Cryptids, Hotdogs, Ghosts, and Nature?
Are you ready for a Cryptid adventure? Pack your bags and head to Point Pleasant, WV, the mysterious home of the legendary Mothman! For those with an interest in Cryptozoology and obscure places, Point Pleasant, West Virginia is an ideal destination. This quirky little town is sure to spark your curiosity with its eerie sightings and first-hand accounts of the unknown.
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While the existence of the Mothman is still debated, the town of Point Pleasant has embraced its association with the creature and has turned it into a tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the various Mothman sightings locations, visit the Mothman museum and even partake in the annual Mothman Festival.
For those seeking a unique vacation, Point Pleasant, WV is an excellent destination that offers a blend of history, hauntings, and cryptozoology. There is so much to see and do in this great town. This one has a little of everything, hauntings, obscurity, and quirkiness! We’re going to take you to some fun spots, Mothman sighting locations and even end with a haunted hotel to spend the night!
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to uncover the mystery of the Mothman and discover all that Point Pleasant has to offer. It’s an adventure you won’t forget!
Table of Contents
The Mothman is a creature that has captivated the minds of many since it was first spotted in the small town of Point Pleasant, West Virginia in the 1960s. Described as a large, winged creature with red eyes, the Mothman has been the subject of numerous theories, and even a Hollywood movie. But what is the Mothman, and where did it come from?
A few sightings started coming in, but the city stopped and took notice after the reports on November 15, 1966. It started as an ordinary night out with friends, 2 couples were out for a drive near the TNT area when they spotted something unusual. They quickly realized something was amiss when they got closer and saw the creature had large red eyes that glowed in their headlights. Obviously freaked out, they sped away when the creature started to chase after them, flying through the air at a rapid pace.
As the sightings continued, the Mothman quickly became a topic of interest among locals and the media. The creature was said to have been spotted around Point Pleasant, as well as in nearby towns and even in Ohio. Many people claimed to have had close encounters with the Mothman, and some other witnesses even reported that it followed them or chased after their vehicles.
The Mothman phenomenon reached its peak in December 1967 when the Silver Bridge, which connected Point Pleasant to Ohio, collapsed, killing 46 people. It is believed that the Mothman sightings were a warning or premonition of the impending disaster, and the creature became forever linked to the tragedy. Many wonder if the creature was the cause or the warning which led to the bridge collapse.
The Silver Bridge Collapse
December 15, 1967 forever changed the history and lives of many in Point Pleasant, WV. It was a typical work day around 5 pm when the tragic event unfolded in less than 20 seconds. This event left a deep impact on the community and the nation as a whole. The bridge, which had stood for decades as a symbol of progress and modern engineering, suddenly and unexpectedly gave way, sending cars and their passengers plummeting into the icy waters of the Ohio River below.
For the families of the victims, the collapse of the Silver Bridge was a nightmare come to life. Loved ones were lost in an instant, leaving behind a gaping hole in the lives of those who were left behind. The community was left in shock and mourning as they struggled to come to terms with the loss of life and the destruction of a beloved local landmark.
The collapse of the Silver Bridge was not only a tragic event but also a wake-up call for the nation. It served as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and inspecting infrastructure, and the devastating consequences that can result from neglect.
After the bridge collapse, The Mothman sightings stopped, and the creature has not been seen in the area for decades.
Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=2500886
Visit the Mothman Museum & TNT Domes
The Mothman is the only museum of its kind that details the occurrences and events of this cryptid. This unique museum is dedicated to the sightings that occurred in the 1960s and has become a popular spot for those interested in the unexplained.
The museum features photographs, newspaper articles, and eyewitness accounts. You’ll also have the chance to see replicas of the Mothman statue, through artistic creations and witness drawings.
One of the highlights of the Mothman Museum is the inclusion of a room that features a piece of the former Harris Steak House. This restaurant, affectionately known as the Mothman Diner, holds a special place in the hearts of locals as it was owned and operated by Carolin Harris, the creator of the beloved Mothman Festival. Tragically, the restaurant closed its doors following Carolin’s passing, but her legacy lives on in the museum through this nostalgic display. It is a fitting tribute to Carolin, who was not only a pillar of the community but also instrumental in the creation of the museum itself.
In addition to the Mothman Museum, another must-see destination in Point Pleasant, WV is the TNT domes. The domes, also known as the West Virginia Ordnance Works, were built during World War II as a storage facility for explosive materials. Today, the domes are a popular spot for those interested in history and urban exploration.
When you visit the TNT domes, you can do a self guided tour or book a scheduled tour offered through various times of the year.
You’ll have the opportunity to explore the abandoned structures and learn about their history and significance. The domes are a unique and imposing sight, and the graffiti art inside the domes adds an interesting touch to the visit.
Keep in mind that the TNT domes are abandoned buildings, and it’s important to be aware of the potential dangers when visiting. It’s recommended to wear sturdy shoes and be cautious when exploring the inside of the domes.
Plan Your Visit
There are self guided options for visiting both the museum and the TNT domes, or you can book a guided tour if you go during the Mothman Festival. Visit the Museum, take a photo with the Mothman statue right outside, do some souvenir shopping and then go see the TNT domes!
The Museum is located at: 400 Main Street, Point Pleasant, WV, 2550
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
(**closed Christmas day , New Years day, Easter , and Thanksgiving**)
Monday-Thursday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pmFriday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Sunday: 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
ADMISSION:
AGES 11 TO ADULT/$4.50
CHILDREN 10 & UNDER/$1.50
*We accept VISA/MC & Cash*PHONE: 304 . 812 . 5211
The Address for the TNT Domes is: 6182 Ohio River Rd, Point Pleasant, WV 25550
The domes are admittedly a bit tricky to find unless you know what you’re looking for, but once you get there it’s easier to navigate. Although you are allowed to visit this location, it is not highly publicized and there are no signs guiding you there or marking the location. Travel about 6 miles north on Rt 62. Turn Right onto Rt 11/Potter’s Creek Road.
Once you’re on Potter’s creek it will turn into a gravel road. Look for the gates on the right side of the road. You’ll see a guardrail with duct tape and stickers on it. This is the entrance to the walking path to the first dome. You’ll pass a beautiful pond on your left, and you’ll see the entrance to the dome on your right.
You’ll feel like you’re going the wrong direction, (and you may even go the wrong way a couple of times…) but I assure you this is the right area. The domes are part of the McClintick Wildlife Area so it’s quite scenic and surreal once you arrive.
Other Notable Spots
Listen up folks, if you’re planning on embarking on an adventure in Point Pleasant, do yourself a favor and make a pitstop at Hillbilly Hotdogs. Trust me, it’s a hoot and a holler. You’ll find yummy hot dogs that’ll make your taste buds do the hoedown, a fancy-schmancy chapel for all your highfalutin’ nuptial needs, and even old school buses where you can chow down. Don’t miss out on this hootenanny of a good time! Check out their menu!
There are plenty of other historical locations to visit in town, but I also promised you hauntings… if you want to finish your evening with some possible paranormal happenings, spend the night at the Lowe Hotel. Not only is it a historical and beautifully restored hotel, it’s also said to be haunted, adding an extra element of excitement to your stay. The hotel has a rich history, dating back to the early 1900s, and the ghostly stories associated with it only add to the charm of the establishment.
If you’re unable to visit, check out the 24/7 Mothman Cam here or watch our video below!