is a great pick. Sitting along the
, this town mixes history, outdoor fun, and a few spooky surprises.
Whether you’re planning a weekend road trip from Pittsburgh, Columbus, or anywhere in the Mid‑Atlantic, here are
that will keep you busy, curious, and well-fed.
1. Tour the Historic (and Haunted) West Virginia Penitentiary
You can’t talk about things to do in Moundsville without starting with the
West Virginia Penitentiary. This huge Gothic-style prison looks like something right out of a movie.
Today it’s no longer active, but you can:
- Take daytime history tours
- Do ghost tours at night (if you’re brave enough)
- Join paranormal investigations and overnight events
Walking through the cell blocks, you’ll hear stories about famous inmates, escapes, and prison life. The building itself is fascinating — stone walls, iron bars, long echoing hallways.
If you’re into true crime, ghost stories, or just cool old architecture, this is a must-do in Moundsville.
2. Climb the Famous Grave Creek Mound
Right across from the prison, you’ll find one of the most unique attractions in West Virginia: the
Grave Creek Mound.
This massive earthwork is one of the largest Native American burial mounds in the United States. It was built by the
Adena people more than 2,000 years ago.
You can:
- Climb the stairway to the top for a great view of Moundsville
- Walk around the base and read interpretive signs
- Visit the nearby museum (more on that next!)
It’s a simple stop, but it really makes you think about how long people have lived in this valley. Kids usually love the “giant hill” and the chance to climb it.
3. Explore the Delf Norona Museum and Grave Creek Archaeological Complex
Right next to the mound, the
Delf Norona Museum digs deeper into the history behind it. If you’re wondering, “Who built this?” or “How did they move all that dirt without machines?”, this is where you’ll get those answers.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Exhibits on the Adena culture
- Artifacts found in the area
- Displays on archaeology and how digs are done
It’s very family-friendly and laid out in a way that’s easy to follow. You don’t have to be a history buff to enjoy it.
This spot also makes a nice break on a hot or rainy day since it’s indoors and air-conditioned.
4. Walk the Ohio Riverfront and Enjoy Small-Town Moundsville
Sometimes the best part of travel is slowing down. Moundsville sits right along the
Ohio River, and the riverfront area is perfect for a short walk or a peaceful sit on a bench.
You can:
- Stroll by the water and watch barges and boats go by
- Relax with a coffee or ice cream from a local shop
- Let the kids burn off energy at nearby parks
If you’re used to city traffic and noise, the calm pace of Moundsville will feel like a breath of fresh air. It’s a great way to start or end your day of sightseeing.
5. Visit the Cockayne Farmstead – A Time Capsule of Farm Life
A short drive from downtown Moundsville brings you to the
Cockayne Farmstead, a 19th‑century farm preserved almost exactly as it was.
Walking through the house feels like stepping into a time capsule. Many original items are still there — furniture, photos, clothes, even everyday tools.
On a tour, you’ll:
- Hear stories about the Cockayne family and their sheep farm
- Learn how people lived and worked in rural West Virginia
- See antiques and artifacts that haven’t left the property
It’s a quiet, gentle kind of attraction — no flashing lights or loud crowds — just real history in a real place.
6. Spend a Day at Grand Vue Park
If you’re looking for outdoor fun near Moundsville,
Grand Vue Park is your go‑to spot. It’s only a short drive from town and offers a mix of relaxation and adrenaline.
Depending on the season, you can:
- Fly on ziplines high above the trees
- Hike or bike the park’s trails
- Play mini golf or disc golf
- Enjoy the pool in summer
- Rent a cabin or stay in a treehouse-style lodge
The views are beautiful, especially in the fall when the leaves change. If you’re traveling with kids or a group, Grand Vue Park is an easy way to keep everyone happy.
7. Explore Nearby New Vrindaban and the Palace of Gold
About 20–25 minutes from Moundsville, in the hills of Marshall County, you’ll find something you might not expect in rural West Virginia: the
Palace of Gold in
New Vrindaban.
This site is part of a Hare Krishna community and is known for:
- Ornate architecture with colorful glass and decorations
- Peaceful gardens and ponds
- Guided tours that explain the history and spiritual background
Some people compare it to a mini palace you’d see in India. Even if you’re not religious, it’s an interesting cultural stop and a very photogenic spot near Moundsville.
8. Learn Local History at the Archive of the Afterlife “Museum of the Paranormal”
If you enjoyed the spooky side of the West Virginia Penitentiary, you’ll probably like the
Archive of the Afterlife, often called the “Museum of the Paranormal,” located in Moundsville.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Haunted objects and eerie artifacts
- Local ghost stories and legends
- Displays tied to regional history and folklore
It’s small and quirky, but that’s part of the charm. It’s the kind of place you tell your friends about later because it’s so unusual.
If you’re traveling around Halloween, this makes a great addition to your Moundsville itinerary.
9. Go Antiquing and Thrifting Around Marshall County
Love treasure hunting? The Moundsville area has several
antique stores, flea markets, and thrift shops where you can spend a few hours browsing.
You might find:
- Vintage glassware and old tools
- Classic WV collectibles and coal town memorabilia
- Furniture with that “they don’t make it like this anymore” feel
This is also a nice rainy-day option. Plus, shopping local is a great way to support small businesses in Marshall County while picking up a one‑of‑a‑kind souvenir.
10. Take a Scenic Drive Along the Ohio River and Through the Hills
One of the simplest, most relaxing things to do near Moundsville is to just get in the car and drive. The roads along the
Ohio River and through the
Marshall County hills offer classic Appalachian scenery.
You can:
- Follow the river north toward Wheeling or south toward other small towns
- Stop at overlooks and pull‑offs to snap photos
- Watch the landscape shift from riverbanks to rolling farms and wooded ridges
Pack some snacks, turn on your favorite playlist, and enjoy the ride. In fall, with the leaves turning red and gold, it’s especially beautiful.
Planning Your Trip to Moundsville, WV
Here are a few quick tips to make the most of your visit:
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall are comfortable and scenic; summer is great for outdoor activities and events.
- How long to stay: A weekend is perfect to see the top attractions and sample local food.
- Who it’s good for: Road trippers, history lovers, paranormal fans, families, and couples looking for a low‑key getaway.
If you’re searching for
things to do in Moundsville, WV or planning a drive through
Marshall County, you’ll find more than enough to keep you busy without big‑city crowds.
Share Your Moundsville Experience
Have you visited Moundsville or anywhere in Marshall County?
- Which attraction was your favorite — the prison, the mound, Grand Vue Park, or something else?
- Did you have any spooky encounters on a ghost tour?
Drop your stories, tips, or questions in the comments — they help other travelers plan their own trips.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family who are looking for unique places to visit in West Virginia.
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