Monongah West VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Monongah, West Virginia.
1. Monongah Mine Disaster Memorial
MINING TRAGEDY REMEMBRANCE
The Monongah Mine Disaster Memorial stands as a powerful tribute to the victims of the devastating 1907 mining disaster, considered the worst in American mining history. This memorial features plaques, sculptures, and a commemorative bell honoring the miners and their families. Visitors gain a poignant understanding of Monongah's heritage and the far-reaching impact of the disaster on the local community.
2. West Fork River/Ralph S. LaRue Rail Trail
SCENIC OUTDOOR PATHWAY
The West Fork River/Ralph S. LaRue Rail Trail offers a beautiful, multi-use trail for walking, biking, and enjoying the natural surroundings of Monongah. The trailhead in town provides easy access to peaceful river views and lush greenery. It's a favorite spot for locals and visitors seeking relaxation or recreational activity amid nature.
3. Dairy Kone
CLASSIC LOCAL EATERY
Dairy Kone is a beloved family-run ice cream stand and grill, cherished by residents for its nostalgic charm. It serves delicious soft-serve cones, burgers, and comfort food in a casual, friendly setting. Visitors enjoy the retro atmosphere and the chance to experience a slice of small-town Americana.
4. Monongah Furniture & Antiques
HISTORIC SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
Monongah Furniture & Antiques offers a unique shopping experience for those seeking vintage furniture and historical treasures. The shop is known for its broad selection of collectibles and well-preserved items from various eras. Shoppers often find rare pieces while learning about the history of the region through its artifacts.
5. SpaOasis
RELAXATION AND WELLNESS
SpaOasis provides a tranquil environment for visitors to unwind and rejuvenate with a range of spa services. The professional staff offer massages, facials, and other relaxation treatments tailored to client needs. Its welcoming atmosphere has made it a highly rated destination for personal wellness in Monongah.
6. Barrackville Covered Bridge
HISTORIC RIVER CROSSING
The Barrackville Covered Bridge, built in 1853, is an enduring testament to 19th-century engineering and local history. Visitors admire its timber architecture and scenic location spanning Buffalo Creek. Interpretive signs share stories of its Civil War significance and preservation efforts.
7. Fairmont Bowling Center
FUN FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT
Fairmont Bowling Center offers a lively atmosphere for both casual and competitive bowling in Marion County. With multiple lanes, arcade games, and snack options, it's a hotspot for group outings and family fun. The center regularly hosts leagues and themed nights, making it a social hub for the area.
8. Marion County Historical Society & Museum
LOCAL HISTORY COLLECTION
Housed in a historic building, the Marion County Historical Society & Museum displays artifacts, photographs, and documents that trace the region's past. Exhibits highlight industrial heritage, notable residents, and significant events, including mining and railroading. Knowledgeable staff guide visitors through engaging exhibits that bring the county's stories to life.
9. Telephone Museum
TELECOMMUNICATIONS HERITAGE
The Telephone Museum in Fairmont showcases the evolution of telephone technology with an impressive array of vintage equipment. Interactive displays and reconstructed switchboards illustrate how communication changed over the decades. Visitors of all ages enjoy learning about both local and global telephone history in this hands-on museum.
10. Pricketts Fort State Park
FRONTIER HISTORY RECREATED
Pricketts Fort State Park recreates an 18th-century fortress, offering guided tours, interpretive programs, and craft demonstrations. The park provides insight into the daily lives of early settlers facing frontier challenges. Its riverside location also offers scenic trails and picnic areas for families and history enthusiasts alike.
11. Palatine Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION HUB
Palatine Park in Fairmont is popular for its riverside setting, amphitheater events, and playgrounds. The park regularly hosts live music, festivals, and food truck rallies, drawing residents and visitors for community celebrations. Green spaces and walking paths provide a relaxing environment along the Monongahela River.
12. Heston Farm Winery
LOCAL WINE TASTINGS
Heston Farm Winery offers tastings of locally-produced wines amid picturesque rolling hills. Guests can tour the vineyard, learn about winemaking, and enjoy live music and dining at the on-site restaurant. The welcoming staff and scenic setting make it an ideal stop for wine lovers exploring Marion County.
13. Valley Falls State Park
WATERFALLS AND HIKING TRAILS
Valley Falls State Park is renowned for its stunning waterfalls along the Tygart Valley River and its extensive network of hiking and biking trails. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering fishing, kayaking, and picnicking in a lush, natural environment. Its scenic vistas and tranquil atmosphere attract nature lovers year-round.
14. Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum
HAUNTED HISTORIC LANDMARK
The Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum is an imposing 19th-century psychiatric hospital known for its dramatic Gothic architecture and ghost tours. Visitors can explore guided day tours, paranormal investigations, and seasonal events that reveal the asylum's eerie history. Its reputation as one of the most haunted sites in America draws thrill-seekers and history buffs alike.
15. West Virginia Penitentiary
INFAMOUS PRISON MUSEUM
The West Virginia Penitentiary in Moundsville is a grand, Gothic-style prison that operated from 1876 to 1995 and is now a museum. Guests can join guided tours highlighting historical escapes, inmate stories, and the penitentiary's darker past. The site is famed for its haunted ambiance, drawing visitors interested in true crime and supernatural lore.