the action.
Though isolated, Green Bank still thrives with a strong sense of community. Head to the Green Bank Art Center and browse creative works by local artists. From paintings to pottery, jewelry, and home decor, the curated collection is exquisite.
Join the locals for an exciting weekend in June for the Space Race Rumpus. Taking place each year, the two-day event is exhilarating for all ages. Peddle away and bike as fast as you can through the Green Bank countryside. Sign up the little ones for the Kid Race, Toddler Trek, or check out the Kid's Science Camp. Cap off the night with stargazing and a bonfire in remote West Virginia.
Grafton
Grafton gained publicity as the birthplace of Mother's Day, founded by Anna Jarvis. Located on East Main Street, check out the Mother's Day Shrine. The church offers tours and is a beautiful way to celebrate Mothers from all over. Visit Grafton in May for the Mother's Day Founder Festival. Each year, mothers are honored at the Anna Jarvis Birthplace Museum. The day lights up with excitement, including music, food, arts, and crafts.
Grafton is yet another West Virginia city with a potential monster wandering about. First spotted in 1964, the Grafton Monster became another notch on the list of West Virginia's legendary beasts. The Black Cat Rookery Bookstore and Curiosities downtown is an essential stop. It houses the Grafton Monster Museum. From newspaper articles and research to Grafton Monster artwork, the exhibits are an intriguing look into the lore. In 2024, the Grafton Monster Festival began an annual West Virginia tradition. Commemorating the mysterious behemoth, the weekend is filled with festivities. Listen to the guest speakers, be in awe at the art exhibit, partake in the cryptid cosplay contest, and try to win the Grafton Monster-themed scavenger hunt.
Get Wild and Weird in West Virginia
Legends, lore, and mystery echo throughout West Virginia. From historical Civil War tales to chilling ghost stories and mythological creatures roaming about. Embark on an exhilarating trek in Lewisburg's Lost World Caverns or embrace the charming culture at Helvetia's Swiss village. Go ghost hunting in haunted Harper's Ferry or experience true remote living in Green Bank. Learn about the Grafton Monster in Grafton or divulge in the story of Mothman in Point Pleasant. Throughout the state, there is always a captivating story, eerie attraction, or obscure vibe floating through the air.
