Top Attractions
Moundsville is a small town with lots of historic sites to see!
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Grave Creek Mound and Archaeological Complex
The Grave Creek Mound stands as a monumental testament to the ancient civilizations of the Americas, crafted by the skilled hands of the Adena people. As one of the largest and most renowned burial mounds attributed to this ancient culture, it beckons visitors to delve into its rich history. Situated within the Delf Norona Museum and Archaeological Research Center, the mound offers a captivating journey into the past. Guests can ascend its heights and gaze out over the Ohio River, marveling at the panoramic vista of Moundsville, WV.
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West Virginia Penitentiary
Constructed in 1866 and retired from service in 1995, this former state penitentiary was notorious for housing some of the most perilous and relentless offenders. Fondly referred to as "The Pen" by locals, it now welcomes visitors seasonally for daytime historical tours, paranormal investigations, escape rooms, and hosts a chilling haunte house experience in October. Offering a range of activities suitable for all ages, the penitentiary provides an educational, exploratory, and thrilling environment for visitors to engage and be entertained.
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Grand Vue Park
Embark on an adventure into the untamed beauty of Marshall County, West Virginia. Whether you crave excitement or seek relaxation with loved ones, Grand Vue Park promises an array of experiences for every age and interest. Dive into outdoor escapades such as hiking, mountain biking, a waterpark, ziplining, aerial ropes courses, climbing walls, disc golf, geocaching, and miniature golf. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature, observing birds and absorbing its revitalizing energy.
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Palace of Gold
Arriving at the Palace of Gold nestled within the secluded hills of Marshall County, West Virginia, visitors are greeted with astonishment. Concealed within this remote landscape lies an exquisite Hindu temple, open for tours throughout the year. During peak seasons, guests are treated to the splendor of award-winning rose gardens, tranquil lotus ponds, and breathtaking vistas that epitomize the charm of "almost heaven, West Virginia."
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Cockayne Farmstead
The 1850 farmhouse has been described as "frozen in time," with the last major renovation occurring around the turn of the 20th century. The exterior of the house has been restored, but the interior has been preserved in place. The collection inside the house, consisting of only original items amassed by four generations of the Cockayne family, spans the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries ending with the death of the last owner in 2001, and includes over 3000 objects and over 15,000 documents.
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Fostoria Glass Museum
The Fostoria Glass Museum is in an early 1900s home displaying collectible handmade glass and stemware from a former local producer. The Fostoria Glass Museum houses the most impressive collection of the company's pressed, blown and etched glassware from the late 1800s to 1986 when the plant closed. Fostoria was at one time the largest maker of handmade glassware in the United States and received orders from every president from Eisenhower to Reagan.
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Strand Theatre
In 1920, owner Merton A. Sybert opened the Strand Theatre, the first steel framed building in the state of West Virginia . The Strand opened as a Vaudeville theater and later showed first-run films. In 2002, the nonprofit Strand Theatre Preservation Society was founded to restore and reopen the Strand as a performing arts venue. Today the Strand Theatre hosts live stage productions, motion pictures and private events.
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Marshall County Museum
The Marshall County Historical Society Museum features displays of artifacts related to Marshall County businesses, industries, military veterans, agriculture, education, and a genealogy research center. The museum is open for tours every Monday and Third Saturdays 10am-3pm or by appointment. Call 304-845-1411 to request a tour.
More Ways to Play
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Dining
Most Moundsville restaurants are cozy mom-and-pop operations with lots of character.
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Shopping
Treasure hunters will delight in the variety of antique stores and locally-made craf shops along historic Jefferson Avenue.
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Outdoors
Just a short drive from downtown Moundsville, visitors will find Grand Vue Park, a well-maintained haven for outdoor adventurers, hikers, and bikers.
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Local Haunts
Often called one of the most haunted places in America, those interested in the paranormal take advantage of the special events held at the former West Virginia Penitentiary.