West Virginia Penitentiary Moundsville
Explore the chilling history and alleged hauntings of the 19th-century West Virginia Penitentiary. Guided tours and paranormal investigations await.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tour
West Virginia Penitentiary Moundsville
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal tour
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the chilling history and alleged hauntings of the 19th-century West Virginia Penitentiary. Guided tours and paranormal investigations await.
"A truly unforgettable experience, blending history with a palpable sense of the paranormal."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water Bottle
It gets very hot inside, especially in summer. Stay hydrated! :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Cell Blocks
Main Prison Area
Wander through the imposing cell blocks, imagining the lives of former inmates. A truly chilling experience.
The Chapel
Inside the Penitentiary
A surprisingly serene space within the prison walls, often cited for paranormal activity.
The Yard
Outdoor Prison Area
The former exercise yard offers a glimpse into the daily routines and harsh realities of prison life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Prepare for the Heat (and Cold)
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water Bottle
It gets very hot inside, especially in summer. Stay hydrated! :droplet:
Book Paranormal Tours
For a truly unique experience, try an overnight paranormal investigation. :ghost:
Ask Questions!
Tour guides are knowledgeable and happy to share history and stories. :speech_balloon:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water Bottle
It gets very hot inside, especially in summer. Stay hydrated! :droplet:
Book Paranormal Tours
For a truly unique experience, try an overnight paranormal investigation. :ghost:
Ask Questions!
Tour guides are knowledgeable and happy to share history and stories. :speech_balloon:
Check Event Schedule
They host special events like haunted houses and trick-or-treats. :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the informative and engaging tours, highlighting the knowledgeable guides who share fascinating historical details. Many appreciate the opportunity to explore the imposing architecture and learn about the penitentiary's dark past. While some find the experience genuinely terrifying, most leave with a profound sense of history and a memorable adventure.
"I've wanted to go and check this place out for a while now. Friends of ours have been here 3 times. So we all went together. We did the over night ghost hunt and tour. Our tour guild was super cool and so knowledgeable. We heard about alot of stuff about the the building, land, events and people that were there. It was super cool to be let loose and explore. We would definitely recommend going!"
kim romine
"This was an absolute blast!! I very much enjoyed the public ghost hunt. The tour was fantastic, fun, and informative! The history of this place is both tragic and beautiful. Being able to explore on our own was amazing and also scary with some strange happenings in there. This a definite must see! I will most definitely be going back with some better equipment! Thank you for the fun time!"
josh romine
"We were running late for our tour time, but called and spoke with receptionist and they are fabulous! Great tour guide! Very informative and explanation of the history. No joke its very hot during the summer, bring your water bottle!!"
Heidi Tunstall
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The West Virginia Penitentiary is located at 818 Jefferson Ave, Moundsville, WV. It's accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Many visitors arrive as part of a road trip through West Virginia.
Public transportation options directly to the penitentiary are limited. It's best to plan your visit with a personal vehicle or rideshare service.
Use GPS navigation to 818 Jefferson Ave, Moundsville, WV. The imposing Gothic structure is hard to miss once you're in the area.
Moundsville and the surrounding areas offer various hotels and motels for overnight stays. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Yes, the Whitegate Cemetery, where some inmates were buried, is accessible and offers a somber reflection on the prison's history.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the type of tour (day tour, paranormal tour, haunted house). It's best to check their official website or call ahead for current pricing.
Yes, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular tours like the overnight paranormal investigations and October haunted house events.
Operating hours vary by season and tour type. Day tours are typically offered during the day, while paranormal tours and special events have specific evening hours. Always check their schedule.
Absolutely! You can choose from historical day tours, thrilling overnight paranormal tours, and seasonal haunted house experiences. 
Cancellation policies can vary. It's advisable to review the terms and conditions when booking or contact the penitentiary directly for their refund policy.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect an informative and often eerie experience. Guides share historical facts, inmate stories, and point out areas of paranormal interest. You'll explore cell blocks, the chapel, and more.
Yes, it's widely considered one of the most haunted places in America, with many visitors reporting disembodied voices, footsteps, and unsettling feelings.
The haunted house, often set up in a different part of the facility, is a popular seasonal attraction, especially during October, offering a more theatrical scare.
Yes, photography and videography are generally allowed during tours, giving you plenty of opportunities to capture the atmosphere.
Due to the historic nature of the building, accessibility can be challenging. It's best to contact the penitentiary directly to discuss specific needs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Typically, there's a gift shop that might offer some snacks or drinks. However, it's recommended to eat before or after your visit, as full dining facilities are usually not available.
Moundsville offers various local diners and restaurants. You can find options ranging from casual eateries to sit-down restaurants in the town.
While water bottles are encouraged, it's best to check their policy on outside food. Picnics are usually not permitted inside the tour areas.
Local recommendations often include classic American diners for a taste of regional cuisine. Ask your tour guide for their favorite spots!
Alcohol is generally not permitted during tours or within the penitentiary grounds. Please adhere to their policies.
📸 📸 Photography
The cell blocks, the chapel, and the exterior architecture offer dramatic photographic opportunities. Capture the eerie atmosphere and historical details.
Photography is generally permitted during standard day tours, allowing you to document your visit. However, always confirm with your guide.
Flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to preserve the atmosphere or for safety reasons. Be mindful of your surroundings and any posted signs.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial due to the dim lighting inside. A wide-angle lens can help capture the scale of the cell blocks.
Drone usage is typically prohibited on historical sites and private properties like the penitentiary due to safety and privacy concerns.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider opting for a standard daytime historical tour rather than the more intense paranormal or haunted house experiences. The guides are generally informative and can tailor their stories to be appropriate for a wider audience. Ensure your children are comfortable with the subject matter before booking.
👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts
Overnight paranormal tours offer the ultimate immersive experience, allowing you to explore the prison after dark and potentially encounter unexplained phenomena. Many visitors report significant experiences, making it a prime destination for those seeking a genuine thrill.
🏛️ History Buffs
You'll learn about inmate life, prison riots, and the social context of incarceration during different eras. Guides are often well-versed in historical details and can offer unique perspectives, especially those with local ties. The architecture itself is a testament to a bygone era, offering a tangible connection to the past.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Dark History of West Virginia Penitentiary
During its operation, the prison witnessed numerous significant events, including the infamous 1979 riot that resulted in the deaths of three inmates and injuries to many others. Executions, both by hanging and later by electric chair, were carried out within its walls, adding to the grim atmosphere. The stories of the inmates and the guards who worked there paint a vivid picture of a challenging and often brutal environment.
Today, the penitentiary stands as a historical landmark, offering tours that delve into its past. Visitors can explore the very cells where inmates lived, the chapel where they sought solace, and the yard where they exercised. The sheer weight of history and the stories of those who passed through its doors make it a compelling, albeit somber, destination.
Paranormal Encounters and Ghost Tours
Several areas within the penitentiary are considered hotspots for paranormal activity. The chapel, in particular, is often mentioned for its eerie presence, as are the upper levels of the cell blocks. Many believe the spirits of former inmates and guards linger within the stone walls, their stories echoing through the empty spaces.
To experience this aspect of the penitentiary, overnight paranormal tours and investigations are offered. These tours provide an opportunity for visitors to explore the facility after dark, armed with equipment and guided by experienced investigators. It's an intense experience that many find both terrifying and fascinating, offering a unique glimpse into the prison's spectral side.
Visiting the Penitentiary: Practical Tips
Booking your tour in advance is highly recommended, especially if you're interested in the popular paranormal tours or visiting during peak seasons like October. This ensures you secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
The penitentiary also hosts special events, such as haunted houses and holiday gatherings, so checking their schedule can add another layer of excitement to your visit. Finally, engage with your tour guides! They are often locals with deep knowledge of the penitentiary's history and its many stories. Asking questions can significantly enhance your understanding and appreciation of this unique historical site.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit