10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Point Pleasant, West Virginia
If you’re looking for a small river town with big stories, Point Pleasant in Mason County, West Virginia should be on your list. Sitting where the Ohio and Kanawha Rivers meet, this laid‑back spot mixes American history, river views, and a bit of spooky mystery.
So whether you’re road‑tripping through West Virginia, planning a weekend getaway from Ohio or Kentucky, or just curious about the famous Mothman, here are
10 fun things to do in and near Point Pleasant, WV.
1. Meet the Legendary Mothman at the Mothman Museum
If you’ve heard of Point Pleasant, there’s a good chance it’s because of the
Mothman—the winged creature people reported seeing here in the 1960s.
Right downtown, you’ll find the
Mothman Museum, a quirky spot packed with:
- Newspaper clippings from the 1960s sightings
- Props and costumes from “The Mothman Prophecies” movie
- Eyewitness stories and handwritten notes
- Posters, photos, and lots of merch
Even if you’re not into paranormal stuff, it’s a fun, very “Point Pleasant” experience. The museum is small, so you can easily see everything in under an hour, which makes it a perfect first stop.
Travel tip: Snap a photo with the shiny metal Mothman statue right outside the museum. It’s basically a must-do when you visit Point Pleasant.
2. Walk the Riverfront at Tu-Endie-Wei State Park
Just a short walk from downtown,
Tu-Endie-Wei State Park sits at the point where the Ohio and Kanawha Rivers come together. The name means “point between two waters,” and that’s exactly what you get—a peaceful little park with some big history.
Here you can:
- Visit the Battle of Point Pleasant monument
- See the historic Mansion House Museum
- Walk along the riverfront paths
- Enjoy quiet views of the water and passing boats
If you like mixing history with relaxing outdoor time, this is one of the best places in Point Pleasant. Bring a coffee, sit on a bench, and just watch the river flow by.
3. Explore the Historic Point Pleasant Riverfront Park
A short stroll from Tu-Endie-Wei, you’ll find the upgraded
Point Pleasant Riverfront Park. This is where locals come to walk, fish, or just hang out by the water.
What to enjoy here:
- Long paved walking paths along the Ohio River
- Murals on the floodwall, including scenes from local history
- Amphitheater space for festivals and live music
- Benches and open green areas perfect for picnics
On a warm evening, this is a great place for a slow walk after dinner. If you’re traveling with kids, it’s also an easy place to let them stretch their legs after a few hours in the car.
4. Visit the Battle of Point Pleasant Monument & Mansion House Museum
History lovers will want to spend a little extra time at
Tu-Endie-Wei State Park exploring the
Battle of Point Pleasant Monument and the
Mansion House Museum.
The monument honors the 1774 battle between Virginia militia and Native American forces, a major event on the early American frontier. The Mansion House, built in 1796, is one of the oldest buildings in the area.
Inside the museum you’ll find:
- Period furniture and antiques
- Old tools and household items
- Artifacts from the battle and early settlement days
You don’t have to be a hardcore history buff to enjoy it. The building itself, with its log construction and creaky floors, gives you a real sense of what life felt like more than 200 years ago.
5. Hunt for Street Art and Murals Downtown
Point Pleasant may be small, but it has a surprising amount of art on its walls. If you like exploring on foot, take a little self-guided walking tour through
downtown Point Pleasant.
Look for:
- Mothman-themed murals near the museum
- Historic scenes painted along the floodwall
- Colorful storefronts and small local shops
Grab a coffee or ice cream from a local spot and wander the streets. You’ll find photo ops almost everywhere you turn. Plus, because it’s a small town, you won’t be dodging big crowds or heavy traffic.
6. Explore “The TNT Area” and McClintic Wildlife Management Area
For those who want a mix of nature and urban legend, head a few miles north of town to
McClintic Wildlife Management Area, also known to locals as the “TNT Area.”
This place used to be a World War II munitions storage site. Today, it’s a big wildlife management area with:
- Old concrete bunkers hidden in the woods
- Ponds and wetlands
- Birdwatching opportunities
- Plenty of quiet back roads to explore
Many of the original Mothman sightings happened around here, which adds to the eerie vibe—especially near dusk. If you go, use common sense:
- Stick to public roads and paths
- Bring a flashlight if you’ll be out late
- Wear good shoes; some areas can be muddy
Even if you never see anything with glowing red eyes, it’s an interesting snapshot of local history and a peaceful place for a drive or short hike.
7. Take a Scenic Drive Along the Ohio River
One of the simplest and most relaxing things to do near Point Pleasant is just…drive. The roads that trace the
Ohio River on both the West Virginia and Ohio sides are full of pretty views, old river towns, and rolling hills.
Ideas for a laid-back scenic drive:
- Cross the bridge into Ohio and follow the river north or south
- Stop at small roadside parks and boat ramps
- Pack snacks or a sandwich and turn it into a mini road trip
In fall, the hills along the river light up with red, orange, and gold leaves. If you enjoy fall foliage drives, this region of the Ohio River is a nice hidden gem.
8. Visit the West Virginia State Farm Museum
Just a short drive outside Point Pleasant, the
West Virginia State Farm Museum gives you a look at rural life from the 1800s and early 1900s. It’s like stepping into a little village from the past.
At the museum site, you’ll find:
- Old farm equipment and tractors
- Historic buildings, including cabins and a church
- Demonstrations during special events (like blacksmithing or soap-making)
- Antique household items and farming tools
Families often enjoy this stop because there’s space for kids to run around, and you can walk at your own pace. Check their event schedule—seasonal events, like fall festivals or Christmas displays, can make the visit extra fun.
9. Attend the Annual Mothman Festival
If you can time your visit for early fall, the
Mothman Festival is one of the biggest events in Point Pleasant. It usually happens in September and turns the whole downtown into a celebration of all things Mothman and paranormal.
Festival highlights often include:
- Vendors selling Mothman-themed art, shirts, and souvenirs
- Guest speakers and authors
- Costumed fans and street performers
- Food trucks and live entertainment
Even if you’re a total skeptic, the energy is fun and welcoming. It’s one of the best times of year to see downtown Point Pleasant really come alive. Just keep in mind—hotel rooms in and around town can book up early for that weekend, so plan ahead.
10. Cross the River for Day Trips to Nearby Towns
One of the nice things about Point Pleasant is how close it is to other small towns and attractions in both
West Virginia and
Ohio. If you’re staying for more than a day, consider a short day trip.
A few easy ideas:
- Gallipolis, Ohio – Just across the river. Cute downtown, historic buildings, and a large riverside park.
- Local wineries and country stores – There are small, family-owned spots in the region worth checking out for local jams, crafts, and wine.
- Additional wildlife areas – If you like fishing or birdwatching, look up nearby state lands for more outdoor time.
With Point Pleasant as your base, you can enjoy quiet evenings by the river and spend your days exploring both sides of the Ohio River Valley.
Planning Your Trip to Point Pleasant, WV
To make the most of your visit to Point Pleasant and Mason County:
- Best time to visit: Late spring through fall. September is ideal if you want the Mothman Festival.
- How long to stay: One full day covers the highlights; a weekend lets you slow down and explore more.
- Who it’s good for: Road trippers, history fans, paranormal lovers, couples looking for a quiet getaway, and families who enjoy small-town charm.
If you’re used to big cities, Point Pleasant will feel slower and more relaxed—in a good way. It’s the kind of place where you can park the car, walk downtown, and feel like you’ve stepped into a different pace of life.
Final Thoughts: Why Point Pleasant Belongs on Your West Virginia Road Trip
Point Pleasant may not be a huge city, but that’s exactly its charm. Between the
Mothman legend, the
Ohio River views, and the
deep American history, this little town offers a mix you don’t find just anywhere.
Whether you’re chasing ghost stories, hunting for photo-worthy murals, or just looking for a peaceful place to sit by the river, Point Pleasant, West Virginia delivers a surprisingly memorable stop.
Now it’s your turn:
Have you ever been to Point Pleasant or anywhere else in Mason County? Did you visit the Mothman Museum or find the old bunkers in the TNT area?
Share your experiences or questions in the comments below—I’d love to hear your stories. And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend who loves road trips, West Virginia travel, or a good small-town adventure.
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